3 Days of Sun, Sea, and Culture in Malaga

Discover the sunny and vibrant city of Málaga, where history meets modernity.

03 May 2023

A trip to Málaga, Spain as a tourist offers a perfect blend of sun, culture, and history. From the iconic Picasso Museum to the Moorish Alcazaba fortress, there's a distinction in the city's architecture. Relaxing on the beach while enjoying exceptional seafood is not to be missed in this stunning coastal city.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Old Town

  • Hotel: Stay at the charming and centrally located Hotel Del Pintor.
  • Wander through the historic Old Town, stopping at Plaza de la Merced and the Roman Theatre along the way.
  • Head to the Alcazaba, an impressive Moorish fortress with stunning views of the city.
  • Grab lunch at El Pimpi, a popular spot for tapas and wine.
  • Take a stroll along the beach promenade and admire the views of the Mediterranean Sea.
  • End the day with a cocktail at Rooftop Terrace AC Malaga Palacio, boasting panoramic views of the city.
Day 2

Art and Culture

  • Visit the Picasso Museum, home to a vast collection of the famous artist's works.
  • Stop by the Centre Pompidou Malaga, a vibrant contemporary art museum showcasing works from the 20th and 21st centuries.
  • Enjoy lunch at Mercado Central de Atarazanas, a bustling food market filled with fresh seafood, meats, and produce.
  • Head to the Cathedral of Malaga, a grand structure with ornate decorations and breathtaking views from the tower.
  • Watch the sunset from Castillo de Gibralfaro, a castle on a hilltop overlooking the city.
Day 3

Day Tripping

  • Take a day trip to the charming village of Nerja, known for its stunning beaches and the famous Balcon de Europa.
  • Stop at the Nerja Caves, a network of underground caverns with impressive rock formations.
  • Enjoy lunch at La Puntilla, a seaside restaurant serving fresh fish and seafood.
  • Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beaches of Playa Burriana or Playa Calahonda.
  • End the day with a trip to the nearby town of Frigiliana, known for its picturesque streets and white-washed buildings.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Málaga, Spain by plane is to fly to Málaga–Costa del Sol Airport. There are direct flights available from major airports around the world.

Car

To get to Málaga, Spain by car, the fastest route is to take the A-7 motorway from Madrid. The journey takes around 5 hours and passes through some stunning scenery along the way.

Train

To get to Málaga, Spain by train, the best option is to take a high-speed train (AVE) from Madrid to Málaga Maria Zambrano Train Station. The journey takes around 2.5 hours and there are several trains per day.

Boat

There are no direct boat routes to Málaga, Spain. However, visitors can take a ferry from Tangier, Morocco to Algeciras and then drive or take a train to Málaga. The journey by boat takes around 2 hours and there are several ferry companies that operate this route.

Bus

The best way to get to Málaga, Spain by bus is to take a coach from Madrid to Málaga Bus Station. There are several companies that operate this route and the journey takes around 6 hours, depending on traffic and stops along the way.

More travel plans

Getaway on a Budget: 4 Days in Málaga

Málaga, located in the heart of Costa del Sol, Spain offers an affordable getaway for travellers on a shoestring budget. From beautiful white sandy beaches, to the cultural hub of Picasso Museum, Málaga is a perfect destination for a budget-friendly city break. The daily markets and tapas bars make the city a food lover's paradise, and with budget flights and low-cost accommodations, Málaga won't break the bank.

Get Ready for a Majestic Day in Málaga!

Málaga, Spain offers a wonderful family-friendly trip with its blend of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Explore the vibrant City Centre, visit the famous Picasso Museum, and relax on the beautiful beaches. The kids will love the engaging interactive exhibits at the interactive Children’s City, and the whole family can embark on exciting day trips to nearby attractions like the Bioparc Fuengirola and the stunning Caves of Nerja.

3 Days of Sun, Sea, and Culture in Malaga

A trip to Málaga, Spain as a tourist offers a perfect blend of sun, culture, and history. From the iconic Picasso Museum to the Moorish Alcazaba fortress, there's a distinction in the city's architecture. Relaxing on the beach while enjoying exceptional seafood is not to be missed in this stunning coastal city.

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A trip to Málaga on a limited budget can still offer an amazing experience. Enjoy the city's museums, parks and historical landmarks, keeping costs down by walking or using public transportation. Sample local food and wine at budget-friendly tapas bars and cafes and relax on the beaches or explore the nearby hiking trails.