Málaga Magic: A 5-Day Family Adventure on a Budget

Unforgettable family adventures await in sunny Málaga, Spain.

19 July 2023

A family friendly trip to Málaga, Spain offers a perfect blend of sun, sand, and culture. Parents and kids can soak up the Mediterranean vibes at stunning beaches like La Malagueta or take a leisurely stroll through the old town of Málaga, visiting historical sites such as the Alcazaba fortress or the Picasso Museum. With its vibrant atmosphere, delicious cuisine, and numerous child-friendly attractions, Málaga promises a memorable vacation for the entire family.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Malaga's Charming Old Town

  • Check into Hotel Molina Lario, a 4-star gem nestled amidst the narrow streets of the historic center.
  • Immerse yourself in Malaga's rich history at Alcazaba, a breathtaking Moorish fortress with stunning views of the city.
  • Meander through the charming streets of Calle Larios, lined with trendy boutiques and lively cafes.
  • Dive into Picasso's artistic mastery at the Picasso Museum, a homage to the city's most famous son.
  • Traverse quirky street art-filled Soho district, a visual feast that showcases Malaga's vibrant contemporary art scene.
  • Indulge in tapas galore at El Pimpi, a local institution, while sipping Malaga wine and soaking up the lively atmosphere.
Day 2

Beach Bliss and Cultural Delights

  • Start the day with a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Malagueta Beach, soaking up the refreshing sea breeze.
  • Uncover the hidden gems of Malaga's bohemian neighborhood, Pedregalejo, with its quaint houses and lively beachfront.
  • Visit the mesmerizing Malaga Cathedral, known fondly as "La Manquita" (the one-armed lady) due to its unfinished south tower.
  • Take a break from the scorching sun at the interactive Pompidou Center, an art museum with a playful modern twist.
  • Savor authentic Andalusian cuisine at El Último Mono, where traditional dishes with a creative twist will tantalize your taste buds.
  • Catch a vibrant flamenco performance at Kelipe Centro de Arte Flamenco, where passionate dancers tell enchanting stories through movement.
Day 3

Exploring Nature and Historical Landmarks

  • Embark on a day trip to Caminito del Rey, a heart-stoppingly beautiful walkway nestled in the stunning El Chorro gorge.
  • Discover the ancient Roman Theater, nestled in the heart of Malaga and offering a glimpse into the city's rich past.
  • Marvel at Gibralfaro Castle, perched high atop a hill with panoramic views that will leave you breathless.
  • Wander through Malaga Park, a lush oasis in the heart of the city where you can relax amidst fragrant flowers and charming fountains.
  • Indulge in a seafood feast at La Malagueta seafood market, where you can choose the freshest catches and have them prepared to perfection.
  • End the day with a sunset picnic at the stunning Mirador de Gibralfaro, a magical spot to watch the sky transform into hues of gold.
Day 4

Day Tripping to Charming Villages

  • Experience the enchanting village of Mijas, with its whitewashed houses adorned with colorful flower pots, narrow streets, and breathtaking views.
  • Explore the picturesque village of Ronda, perched dramatically on cliffs and offering stunning vistas of the surrounding countryside.
  • Discover the Moorish legacy in the village of Frigiliana, with its labyrinthine streets, vibrant ceramic shops, and stunning mountain backdrop.
  • Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at El Torcal de Antequera, a surreal karst landscape dotted with ancient twisted rock formations.
  • Sample traditional Andalusian dishes at Restaurante El Cortijo, where Mediterranean flavors blend harmoniously with regional recipes.
  • Return to Malaga and indulge in creamy helado at Casa Mira, a historic ice cream parlor dishing up tantalizing flavors since 1890.
Day 5

Immerse in Malaga's Thriving Cultural Scene

  • Stroll along the vibrant Muelle Uno, a bustling waterfront promenade packed with stylish shops, art installations, and trendy restaurants.
  • Unleash your inner art lover at the Contemporary Art Center, housed in an impressive converted grain silo and showcasing cutting-edge exhibitions.
  • Visit the enchanting Carmen Thyssen Museum, home to an exquisite collection of 19th-century Spanish art.
  • Explore La Concepción Botanical Garden, a tropical oasis that enchants with its lush vegetation, hidden waterfalls, and vibrant birdlife.
  • Experience Malaga's vibrant nightlife at Los Gatos, a lively flamenco club where you can dance the night away to passionate rhythms.
  • Savor one last Malaga specialty, pescaíto frito (fried fish), at the beloved La Carihuela Beach, bidding farewell to a trip filled with unforgettable experiences.

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.

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