Blog
Our writers share their top tips for making the most of your time in Malaga.
We also delve into local legends and curiosities about the city and take a look at everyday life in Spain…
Nudist beaches in Malaga province
The Costa del Sol isn’t just about chiringuitos and sangria – it’s also home to some of Spain’s most liberating naturist beaches where you can embrace your birthday suit in spectacular Andalusian surroundings. According to the Spanish Naturist Federation, there are seven official nudist beaches in Malaga province, though plenty of unofficial spots exist for those seeking textile-free tranquillity. Whether
Marenostrum Fuengirola
Located around 30 kilometres west of Malaga, Marenostrum Fuengirola has quickly become one of Spain’s most iconic open-air music venues since its founding in 2016. Nestled next to the impressive Moorish Sohail Castle, this venue combines breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea with a rich sense of history, making it a truly unique setting for live music. The castle itself
Starlite Festival
The Starlite Festival, now known as Starlite Occident for sponsorship reasons, is a three-month-long music and cultural extravaganza held every summer in Marbella. Every June, July and August, the Nagüeles quarry attracts a star-studded lineup of international performers to this unique space that combines an open-air auditorium, a Sessions space (an outdoor nightclub which hosts DJ performances) and several restaurants.
What’s the weather like in Malaga?
It should come as no surprise that one of the main reasons people flock to Malaga and the south of Spain is the absolutely glorious weather. The Costa del Sol (literally ‘Coast of the Sun’) has attracted mass tourism ever since the 1950s precisely because, as its name rather obviously suggests, it basks in sunshine practically all year round. While
Inside Malaga CF: the behind-the-scenes La Rosaleda stadium tour
Step into the hallowed halls of La Rosaleda, home to Malaga CF and one of Andalucía’s most atmospheric football stadiums. This guided tour offers football fans and curious visitors alike the chance to explore more than 120 years of Malaga football history in the very place where the magic happens. You’ll discover the most exclusive areas of the stadium, from
Standard Coffee & Vinyls Club
Tucked away on Plaza de la Aurora, Standard Coffee & Vinyls Club serves up two major staples: proper coffee and old-school music. This isn’t your average Malaga tourist trap. On the ‘other side’ of the river, it’s a genuinely brilliant local haunt off the tourist trail where vinyl records spin as smoothly as the well-priced drinks flow. The coffee experience
La Tarta de la Madre de Cris
La Tarta de la Madre de Cris has become a pilgrimage site for dessert lovers in Malaga, serving Spain’s most celebrated cheesecakes from their beloved Calle Granada location. This family-run bakery, which translates to ‘Cris’s Mother’s Cake’, opened in Malaga in January 2020 after conquering Granada with their legendary tarta de queso (cheesecake). The bakery represents the finest tradition of
Restaurante Cofrade Entre Varales
Fancy a proper Spanish dining experience with a twist? Restaurante Cofrade Entre Varales offers a uniquely atmospheric dining experience in the heart of Malaga, combining authentic Andalusian gastronomy with the passionate traditions of Semana Santa. This distinctive ‘cofrade’ restaurant in Malaga transports diners into the spiritual world of Holy Week from the moment they step through the door. A traditional
Iglesia de los Santos Mártires Ciriaco y Paula (Church of Saints Ciriaco and Paula)
Right in the heart of Malaga’s historic centre, this remarkable church stands as one of the city’s most fascinating religious landmarks. Built by the Catholic Monarchs after the Christian conquest of Malaga in 1487, it’s one of just four churches constructed within the old city walls. The church honours Saints Ciriaco and Paula, who happen to be Malaga’s patron saints,
Cine Abierto
With the summer heat suffocating at times, getting outdoors once the sun has set could well be the perfect remedy. That’s why, as part of the Festival de Málaga, the city hall every summer launches the Cine Abierto series of open-air screenings in various locations. The showings cater for wide audiences, especially families, and are free to view though some
Seville: the ultimate Andalusian city break
Seville (Sevilla in Spanish) is Andalucía’s most high-profile city destination and is one of the most popular day trips from Malaga. As the regional capital and largest city in southern Spain, it offers a wealth of attractions and activities shaped by the influences of diverse cultures throughout the centuries. Three UNESCO World Heritage Sites Seville boasts three UNESCO World Heritage
Feria del Libro de Málaga (Malaga Book Fair)
For more than half a century, the Feria del Libro de Málaga (Malaga Book Fair) has been a staple for book enthusiasts. The Paseo del Parque—among other locations, depending on the edition—plays host to this book fair every year. With casetas (stalls) representing the city’s major bookshops, publishing houses and boutiques, this fair offers a diverse selection of literature for
Plaza de la Merced
Plaza de la Merced is one of the largest and most iconic public squares in Malaga city centre. The square has been a key part of the city since the Roman era, operating as a marketplace since at least the fifteenth century. This beautiful square is a must-see for many different reasons: Picasso’s birthplace Firstly, Plaza de la Merced is
Cervezas Victoria brewery visit
Visiting the Cervezas Victoria brewery close to Malaga Airport offers a unique insight into the craftsmanship behind one of Spain’s most beloved beers. This 90-minute tour, set in a modern 3,700 m² facility designed by local firm Gana Arquitectura, is an immersive experience where visitors can explore the heart of the brewery, including the brewing and bottling areas. The factory
How to get the green NIE ‘residencia’ card in Malaga
To stay in Spain for more than 90 days as an EU/EEA citizen, you must register with the local authorities to obtain a NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) and a corresponding Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Unión (EU residency certificate). The EU residency certificate, commonly called the “green NIE” or “residency card”, is issued on a small,
How to get a NIE in Malaga
Resident or not, to get practically anything done in Spain, you need an identification number. If you’re not Spanish and you’re planning to stay in Spain long term or do business in the country, you should look to get yourself a Número de Identidad de Extranjeros (known most commonly as an NIE). What is a NIE? What does it look like? A
The FOUR best bookshops in Malaga
The vibrant, diverse landscape and culture of Malaga and its surrounding area has long attracted visits from great authors seeking inspiration, including the likes of Ernest Hemingway and Hans Christian Andersen, who wrote in his travel memoir In Spain, published in English in 1870, that “in none of the Spanish towns have I been so happy, so entirely at home,
Why does Malaga Airport have the code AGP?
If you’re a frequent flyer, you’ll be familiar with the concept of airport codes. Normally they are based on the letters of the city’s name. For example, AMS is Amsterdam, Madrid is MAD, Barcelona is BCN, Brussels is BRU… So why then is Malaga AGP? It really doesn’t follow any pattern. Lots of urban legends It probably comes as little
Torre del Mar International Air Show
The Festival Aéreo Internacional Torre del Mar, or the Torre del Mar International Air Show, is held annually in the coastal town of Torre del Mar, around 30 kilometres east of Malaga. It’s one of the most anticipated aviation events in Europe. This spectacular display of aerial prowess takes place over the beautiful Mediterranean coastline, attracting around 300,000 aviation enthusiasts
Virgen del Carmen
In Malaga, we’re used to seeing processions of all kinds. However, on 16 July every year, a procession of unique characteristics takes place as local fishing communities honour the Virgen del Carmen. Malaga’s most emblematic fishing neighbourhoods, such as El Palo, Huelin and Pedregalejo, become the focal point for this unique festivity. Those attending can witness the acts of devotion
El Tintero
Restaurante El Tintero, located right on the seafront in the eastern district of El Palo, offers a Malaga dining experience like no other. With its distinctive auction-style service and specialisation in pescaíto frito (fried fish), this popular restaurant combines delicious food with a lively atmosphere, ensuring a memorable visit for all guests. The El Tintero ‘auction’ explained The restaurant’s auction-style
El Palo
Malaga, a city known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse neighbourhoods, offers a unique experience in each of its districts. One such area is El Palo, a charming seaside neighbourhood in the eastern part of the city, renowned for its traditions, beautiful beaches and exquisite seafood cuisine. Getting to El Palo To reach El Palo from Malaga city
A quick guide to exploring Malaga’s beach promenades on foot
Malaga offers a plethora of options for those who enjoy long walks with continuous scenic views. From the eastern district of El Palo, you can walk all the way to the new Paseo in the Huelin district along the coast, passing through the city centre and the port. Start in El Palo, in the east For an extended walk, take
El Vegans
If you take a look at the shelves and display cases at El Vegans, you won’t find traditional meat cuts like chicken breasts, pork skewers or beef tenderloins. Instead, the 80-square-metre shop features gluten steaks, lentil sausages and mushroom ribs. Recently opened in the Huelin district, El Vegans proudly positions itself as a “butcher’s shop of the future” and has