Discover the Malaga area with our helpful guide, offering a glimpse into one of the most renowned resorts on the Costa del Sol. Learn about the various neighbourhoods in Malaga, the climate of the resort, and activities to enjoy. Find recommendations on dining options and shopping spots in town.

Where is Malaga?                             

Malaga is situated almost in the centre of Spain’s southern Mediterranean coast and is the capital of the

What’s Malaga like?

Malaga has undergone a remarkable transformation in the past decade, evolving from a mere entry point to the Costa del Sol to a vibrant city-break destination in Europe. The city now offers a plethora of cultural attractions such as the Picasso Museum, Pompidou Centre, and the Russian Museum, along with numerous other activities to enjoy.

The city center is predominantly pedestrian-friendly and showcases elegant 18th and 19th-century architecture. Malaga is also renowned for its diverse culinary scene, featuring a wide array of top-notch bars, restaurants, and a bustling food market, which is a major draw for visitors.

With the increasing popularity of Malaga as a tourist hotspot, the city has experienced a surge in tourism in recent years, making it one of the most visited cities in Spain. This rise in tourism has been accompanied by a rise in hotel occupancy rates and a notable increase in holiday rentals available in Malaga.

How big is it?

Malaga ranks as the sixth largest city in Spain. Although the city center is quite small and manageable, its suburbs extend eastward towards Rincón de la Victoria and westward into Torremolinos.

What’s the population of Malaga?

The population of Malaga is just under 594,000.

What’s the weather like in Malaga?

Malaga, just like the rest of the Costa del Sol, is blessed with a delightful climate that lasts all year round. There are at least 320 sunny days annually, and winter temperatures usually hover around 18 to 20 degrees during the day. While July and August can get quite hot, with temperatures exceeding 30 degrees, there's usually a cool sea breeze to provide some relief.

How do I get to Malaga?

Getting to Malaga from Malaga Airport is a breeze, especially with the convenient public transportation options available. Trains and buses run regularly between the airport and the city, with the train ride only taking 12 minutes and the bus ride slightly longer at around 20 minutes.

How far is it to Malaga Airport from Malaga?

Malaga Airport lies 10km to the southwest of Malaga city centre.

How far is it to Gibraltar Airport from Malaga?

There are plenty of flights to Malaga Airport and getting to Malaga from the airport is very convenient, so flying to Gibraltar Airport is really only ideal if you want to explore the western part of the Costa del Sol.

Gibraltar Airport is located 135km from Malaga city center, and it typically takes about an hour and 40 minutes to drive there. Just remember to factor in extra time for crossing the border between Spain and Gibraltar.

How far is it to Malaga from Marbella?

Marbella is an easy drive from Malaga via the AP-7 toll road and the 60km journey takes just over 30 minutes.

Where are the main residential areas in Malaga?

Malaga, one of the largest cities in Spain, offers a variety of residential areas. The most sought-after by foreign residents and property buyers are:

- City Centre: This area provides easy access to amenities, facilities, and main attractions. It also has great potential for buy-to-let properties, both for long-term rentals and holiday lets. While there are few new-build properties, many homes require refurbishment.

- La Malagueta and El Limonar: Located to the east of the city centre, this residential area is close to the seafront. Properties here are mainly high-rise apartments with excellent holiday let potential, or traditional early 20th-century homes in colonial style, often with large gardens. Some of the most expensive properties in Malaga can be found here.

Pedregalejo and El Palo are charming traditional fishing neighborhoods located to the east of the city, beloved by both locals and international buyers. These areas provide a laid-back lifestyle while still being conveniently close to all the attractions in central Malaga. You'll find a variety of amenities, and both neighborhoods boast lovely sandy beaches. The real estate here primarily consists of apartments, especially along the waterfront, with villas and townhouses available in developments like El Candado.

The western seafront is a relatively new area in Malaga that has gained popularity among property buyers. Several new apartment complexes are currently being built, and there are numerous vacant lots designated for beachfront properties and hotels. The amenities in this area are top-notch, and there are excellent public transport links to the center of Malaga.

What are the main attractions in Malaga?

Malaga has a long list of attractions

Malaga has something for everyone, with a variety of activities catering to all ages and preferences. The city is home to numerous attractions, including historic monuments like the Roman Theatre and the Moorish Alcazaba Fortress, reminiscent of the Alhambra Palace in Granada. The city center is a charming maze of streets and architecture, showcasing beautiful late 19th-century buildings, stunning churches, and the impressive Malaga Cathedral.

The museums in Malaga are a standout feature, earning the city the title of "City of Museums." Visitors can explore world-class art at museums such as the Picasso Museum, the Pompidou Centre, the Russian Museum, and the Contemporary Art Centre. Additionally, there are newer additions like the Museum of Malaga, the Glass Museum, the Wine Museum, Vintage Car Museum, and the Music Museum, which is a hit with young visitors.

Beyond museums, Malaga offers attractions like the revamped port area, featuring spacious pedestrian zones, the iconic pergola along Muelle Uno, and Muelle Dos with its array of shops and restaurants. The city also boasts two fantastic city beaches and several smaller ones on the outskirts, making it a perfect destination for beach lovers.

What are the beaches like in Malaga?

Malaga is home to two beautiful blue-flag beaches, conveniently located near the city center. Visitors can enjoy sandy shores, excellent amenities, lifeguard services from April to September, and a variety of beach bars and restaurants.

La Malagueta, situated to the east, is the most renowned beach in Malaga. It hosts events like concerts and the annual firework display that marks the beginning of Malaga Fair. On the western side of the city lies La Misericordia beach, stretching 3km with soft sand. Both beaches are bordered by pedestrian promenades and cycling paths.

What about eating out in Malaga?

Malaga's culinary scene has flourished over the past decade, making it one of the most captivating in southern Spain. From the Michelin-starred José Carlos García Restaurante at Muelle Uno to El Tres at La Malagueta and El Refectorium in the city center, there are numerous top-notch restaurants to choose from. Recent additions like Eboka Gastrobar near the Picasso Museum and Alexso in the north of the city center have also been making waves.

When it comes to tapas, Malaga offers a delightful array of options, ranging from everyday favorites to more upscale versions. Atarazanas Food Market is a fantastic spot for fish and seafood tapas, while the city center boasts a variety of tapas bars to explore. El Pimpi, a renowned dining destination in Malaga, serves up delicious tapas in its charming patios and rooms. For a taste of tradition, head to Casa de Guardia on the Alameda, the city's oldest bar known for its selection of Malaga wines straight from the barrels.

What’s a typical local dish?

Malaga boasts a variety of traditional dishes. Like other coastal resorts on the Costa del Sol, fresh fish and seafood are favorites, especially fried fish,  referred to as pescaíto, and grilled sardines.

In the winter, a popular dish in Malaga is emblanco, a fish stew with a creamy mayonnaise base. During the summer months, locals enjoy a refreshing cold soup made from garlic and almonds, known as ajo blanco.

How about shopping in Malaga?

If you're in Malaga and looking to shop, you'll be spoiled for choice with a variety of shops, shopping centers, and boutiques. Some of the popular department stores in the city include El Corte Inglés, FNAC, Decathlon, Leroy Merlin, and IKEA. The central Calle Larios area is a must-visit for a mix of high-street brands, luxury stores, and smaller shops. For unique boutique-style shops, head to the area around the Carmen Thyssen Museum. In terms of shopping centers, you'll find Malaga Plaza, Centro Larios, and Centro Comercial Vialia in the city center, each offering a different shopping experience. If you venture outside the city center, Plaza Mayor is a great option with a variety of stores, including outlets like Nike, and big department stores like Decathlon, IKEA, and Maisons du Monde.

And property?

If you're checking out this Malaga, it's clear you have a keen interest in properties in the area. And remember, if you can't find exactly what you're searching for, don't hesitate to reach out to our knowledgeable team who are experts on the area.

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