Andalucía is the passionate heart of southern Spain and nestled within it is the Costa del Sol. Malaga is the focal point of the 'Coast of the Sun'. This fiery city emanates a love for food, for sunshine, for art and tradition. Whether it is the soulfully prepared tapas that makes your taste-buds dance for joy, or the heartrending emotion in the paintings of Picasso; Malaga overflows with soul.
The Costa del Sol isn't all about Malaga. Marbella is a glamourous playground, whereas Nerja and Benalmadena are traditionally Spanish. Don’t let Malaga’s ceaseless nightlife distract you from exploring all this this captivating city has to offer by day. The 11th century Moorish castle, Alcazaba, is one of the city’s most stunning sights that longs to be explored and admired. Imagine the bygone days of Rome as you stumble upon the ruins of an ancient theatre that once adorned this fragment of its colossal Empire. Wander the enchanting gardens in the Castillo de Gibralfaro set high on its hilltop perch. Malaga’s Cathedral proudly stands guard over all who wander its exotic streets, while Picasso’s birthplace pays homage to him at every turn: the Picasso Museum is an un-missable sight. Take the whole family to the spectacular La Conception Botanical and Historical Gardens where you can picnic, siesta and soak up the sun.
La Malagueta Beach lures sun worshipers out of the city with its beautiful, seemingly infinite sandy shores while rock climbers live on the edge clambering the amazing El Chorro Gorge or walking the exhilarating 'Kings Walkway' path that sways, suspended high above its gaping mouth – not for the faint hearted! Fear not, you can always compose the nerves with a glass of the region’s most famous tipple,
mosto
, a nectar sweet wine. Whether you choose fine dining or a snack in a
chiringuito
(beach restaurant) the cuisine in Malaga is a source of local pride. Seafood plucked fresh from the sea appears as if by magic on plates within minutes, while the Iberico ham and local cheeses are the stuff of legend.
Once you’ve wined and dined and sunbathed; explored, shopped, gazed and eaten your way around this inviting city, the time has come to dive in and experience Malaga’s infamous nightlife. There are cosy tavernas and stone clad tapas bars that call to those seeking a quiet drink and a slice of local life, but there is another side to Malaga. At the stroke of midnight there’s not a pumpkin to be seen as city dwellers in their glad-rags hit every wine bar, casino, all night club and live music venue in the city. You don’t have to be a party animal to enjoy Malaga, but feint heart never won fair city. Embrace the passion and you’ll love every minute.
If bling is your thing, then Marbella is the destination for you. Just a short journey from the airport (around 30miles), Marbella plays host to the rich and famous who come to experience the nightlife, bars and expensive shops. The Puerto Banus yacht marina is the place to start for spotting celebrities, followed by one of the 24 different beaches that stretch along the Marbella coastline. Should you wish to visit Marbella but flying to Malaga isn't ideal for you check our our page on the
nearest airports to Marbella
.
The resort of Benalmadena offers good weather all year round, living up to the Costa del Sol name. Benalmadena, along with Nerja to the east of Malaga, offer an insight into traditional Andalucían life. The narrow streets and whitewashed houses offer a real flavour of Spain. The village in the mountain, where Benalmadena castle is situated, is a must-see. The Cueva de Nerja, or Caves of Nerja, are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Spain. In the summer months, local performers put on concerts in this dramatic, natural amphitheatre. Like Marbella, if you want to visit Nerja, but you have no direct flights to Malaga, take a look at our
Nerja airports
page for advice on other airports and where you can fly direct from the UK.
When's the best time to book flights to Malaga?
Book 7 weeks before you plan to visit Malaga, especially if you want to save some cash. Being prepared could save you 12% on the average price of flights to this sunny part of Spain.
If you have booked your flights to Malaga airport or are planning to pick someone up, please check live Malaga Airport Arrivals information.
Malaga Airport Hotels
Whether you are arriving into Malaga late at night or have an early morning departure, a stay in an airport hotel can help ease some of your travel stress. Malaga has a great selection of hotels located near the aiport, here are some of our favourite Malaga airport hotels to help you find the perfect place to stay.
Situated in the heart of historic Malaga, the Museo Del Vino provides a journey through the history of wine production in Malaga.
Plaza de los Viñeros 1, Málaga 29008
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Hotels in Malaga
Car hire in Malaga
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