Things to Do in Málaga: The 22 Best Attractions & Highlights

Málaga on a Map

Before we dive into our highlights, we’ve pinned all the top things to do in Málaga on a map — so you can get a quick overview and start planning your route.

Old Town: Buildings and Landmarks

Alcazaba

What do you need to know? One of the most popular highlights in Andalusia and impossible to miss in Málaga is the Alcazaba. This ancient Arab fortress sits right in the historic center — built during the time the Moors ruled Andalusia. It stands directly above the Roman Theater and is one of the most well-known attractions in the city. Admission is €7; on Sundays from 2 PM entry is free. It’s open every day. Last entry is one hour before closing. You can buy your ticket on-site at a vending machine. The entrance is next to the Roman Theater.

Why is it worth it? The Alcazaba is seriously impressive — the old archways, the well-kept gardens, and then that view over the city and out to sea. If you let yourself get into it, you can almost picture what life must have looked like here centuries ago. For us, it’s an absolute must when exploring Málaga.

Our Tips for the Alcazaba

• If you want to visit both the Alcazaba and the Castillo de Gibralfaro, buy the combo ticket for €10 at the entrance. Both sights are connected by a passageway, but unfortunately it’s not open to the public. To visit both, you’ll need to exit the Alcazaba first and then make your way separately to Gibralfaro.
• If you have trouble walking or are traveling with small children and a travel stroller, take the elevator. You’ll find ticket machines there too. The elevator takes you straight up into the palace, and you can either ride it back down or walk downhill through the old town. You can find the elevator here.
• Inside, there are hardly any explanations. If you really want to understand what you’re seeing, join a guided tour — these often include the Roman Theater right next door.

Guided tour of the Alcazaba incl. Roman Theater

Teatro Romano

What do you need to know? Right in the middle of Málaga stand the remains of a Roman theater from the 1st century — most people find that completely surprising. When the Moors arrived, they simply used parts of it as building material for the Alcazaba, constructed directly above. The theater wasn’t rediscovered and excavated until 1951. You can view it for free from Alcazabilla street, or join a guided tour.

Why is it worth it? It’s genuinely fascinating: you’re standing in a modern city, looking at seating tiers that are nearly 2,000 years old. And directly above it, the Alcazaba — two completely different eras, one stacked on top of the other. You don’t find that just anywhere.

Our tip: From the Alcazabilla promenade you get a great view of the theater — totally free, no ticket needed. Honestly, that’s enough for a solid first impression. If you want to dig deeper, or you’re already planning a guided tour of the Alcazaba, the combined tour is well worth booking.

Guided tour of the Roman Theater and the Alcazaba

Calle Larios

What do you need to know? Calle Larios is the most famous street in Málaga and essentially the heart of the old quarter. There’s always something going on here — cafés, boutiques, street musicians, people strolling. The street is lined with beautiful old buildings and just puts you in a great mood. From here, you can reach everything quickly.

Why is it worth it? Calle Larios isn’t a classic tourist attraction you check off a list — it’s just alive and beautiful. Here you immediately notice how much the Malagueños love spending their lives out on the street. Perfect for strolling, grabbing a coffee, and people-watching.

Our tip: If you’re in Málaga in December, you absolutely have to walk down Calle Larios in the evening — one of the most spectacular Christmas light displays in all of Spain hangs over the street. Truly impressive!

Cathedral of Málaga

What do you need to know? The Cathedral of Málaga is the city’s landmark — and it has a little quirk: one of its two towers is missing. Just like that. In the 18th century, the money ran out and the tower was never completed. Since then, locals have called it “La Manquita” — the one-armed lady. Admission is around €10 (with audioguide); unfortunately, due to restoration work, roof tours are currently unavailable until approximately the end of 2027.

Why is it worth it? The cathedral is beautiful on the inside too — a massive organ, an impressive choir stall. And around the building there are gorgeous gardens with orange trees that you can stroll through completely free of charge. The missing tower somehow makes the whole thing even more interesting.

Our tip: Buy your tickets online in advance on the cathedral’s website. The price is the same, but you won’t have to wait in line on-site. You can find more information on the cathedral’s website.

Plaza de la Constitución

What do you need to know? Plaza de la Constitución is the historic main square of Málaga, right in the old town and a short walk from Calle Larios. In the past, markets and public events were held here; today the square is surrounded by cafés and restaurants.

Why is it worth it? Here you quickly notice how much the Malagueños enjoy sitting outside and savoring life. The square is lively, relaxed, and just puts you in a good mood. The atmosphere in the evening is especially lovely.

Our tip: Sit down at one of the cafés on the square and treat yourself to an espresso — in Málaga it often costs just €0.60. The perfect spot to catch your breath between sights.

Mercado de Atarazanas

What do you need to know? The Mercado de Atarazanas is Málaga’s most famous market, located right in the historic center. The building has Moorish roots — the original 14th-century entrance portal is still standing. Inside you’ll find fresh fish, fruits, vegetables, spices, and local specialties. Open Monday through Saturday.

Why is it worth it? Here you get a real glimpse into the everyday life of the city — not a tourist spectacle, but genuine market life. Honestly, it’s one of the coolest market halls we’ve ever visited in Europe. The atmosphere is just wonderful. Add to that a magnificent stained-glass window inside that completely surprises most visitors — and the smell of fresh fish and spices makes the whole visit a real experience.

Our tip: Come in the morning — that’s when the market is most alive. At the small tapas bars in the back, you can have breakfast right on the spot. Incredibly tasty and totally authentic.

Around the Old Town

Castillo de Gibralfaro

What do you need to know? The Castillo de Gibralfaro is, so to speak, the big brother of the Alcazaba — built in the 14th century and situated another 130 meters higher up. Less palace, more military fortress: it’s not quite as beautiful as the Alcazaba, but you can walk along the castle walls, and in the former powder tower there’s a small exhibition on medieval weapons and armor. Admission is €7. Combo ticket with the Alcazaba is €10. Plan at least one hour.

Why is it worth it? The view from up here is seriously stunning — you can see the entire city, the harbor, the mountains, and on a clear day far along the coast. If you have to choose between the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro, we’d go with the Alcazaba: it’s easier to reach, more accessible, and has more to see. But if you have time — Gibralfaro is definitely worth it.
Our Tips

• You have two options for getting up there. Either walk from the old town up the steep path past the Alcazaba and continue up the hill — that takes about 20 to 30 minutes. The starting point is here. Or take bus 35, which departs from Paseo del Parque – Plaza de la Marina (here) and drops you right at the gate. The bus ride takes about 15 minutes, but only comes every 45 to 60 minutes — so check the schedule on Google Maps beforehand.
• The red line of the hop-on hop-off bus also stops here on its route.
• One more insider tip: right in front of the castle is the Mirador de Gibralfaro — from there you have the same breathtaking panorama over Málaga, completely free with no admission fee. Perfect if you don’t want to tour the entire castle.

Palmeral de las Sorpresas & Muelle Uno

What do you need to know? Walking from the old town toward the harbor, you’ll first pass the Palmeral de las Sorpresas — a palm-lined promenade with distinctive wave-shaped arches, running parallel to the Parque de Málaga (which you really shouldn’t skip either). At the end you reach Muelle Uno, the harbor promenade redeveloped in 2011, with boutiques, restaurants, and the Centre Pompidou. At the very end, where the beach begins, stands La Farola — Málaga’s lighthouse, a true city landmark since 1817. On the way to the lighthouse you’ll also discover the Capilla del Puerto, a small Baroque chapel from the early 18th century — originally a place of prayer for sailors and today the only old building amid the modern harbor complex. It was later moved stone by stone to its current location.

Fun Fact: La Farola is one of the few lighthouses in Spain with a feminine name — normally “lighthouse” is “el faro” (masculine). Why exactly, nobody quite knows. One legend says the tower looks like it’s wearing a pleated skirt.

Why is it worth it? You stroll here with a view of the water, yachts beside you, the old town at your back. It’s simply beautiful. The stretch from the old town to the lighthouse is one of the city’s finest promenades.

Our tip: Walk this route at sunset — the atmosphere is truly special then. Afterward, head straight to one of the restaurants at Muelle Uno for dinner. A really lovely evening!

Soho District

What do you need to know? The Soho district, also known as the Barrio de las Artes, is located south of the old town, between the city center and the harbor. A few years ago, hardly anyone knew about it — today it’s one of the most exciting corners of the city. All over the building walls you’ll find enormous street art pieces by internationally renowned artists like D*Face, Obey, and Boamistura. This was made possible by the MAUS art project (Málaga Arte Urbano Soho), which the city has been actively running since 2013, inviting international artists into the neighborhood. The result: a massive open-air museum that keeps evolving.

Why is it worth it? You don’t have to go looking for anything here — the artworks just jump out at you around every corner. Some are socially critical, others simply beautiful to look at. Soho shows you a side of Málaga that many tourists never get to see. By the way: the CAC, the Centro de Arte Contemporáneo, which is located right in the neighborhood and still recommended in many articles, has been closed since September 2024 for renovation — expected to reopen in 2027.

Our tip: We added the streets C. Vendeja, C. Tomás Heredia, and C. Barroso to our Google Maps list to find the street art in the Soho district.

Plaza de Toros de la Malagueta

What do you need to know? The Plaza de Toros de la Malagueta is one of the oldest bullfighting arenas in Spain, right on the edge of the old town near the beach. It was built in the late 19th century and holds around 14,000 spectators. In August, real bullfights still take place here. Inside there’s also a small museum.

Why is it worth it? Whether you approve of bullfighting or not — that’s a decision you have to make for yourself. In Spain, it’s becoming increasingly controversial as well. But architecturally, the arena is truly impressive, and the museum gives you a fascinating glimpse into a piece of Andalusian tradition. We didn’t visit ourselves. If you’re only in Málaga for a weekend, we’d suggest spending your time on other highlights instead.

Our tip: Allow around 45 minutes for a museum visit. If you’re in Málaga in August and plan to visit the Gibralfaro fortress, you can get a great bird’s-eye view of the bullfighting arena from up there or from the Mirador de Gibralfaro viewpoint in front of the fortress entrance.

Playa de la Malagueta

What do you need to know? Playa de la Malagueta is Málaga’s city beach, right behind the harbor and easily walkable from the center. There are beach chairs, palm trees, and a whole row of chiringuitos — the typical Spanish beach bars. The water isn’t always crystal clear, but that’s par for the course with a city beach.

Why is it worth it? Sightseeing in the morning, beach in the afternoon — the location makes it possible. Here you’ll find young and old, beach volleyball being played, and the chiringuitos serving fresh fish at genuinely fair prices. Real Andalusian beach life.

Our tip: The Chiringuito Mami Beach has really great grilled fish — don’t miss it! And the beach is especially beautiful at sunset, when things have quieted down a bit.

Museums

Museo Picasso Málaga

What do you need to know? Did you know that Picasso was born in Málaga? The Museo Picasso showcases works spanning over 80 years of his career — from his very early pieces to some of his last works. It’s located in the heart of the old town in the Palacio de Buenavista. Tickets from around €13; it’s best to book online in advance — either on the museum’s website or on GetYourGuide. The price is the same either way.

Why is it worth it? Even if you’re not usually into art — Picasso is somehow different. The paintings are a little wild, sometimes puzzling, but never boring. And knowing that he grew up right here in Málaga makes it all feel even more personal. We think it’s one of the top things to do in Málaga, full stop.

Our tip: In high season it can get really crowded — buy your ticket in advance. Even in the off-season, we waited in line for a few minutes in December. Plan for at least 1.5 hours.

Ticket for the Picasso Museum

Museo Casa Natal

What do you need to know? The Museo Casa Natal is Picasso’s birthplace — right on the Plaza de la Merced in the old town. He was born here on October 25, 1881. In the museum you’ll find personal belongings, photos, and early drawings from his childhood. Tickets for the birthplace cost €3, the temporary exhibition alone is €3, and the combined ticket is €4.

Why is it worth it? The museum is much smaller and more personal than the Picasso Museum — and that’s exactly what makes it special. You see where he grew up, how he lived. It moves you in a completely different way than an art exhibition does.

Our tip: Right in front of the museum, on the Plaza de la Merced, a Picasso statue sits on a bench — a great photo stop and a nice spot to take a short break between sights. On Sundays, admission to the Museo Casa Natal is free for the last four hours before closing.

Museo Carmen Thyssen

What do you need to know? The Museo Carmen Thyssen displays around 230 works of Spanish art from the 19th century — with a strong focus on Andalusia. It’s housed in a restored palace in the heart of the historic district. Carmen Thyssen is a Spanish actress who made a name for herself as an art collector. Tickets from around €10; Friday afternoons admission is free.

Why is it worth it? Here you see Andalusia as it was painted 150 years ago — fiestas, landscapes, scenes from everyday life. You don’t have to be an art connoisseur to get lost in here. The paintings simply tell beautiful stories.

Our tip: Free admission on Fridays from 5 PM — a great option if you want to combine several museums in one day. Be sure to check out the museum shop too, which we really loved.

Ticket for the Museo Carmen Thyssen

Museo de Málaga

What do you need to know? The Museo de Málaga is the largest museum in the city and showcases both art and archaeology under one roof — in the Palacio de la Aduana right next to the Alcazaba. The art collection spans from the Renaissance to the 20th century, while the archaeological section displays finds from the region ranging from prehistory to the Roman era. Free for EU citizens.

Why is it worth it? Nowhere else will you get such a deep insight into the history of Málaga and the surrounding region — and completely free of charge. Even the building itself is impressive. Ideal when the weather isn’t cooperating or the midday heat gets to be too much. Since we visited Málaga with our two children, we skipped this one.

Our tip: The museum is bigger than it looks from the outside — plan for at least two hours. If you want to explore both sections at a leisurely pace, you’ll need closer to half a day.

Centre Pompidou Málaga

What do you need to know? Yes, you might know the Centre Pompidou from Paris — but since 2015, Málaga has had its own outpost, right at Muelle Uno on the harbor. The entrance is unmistakable: a huge colorful glass cube. On display are works by Miró, Picasso, Frida Kahlo, and other big names of the 20th and 21st centuries — plus rotating exhibitions featuring film, dance, and more. Admission is €9 for the combined ticket (permanent collection + temporary exhibition); the audioguide is included for free. Sundays from 4 PM entry is free. Tickets are available on-site, on the official website, or through GetYourGuide.

Why is it worth it? Málaga has developed into a real art city over the past few years — and the Centre Pompidou is a big part of that. The collection is super impressive, and the location right on the harbor makes the visit even more enjoyable.

Our tip: Combine the museum visit with a stroll along Muelle Uno — entrance, museum, harbor promenade fit together perfectly as a half-afternoon. If you have a little more time, head over to Playa de la Malagueta as well, since it’s right behind Muelle Uno.

Ticket for the Centre Pompidou

Day Trips

Málaga is right in the heart of Andalusia — and that’s a real advantage.

Anyone doing a classic road trip through Andalusia will pass through here anyway. But even if you’re just spending a few days in Málaga, you have easy access to some of the most beautiful corners of the region. Granada, Ronda, the Caminito del Rey — all reachable in under two hours.

If you want to make several day trips from Málaga, it definitely makes sense to rent a car. We usually compare rental car deals on Discovercars — it’s quick, easy, and you’ll generally find a great deal.

But a rental car isn’t a must. For many day trip destinations, you can travel by public transportation or on a guided tour. Where that’s possible, we’ve noted it and linked to relevant tours.

Jardín Botánico-Histórico La Concepción

What do you need to know? The Jardín Botánico-Histórico La Concepción is located about 7 kilometers north of the city center and is one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in Europe. Around 25,000 plants grow here, including 90 different species of palms and many tropical plants. The garden was laid out in the 19th century and is now a protected landmark. Admission: around €5.50.

Why is it worth it? A walk here feels like a little escape into the jungle — right in the middle of Andalusia. The grounds are huge, it’s peaceful, and you quickly forget that just an hour ago you were in the city center. Wonderfully refreshing. We didn’t go ourselves, since the sights in and around Málaga’s old town were a higher priority for us — but if you love gardens, it’s absolutely worth making the time.

Our tip: Come in the morning — in summer, it gets quite hot even in the shade around midday. You can get there comfortably from the center by bus (line 24).

Caminito del Rey

What do you need to know? The Caminito del Rey — “The King’s Path” — is one of the most popular day trips around Málaga. The trail runs about 100 meters above a gorge up to 400 meters deep, with the Guadalhorce River flowing below. The path can only be walked in one direction (north to south). Plan around three to four hours. You can either do it on your own (ticket from around €10 on the Caminito del Rey website) or book a guided tour (on GetYourGuide, from around €18, often including transfer). In either case, you must book your ticket online in advance — only 600 people are allowed per day and tickets often sell out weeks ahead.

Why is it worth it? It can feel a little nerve-wracking up there — but that’s exactly what makes it so unforgettable. The view through the gorge is simply spectacular. The path was completely restored in 2015 and is safe to walk, but hasn’t lost any of its impressive character.

Our tip: If you’re arriving by rental car, book the shuttle service back to the starting point directly when buying your ticket. You can also pay the driver in cash on the spot (approx. €2.50).

Note: The minimum age is 8 years and is strictly checked at the entrance with ID. So if you’re visiting Málaga with young children, unfortunately this one won’t work.

Tour from Málaga to the Caminito del Rey

Ronda

What do you need to know? Ronda is located about 80 kilometers west of Málaga — roughly 80 minutes by car, around two hours by train. The town sits on a cliff and is split by the Puente Nuevo — a stone bridge spanning the El Tajo gorge at a height of around 120 meters. Ronda is one of the so-called “white villages” of Andalusia.

Why is it worth it? Ronda is truly special. White houses, narrow alleyways, and then suddenly this enormous gorge right below you. The view from the Puente Nuevo is one of the most striking sights in all of Andalusia. Add to that a lively old town with great restaurants — it makes for a really wonderful day trip.

Our tip: We have a detailed guide to Ronda with all the tips and highlights. As a day trip from Málaga, a guided tour is also well worth it.

Guided full-day tour from Málaga to Ronda

Nerja

What do you need to know? Nerja is about 45 minutes east of Málaga by car. The village has only around 21,000 residents, but has a surprisingly lot to offer: a charming old town with flower-covered facades, beautiful coves and cliffs nearby, and the famous Nerja Caves, which stretch over more than 4 kilometers. By bus from Málaga it’s about one hour.

Why is it worth it? Nerja is quieter and more authentic than many other coastal towns on the Costa del Sol — and you notice that right away. The combination of village, sea, and caves makes it one of the best day trips from Málaga.

Our tip: Make sure to combine the old town with a visit to the caves — they’re truly impressive. On a guided tour from Málaga, you can easily fit both into one day.

From Málaga: Cave tour to Nerja

Granada

What do you need to know? Granada is about 130 kilometers from Málaga — roughly 1.5 hours by bus, similar by car. The standout attraction is the Alhambra, a vast Moorish fortress high above the city. Beyond that, there’s the Arab quarter Albaicín and the cave neighborhood Sacromonte with its flamenco tradition. For a day trip, it’s best to start early.

Why is it worth it? Granada is one of the most fascinating cities in Spain — and the Alhambra alone makes the trip worthwhile. But beyond that: wandering through narrow alleyways, sitting in an Arab teahouse, experiencing flamenco in the evening. It’s just a completely different world.

Our tip: Book Alhambra tickets well in advance — they often sell out weeks or even months ahead. If you’d like to stay longer, you can find our hotel tips for Granada here.

Guided full-day tour from Málaga to the Alhambra in Granada

Marbella

What do you need to know? Marbella is one of the most popular cities in Andalusia and lies about 60 kilometers west of Málaga, roughly one hour by bus or car. The city is known for its white old town, the glamorous marina Puerto Banús, and long sandy beaches. The must-sees include the Plaza de Naranjos with its orange trees and the waterfront promenade Paseo Marítimo. Marbella is also known as a second-home destination for Spanish and international celebrities and the jet set. No wonder there are so many luxury hotels in Marbella.

Why is it worth it? Marbella has two faces — a charming old town with narrow alleyways and bougainvillea-covered facades on one side, yachts and designer boutiques in Puerto Banús on the other. Together they make for a really varied day.

Our tip: Even if you don’t have millions in the bank — a stroll through Puerto Banús is fantastic entertainment. Try to spot the most extravagant yacht. And if a Lamborghini drives by: nothing unusual here.

Our Hotel Tips for Málaga

Still looking for a place to stay in Málaga? We recommend the old town — ideally somewhere around the cathedral, the Alcazaba, and Gibralfaro. During the day everything is within walking distance, at night it’s quiet enough, and the beach is about a 15-minute walk away.

Food and Drink

Everything You Need to Know About Eating in Málaga

Málaga spoils its visitors with one of the finest food cultures in Spain. Fresh fish, seafood, and Andalusian tapas — and at prices that are still genuinely fair.

Eating here works a little differently than in many other countries: the siesta is taken seriously, meaning many restaurants are closed between 4 and 7 PM. Lunch often doesn’t start until 1 PM, and dinner before 9 PM? That’s a tourist thing. Check your restaurant’s opening hours beforehand — it’ll save you any surprises.

If you love fish and seafood, Málaga will not disappoint: calamares, pulpo, gambas, pickled or fried anchovies, mussels — all super fresh.

Typical tapas include grilled pimientos, patatas bravas, and of course tortilla de patatas. And don’t miss a good slice of Serrano ham either.

Everything You Need to Know About Drinking in Málaga

Málaga is known for its over 1,000-year-old tradition of sweet wine production. Málaga wine is one of the oldest documented wine varieties and is drunk more as a dessert wine, similar to port wine in Porto or Lisbon.

The Malagueños themselves prefer beer with their food — usually local varieties.

Breakfast

• Santa Coffee: The most popular specialty coffee chain in Málaga, with several locations around the city. If you’re into good filter coffee — definitely try the batch brew here.
• The Lab. by Next Level: Modern specialty coffee café with high-quality coffee drinks and a great breakfast menu.
• Taybo Bagels & Coffee: A really cozy café about five minutes outside the old town, open from 8 AM. Small but excellent bagel selection — sweet and savory — and for kids there’s a suitcase full of books and coloring supplies.
• Delicotte Specialty Coffee & Tea: A lovely café for coffee and tea lovers with a fine selection of breakfast options.
• Next Level Specialty Coffee: A top address for specialty coffee in the old town — for anyone who takes their coffee seriously.
• Sabor con Encanto Brunch & Healthy Eating: A relaxed brunch café with healthy cuisine — and right next door is a playground. Perfect for families!
• Brunchit: Popular brunch café right in the old town with a wide selection of breakfast and brunch dishes.
• The Cereal Boom: An absolute hit for families with kids — all over the café there are huge shelves of numbered cereal boxes you pick yourself. But they also serve pancakes and porridge. More on that in our article Tips for Málaga with Kids.

Tapas and Dinner

• Restaurant Oliva: A couple runs the place with just a few tables — be sure to reserve ahead! Small menu, everything excellent and meant for sharing. Great value for money. On top of that: almost everything is gluten-free, and the owners know every dish inside and out.
• Niccia: Modern, stylish restaurant in the old town with Mediterranean-Italian cuisine — tapas, pasta, and smash burgers. The tiramisu is prepared tableside. Reservations a must!
• Restaurante Jia: Asian-Mediterranean fusion cuisine in a beautiful spot in the old town — a great alternative when you’re not in the mood for tapas.
• Los Marangós Molina Lario: Classic Spanish restaurant with a stunning terrace and views of the cathedral. Known for its exceptional paella and fresh tapas — a true Málaga classic.
• Utopia Asian Kitchen Club: Stylish Asian restaurant — more upscale than casual, but the food is really good, especially the ramen. Great for a relaxed lunch or dinner when you want something other than Spanish cuisine.

Ice Cream

• Nonna Helado Artesanal: Handmade ice cream of the finest quality — one of the best ice cream shops in Málaga.
• Yummy Málaga – Heladería Gluten Free & Vegan: Gluten-free and vegan ice cream right in the old town — for anyone with dietary needs or simply looking for a lighter treat.

Practical Tips for Málaga

Public Transportation in Málaga

You can explore Málaga’s city center wonderfully on foot. But if you want to venture further out — for example, to reach other neighborhoods along the coast like the colorful and quieter Pedregalejo — the bus is worth it. A single bus ticket costs €1.30 and is purchased on board from the driver.

In the other direction, heading east — for example to Torremolinos — the commuter rail is your best bet. It runs from Málaga inland or along the coast all the way to Fuengirola. Tickets start at €1.80 depending on your destination. The commuter rail company is called Cercanías and runs until around 1 AM from the terminal station Málaga Centro Alameda, heading north and east into the surrounding area.

From the Airport to the City

Málaga’s airport is located to the east on the edge of the city, about 8 kilometers from the center, and is pretty easy to get to. There are several options:

By Commuter Rail

The cheapest way to get from the airport into the city is the commuter rail. Right in front of the airport, underground, is the Aeropuerto station, from which you can take the C-1 line to Málaga Centro Alameda. The journey takes about 15 minutes. The ticket costs €1.80 and you don’t even have to deal with a ticket machine. Just tap your contactless credit card at the entry and exit scanners on the commuter rail and the correct fare is automatically charged.

By Shuttle Bus

Bus line A runs every 30 to 40 minutes depending on traffic from the arrivals terminal to Málaga city center. The final stop is Paseo del Parque, near the harbor district and the old town. Admittedly, the bus does drop you off about 1 km further into the city than the commuter rail, but it runs less frequently. Tickets are available from the driver for €3.

By Taxi

Certainly the most comfortable option, as the taxi takes you as close to your hotel as possible. A ride from the airport to the city costs around €20 to €30 depending on the distance.

Our Favorite: Uber/Bolt

Even cheaper is Uber or Bolt. Both have a dedicated pickup area at Málaga Airport that is even signposted inside the terminal. This is our favorite option.

By Private Transfer

You can also book a private transfer. This can be worth it if, for example, you’re traveling with a larger group and want to book a van, or if you want to avoid long waits at the taxi stand. Of course, this is the most expensive but also the most comfortable option. You can book the private transfer starting at €43 for up to three people.

Tours in Málaga

Hop-On/Hop-Off Bus

Málaga also has a hop-on/hop-off bus that covers the most important sights. Handy if you’re short on time and want to see as much as possible. Tickets from around €25 per person for one day, available online or directly at the stops.

Our tip: Since the old town is very compact, the bus is most useful for more distant destinations like the Castillo de Gibralfaro. If you have time, exploring the old town on foot is often faster and more enjoyable.

Hop-on/Hop-off Bus

Tuk-Tuk Tour

A relaxed and somewhat different way to discover Málaga: electric tuk-tuk tours. Small, nimble vehicles take you to the most important sights — with a guide. Especially great for families with kids or when you don’t feel like walking too much.

Our tip: Tours are available in various lengths, from one to two hours. It’s best to book in advance — spots are limited.

Tuk-Tuk Tour

Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Málaga