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…
Recyclo Bike Café
This quirky bike shop, which doubles up as a restaurant and bar, is a big favourite in Malaga. Located on the bustling Plaza Enrique García-Herrera, Recyclo Bike Café is a convenient meeting place as it is both in the city centre and close to all the bus stops and train stations. Its outdoor terrace is fantastic on those summer evenings for a
Teatro Cervantes
Teatro Cervantes is a historic theatre in the heart of Malaga. Located close to the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, Plaza de la Merced, this theatre has become one of the city’s main cultural hubs. Designed by Gerónimo Cuervo González (Madrid, 1838 – Malaga, 1898), the theatre is known for its eclectic architectural style, the idea for which was conceived by
Sala Paris 15
Sala Paris 15 is a legendary venue on the Malaga live entertainment scene. Located in the San Luis industrial estate on the western side of the city (taxi required to get home!), it first opened its doors in 2010 and has since hosted hundreds of live concerts and sets by both national and international DJs. This versatile venue, which also
Grand Café Gezellig
Grand Café Gezellig is your Dutch haven (if ever you needed one) in the heart of Malaga’s Soho district. It’s described as “a place where Dutch cuisine and Dutch ‘Gezelligheid’ merge seamlessly”. But what is that exactly? According to owners Naomi Uijlenhoed and Jackie Stor, “Gezellig” is that warm, cozy feeling when you’re basking in the merriment of having shared
Misuto
Experience a fusion of Spanish cuisine and sushi at Misuto, a restaurant located in the Malaga fishing neighbourhood of Pedregalejo. Sushi Master Rui Junior, formerly of Óleo Restaurant, and Chef Alejandro Salido, who was head chef at Restaurante Asako, have come together to create a unique dining destination, combining the freshness and quality of a sushi bar with creatively refreshed
Metro de Málaga
The Metro de Málaga network, with a total length of 13.2 kilometres (8.2 miles), connects Malaga’s historic centre with the city’s northwestern and southwestern suburbs. The network has 19 stations, 12 of which are underground, and five are surface-level light rail stops. Two lines The Malaga Metro consists of two lines almost entirely on the western side of the Guadalmedina
Medium and long-distance trains from Malaga
Since its introduction in 1992, the high-speed AVE rail service has revolutionised rail travel in Spain. Over the years, the high-speed network has significantly expanded, now covering more than 3,600 kilometres and connecting dozens of towns and cities throughout the country. Spain’s high-speed rail network is currently the largest in Europe and ranks second globally, only behind China. Travel from
Vialia Málaga shopping centre
Centro Comercial Vialia Málaga is a popular shopping centre on the western side of the city. As part of María Zambrano train station, which caters to long-distance train travellers, and located next to the El Perchel Malaga Metro station, this shopping centre is very well connected. High-street fashion The ground floor of Centro Comercial Vialia Málaga is a popular destination
Cortijo de Pepe
Cortijo de Pepe is a traditional Spanish restaurant, popular even with locals despite its location on the southern edge of the very touristy Plaza de la Merced. With a rich history dating back to 1971, this establishment has been serving popular local cuisine for over five decades. The restaurant’s rustic décor, featuring wooden beams and traditional Andalusian tiles, creates an
Vegan-té ”La Siria”
If you’re a fan of Middle-Eastern cuisine and find yourself in Malaga, Vegan-té ”La Siria” is a must-visit 100% plant-based restaurant. Situated near the María Zambrano train station, Vegan-té ”La Siria” offers a cosy dining experience with both indoor and outdoor seating, as well as takeaway options. Operating at both lunchtime and in the evening, depending on the day (check
YUMMY Heladería
While the Malaga vegan scene is constantly expanding, finding vegan ice cream can still be a challenge. However, now there’s one place that stands out: Yummy Heladería. Located in the heart of the city centre, not only does it offer a variety of flavours for both vegans and non-vegans, but it also caters to gluten-free diets, making it a perfect
Bun and Coffee
Bun and Coffee is a cosy coffee and doughnut shop that’s a must-visit for all vegans with a sweet tooth! Located between the Cathedral and the Picasso Museum, this unassuming café specialises in fluffy, vegan doughnuts made fresh every day. Among the various tempting flavours, three stand out. The Triple Biscoff doughnut, with Biscoff crumbs, glaze and filling; the Peanut
Meet Vegano
Meet Vegano is a 100% plant-based restaurant located in the city centre, between Calle Larios and Calle Nueva. Since its opening in February 2022, it has gained popularity among both locals and tourists, becoming a must-visit spot for plant-based food enthusiasts. The restaurant’s success reflects the growing demand for plant-based cuisine and the thriving vegan food scene in Malaga. Creative
Restaurante SOCA
Situated in the heart of Malaga, Restaurante Soca has quickly gained popularity among locals and tourists, despite its relatively recent opening on the iconic Calle Carretería. The restaurant boasts a fusion cuisine that beautifully combines modern Mediterranean flavours with exquisite sushi, making it a favoured destination for many visitors, who regard it as one of the Costa del Sol’s finest
MIMO Vegan Bistro
Now pursuing their latest venture on Avenida Manuel Agustín Heredia in the Soho area of Malaga, MIMO Vegan is back with a brand-new restaurant. This establishment prides itself on offering a fully vegan menu that is free from gluten and sugar. The culinary creations at MIMO Vegan Bistro predominantly showcase locally sourced vegetables, ensuring a fresh and sustainable dining experience.
Saladentro
With a fresh and revitalised concept, Espacio Salâ provides guests with a daily menu consisting of three delectable dishes. Located on the western bank of the Guadalmedina river, opposite the city centre, in a minimalist space, this restaurant takes a modern approach by sharing the daily recipes on its Instagram account (which the chef can tailor to accommodate specific intolerances
Cañadú Vegetariano
For vegetarians and any other health-conscious individuals seeking a memorable dining experience in Malaga, Cañadú is a must-visit. Nestled in the bustling Plaza de la Merced, this restaurant boasts an enticing selection of imaginative, ecological and mouthwatering dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients. One standout dish that demands attention is the Persian rice, a delightful combination of wholemeal rice, almonds,
El Vegetariano de Alcazabilla
Situated at the base of the Alcazaba, beside the Albéniz cinema, Vegetariano de Alcazabilla holds the esteemed title of being the oldest vegetarian restaurant in Malaga. Its establishment dates back to 1996, when Amalia Boerr first opened its doors. Today, her children continue to operate the restaurant, offering a delightful fusion of Swiss-German, Italian, Spanish, Argentinian and Arabic culinary influences.
Antigua Casa de Guardia
Whether you are a wine enthusiast or simply curious about Malaga’s winemaking heritage, a visit to Antigua Casa de Guardia is a must. It offers a glimpse into the past and an opportunity to savour some of the finest wines that Andalucía has to offer. Located on a tiny side street between the Alameda and the central market, it’s one
Museo de Artes y Costumbres Populares
Whoever wants to gain a better understanding of the customs and traditions of Malaga province and the Andalucía region has to visit the Museo de Artes y Costumbres Populares (Museum of Arts and Popular Customs). The museum occupies the old Mesón de la Victoria, a 17th-century former inn on the bank of the Guadalmedina river, which has been classified as
Museo de Málaga / Museum of Malaga
As if we didn’t have enough in the ‘Museum City’, we’ve been gifted one more. Located in the Malaga port’s old customs house (La Aduana), a stone’s throw from the cathedral, is the Museo de Málaga. The Museum of Malaga boasts 18,000 square metres of exhibition space – more than the CAC, the Thyssen and the Picasso museum combined –
DESAL CAFÉ
DESAL CAFÉ, now in its new plant-filled industrial-vibe location on Calle Ollerías, has recently extended its offering beyond just breakfast, brunch and natural juices. Grab a coffee, pastry or loaded toast with optional extras for a light breakfast, or go all out and order eggs benedict, a salad or sandwich for a yummy brunch. Come lunchtime, DESAL CAFÉ also offers
Dulces Dreams
Walking through the Entorno Thyssen, past the Church of the Sainted Martyrs, you can’t fail to notice Dulces Dreams. This ’boutique hostel and café gallery’ (as it describes itself) entices you in with a mix of colourful chairs and couches. Once inside, its menu will keep you there – with items ideal for breakfast, lunch or an afternoon treat. We
Fuengirola: the multicultural hub of the Costa del Sol
Fuengirola has gained global recognition in recent times, becoming a home from home for many people who have chosen Spain to embark on their new life. Its allure stems from its remarkable blend of diversity, warm hospitality and exceptional lifestyle. Standing out as the most culturally diverse town on the Costa del Sol, Fuengirola proudly presents the annual Feria Internacional