Malaga-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Malaga City

Morning

Afternoon

  • Visit the Catedral de la Encarnación (Malaga Cathedral), a stunning Renaissance-style church
  • Explore the adjacent Plaza del Obispo, surrounded by historic buildings and cafes
  • Wander through the narrow streets of the Historic Center, discovering shops, restaurants, and bars

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Andalusian cuisine at El Pimpi, a popular restaurant with a cozy atmosphere
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the Paseo del Parque, a beautiful waterfront promenade

Things to Know

  • Malaga is known as the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, so keep an eye out for tributes to the artist throughout the city
  • The city has a rich history, with evidence of Phoenician, Roman, and Moorish occupation

Transportation

  • Taxi: easily available at the airport and around the city
  • Bus: A Express (from airport to city center) and urban buses connect various parts of the city
  • Walking: Malaga’s historic center is pedestrian-friendly and easy to navigate on foot

Tips

  • Be prepared for crowds and heat during peak season (June-September)
  • Don’t miss the Mercado Central, a bustling marketplace with fresh produce, seafood, and local products

Day 2: Beaches and Coastal Delights

Morning

  • Spend the morning relaxing on La Malagueta Beach, a popular urban beach with amenities like sunbeds and showers
  • Take a short walk to the nearby Paseo de la Farola, a scenic coastal promenade with great views of the city

Afternoon

  • Visit the Castillo de Gibralfaro, a 14th-century Moorish fortress with stunning views of the coastline (take bus #35 from the city center)
  • Explore the charming La Caleta neighborhood, known for its picturesque streets, beaches, and seafood restaurants

Evening

  • Enjoy fresh seafood at El Tintero, a beachfront restaurant with great views
  • Take a romantic sunset stroll along the Paseo Marítimo, a scenic coastal path

Things to Know

  • Malaga’s coastline offers several beaches, each with its own unique character
  • The city’s Mediterranean climate means mild winters and warm summers

Transportation

  • Bus: #35 connects the city center to Castillo de Gibralfaro
  • Taxi: available throughout the city
  • Walking: coastal promenades are pedestrian-friendly and offer great views

Tips

  • Be prepared for sun, sea, and sand – don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat!
  • Try some local seafood specialties like fritura malagueña (deep-fried fish) or espetos de sardinas (grilled sardines)

Day 3: Culture and History

Morning

  • Visit the Picasso Museum, dedicated to the life and work of Malaga’s most famous son
  • Explore the adjacent Plaza de la Merced, a charming square with cafes, shops, and historic buildings

Afternoon

  • Discover the Museo del Arte de Málaga (Malaga Art Museum), featuring an impressive collection of Spanish art
  • Wander through the Jardines de Pedro Luis Alonso, beautiful gardens with sculptures and fountains

Evening

  • Enjoy a traditional Andalusian dinner at El Mesón de Cervantes, a cozy restaurant with live music
  • Take in a flamenco show at Kelipe Centro de Arte Flamenco, an intimate venue showcasing local talent

Things to Know

  • Malaga has a rich cultural heritage, with numerous museums and galleries throughout the city
  • The city’s historic center is filled with narrow streets, making it easy to get lost – but also discover hidden gems!

Transportation

  • Walking: the historic center is easily navigable on foot
  • Taxi: available throughout the city
  • Bus: urban buses connect various parts of the city

Tips

  • Be prepared for crowds at popular cultural attractions during peak season
  • Don’t miss the Feria de Málaga, a colorful summer festival celebrating music, dance, and food (August)

Day 4: Day Trip to Nerja

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Nerja, a charming coastal town about an hour east of Malaga (by bus or car)
  • Visit the famous Cuevas de Nerja, a stunning cave system with prehistoric paintings and formations

Afternoon

  • Explore Nerja’s historic center, filled with whitewashed houses, narrow streets, and picturesque plazas
  • Enjoy lunch at one of the town’s many seafood restaurants, such as La Marina

Evening

  • Return to Malaga in the evening and enjoy a farewell dinner at Restaurante José Carlos García
  • Take a leisurely stroll around the city, reflecting on your amazing experiences in Malaga

Things to Know

  • Nerja is a popular day trip from Malaga, offering stunning natural beauty and charming coastal atmosphere
  • Be prepared for crowds during peak season (June-September)

Transportation

  • Bus: ALSA bus company offers regular services between Malaga and Nerja
  • Car: rental options available at the airport or in the city center
  • Taxi: private transfers also available, but more expensive than public transportation

Tips

  • Don’t forget your camera to capture stunning coastal views and cave formations!
  • Consider purchasing a Malaga Costa del Sol Tourist Card, which grants access to various attractions and public transportation