The Skyline & History
Two hilltop citadels, the Alcazaba and ruined Gibralfaro. The two are not connected and it’s a decent walk/climb from one to the other but the reward is amazing views in all directions. Reminders of the city’s Moorish past. They tower above the bustling streets and the renaissance Cathedral, nicked named ‘La Manquita‘, the one armed lady. The second tower remains unbuilt.
Art
Malaga is probably best know as the birth place of Pablo Picasso and you can’t go far without seeing a reference to the great artist.
Museums and there are plenty, offer up something for everyone. Most host a permanent collection and temporary exhibitions. The centro historico is home to the Picasso Museum and also Casa Natal de Picasso (the house of his birth). Note, Casa Natal de Picasso offers a dual ticket with entry to another space displaying the artists work, in a neighboring street.
More art
In addition, there’s the Carmen Thyssen and Museo de Malaga – The Customs Palace, home to both the Malaga Provincial Museum of Fine Arts and the Provincial Archaeological Museum. The basement is a positive Aladdin’s cave filled with curiosities.
Moving out of the centro historico. Down in the port, on Muelle Uno, you’ll find the Centre Pomidou. Likened to a Rubik Cube and a sight in itself. A short walk will take you to La Malagueta and the eastern beachfront. La Malagueta is also home to the city’s Plaza de Toros. This venue provides a great amphitheater for concerts and hosts exhibitions through links to La Termica, Centre of Contemporary Culture.
At La Termica there is no permanent collection, only temporary exhibitions. Its a beautiful building with andalucian style decor, light and airy. It’s situated in the west of the city, Av. de los Guindos, 48, 29004 and easily accessible from the western seafront. View the website latermicamalaga.com to find out what’s on at the time of your visit. If you’re a resident or on a longer stay, check out the courses on offer. There’s a diverse program. Collage to cooking or dance to design technology. A great annual event, hosted here is ‘Vinarama‘. It spans three days and is usually held in October/November. It’s a chance to sample wines from local bodegas and buy direct. There’s artisan food, talks & demonstrations, digital art, concerts, DJ sessions. It has lots to offer in a relaxed and sociable atmosphere.
Another top choice for me is the CAC Malaga, Centre of Contemporary Art. It can be found very close to Centro Alamada train station. La Termica & CAC Malaga are free to enter, whilst some other sites and museums around the city offer free admission after 4pm on Sundays.
Performing Arts
If theatre’s your thing, the prominent venues are the Cervantes, on the outskirts of the centro historico and Teatro del Soho Caixabank. This theatre in the Soho district, just off Alamada Principal. It’s a welcoming and modern space promoted by another famous Malagueño, Antonio Banderas. Banderas will direct the musical Gypsy when it is produced by the theatre in October of this year, 2024.
Shop shop shop
Let’s not forget the shopping opportunities! The port offers some light, airy outlets with some enticing restaurants in between. Calle Larios is the main thoroughfare with high street chains. You can’t miss it but not to be confused with the Larios Shopping Centre in another part of the city.
Stop & re-fuel
Looking for a room or just coffee & cake? Dulces Dreams Cafe & Hostel offer both. Situated in front of the ‘Holy Martyrs’ church, it’s in an excellent location. Don’t be put off by the term ‘hostel’. I’ve stayed here and the rooms are clean, light and airy.
Rou Mate Cafe Bar offers up a great selection of fine brunches and more.
Las Merchanas offers typical Spanish cuisine, in a bar with traditional decor.
Casa Lola (there is more than one) also offers up a great selection of dishes with a Mediterranean feel to the menu.
Wine got a mention earlier and there are loads of bars to choose from. For a slightly different experience you could try Antigua Casa de Guardia, Alameda Principal (with a side entrance). It’s facade doesn’t immediately standout. It could be easily missed on a busy afternoon. The wines on offer are served straight from the barrel. Choose on your preference light to dark. Your tastings (tab) will be chalked down on the bar top!
Best of both worlds
Malaga offers it’s visitors just that. The east and western beach fronts are a great place to relax and there’s a fine choice of traditional chringuitos either side of the port area. Combine that with the chance to experience Spanish culture in compact and vibrant city and you’ve got yourself a great destination. But for accommodation, be that for choice or budget consider staying in one of the nearby coastal towns.
It’s super easy to access the city, via the C1, which runs Malaga Centre Alameda – Fuengirola. The line has numerous stops including the popular resorts of Torremolinos & Benalmadena (Aroyo de la Miel). See dodgy illustration below. Or you could use the local bus service. The towns mentioned have services that will take you directly to Estacion Muelle Heredia, in the port.
Feedback & Sharing
If you visit any of the places I’ve recommended, I hope you have an enjoyable experience. Please let them know, who led you, to their door. Muchas Gracias.