With a sunny climate for most of the year, an enviable gastronomy and culture, Malaga is one of the most interesting destinations in Spain. Known as the capital of the Costa del Sol, this Andalusian city has much to give and offer, in addition to its renowned coasts. So go preparing your luggage, because next we will tell you what to do in Malaga on a quick trip.
What to do in Malaga in a weekend?
There is much to do in Malaga in a short trip and even for free. Of course, not everything is entirely free, the custom is always to leave tips. But trust us, all the following places are worth it. And you will not be able to believe all the amount of palaces, gardens and cultural centers that fit within this city.
The Roman Theater
Although it may seem like a joke, this theater was only discovered in the 50’s under the Alcazaba. It’s a monumental complex dating from the first century after Christ. And, as the name implies, it was used by the Romans, but as a warehouse. Later, with the arrival of the Muslims in Spain, the stones were used in the Alcazaba. But it’s still a wonder of the ancient world that is worth seeing in Malaga.
The Alcazaba of Malaga
If you have arrived at the Roman Theater it’s because you have passed through the Alcazaba, which is another place you can visit in Malaga. It’s an architectural complex that is the best evidence of the diversity of cultures that abound in this city. The Alcazaba is an enclosure of several buildings built by Muslims when the area was occupied by the Phoenicians.
Also called the Alhambra in Malaga, this Moorish fortress will surprise you with its network of fortifications, its areas full of gardens and the palace with fine Arabic decoration. Finally, it’s an excellent place to take the best panoramic photos of all of Malaga.
Atarazanas Market
Another point of interest of the things to do in Malaga is this municipal market with a neo-Arab style. It has Nasrid elements and Caliphate details, as another demonstration of the cultural diversity displayed in the city. This market also has an interesting history, since its metallic structures were used as a military barracks and hospital in past times.
But later, the market that you can see today was erected as an excellent space for traders. And also for sightseeing.
The Gardens of Pedro Luis Alonso
A walk through these gardens is another of the hidden wonders that you can find under the Malaga sun. The Pedro Luis Alonso Gardens are located next to the Town Hall, between the Puerta Oscura Gardens and the Malaga Park. And they are a set of gardens with Latin, Spanish-Arabic and French influence.
As you go, you will see the beautiful orange, mandarin and cypress trees arranged in geometric lines. Simply a visual spectacle that you should not miss. So don’t forget to pack your camera!
Gibralfaro Castle
Part of the cultural center, together with the Alcazaba and the Roman Theater, the Gibralfaro Castle is another tourist place par excellence of things what to do in Malaga. This impressive structure has the best views of the city, where you can see the Costa del Sol. It’s also a historic center, since this castle was built to defend the Alcazaba from enemy attacks centuries ago. But today there is no attack to fear for, just enjoy the view and experience the beautiful sunsets that the city can offer.
Malaga Cathedral
Another important place is the cathedral, which you can find in the Plaza del Obispo. Being considered one of the most important jewels of Renaissance architecture in Spain, it’s also another manifesto of the diverse history that happened in this city. It’s located on the border where the Arab wall was raised and where there was an old aljama mosque.
Either way, you will be surprised by the architecture with Gothic style, Renaissance traces and Baroque elements.
Museums in Malaga
The cultural development of Malaga is enormous, and over the years several museums have been opened. Like the Picasso museum, in which you can stroll through its twelve rooms full of interesting artistic selections. This is located in the Buenavista palace, and in addition to having the curious work of the Malaga artist, it also has the private collection of Christine and Bernard Ruiz-Picasso, daughter-in-law and grandson of Picasso himself.
And if you are not interested in art itself, you also have a very interesting alternative, which is the Malaga Automobile Museum. Perfect for classic cars fans, it has a sample of 91 classic cars from the collection of the Portuguese Joao de Magalhaes. Finally, the Carmen Thyssen Museum in Malaga, which is a manifesto of Spanish painting and Andalusian artists with romantic and traditional styles.
Malagueta Beach
You can’t leave Malaga without visiting its beach. Therefore, you have to take advantage of the Malagueta beach, an urban beach of dark sand which is visited by the shining rays of the Malaga sun. And that’s not all, because you can also find some small places to eat in the old fishmonger’s neighborhood next to the beach to taste the skewers of sardines or the different fried fish that just come out of the sea.
Where to stay?
There are also many places to stay in Malaga and most of them are quite cheap. So if you are on a quick trip and you’re looking for a place with a good price, then hotels like Barbatuke are ideal for you. Located in the east of Malaga, Barbatuke offers accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, sober and fresh rooms, and beautiful gardens.
We also have the Hotel Casa Vázquez, about 5 minutes from the center of Malaga, if you want to enjoy the best views from your room. But if you want a more luxurious experience, you can also find five-star options. Like the Gran Hotel Miramar GL located a few steps from the Malagueta beach.
