Discover Málaga: A Guide to the City's Treasures

Málaga, one of the oldest Mediterranean seaports, is a city rich in history and culture, boasting Roman ruins, Moorish castles, and Baroque cathedrals. It's also known for its stunning Costa del Sol scenery, palm-lined promenades, and vibrant beaches.

Visitors are charmed by Málaga's old-world feel, with its historic center's quaint shops, cafés, and tapas bars. The harbor area offers scenic walks and dining with sea views. Málaga is a treasure trove of attractions, from the ancient Alcazaba fortress to the Picasso Museum.

1. Alcazaba de Málaga

The Alcazaba, a Moorish castle from the 11th century, showcases Islamic architecture and offers panoramic sea views. Nearby, the Teatro Romano, an ancient Roman theater, occasionally hosts performances. The Alcazaba is open daily, with free admission on Sundays.

Address: 2 Calle Alcazabilla, Málaga

2. Catedral de Málaga

The Catedral de Málaga, a 15th-century masterpiece, blends Renaissance and Baroque styles. Its incomplete exterior earned it the nickname "La Manquita," or "The One-Armed Woman." Visitors can climb the North Tower for breathtaking views.

Address: 9 Calle Molina Lario, Málaga

3. Old Town

The Old Town is a maze of medieval streets, bustling squares, and the Iglesia de San Juan Bautista, a church with Gothic and Mudéjar elements.

4. Jardín Botánico-Histórico La Concepción

La Concepción Garden is a 19th-century botanical haven with a historical garden and diverse plant species. It features thematic sections and a cafeteria.

Address: Camino del Jardín Botánico, Málaga

5. Castillo de Gibralfaro

The Castillo de Gibralfaro, a 10th-century fortress, offers an Interpretation Centre and stunning views of Málaga Harbor.

Address: Camino de Gibralfaro, Málaga

6. Museo Picasso Málaga

The Museo Picasso Málaga showcases the artist's works across his career. The museum also has a café and bookshop.

Address: Palacio de Buenavista, 8 Calle San Agustín, Málaga

Official site: www.museopicassomalaga.org

7. Museo Carmen Thyssen Málaga

The Museo Carmen Thyssen, in the Palacio de Villalón, displays 19th- and 20th-century Spanish paintings, with a focus on Andalusian art.

Address: 10 Calle Compañía, Málaga

Official site: https://www.carmenthyssenmalaga.org/en/

8. Playa de la Malagueta

Playa de la Malagueta is a popular urban beach with a Blue Flag designation, offering amenities and water sports.

9. Museo de Málaga

The Museo de Málaga combines fine arts and archaeology, showcasing local 19th-century paintings and Roman antiquities.

10. Basílica Nuestra Señora de la Victoria

The Basílica Nuestra Señora de la Victoria, a 17th-century Baroque church, houses the shrine of the city's patron saint.

Address: Plaza Santuario, Málaga

11. Centre Pompidou Málaga

The Centre Pompidou Málaga features modern and contemporary art from the Paris collection, including works by Picasso and Kahlo.

Address: Pasaje Doctor Carrillo Casaux, s/n 29016 Muelle Uno, Puerto de Málaga

12. Museo Unicaja de Artes y Costumbres Populares

This museum offers a glimpse into local culture with exhibits on artisan crafts and folklore.

Address: 1 Plaza Enrique García-Herrera, Málaga

13. Mercado de Atarazanas (Market Hall)

The Mercado de Atarazanas is a vibrant market with a 14th-century Islamic gateway and a stained-glass window depicting Málaga's landmarks.

Address: Mercado de Atarazanas, Calle Atarazanas, Málaga

14. Semana Santa (Holy Week)

Málaga's Holy Week features processions with floats, music, and thousands of participants, reflecting a tradition dating back over 500 years.

Address: 2 Calle Muro de San Julián, Málaga

15. Centro de Arte Contemporáneo (CAC Málaga)

The CAC Málaga showcases contemporary art from the 1950s onwards, with a focus on Spanish art since the 1980s.

Address: Calle Alemania, Málaga

Official site: http://cacmalaga.eu

16. Soho (Art District)

Soho is an artsy neighborhood with street murals by famous artists, galleries, and the Contemporary Art Center of Málaga.

17. Museo del Vidrio y Cristal de Málaga

This museum showcases a vast collection of glasswork from various cultures and eras, housed in an 18th-century home.

Address: 2 Plazuela Santísimo Cristo de la Sangre, Málaga

Official site: www.museovidrioycristalmalaga.com/museoingles

18. Festival de Málaga (Film Festival)

The Festival de Málaga is an annual event celebrating Spanish-language films with screenings, discussions, and an awards ceremony.

Where to Stay in Málaga for Sightseeing

For culture enthusiasts, staying in the historic center is ideal, while beachgoers may prefer seaside hotels. Options range from luxury to budget accommodations, with amenities like rooftop pools, sea views, and proximity to attractions.

Tips and Tours: How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Málaga

• Segway into the Old Town: A Segway tour is a unique way to see the Old Town's highlights, including the cathedral and Alcazaba.
• To Britain and Back in a Day: A day trip to Gibraltar offers a guided tour of the Rock and free time for lunch and shopping.

More Related Articles on tripates.com

Exploring Andalusia: Málaga is a gateway to Andalusia's top attractions, including the region's white villages and historic cities.