Málaga, Spain
Often overlooked as just an airport for the beach resorts, Málaga turned out to be a delight in its own right — a vibrant, walkable port city that deserves far more than a quick stop on the way to the coast.
Our experience
Málaga was our sunny gateway to Andalusia in February 2025 — a couple of nights at the Hotel Guadalmedina on Spain’s Costa del Sol. The birthplace of Picasso, it has a revitalized old town, a Moorish hilltop fortress, palm-lined boulevards, and an exceptional museum scene.
Add the warm Mediterranean light, the beaches right in town, and the famous Andalusian food and tapas culture, and we were charmed.
Málaga is the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, who was born here in 1881. The city is now home to the Museo Picasso Málaga, while another layer of its long history can be seen at the Roman Theatre beside the Alcazaba.
Must-sees and must-dos
- Alcazaba of Málaga — explore the city’s historic Moorish fortress overlooking the old town and Mediterranean.
- Picasso Museum Málaga — discover the work of Málaga’s most famous artist in the Palacio de Buenavista.
- Málaga Cathedral — visit the city’s landmark Renaissance cathedral, popularly known as La Manquita because of its unfinished second tower.
- Gibralfaro Castle — head above the Alcazaba for panoramic views across Málaga, the port, and the Mediterranean.
- Old Town & Calle Larios — wander Málaga’s pedestrian historic center, with shops, plazas, tapas restaurants, and cafés.
- Malagueta Beach — spend some time by the Mediterranean and try espetos, the local tradition of sardines grilled over an open fire.
Our pro tip
We’d urge travelers not to treat Málaga as just an airport — give it at least a night or two. The historic center is compact and walkable, so it’s easy to combine the Alcazaba, Picasso Museum, cathedral, and old town in a relatively short stay. Try the espetos while you’re here, and use Málaga as a convenient starting point for exploring more of Andalusia and the Costa del Sol.
For one of the easiest bookable attractions in the city, check Picasso Museum Málaga tickets on Klook.
If you have an extra day, check this Caminito del Rey guided tour from Málaga on Klook.