Things to do in Malaga: Based on NeemTime research from most popular to just popular.
Alcazaba, Malaga
Overview: Alcazaba is a historic Moorish fortress offering panoramic views of the city, a remarkable example of Islamic architecture in Málaga.
History: Built in the 11th century by the Hammudid dynasty, the fortress served as a residence and military stronghold.
Since When: The Alcazaba has stood since the early 11th century.
Review: A must-visit landmark in Málaga, Alcazaba’s well-preserved gardens, architecture, and views make it a favorite among tourists.
When to Go: Visit in spring or autumn when the weather is more comfortable for exploring the fortress.
How to Go: Located near the city center, the Alcazaba is easily accessible by foot or public transportation.
What to Do: Explore the fortress, visit the gardens, and enjoy the stunning views of Málaga and the Mediterranean.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Santa Iglesia Catedral BasÃlica de la Encarnación, Malaga
Overview: The Cathedral of Málaga, also known as La Manquita, is a stunning Renaissance-style cathedral located in the heart of the city.
History: Construction began in the 16th century and continued into the 18th century, making it one of the most important architectural landmarks in Málaga.
Since When: The cathedral has been under construction since 1528, though it remains incomplete.
Review: With its beautiful architecture and intricate details, the cathedral is a breathtaking site to visit, both inside and out.
When to Go: The cathedral can be visited year-round, but it’s less crowded during the off-peak seasons of fall and winter.
How to Go: It’s centrally located in Málaga, within walking distance from the main squares and other attractions.
What to Do: Explore the interior, climb the bell tower for panoramic views, and admire the impressive artwork and architecture.
Free or Paid: Paid entry (free during Mass).
Museo Picasso Málaga, Malaga
Overview: The Picasso Museum Málaga houses an extensive collection of works by the famous artist Pablo Picasso, who was born in the city.
History: Opened in 2003, the museum is housed in the Buenavista Palace, a 16th-century building, and celebrates Picasso’s life and work.
Since When: The museum has been open since 2003.
Review: A cultural gem, the museum offers an insightful and beautiful look into Picasso’s creative genius, with numerous paintings and sculptures on display.
When to Go: The museum is best visited year-round, but avoid peak tourist seasons to enjoy a more peaceful experience.
How to Go: Located in the city center, the museum is easily accessible by foot, taxi, or public transportation.
What to Do: Admire the works of Picasso, learn about his life, and enjoy temporary exhibitions that showcase various aspects of his art.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Parque de la Paloma, Malaga
Overview: Parque de la Paloma is a large, lush park in the heart of Benalmádena, known for its beautiful gardens, lakes, and wildlife.
History: Opened in the 1990s, this park was designed to offer a peaceful retreat within the city, with a focus on green spaces and nature.
Since When: The park has been open to the public since the late 20th century.
Review: A tranquil escape with scenic walking paths, lovely ponds, and free-roaming animals, this park is perfect for family visits.
When to Go: The best time to visit is in spring or early autumn when the weather is mild.
How to Go: The park is located in the Benalmádena area and can be easily accessed by car, bus, or taxi.
What to Do: Stroll through the gardens, enjoy the peaceful lakes, and interact with the animals, including rabbits and ducks.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Playa la Malagueta, Malaga
Overview: Playa la Malagueta is a popular urban beach in Málaga, known for its golden sand and proximity to the city center.
History: Once a working harbor area, Playa la Malagueta was developed into a beach in the 20th century as tourism in Málaga grew.
Since When: The beach has been a favorite destination since its development in the mid-20th century.
Review: A lively and vibrant beach with a variety of amenities, it’s a perfect spot to relax or enjoy water sports near the city.
When to Go: The best time to visit is in summer, but it can get crowded; for a quieter experience, try the shoulder seasons.
How to Go: Located near Málaga’s port, Playa la Malagueta is easily accessible by foot, taxi, or public transport from the city center.
What to Do: Sunbathe, swim, enjoy water sports, or visit the nearby beach bars and restaurants for a meal or a drink.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Castillo de Gibralfaro, Malaga
Overview: Castillo de Gibralfaro is a Moorish castle that offers spectacular panoramic views of Málaga and the Mediterranean Sea.
History: The castle was built in the 14th century by the Nasrid dynasty to defend the Alcazaba fortress and the city from naval attacks.
Since When: It has stood since the 14th century and remains a key historical landmark in Málaga.
Review: The castle provides a great historical experience with stunning views, but some visitors find the steep walk to the top challenging.
When to Go: Visit in spring or autumn for pleasant weather, avoiding the summer heat.
How to Go: Located on a hill, it’s accessible by foot from the city center or via a short bus ride.
What to Do: Explore the castle’s towers, walk along its defensive walls, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the city and coastline.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Centre Pompidou Málaga, Malaga
Overview: The Centre Pompidou Málaga is a contemporary art museum showcasing modern and avant-garde works from the Paris-based Pompidou Center.
History: The museum opened in 2015 as part of a cultural partnership between the city of Málaga and the renowned Pompidou Centre in Paris.
Since When: It has been open since 2015.
Review: A fantastic addition to Málaga’s art scene, the museum offers impressive exhibits, but it may not appeal to all visitors due to its focus on contemporary art.
When to Go: It is ideal to visit throughout the year, especially when there are special exhibitions.
How to Go: The museum is located in the Málaga port area, easily reachable by foot or public transportation.
What to Do: Admire the art exhibitions, participate in interactive displays, and enjoy the museum’s striking architecture.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
JardÃn Botánico – Histórico La Concepción, Malaga
Overview: The Botanical Garden of La Concepción is a historic garden known for its diverse collection of plants from around the world.
History: Established in the 19th century by the Larios family, the garden was designed as a private retreat and is now open to the public.
Since When: It has been open to the public since the late 20th century, though its history dates back to the 1850s.
Review: A beautiful escape for nature lovers, the garden offers lush landscapes, fountains, and a variety of plants, though it’s a bit far from the city center.
When to Go: Visit in spring or autumn for the best weather and to see the plants in full bloom.
How to Go: The garden is located just outside the city center, accessible by car or public transport.
What to Do: Walk through the various themed gardens, enjoy the serene atmosphere, and admire the diverse plant species.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Selwo Marina, Malaga
Overview: Selwo Marina is a marine life park that features dolphins, sea lions, and other aquatic animals, with educational shows and interactive experiences.
History: Opened in 1995, Selwo Marina is part of the larger Selwo theme park, which is dedicated to wildlife conservation and education.
Since When: The park has been operating since 1995.
Review: A great family destination, Selwo Marina offers fun shows and animal encounters, though some guests feel the exhibits could be improved.
When to Go: The best time to visit is during the warmer months, especially in spring and summer when the shows are fully operational.
How to Go: Located in Benalmádena, the park is easily accessible by car, bus, or taxi from Málaga.
What to Do: Watch animal shows, interact with marine creatures, and explore the various habitats.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Málaga Park, Malaga
Overview: Málaga Park is a large urban park located near the city center, perfect for a relaxing stroll or a peaceful escape in nature.
History: The park was designed in the early 20th century and has become one of the city’s most beloved green spaces.
Since When: The park has been open since the early 20th century.
Review: A beautiful and accessible park for both locals and tourists, it’s an ideal spot for a relaxing break in Málaga.
When to Go: The park can be visited year-round, though spring and autumn are the best times for pleasant weather.
How to Go: Located near the city center, it’s easily accessible by foot, bus, or taxi.
What to Do: Stroll through the park’s lush paths, relax by the fountains, and enjoy the well-maintained gardens.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Parque del Oeste, Malaga
Overview: Parque del Oeste is a public park in Málaga offering green spaces, walking trails, and recreational areas, perfect for outdoor activities.
History: The park was established in the early 20th century and has since become a popular spot for locals to relax and enjoy nature.
Since When: It has been open to the public since the early 1900s.
Review: A peaceful and well-maintained park, it’s a nice escape from the bustle of the city, though it may not have as many attractions as other parks.
When to Go: It’s ideal to visit in spring or autumn when the weather is mild.
How to Go: The park is located a short distance from the city center and can be accessed by foot, bus, or car.
What to Do: Enjoy a relaxing walk, have a picnic, or take in the beautiful views from the park’s elevated areas.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Museo Picasso Málaga, Malaga
Overview: The Museo Picasso Málaga showcases a vast collection of works by the famous Spanish artist Pablo Picasso, including paintings, sculptures, and ceramics.
History: Housed in the Palacio de Buenavista, the museum opened in 2003 to honor Picasso, who was born in Málaga.
Since When: The museum has been open since 2003.
Review: A must-visit for art lovers, the museum offers a deep dive into Picasso’s evolution, though it can get crowded during peak seasons.
When to Go: Visit during weekdays or in the off-season to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the exhibits.
How to Go: The museum is centrally located in Málaga, easily accessible by foot, bus, or taxi.
What to Do: Explore the exhibitions, admire Picasso’s works, and learn about his life through interactive displays.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Museo Carmen Thyssen Málaga, Malaga
Overview: The Museo Carmen Thyssen Málaga is an art museum that houses a collection of 19th-century Spanish paintings, with a focus on Andalusian art.
History: Opened in 2011, the museum is located in a former palace and is part of the Thyssen-Bornemisza Collection.
Since When: The museum has been open since 2011.
Review: A gem for art lovers, it provides a great representation of Spanish art history, though its collection may seem limited to some visitors.
When to Go: Visit during weekdays or in the morning to avoid the crowds.
How to Go: The museum is located in the heart of Málaga, easily accessible by foot, bus, or taxi.
What to Do: Admire the impressive collection of Spanish art, especially Andalusian works, and enjoy the museum’s beautiful building.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Malaga Cathedral, Malaga
Overview: The Málaga Cathedral, also known as La Manquita, is a stunning Renaissance-style cathedral with an unfinished tower, making it one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
History: The cathedral was built between the 16th and 18th centuries on the site of a former mosque, with construction beginning in 1528.
Since When: The cathedral has been under construction since 1528 and was completed in the 18th century, though work on its tower remains unfinished.
Review: A beautiful blend of architectural styles, the cathedral is a must-see, with its impressive interior and historical significance.
When to Go: It’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
How to Go: Located in the city center, it is easily accessible by foot, bus, or taxi.
What to Do: Explore the interior, admire the artwork, and take in the panoramic views of the city from the tower.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, though entry is free for Mass attendees.
Museo AutomovilÃstico de Málaga, Malaga
Overview: The Museo AutomovilÃstico de Málaga is a museum dedicated to the history of automobiles, displaying a vast collection of vintage cars and motorbikes.
History: The museum, located in a former tobacco factory, opened in 2010 to showcase the private collection of vintage vehicles.
Since When: The museum has been open since 2010.
Review: A fun and unique experience, the museum offers a look into the evolution of automobiles, though it may be more appealing to car enthusiasts.
When to Go: It’s ideal to visit on weekdays or during the off-season to avoid crowds.
How to Go: Located a short distance from the city center, the museum is accessible by foot, bus, or taxi.
What to Do: Explore the extensive collection of vintage cars, learn about automotive history, and take photos with the impressive vehicles.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Málaga Roman Theatre, Malaga
Overview: The Málaga Roman Theatre is an ancient amphitheater located at the foot of the Alcazaba, dating back to the 1st century BC.
History: Built during the reign of Emperor Augustus, it was used for public events and later abandoned, rediscovered in 1951, and is now a major historical site.
Since When: It has been open to the public since its rediscovery in 1951.
Review: A fascinating glimpse into Roman history, this site is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, offering a combination of cultural and architectural beauty.
When to Go: It’s best to visit during the cooler months or early in the morning to avoid the midday heat.
How to Go: Located in the city center, it’s easily accessible on foot or by public transport.
What to Do: Explore the well-preserved ruins, take a walk around the amphitheater, and enjoy the panoramic views of Málaga’s old town.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Parque de Huelin, Malaga
Overview: Parque de Huelin is a spacious urban park with gardens, playgrounds, and recreational facilities, perfect for a family outing or a relaxing walk.
History: Originally developed in the 20th century, it has been a central green space in Málaga, evolving with modern amenities and features.
Since When: The park has been in operation since the early 1900s.
Review: A peaceful and well-maintained park, ideal for outdoor activities, although it can be quieter compared to more famous parks in the city.
When to Go: The park is great to visit during spring and summer, especially in the morning or late afternoon when the weather is more pleasant.
How to Go: The park is located near the coast, easily accessible by foot, bike, or public transport from the city center.
What to Do: Enjoy walking paths, picnic areas, and the park’s water features; it’s a perfect spot for children to play.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Malaga Museum, Malaga
Overview: The Malaga Museum is a cultural institution that features a wide range of art, archaeology, and historical exhibits representing the region’s rich heritage.
History: Opened in 1972, the museum was originally established to house the city’s archaeological collections before expanding to include fine art.
Since When: The museum has been open since 1972.
Review: A wonderful museum that combines art and history, although it may not be as large as some other Spanish museums, it provides a great cultural experience.
When to Go: It’s best to visit on weekdays or in the off-season to avoid large crowds.
How to Go: Located in the center of Málaga, the museum is easily reachable by foot, bus, or taxi.
What to Do: Explore the museum’s exhibits on art and archaeology, attend temporary exhibitions, and enjoy the beautiful museum building.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Puerto de Malaga, Malaga
Overview: Puerto de Málaga is the city’s historic port, offering a vibrant waterfront with shops, restaurants, and scenic views.
History: Dating back to the Phoenician era, the port has evolved into a modern harbor while retaining much of its historical charm.
Since When: The port has been in operation since the Phoenician times, around 2,800 years ago.
Review: A lovely place to stroll, with plenty of dining options and scenic views of the harbor, though it can be crowded, especially during the tourist season.
When to Go: Best visited in the evening or early morning, when the weather is cooler and the area is less crowded.
How to Go: The port is centrally located, and you can reach it by foot, public transport, or taxi from Málaga’s city center.
What to Do: Walk along the promenade, enjoy the shops and cafes, or take a boat tour of the harbor.
Free or Paid: Free to walk around, but boat tours are paid.
Teatro Cervantes, Malaga
Overview: Teatro Cervantes is a historic theater in Málaga, known for its impressive architecture and diverse performances ranging from plays to concerts.
History: Opened in 1870, the theater is named after the famous Spanish author Miguel de Cervantes and is one of the city’s cultural landmarks.
Since When: The theater has been open since 1870.
Review: A beautiful venue with rich history, Teatro Cervantes hosts a variety of events and performances, making it a cultural hub in Málaga.
When to Go: Best visited during a performance or event, especially in the evening when the atmosphere is at its peak.
How to Go: Located in the city center, it is easily accessible by foot, bus, or taxi.
What to Do: Attend a performance or simply admire the grand architecture of the building.
Free or Paid: Paid entry for performances, but free to admire the exterior.
Solhop, Malaga
Overview: Solhop is a transportation service offering private tours and transfer services around Málaga and the Costa del Sol.
History: Founded to provide convenient and tailored travel experiences, Solhop has become a popular option for visitors looking to explore the region in comfort.
Since When: Solhop has been operating since 2007.
Review: Known for its excellent service and ease of booking, Solhop provides a high-quality, personalized experience for tourists.
When to Go: Available year-round, although it’s most popular during the high tourist season in spring and summer.
How to Go: Book online in advance or via their app to schedule transfers and tours.
What to Do: Choose from a range of private transfers, tours, and excursions throughout Málaga and beyond.
Free or Paid: Paid services, based on the tour or transfer option chosen.
CAC Málaga, Malaga
Overview: The Contemporary Art Center (CAC Málaga) is a modern art museum showcasing a wide range of contemporary and cutting-edge artwork.
History: Opened in 2003, the center is housed in a former wholesale market building and has since become a leading space for contemporary art in Málaga.
Since When: The museum has been open since 2003.
Review: A great place for art lovers, CAC Málaga offers thought-provoking exhibitions and a dynamic environment, although it’s more suited for those with an interest in modern art.
When to Go: Ideal to visit on weekdays, as it can get crowded during weekends and special events.
How to Go: Located in the city center, it’s easily accessible by foot, taxi, or bus.
What to Do: Explore the diverse exhibitions, participate in temporary installations, or attend workshops and events.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Mirador de Gibralfaro, Malaga
Overview: Mirador de Gibralfaro is a scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of Málaga, its port, and the Mediterranean coastline.
History: Located next to the Gibralfaro Castle, the viewpoint has been a significant site for visitors looking to admire the city’s landscape for centuries.
Since When: The viewpoint has been a popular tourist spot since the establishment of the Gibralfaro Castle in the 14th century.
Review: The view is breathtaking, especially at sunset, offering a perfect spot for photographs and a peaceful break in nature.
When to Go: Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best views and cooler weather.
How to Go: You can hike up from the city center or take a bus to the base of the castle.
What to Do: Take in the stunning views of Málaga, the harbor, and the sea, or explore the nearby Gibralfaro Castle.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Museo Casa Natal de Picasso, Malaga
Overview: Museo Casa Natal de Picasso is the birthplace of the famous Spanish artist Pablo Picasso, now a museum dedicated to his early years and his works.
History: The museum is housed in Picasso’s childhood home and showcases his early artistic creations alongside pieces from his later life.
Since When: The museum has been open since 1988.
Review: A must-see for art lovers, the museum offers valuable insight into Picasso’s formative years and showcases his lesser-known early works.
When to Go: It’s best to visit in the morning or off-peak seasons to avoid the crowds.
How to Go: The museum is located in the heart of Málaga, within walking distance from most major attractions.
What to Do: Explore the exhibits dedicated to Picasso’s early life, his family history, and early artworks.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Crocodile Park, Malaga
Overview: Crocodile Park is an exciting wildlife park that focuses on crocodiles and other reptiles, featuring over 200 animals.
History: Opened in 1998, it was established to educate the public about crocodile conservation and the species’ ecological importance.
Since When: Crocodile Park has been open since 1998.
Review: A fun and educational experience, especially for families with children, although it may not be suitable for visitors with a fear of reptiles.
When to Go: Visit during the cooler parts of the day, especially in spring and autumn, as it can get quite hot in the summer months.
How to Go: The park is located in Torremolinos, which is a short drive from Málaga; you can easily reach it by car, taxi, or public transport.
What to Do: Observe crocodiles, learn about their habitat and conservation efforts, and attend live feeding demonstrations.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
La Térmica, Malaga
Overview: La Térmica is a cultural center in Málaga offering a wide range of artistic events, workshops, and exhibitions.
History: Originally a former electricity station, La Térmica was repurposed into a cultural space in 2001.
Since When: La Térmica has been operating since 2001.
Review: It’s a vibrant hub for art and culture, offering diverse exhibitions, performances, and educational programs.
When to Go: The center hosts events year-round, but it’s especially lively during cultural festivals in spring and summer.
How to Go: Located just outside Málaga’s city center, you can reach it by bus, taxi, or a short drive.
What to Do: Enjoy contemporary art exhibitions, attend live performances, or take part in workshops and courses.
Free or Paid: Free entry for most exhibitions, but some events and workshops require tickets.
Museo del Automóvil y la Moda de Málaga, Malaga
Overview: The Museo del Automóvil y la Moda showcases a fascinating collection of vintage cars and fashion from different eras.
History: Established in 2010, the museum combines the history of automobiles with the evolution of fashion, offering a unique cultural experience.
Since When: The museum has been open since 2010.
Review: A hidden gem for car enthusiasts and fashion lovers alike, featuring a carefully curated collection of timeless cars and clothing.
When to Go: It’s best to visit during weekdays or in the off-season to avoid large crowds.
How to Go: The museum is located in the heart of Málaga and is easily accessible by foot or public transport.
What to Do: Explore the exhibits featuring classic cars, antique fashion, and special themed exhibitions.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Colección del Museo Ruso / Málaga, Malaga
Overview: The Colección del Museo Ruso is an art museum that displays Russian art from the 19th century to contemporary pieces.
History: This museum is part of the Russian State Museum, which was established in St. Petersburg, and its Málaga branch opened in 2015.
Since When: The Málaga location has been open since 2015.
Review: The museum offers a rare opportunity to view Russian artwork in Spain, with high-quality exhibitions that appeal to art lovers.
When to Go: It’s an ideal place to visit during cooler months, as the exhibits are housed indoors.
How to Go: The museum is located in the city center and can be reached by public transport, taxi, or walking.
What to Do: Browse the impressive collection of Russian paintings, sculptures, and modern art, with rotating temporary exhibits.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Explora Malaga, Malaga
Overview: Explora Málaga is an interactive science and adventure park offering fun and educational activities for all ages.
History: The park aims to inspire curiosity and learning through hands-on exhibits, featuring topics like technology, space, and the environment.
Since When: Explora Málaga opened its doors in 2017.
Review: A perfect family destination, providing an engaging experience with a mix of education and fun for children and adults alike.
When to Go: Best visited during weekends or holidays when it’s fully operational, but it can be more enjoyable with fewer crowds during weekdays.
How to Go: Located near Málaga’s city center, it is easily accessible by bus, taxi, or a short drive.
What to Do: Explore interactive exhibits, participate in science experiments, and learn about technology, space, and the natural world.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Interactive Music Museum, Malaga
Overview: The Interactive Music Museum in Málaga offers an immersive musical experience with a focus on interactive exhibits and instruments.
History: Opened in 2011, the museum is dedicated to making music and sound exploration an engaging activity for visitors of all ages.
Since When: The museum has been open since 2011.
Review: Visitors rave about the hands-on experiences, allowing them to try out various musical instruments from around the world.
When to Go: It is best to visit in the afternoon or early evening when it’s quieter, especially on weekdays.
How to Go: Located in the city center, it is within walking distance from major landmarks and can also be reached by public transport.
What to Do: Play a variety of instruments, experiment with sound, and explore the history of music in an interactive setting.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.