Malaga is one of the most famous cities along Costa del Sol in Spain. No wonder why since this town offers 300 sunny days per year, beautiful beaches, a lively nightlife, and excellent tapas bars.

Malaga is famous for being the cultural capital of Andalusia with its several museums, cool street art, great shopping, and flamenco performances. In addition to all this, the city also offers a fascinating history and cool archaeological sites.


Here’s the list of the top 10 things to do in Malaga:


Roman Theatre

El Teatro Romano is the oldest monument in Málaga City. The Roman Theatre lies in the center of town at the foot of the beautiful Alcazaba fortress. It’s the only Ancient ruin that’s left in Malaga after the Italian army bombed the city during the Civil War.

If you’re interested in History, then the Roman Theatre is a must among the top things to do in Malaga!

Explore Old Town

One of the top things to do in Malaga is to stroll around old town and soak in the friendly atmosphere. There are plenty of things to have a look at while exploring the old streets of Malaga with both cafés, souvenir shops, fashion stores, and beautiful architecture.

Malaga old town

Alcazaba & Castillo de Gibralfaro

On the top of the hill, with a great view of the city, lies Alcazaba and Castillo de Gibralfaro. These two Moorish fortresses are Malaga’s most famous landmarks and are a must to visit.

On Sundays, you can visit these forts for free (after 2 pm), which is great if you’re traveling on a budget.

These two fortresses offer a fascinating history, beautiful architecture, and a fantastic view of the city and Mediterranean Ocean.

Atarazanas Market

The central market of Malaga dates back all the way to the 14th century. The Moors originally built this place as a shipbuilders yard.

Except having a fascinating history, this place is also a great spot to sample some local food. Here you can buy everything from fresh olives, fish, oils, fruits, and veggies.

This place is open Mondays to Saturdays from 08.00 am to 14.00 pm.

Mercado atarazanaPhoto

Picasso Museum and Picasso’s House

Casa Natal is the birthplace of the world famous artist Pablo Ruiz Picasso. This house has been a heritage site since 1983 and is located in the heart of the historic center of Malaga.

On the ground floor of the house, there’s a temporary exhibition hall where you can see interesting artifacts from Picasso’s home and cultural life.

Malaga Cathedral ”La Manquita”

The beautiful Cathedral of Malaga was built between 1528 and 1782 on a site of a mosque. The nickname ”La Manquita” was used by the locals with the meaning of ”one armed women” because of the south tower that was never finished.

Make sure to check out the inside of the Cathedral to see the beautiful details and sculptures, and of course, to experience the calm and peaceful atmosphere.

Málaga CatedralPhoto

Bodega Bar El Pimpi

One of my favorite things to do in Malaga is to visit Bodega El Pimpi. This bar is an icon for Malaga’s social and cultural life. This 18th entry building is decorated in Spanish style, and the walls are covered with photographs of artists, football players, singers and other famous people.

This place is a hot-spot for cultural meets, flamenco performances, and last but not least, the delicious Sweet Wine that’s produced in Malaga.

Conception Botanical Garden

If you seek some peace and quiet while exploring Malaga, make sure to visit the Botanical Garden. This place offers beautiful gardens, lush vegetation, and ornate fountains. This place has one of the most magnificent tropical/subtropical gardens in Europe.

It costs 5.20 euro to enter the botanical garden, and you get a guided tour in the price which I highly recommend you to take.

Botanical garden malagaPhoto

El Tintero, El Palo

If you’re looking for a lively restaurant with a great atmosphere, then you have to check out this restaurant. El Tintero is located outside Malaga in an area called El Palo.

This restaurant isn’t like the most restaurants. El Tintero is located right on the beach, and here you don’t have to wait for waiters or even read the menu. When the staff walks by, just point at the plates of food you want!

The food is seriously delicious, and the prices aren’t too bad either.

Hit the beach

If you’re visiting the city during hot summer days, you simply have to visit the beach since it’s one of the top things to do in Malaga. There are several beaches to choose from in Malaga, where Playa Las Acacias, Playa de la Malagueta, and Playa de la Misericordia are some of the most popular.

All of these beaches offer basic facilities such as toilets, bars, and restaurants.

Malagueta beachPhoto