Budget Bliss: 3 Days in Sunny Málaga

Discover the beauty of Málaga on a budget without compromising on the experience.

21 June 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Breezy Beach Day

  • Check into Soho Boutique Las Vegas hotel, a charming budget hotel minutes away from the beach.
  • Grab a healthy breakfast at Brunchit Cafe to kick-start the day.
  • Spend a relaxing day at Playa del Palo, where the coastal breeze keeps you cool as you sunbathe and swim.
  • Satisfy your appetite with generous portions of paella and seafood at Chiringuito El Tintero.
  • Take an evening stroll along the beach promenade and watch the sunset over the Mediterranean.
Day 2

Cultural Touring

  • Begin the day with a traditional Spanish breakfast at Café de Estraperlo.
  • Visit the Picasso Museum and admire the art of the iconic painter.
  • Savor authentic Spanish tapas for lunch at Mesón Mariano.
  • Explore the Alcazaba, a Moorish castle and palace, and take in panoramic views of the city.
  • Relax with a drink at La Terraza de la Aduana, a rooftop bar with stunning views of the cathedral and port.
  • Head to the buzzing Plaza Uncibay for dinner at El Pimpi, a local favorite serving tapas and wine.
Day 3

Nature and Shopping

  • Start the day with a delicious cup of coffee and pastry at Dulces Dreams.
  • Take a hike up to Gibralfaro Castle for breathtaking views of the city and sea.
  • Catch a bus to Mercado Central, a vibrant indoor market filled with fresh produce, meats and cheeses.
  • Shop for souvenirs and fashion at Calle Marqués de Larios, a pedestrian street with an array of shops and boutiques.
  • Check out the street art and graffiti in the hip Soho neighborhood.
  • End the day with a visit to Mesón Los Mellizos, a seafood restaurant renowned for their paella and local wine.
  • Málaga is the perfect city for a budget traveller who is seeking culture, culinary adventures and time to kick back at the beach. With an array of activities and delicious food, Málaga is a great destination for a 3-day adventure.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Málaga

Welcome to the city that boasts more beaches than you can shake a sand covered towel at, and more sunshine than a literal ray of sunshine. Málaga, where sun, sea, and sangria flow freely.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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