Best things to do in Malaga

Delve into 11th-century history of the Moorish conquest of Spain at Alcazaba. Built on the site of an ancient Roman village, the fortress served as a military stronghold for the Moors up until the Reconquista. Tour the inner labyrinth of the fortress to see impressive Muslim architecture. Wander the gardens full of notable fountains and landscaping. Appreciate panoramic views of the coastline from the fortress walls. Directly in front of the entrance is an old Roman amphitheater that you can tour in addition to the fortress with the purchase of a single ticket.

Discover Renaissance beauty in the heart of Andalucía at Malaga Cathedral. Constructed in the 16th century, the cathedral is referred to by locals as “La Manguita,” as it boasts only one high tower instead of the traditional two-tower design. Tour the cathedral’s many chapels, admiring grand artwork and details like the ornate Neoclassical altarpiece depicting the patron saints of Málaga and the carved mahogany, 17th-century choir stalls. Visit the museum on the second floor to see ceremonial treasures and important artifacts.

Visit the birthplace of one of Spain’s most renowned artists at the Museo Picasso Malaga. Located in a historic 16th-century palace, the museum holds a collection of 285 works donated by members of Picasso’s family. Tour the galleries to see his various paintings, sculptures, and drawings or browse the museum’s library, which boasts over 800 titles on Picasso, to learn his history and development as an artist. Have a coffee while enjoying the shade of the orange trees on the relaxing cafe terrace.

Once the last Islamic stronghold in Europe, Alhambra reflects the splendor of the Moorish civilization in Spain, and offers visitors a chance to see exquisite ornamental architecture, lush gardens, cascading water features, and panoramic views of Granada. This complex was once a palace, citadel, fortress, and the home of the Nasrid sultans, high government officials and servants of the court. Within the medieval complex of structures you can also explore other prominent buildings belonging to different time periods, including the palace of Carlos V, noted for housing a museum of fine art. To avoid disappointment, be sure to book tickets at least a few days in advance by phone or online.

Puerto de Málaga is the oldest continuously operated seaport in Spain. Nestled on the Costa del Sol, it serves as a port of call for many cruises. The port’s history stretches back to the Phoenicians and Carthaginians. If you’re up for a walk, head all the way out to the lighthouse and the sandy beach. Or, avoid the summer heat beneath the misters while strolling around this charming seaport, then grab a bite to eat in one of the many fine restaurants.

Appreciate panoramic views of the Mediterranean coastline from Balcony of Europe. Built originally as a fortress to protect from intruders, the viewpoint now serves as the focal point of the beautiful coastal town of Nerja. From the top of the structure, you have a bird’s eye view of the local swimming beaches and can also spot the famous village of Maro, site of the Nerja Caves. Walk the bustling promenade that leads to the viewpoint to find several shops, restaurants, and accommodations.

The city of Málaga's official flag depicts this castle, known as Castillo de Gibralfaro. Built in the tenth century by the Caliph of Córdoba, and expanded by the Sultan of Granada, the fortress also once housed King Ferdinand. AS you approach, you'll see ramparts rising from the surrounding woods. This distinguishing feature, along with a few interior buildings and a large courtyard, are well preserved. Take a stroll along the ramparts on the outer wall and you'll catch a view of the interior of the bullfighting ring next door.

Saunter through over 20 hectares (50 acres) of lush gardens at Parque De La Paloma. Located only 200 m (656 ft) from the main coastal highway, the park offers several children’s play areas, a large lake, and many pathways that wind through the beautifully landscaped area. Feed the dozens of geese, ducks, and peacocks that inhabit the park, or bring a picnic to eat while basking in the sun. On Wednesdays, the fruit and vegetable markets are open.

Puente Nuevo is the newest and largest of three bridges that span the 120-m (390-ft) chasm that carries the Guadalevín River and divides the city of Ronda. For views of the 18th-century bridge itself, head to the Plaza Maria Auxiliadora. To learn more about how the bridge was built and why its chamber was used as a prison, go to the visitors’ center. Take in the views of the surrounding natural landscape, but be very careful near the edge.

Become part of living history at Albayzin, the city’s old Moorish neighborhood, which was declared a World Heritage Site in 1984. Nostalgic and quaint, the area retained most of the narrow winding streets and buildings of its medieval Moorish past. Situated on a hill above the city center and offering unobstructed views of the famous Alhambra, this ancient quarter allows visitors a chance to see and explore white-washed old buildings, Arabic shops and restaurants, and scenic gardens. Dating back to the 14th century, when it thrived as a self-contained regional center, the neighborhood is now a kind of open-air museum in which you could lose yourself for days. Highlights within the area include remains of an Arab bath complex, the city’s archaeological museum, and a Catholic church built on the remains of a Moorish mosque.

Learn interesting details about the history and heritage of the city with a tour of Generalife, the summer palace and lush gardens of the Nasrid Emirs who once controlled this area. This expansive estate, built between 1302 and 1309, features one of the oldest surviving Moorish gardens in the country, positioned on a hill at the rear of the complex overlooking the famous Alhambra palace. Inside the gardens are colorful flower beds, exquisite architecture, cascading fountains, sparkling ponds, and cool shaded areas. A symbol of the city, this well-preserved estate is an important part of a protected World Heritage Site and one of the main attractions inside the vast complex. The grounds hold numerous secondary sights as well, many of them just little off the beaten path. Advance booking is advised, as access to various areas is strictly limited on a daily basis.