DISCOVER 5 OF THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN MALAGA

Spain draws in thousands of tourists every year due to its laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle, endless hours of sunshine, jaw-dropping architecture, and mouth-watering cuisine. One of the cities in Spain that best personifies all of these things is Malaga. There is no shortage of Andalusian architecture, food, and beautiful beaches to enjoy. Explore this Spanish gem and discover five of the best things to do in Malaga on your next trip!

Marvel at the architecture and step back into Malaga’s past

Malaga was once part of Al-andalus, the ancient Muslim kingdom before it was united with other kingdoms and territories to form Spain as we now know it today. You can find remnants of this kingdom in architecture all over Malaga, most notably in the Alcazaba. It is a citadel that dates back to the 11th century, and a great example of Moorish architecture. Explore this fortification and its towers to enjoy panoramic views of the city an important part of the city’s past. Step back even farther in time by visiting the Roman ruins that are adjacent to the Alcazaba, such as the Roman theater that dates back to the first century, B.C.

Lastly, you can take a peek at the Gibralfaro Castle which sits on a hill looking over Malaga. Gibralfaro was used a Phoenician fortification as early as 770 BC and was built upon in the 14th century. This castle is unique because so many traces of ancient civilizations can be found here. In addition, the views of the city below will take your breath away.

Discover Picasso’s birthplace

One of the best artists of all time called Malaga home, so visiting his birthplace and home is a must on your visit. Picasso’s childhood homehas been an official heritage site since 1983. It’s now a museum where you can learn more about the artist’s early life. Located in the Plaza de Merced in the heart of Malaga, you can enjoy a tour of Picasso’s home and then take a short walk to the 22 museums distributed all over town which house many of his works. While Picasso eventually left Malaga to develop his art, the people of Malaga are extremely proud of his accomplishments.  It’s where he first picked up a pencil and began his life-long passion.

See more: 6 Essential Things to do in Seville

Bar hop and try the local cuisine

The south of Spain loves the art of tapeando, or enjoying tapas over stretched-out meals that are accompanied by good friends, lively conversation, and usually an ice-cold beer or glass of local wine. Malaga has no shortage of tapas bars where you can try typical Spanish delicacies. Some of these include tortilla de patatas, ensaladilla rusa, fresh seafood, and other astonishing dishes. Malaga’s proximity to the sea ensures plenty of fresh fish year-round served grilled, fried, and any number of other ways. Do as the locals do and don’t limit yourself to one tapas bar or restaurant! Hop from place to place to enjoy a special drink, like Vermouth, for example, to discover many delicious tastes!

Shop til you drop on Calle Larios

Calle Larios is the main shopping street in the heart of Malaga’s city center, but it is so much more than that. During the holidays, this street is decorated beautifully and adorned in lights and decorations. Walking down Larios you will hear flamenco music from street musicians and see performances by local entertainers. Shops and boutiques line the street as far as the eye can see. Calle Larios is the epicenter of activity in Malaga’s center, so be sure to take a stroll down this avenue. You will take in all of the sights and sounds that make it so special.

Be a beach bum

Malaga’s beaches draw in visitors year-round from all over the world, so it’s no surprise that you need to take some time to visit the Mediterranean shores. During the warmer months you can enjoy a dip in the sea to escape the heat. In the cooler months simply enjoy a stroll down the boardwalk. Bars and restaurants dot the beach so you can stop and get a drink or enjoy fresh fish dishes and tapas. Malaga enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine each year so you are almost guaranteed to have a pleasant day at the beach during your visit!