Malaga – A City Break on the Costa Del Sol

One of the biggest cities in Andalucia and a transport hub for those travelling to resorts such as Torremolinos and Marbella, Malaga is fast becoming a popular city-break destination in its own right. Like many of the region’s destinations, it can get crowded during the summer months, but it retains a relaxed atmosphere which differs from other large cities in Spain, such as Barcelona and Madrid.

Malaga has plenty to offer outdoor types as well as those interested in the arts and history. Picasso was born here so unsurprisingly, several museums and attractions relate to this famous artist. Picasso’s birthplace, at Plaza Mercad 15, is one of the most interesting, featuring artworks which were produced during Picasso’s childhood. Otherwise, the Picasso Museum at the Palacio de Buenavista displays many other exclusive exhibits.

Dating back to the 11th century, the Alcazaba offers a glimpse into Moorish history as well as fantastic views across Malaga. Perched on a hill above the city centre, this fortress is one of the best-kept of its type in Spain. Above the Alcazaba, the Castillo de Gibralfaro is another fortress with even more breathtaking views of the city. The Castillo is a long and tiring uphill walk from the Alcazaba however, so those with limited time might prefer to give the Castillo a miss.

Serious beach lovers will probably want to head to a nearby resort rather than spend much time in Malaga, but there are some beaches for casual sunbathers. La Malagueta is the closest to the centre, but is nothing to write home about. More interesting stretches of coastline, easily accessible by bus number 33 in the direction of El Palo, can be found farther east.

Accommodation in Malaga caters to all budgets and ranges from four-star hotels on the seafront to trendy hostels in the city centre. Some budget travellers might be tempted by the cheapest rooms between the port and the city centre, but travellers should be aware that this area is considered to be Malaga’s red-light district.

As expected, restaurants in Malaga specialise in seafood, especially on the seafront where beach restaurants (chiringuitos) serve typical Andalusian dishes such as grilled sardines (espetos) and marinated dogfish (cazon en adobo). Those visiting the Picasso Museum might like to try lunch at the nearby Bodeguita El Gallo, where local-style tapas are accompanied by traditional Malaga wine, the sweet-tasting Mosto.

Mosto is also widely-served at city-centre pubs such as El Pimpi, a favourite among local VIPs and young revellers, and La Casa del Guardia, one of the oldest and best-known pubs in Malaga. The city’s nightlife peaks from Thursday to Sunday, when local clubs put on a variety of music nights ranging from Latin beats at the Metropol to rock and indie at Urbano.

A number of budget airlines offer flights to Malaga Airport, which is now one of the biggest airports in Spain. Taxis to the city centre depart from a rank outside Terminal 2’s Arrivals hall. However, queues can be horrendous during the peak summer season, so visitors with little luggage might like to consider taking a bus or a train instead. Better still, passengers who intend to do a lot of travelling can hire a car, but vehicles should be booked well in advance during the busy summer months.