The Ultimate Guide to 100 Things to Do in Málaga

Think you know Málaga? Get ready to discover it for real. Here are 100 activities, ranked from the most jaw-dropping to the ones you can tackle “if you still have time,” so you can explore every corner of the Costa del Sol capital. Each entry includes a brief description and a local tip: from must-do strolls through the historic center to secret spots only a few know about.

Top 10: Must-See Highlights That Will Leave You Speechless

1. Stroll along Calle Larios and Plaza de la Constitución

A pedestrian avenue lined with neoclassical façades and boutiques, ending in the bustling Plaza de la Constitución. Feel the city’s pulse with outdoor cafés and free events.

Local Tip: Visit at sunset when the street lights come on—and in December, don’t miss the spectacular Christmas light show.

2. Málaga Cathedral “La Manquita”

This Renaissance cathedral owes its nickname “the One-Armed Lady” to its unfinished second tower. Inside you’ll find ornate chapels, a treasury, and panoramic rooftop views.

Local Tip: Arrive right at 10:00 AM to beat the queues for the rooftop tour (€6 for combined entry).

3. The Alcazaba of Málaga

A jewel of 11th-century Nasrid architecture, featuring terraced gardens, horseshoe-arched halls, and commanding views over the port.

Local Tip: Buy the combined Alcazaba & Gibralfaro ticket (€5.50) online and start at 9:00 AM to enjoy it almost empty.

4. Gibralfaro Castle

Perched on a hilltop, its ramparts offer 360° panoramas of the city, sea, and mountains. The walk up from the Alcazaba is lined with pines and historic watchtowers.

Local Tip: Descend at dusk to see Málaga fully illuminated—bring a light jacket if it cools off.

5. Roman Theatre of Málaga

Dating back to the 1st century BC, its restored seating and adjacent visitor center make it a fascinating glimpse into ancient Malaca.

Local Tip: It’s free; time your visit for 10:00 AM right after the Alcazaba.

6. Muelle Uno and Palmeral de las Sorpresas

A chic waterfront promenade dotted with sculptural palm “cubes,” designer shops, and sea-view eateries—perfect for people-watching.

Local Tip: Grab a coffee or gelato and catch the sunset over the yachts.

7. Picasso Museum Málaga

Housed in the 16th-century Buenavista Palace, it showcases over 200 works spanning Picasso’s career—from ceramics to Cubist canvases.

Local Tip: Entry is free on Sundays after 5 PM—arrive early to avoid the line.

8. Atarazanas Central Market

In a former 14th-century shipyard, this vibrant market features a grand stained-glass window and stalls overflowing with fresh fish, produce, and tapas bars.

Local Tip: Go before 2 PM to see it in full swing and try boquerones (fried anchovies) for €2–3.

9. English Cemetery of Málaga

Established in 1831, its romantic tombs and sculptures tell tales of British residents who made Málaga their home. A serene, unique escape in the city.

Local Tip: Wander slowly among the cypresses and reading the epitaphs—bring a camera for the atmosphere.

10. La Malagueta Bullring

Built in 1876, this hexagonal arena now hosts an interactive bullfighting museum and guided tours through sand and stands.

Local Tip: The €10 tour + museum ticket sells out on sunny weekends—book online in advance.

11–30: Unforgettable High-Caliber Experiences

11. Soho District and Street Art

Former industrial quarter turned urban canvas: vibrant murals by international artists cover walls and shutters.

Local Tip: Download a free mural map or join a guided street-art walk.

12. Carmen Thyssen Museum Málaga

A 19th-century palace home to Spanish costumbrista and impressionist masterpieces by Sorolla, Zuloaga, and Fortuny.

Local Tip: Free entry from 4 PM on Sundays—perfect for a late-afternoon cultural fix.

13. Pompidou Centre Málaga

An iconic multicolored cube at Muelle Uno showcasing modern and contemporary art from the French Pompidou collection.

Local Tip: Book tickets online (€9) and pair it with a port-side stroll.

14. Málaga Museum (Fine Arts & Archaeology)

In the grand Aduana Palace, explore thousands of artifacts from Phoenician tombs to 19th-century paintings.

Local Tip: Free for EU citizens; check the Saturday guided-tour schedule.

15. Automobile and Fashion Museum

Over 90 restored vintage cars (Rolls-Royce, Jaguar) displayed alongside haute-couture gowns.

Local Tip: Ideal for rainy days; entry ~€9.50.

16. Málaga Wine Museum

Learn about the province’s vintages and finish with a tasting of two local wines.

Local Tip: Reserve weekend slots; tasting included for ~€5.

17. Glass and Crystal Museum

A private collection from antiquity to Art Nouveau in a restored 18th-century mansion.

Local Tip: Limited to 10 people per tour—book ahead for the €7 guided visit.

18. Museum of Arts and Folk Traditions

Ethnographic displays of traditional crafts—bakeries, carpentry, fishing tools—in an old municipal building.

Local Tip: Combine with the Roman Theatre next door for a medieval-to-modern cultural day.

19. Picasso’s Birthplace Museum

Walk through the artist’s family home where he was born in 1881, complete with personal photos and early sketches.

Local Tip: €4 entry; perfect follow-up after a coffee in Plaza de la Merced.

20. Cervantes Theatre

Málaga’s historic 19th-century opera house hosts opera, theater, and concert seasons.

Local Tip: Check malagaentradas.com for tickets starting at €10.

21. Málaga Holy Week Processions

One of Spain’s most fervent Semana Santa celebrations, featuring gilded floats and marching brass bands.

Local Tip: For prime viewing, book a “palco” (grandstand seat) weeks in advance.

22. Sardine Skewers on the Beach

Espetos are fresh sardines skewered on cane and grilled over pinewood fires right on the sand.

Local Tip: Eat between 2 and 4 PM at Pedregalejo or El Palo for immediate seating—about €4–6 per skewer.

23. Antigua Casa de Guardia

Malaga’s oldest wine tavern (1840) pouring sweet Moscatel straight from oak barrels alongside salted almonds.

Local Tip: Stand at the bar for the true local vibe—€1.50–2 per glass.

24. El Pimpi Winery

Iconic bodega near the Roman Theatre, its walls lined with signed barrels add celebrity cachet to your tapas.

Local Tip: Spring terrace reservations recommended; tapas €5–10.

25. Atarazanas Market

(Re-listed) The foodie hotspot in an ancient hall—fresh seafood and on-site tapas bars make it a must-stop.

Local Tip: Sample oysters with cava at the entrance.

26. Churros with Chocolate at Casa Aranda

Since 1932, these thin churros (tejeringos) and thick chocolate are Málaga breakfast legends.

Local Tip: Visit 4–6 PM to avoid the main rush and taste them with locals.

27. Málaga-style Coffee at Café Central

Learn local lingo—“nube,” “cortado,” “mote con huesillo”—from the mosaic menu above the counter.

Local Tip: Pair with tomato-olive oil toast for a true local snack.

28. Tapas Route in the Historic Center

From boquerones at La Campana to tortilla at La Tranca and berenjenas con miel at El Tapeo, a bar-hop you won’t forget.

Local Tip: Start at 1 PM to beat the crowds; budget €2–4 per tapa.

29. Traditional Málaga Fried Fish

A paper cone overflowing with boquerones, calamares, and small fry—crispy perfection.

Local Tip: Try Freiduría Los Yayos or La Luz; €8–12 for two.

30. “Plate of the Montes” Specialty

Hearty platter of cured pork in lard, egg, potatoes, and peppers—a true mountain feast.

Local Tip: Best after a hike in the Montes de Málaga; €10–12 per plate.

31–50: Highlighted Plans for Everyone

31. Lunch at El Tintero (El Palo)

“There’s no menu!”—servers shout out fresh fish dishes, and you raise your hand for what you want.

Local Tip: Reach at 2 PM for immediate seating; €6–10 per dish.

32. Artisan Ice Cream at Casa Mira

Centennial shop on Calle Larios, famed for nougat and traditional mantecado flavors.

Local Tip: Grab a small cone (~€2.80) and stroll the street.

33. Creative Tapas at KGB or Óleo

Modern takes on Andalusian classics—from tuna tataki to oxtail croquettes.

Local Tip: Book several days in advance; expect €5–8 per tapa.

34. La Merced Gourmet Market

An indoor foodie bazaar offering sushi, oysters, gourmet burgers, and Andalusian bites.

Local Tip: Ideal for groups with varied tastes; dishes start at €4.

35. La Concepción Botanical Garden

A 19th-century tropical oasis of towering palms, exotic bamboo, and cascading waterfalls.

Local Tip: Arrive at opening (9:30 AM) to dodge school groups and explore the orchid greenhouse.

36. La Malagueta Beach

Urban sands minutes from the center, complete with sunbeds, volleyball nets, and beachfront chiringuitos.

Local Tip: Show up early for a free spot; sunbed rental ≈€5.

37. Pedregalejo and El Palo Beaches

Fishermen’s quarters with rocky coves, shore cafés, and spectacular espetos at dusk.

Local Tip: Weekdays guarantee seating at your favorite chiringuito.

38. Montes de Málaga Natural Park

Pine forests and hiking trails north of the city, with panoramic lookout points.

Local Tip: Skip midday in summer—opt for spring or autumn for mild weather.

39. Guadalhorce River Estuary

Protected wetland perfect for birdwatching (flamingos, herons).

Local Tip: Bus 10 to Guadalmar and bring binoculars.

40. Hike up Monte San Antón

A moderate trail to 505 m altitude with iconic crosses and 360° views of city and sea.

Local Tip: Head up at dawn or dusk for spectacular skies.

41. Cuervo Rock Beach

A rugged strip crowned by a rocky islet, ideal for a picnic and casual snorkeling.

Local Tip: Bring picnic supplies and gear for a half-day escape.

42. Málaga Park Promenade

Shaded Mediterranean garden by the port, featuring century-old ficus trees and ornate fountains.

Local Tip: Use it as a cool-down break between museum visits.

43. Morlaco Park

Undiscovered pine-wooded urban area with dirt paths and effortless views of the sea.

Local Tip: Go at sunset—few tourists and golden light.

44. Boat Tour of the Bay

One-hour catamaran or yacht cruise with skyline views of Gibralfaro and Alcazaba.

Local Tip: Early booking (€12–15) is wise; sunset sails are magical.

45. Hiking on the Picapedrero Trail

Waymarked route through woods and streams—bring snacks for a forest picnic.

Local Tip: Wear good hiking boots and carry water.

46. Walk to Gibralfaro Castle

Ascend the ancient Coracha path from the Alcazaba entrance—20–30 minutes of history and views.

Local Tip: Start at 9 AM to beat the heat and crowds.

47. Running on the Seafront Promenade

A flat 5 km stretch from Malagueta to El Palo, dotted with workout stations.

Local Tip: Hit the track at sunrise for calm sea breezes.

48. City Bike Route

Cycle lanes hug the coast—pedal from the center to Pedregalejo or venture west toward Huelin.

Local Tip: Rent for 4 hours (~€10) and plan snack stops.

49. Paddle Surf / Kayak in La Malagueta

Hourly rentals (€10–15) let you glide on Mediterranean waters with the city as backdrop.

Local Tip: Summer mornings are tranquil; book ahead.

50. Golf at Parador Málaga Golf Course

An 18-hole links course by the sea, founded in 1925, with a classic clubhouse.

Local Tip: Tee off at dawn for a serene round (green fee from €60).

51–100: Finishing Touches & Backup Plans

(Name – Key Location – Price | Quick Tip)

51. Beach Volleyball at La Malagueta – Free | Public nets
52. Football Match at La Rosaleda – From €15 | Buy online
53. ACB Basketball at Martín Carpena – €10–20 | Arrive early
54. Skateboarding at Rubén Alcántara Skatepark – Free (€8/h rental) | Rent skates
55. Surfing at La Misericordia Beach – €25/2 h | Best in autumn–winter
56. Segway Tour of the City – €25–30 | Meet at Calle Larios
57. Alborania Aquarium – Aula del Mar – €8/5 | Great for kids
58. Interactive Music Museum (MIMMA) – €5/3 | Play everything!
59. Museum of Illusions – €10/5 | Take fun photos
60. Principia Science Center – €3 | Planetarium included
61. Parque del Oeste (Mini Zoo) – Free | See wallabies
62. Hop-On Hop-Off Bus – €22/10 | 24 h ticket
63. OXO – Video Game Museum – €10/7 | Retro & VR games
64. Huelin Beach and Park – Free | Play areas
65. Three Kings Parade (Jan 5) – Free | Bring candy bags
66. Aviation Museum of Málaga – Free | Explore real cockpits
67. Family Scavenger Hunt Tour – €10–15 | Kids love it
68. Sunset at Gibralfaro – €3–5 drink | Coffee with a view
69. Hammam Al Ándalus – €35–50 | Couples’ massage
70. Catamaran Sunset Cruise – €18–20 | Chill-out music
71. Panoramic Dinner – €30–40 | Reserve ahead
72. Night Walk on the Beach – Free | Bring a towel
73. Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride – €30–50 | 45 min tour
74. AC Málaga Palacio Sky Bar – €8–12 | Cathedral views
75. Baños del Carmen Ruins – €5–15 | Decadent seaside vibe
76. Christmas Light Show on Larios – Free | 7 PM shows
77. Jazz at Clarence Club – €8–12 | Book early
78. Bar Crawl Historic Center – €2–8 | Mitjana & Granada
79. Disco at Sala Gold – €10–15 | After 1 AM
80. Flamenco Show at a Tablao – €25–30 | Dinner & show
81. Live Concert at La Trinchera – €10–20 | Check schedule
82. Salsa & Bachata Night – Min. spend €6 | Occasional lessons
83. Nighttime Beach Bars – €7 | Summer DJs
84. Craft Beer at La Fábrica – €4 | Tapas €5
85. Karaoke at Premier Pub – Free (€6 min) | Bring your voice
86. Málaga Fair in August – Free | Rides extra
87. Rooftop at Room Mate Valeria – €10–12 | Summer DJs
88. White Night Festival – Free | Annual May event
89. Cabaret at La Cochera – €10–15 | Weekly shows
90. Open-Air Summer Cinema – Free | Bring a blanket
91. Ice Cream Workshop – €15 | Learn local recipes
92. Mystery & Legends Tour – €17 | Bring a flashlight
93. Stargazing at Gibralfaro – €10 | Telescopes provided
94. Pedro Luis Alonso Garden – Free | Next to the Alcazaba
95. Day Trip to Frigiliana – €5 | Direct ALSA bus
96. Library Film Club – Free | Check sessions
97. Artisanal Market at Plaza Merced – Free | Temporary stalls
98. Shopping on Calle Nueva – Varies | Jan/Jul sales
99. Patio de la Aduana – Free | Combine with museum
100. Neighborhood Park Picnic – Free | Bring your own basket