2026 Province of Malaga Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in January)

#September2025 Looking for a place to soak up Málaga's artistic spirit? This magnificent palace, once the bishop's residence and located across from the cathedral, is definitely worth a visit! Built in 1762, it's a historic Baroque building that's stunning from its exterior alone. The palace's main facade, filled with playful figurative sculptures and vibrant colors, stands out from the Plaza de la Catedral. Entering the palace, you'll admire the magnificent Royal Staircase, painted vaults, and two distinctive interior courtyards, one of which still features exquisite 18th-century tiles, perfect for photo ops. Now the Unicaja Foundation Cultural Center, it frequently hosts exhibitions by leading artists, with admission typically just €3. Recently, there was a unique exhibition featuring over 120 works by fashion designer Valentino. This is truly one of Málaga's most important cultural landmarks.

If you're looking for adventure, jaw-dropping views, and a touch of adrenaline on your trip to Spain, El Caminito del Rey is an absolute must. Once known as one of the most dangerous hikes in the world, it has been completely renovated—and now offers a safe, yet spectacular, experience high above the cliffs of southern Spain. 🧗What Is El Caminito del Rey? El Caminito del Rey (which means “The King’s Little Path”) is a walkway pinned along the steep walls of a narrow gorge in Málaga province, near the village of El Chorro. Originally built in the early 1900s to provide access for dam workers, the path fell into disrepair and became infamous for its crumbling walkways and death-defying drops. In 2015, it reopened after a complete restoration, with secure wooden paths, handrails, and safety harnesses, while preserving the dizzying heights and stunning views that made it famous. Why You Should Visit⁉️ 🏞️ Epic Scenery: The trail winds through cliffs, canyons, and gorges of the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, offering breathtaking views of the Guadalhorce River below. 🧗 Adventure With Safety: It feels thrilling without being extreme. The path is narrow and high—but completely safe for most travelers. 📸 Perfect for Photos: Every turn offers Instagram-worthy views of dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and engineering wonders. 👣 Bucket List Experience: It’s one of Spain’s top-rated hikes and a must for outdoor lovers visiting Andalusia. Trail Details👈 • Distance: About 7.7 km (4.8 miles) • Duration: 2 to 3 hours (one-way route) • Difficulty: Easy to moderate—no climbing required, just a good head for heights! • Height: Some sections are 100 meters (330 feet) above the river. What to Expect❓️ 1. Hanging Walkways The most iconic part of the trail: narrow wooden walkways bolted directly into the cliff face. You’ll walk high above the gorge with sheer drops below—safely harnessed in with helmets. 2. The Glass Balcony One of the highlights is a glass viewing platform that juts out over the cliff, offering unbeatable panoramic views (and a fun fear-of-heights test). 3. Historic Touches You’ll pass remnants of the original trail, now visibly deteriorated—perfect for appreciating how far safety has come. 📍How to Get There • Nearest Cities: Málaga (1 hour), Ronda (1.5 hours) • By Train: Take a train to El Chorro station; shuttle buses take you to the trail entrance. • By Car: Drive to the northern access point near Ardales and park in the official lot. Tickets and Tips 🎟️ Book in Advance: Entry is limited to control crowds—buy tickets online weeks ahead, especially in peak season. ⏰ Arrive Early: You’ll need time to check in and walk to the entrance. Arrive at least 30–45 minutes before your slot. 🥾 Wear Proper Footwear: Hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers are essential—no flip-flops or heels allowed. ☀️ Check the Weather: The trail closes in bad weather, especially high winds or heavy rain. Who Can Do It? • Minimum age: 8 years old • Not recommended for those with severe vertigo or mobility issues • Suitable for anyone with moderate fitness and no fear of heights! El Caminito del Rey is a unique mix of adventure and natural beauty. It’s an easy hike with unforgettable views—perfect for anyone looking to experience one of Spain’s most exciting landmarks.

Las Arenas Beach is the central city beach of Valencia, more than a kilometer long and up to 60 m wide, located next to the port. The beach covered with clean fine sand, the beach is very crowded almost around the clock. Among the vacationers there are many citizens and guests of Valencia from different parts of Spain and the world. In different seasons, festivals, concerts, and shows are held on Las Arenas. #beachcheck #100waysoftravel

Attraction name: Playa Laguna Beach Location: Malaga, southern Spain Malaga is one of the best beach destinations in Europe. Located a few hours by fast train from the capital city Madrid, Malaga is a beautiful city with great architecture. The beach in the centre is long and relaxing. Enjoy taking photographs beside the Malaga sign and spend hours sunbathing beside the water. If you enjoy swimming, this is a super place to do this with warm waters and shallow water. #beachvacation #malaga

This is an introduction to the town of Frigiliana, located about 70km from Malaga Airport in southern Spain, less than an hour by car. Many people will have a clue if you say "White Village" of Spain. This town won the first Grand Prize in a national competition to determine the most beautiful village, and the white walls of the houses with many stairs were decorated with flowers, which was very beautiful. Just walking around was fun. Many of the doors were pastel colored, and the townscape was colorful and cute. Also, cork seems to be a specialty of southern Spain, and there were many kinds of cork for sale. I had the image that cork would break easily, but when I touched it, it was very elastic and seemed strong. Cork umbrellas are stylish, aren't they? However, I thought it would get caught on something and break, so I made a small bag key chain as a souvenir for myself. Unfortunately, it was cloudy when I went, but I would like to go again someday on a sunny day. Centro Histórico de Frigiliana Address: C. Real, 9, 29788 Frigiliana, Málaga, Spain #Overseas travel #Spain travel #Spain tourism #Spain #Málaga travel #Frigiliana #White village #Amazing view #Photogenic

Location: Malaga, southern Spain Getting there: Fly from many European cities straight to Malaga. Alternatively you can get the train from Seville or Madrid in 3 hours. Malaga is one of my favourite European cities. Here are the reasons: *There are so many wonderful traditional and modern buildings to admire. *The beaches are clean and good to swim *Hotels are cheaper than other places *Nearby cities such as Ronda and Cordoba are worth visiting. *The bull ring viewed from above on a mountain is a stunning sight. #malaga

Celebrating 813 days of travelling with Trip.com: Together, we've explored 27 cities worldwide; in 2025, I unlocked 18 new cities and was honoured with the title of Voyage Virtuoso#2025travelstory

Malaga is a city in Spain. It has an airport. From Malaga, it's a 45-minute taxi ride to Marbella. The coastline is very comfortable. The climate is warm, with winter temperatures ranging from 15 to 18 degrees Celsius. The promenade is very long and beautiful. The airport in Malaga is small. #Malaga

One day in December in Malaga

#falladventures Malaga /Fenguirola

📅 Itinerary Day1：lake walk Day2: hotel stay Day3: yoga and biking#naturalwonders 🏨 Accommodation 🍴 Food Recommendations 📌 Tips

#hellohalloween A Weekend of Balance My weekend at Santa Catalina Hotel was all about balance. I spent mornings exploring Málaga’s vibrant streets and afternoons back at the hotel relaxing with a book in the gardens. The peacefulness of the property made the city adventures feel even more rewarding. By the end of my stay, I felt like I had enjoyed the best of both worlds — cultural energy and serene retreat.

Planning a trip to Malaga? Start with these top spots for food, history, and some serious luxury, all within walking distance! 🍸⛪️✨ Must-See Places & Where to Stay: - Casa de la Merced Suites (C. Granada, 82): Newly renovated, super clean rooms with kitchens—perfect if you love DIY meals or visit in winter. The free snacks and drinks at the 24/7 reception are a lifesaver. Self check-in is a breeze, but confirm codes and timing! Located minutes from the Maria Zambrano station and the heart of old Malaga, you’re close to shops, buses, and major sights. - Apartamentos Líbere Málaga Teatro Romano (C. Granada, 76): Sleek, modern apartments, spotlessly clean, and automated for easy access. Quick help via WhatsApp. But, if you’re picky about beds, double-check before booking—some guests found the mattresses lacking. Right in the historical center, you won't need a car. - Palacio Solecio, a Small Luxury Hotel of the World (C. Granada, 61): If you want an “oasis of calm” in the busy city, this is it. Rooms are gorgeous and quiet, with huge comfy beds. The warm staff go above and beyond, making check-in smooth and offering great local tips. Don’t skip the à la carte breakfast at Balausta or a drink at the bar—delicious, though sometimes slow. Food & Culture Stops: - Restaurante Ta-Kumi (C. Mundo Nuevo, 4): Top-notch Japanese eats in Malaga! Book ahead, especially on weekends. - Plaza de La Merced: Chill in the city’s favorite plaza—grab a coffee, people-watch, or snap some pics. - Church of Santiago (Calle Granada 78): Step into tradition at one of Malaga’s oldest churches—worth a quick visit for the beautiful interiors. Getting Around: Malaga is super walkable, but frequent buses make getting to the outskirts easy. Maria Zambrano station doubles as a mall—handy for shopping or catching connections! Pro tips: Always confirm your check-in time and door codes ahead for apartments. Stock up on snacks at your hotel’s reception—free and 24/7! Weather can be mild but chilly in winter; enjoy those in-room kitchens. #VisitMalaga #SpainFoodies #LuxuryHotels #CityWalks #MalagaTips

#TravelTour El Capricho Park is a perfect example of a "hidden gem." Located a short distance from the center of Madrid, it was relatively free of tourists, allowing for a quiet and peaceful time. The park's well-manicured gardens and antique architecture blend seamlessly, and strolling through the park felt like visiting a European aristocratic mansion. The small bridges near the lake and the fountains in the garden were particularly beautiful, making me linger and admire them. It was also lovely to see locals strolling with their families and taking photos, adding to the park's warm atmosphere. If you're looking for a place to enjoy both leisure and beauty, rather than a flashy tourist destination, this is a must-visit. #TravelTour

#Travel Course El Capricho Park I think El Capricho Park has the most unique atmosphere in Madrid. While not large, the gardens are meticulously crafted, offering new views as you walk. The maze garden was particularly impressive, and while I almost got lost, I still had fun exploring. The combination of French, English, and Italian gardens allowed me to experience the charm of European gardens all at once. With so few tourists, it was a quiet and peaceful stroll, and the hidden sculptures and fountains made for great photo opportunities. Unlike other famous parks, it felt like a secret spot only known to those in the know, making it an even more special experience. I highly recommend it if you're looking for a quiet moment in Madrid. #Travel Course

📅 Itinerary Day1: sight seeing followed by the Picasso museum Day2: Nik & Jay concert Day3: mountain hike /burger festival 🏨 Accommodation: none…back packing 🍴 Food Recommendations seafood is amazing anywhere in Spain 📌 Tips live life and enjoy yourself

A sun-soaked gem on Spain’s Costa del Sol, Málaga blends golden beaches, lively tapas bars, and a rich history as Picasso’s birthplace. From its Moorish fortress to vibrant street art, the city is where tradition meets modern charm. ✨ #malaga #malagaspain #malagatrip #andalucia #andalusia #spain #spaintravel #spaintrip #costadelsol

Southern Spain is a tourist Mecca and it’s famous for its beaches and big cities such as Seville, Granada - however my favourite place is Malaga! Malaga has such a unique charm and it has everything you could possibly want - beautiful beaches, amazing food and a relaxed vibe that really helps you unwind. The city has a huge airport with flights all over Europe, this with a range of hotels makes it a very budget friendly option. The city also has a cheap and efficient railway line that takes you to the cities of Benelmadena, Torremolinos and Fuenguirola - offering a really diverse range of sites. Malaga itself has stunning churches, old shopping streets and a beautiful beach front - even though it’s seen a lot of development it’s managed to keep its unique old world charm. Food highlights are in the central market, pass through the stain glass windows and you are overwhelmed by the scents of the options. The seafood and baked goods are a must do! At night head to the main shopping street as it’s beautifully illuminated and shops open late. The side streets that wind off the main drag have the best options for food and drink #mediterraneanvibes #myitinerary #thingstodo #travel #Malaga #spaintravel #europe #city

#AbsolutelyFreeTrip [Thrilling Cliff Journey] Life-threatening walk with spectacular views on the Camino del Rey ✨ The Camino del Rey, located in the Andalusia region of southern Spain, is a cliff-side promenade that was once called the "world's most dangerous road" 🌉 It is now safely maintained and has become a popular spot where you can enjoy both thrills and spectacular views at the same time! The experience of walking through the valley is exactly like an "air walk" ✨ When you actually walk there, you will be thrilled to see the bottom of the valley through the glass floor at your feet, but you will be moved by the power of the nature that spreads out before you. You can experience something out of the ordinary in a space where only the sound of the wind and the voices of birds echo. Access is about an hour by train from Malaga. Take a shuttle bus from El Chorro Station to the entrance. Advance reservations are required, so you need to plan your trip 🚆 🎯 Tips for success: Comfortable shoes, a hat, and drinking water are essential! Admission is time-specified, so make a reservation early on the official website. If you don't like heights, you can still enjoy the observation deck near the entrance. 🧢👟 If you're traveling alone or as a couple, and want a trip that tickles your sense of adventure, you can't miss Camino del Rey! Domestic travel #Couple trip #Solo trip #Absolutely free trip #Spain trip #Camino del Rey #Spectacular view trekking #Cliff #Thrill trip

Plaza de la Constitución is the vibrant heart of Málaga’s historic city center. This beautiful square is a perfect blend of traditional Spanish charm and modern city life, making it a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the city. Surrounded by elegant buildings, stylish cafés, and boutique shops, the plaza offers a relaxing yet lively atmosphere. It's a great place to enjoy a coffee, people-watch, or simply soak in the local culture. The square often hosts events, festivals, and public celebrations, especially during Semana Santa and the Málaga Fair, when it becomes the center of activity.

Dining at Marisquería Plaza Beach is nothing short of a Mediterranean dream brought to life. With its stunning seaside setting and welcoming atmosphere, this culinary gem serves up seafood dishes that speak to the soul of coastal Spanish cuisine. The seafood paella was a masterpiece—richly colored, intensely flavorful, and brimming with perfectly cooked shrimp and tender calamari. Each spoonful was infused with the essence of the sea and a subtle saffron warmth that lingered beautifully. But the true showstopper was the prawn cazuela, served piping hot in a rustic clay pot sealed with a golden bread crust. Breaking into it revealed a creamy, garlicky delight, with plump, juicy prawns swimming in a luscious sauce that begged to be soaked up with every last crumb. Combined with attentive service and the soft lull of ocean waves just steps away, this was more than a meal—it was an experience. If you're visiting Málaga and crave authentic, heartwarming seafood with a view, Marisquería Plaza Beach should be at the top of your list.

📍 Itinerary Overview 🚩 Sightseeing Route 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions 🚇 Transportation 📷 Photo Spots 🍜 Local Cuisine 🏠 Accommodation 1.Hostal Alcobia 💡 Tips

Waking up for sunrise was totally worth it

#celebrateit Malaga, despite being the 6th largest city in Spain, has surprisingly chilly and easygoing vibe and not much of a crowd—particularly in the old town area. The architectural style itself is in favour of orange hues, so together with the coastal sunlight, at times the city is just immersed in some golden shine. The old town is not huge but quite photogenic. But mind you, a lot of cafes/markets are not open on Sunday. If you’re here for a day, you might wanna avoid Sunday—but at the same time many awesome museums are free on Sun… 👀👀

A short train ride from Malaga airport is the lovely Maracas beach, with a long stretch of sand. Ideal for the kids to play in the sand whilst enjoying a quiet drink and relax.

Andalucia Tour ~ Malaga (Region) The city of Benalmádena stretches from the foothills of the Mijas Mountains to a small spit of land on the coast. The town is situated on a hill, which means there are stunning views. Further down are the buildings of Arroyo de la Miel, where most of the population lives, and finally Benalmádena-Costa, where there are many hotels and golf courses, casinos and marinas. The Castle of Bil-Bil is strikingly original, a peculiar building built on the seafront in 1934 in a neo-Arab style and used by the city council for exhibitions and cultural events. Also of interest are the Jardins de Muro, a mixture of plants and water designed by César Manrique. #2024TravelReview #SpainTravel #Andalucia

Andalucia Tour ~ Malaga (Region) Burriana Beach is one of the most important beaches in town. Backed by residential development, it is a vast stretch of sandy beach, approximately 700 metres long, with a wide range of facilities and services. Parador de Turismo is set on a cliff overlooking the beach. La Torrecilla, El Salón or Calahonda (the latter one is located under the Balcony of Europe) are other beaches in town. In them, tourists will find everything at their fingertips: from housing developments, modern hotels and restaurants to shops and places to rent sports equipment. Picturesque cliffs offer tranquil coves with beautiful natural scenery, such as La Caleta, la Cala Barranco de Maro or las Calas del Pino. On all of these water sports, you can not only enjoy a refreshing swim, but also practice a variety of water sports from windsurfing to sailing. #2024TravelReview #SpainTravel #Andalucia