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…

Roscón de Reyes – Traditional Spanish Kings’ Cake

Roscón de Reyes: the traditional Three Kings cake in Spain

No Spanish celebration of Día de Reyes (Three Kings Day) would be complete without a Roscón de Reyes, the sweet ring-shaped cake that graces tables across the country on January 6th. This centuries-old tradition brings families together on the morning of Three Kings Day, creating moments of suspense and laughter as everyone discovers what hides inside their slice. The roscón […]
grapes-nochevieja-malaga

Why do they eat grapes on New Year’s Eve in Spain?

If you’ve ever watched Spanish television on New Year’s Eve or found yourself in a Spanish plaza as midnight approaches, you’ll have witnessed one of the country’s most beloved and slightly bonkers traditions. Eating twelve grapes in twelve seconds as the clock strikes midnight might sound straightforward, but anyone who’s attempted this feat whilst trying not to choke, laugh or […]
fuengirola-castillo-sohail-darren-tolley

The FIVE best day trips less than an hour away from Malaga

Looking for the best day trips from Malaga? You’re in luck. Within just an hour of the city, you’ll find some of southern Spain’s most charming destinations — from whitewashed coastal towns to dramatic mountain landscapes. Each offers its own flavour of Andalusian life, and all are easy to reach by car, train or organised tour. Here are the top […]
Alhambra_de_Granada

The top five best city breaks from Malaga

Malaga offers plenty to explore, but many visitors use this coastal city as a gateway to discover other remarkable destinations across Andalucía. The city enjoys excellent transport links. Malaga Airport ranks among Spain’s busiest hubs, while María Zambrano train station connects travellers to destinations throughout the country. If you ever tire of Malaga’s charms, these five Andalusian cities make exceptional […]
fiesta-nacional-espana-spain-national-day

October 12th: Fiesta Nacional, Spain’s controversial National Day

October 12th marks Spain’s Fiesta Nacional, a public holiday that commemorates Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas in 1492. This date is controversial for many, representing both Spanish pride and historical colonialism. Previously known as Día de la Hispanidad (Hispanic Day), this remains one of Spain’s two most significant national holidays alongside Constitution Day on December 6th. Catholics also know […]
Mercado Atarazanas Malaga

From Arab shipyard to convent: the fascinating history of Atarazanas market

Today, Atarazanas is known as Malaga’s central market – a bustling marketplace and a major hub of activity in Malaga city centre. However, this vibrant food market boasts a remarkable history that spans seven centuries, reflecting the city’s evolving landscape and culture. The original Atarazanas: a 14th-century Arab shipyard When Atarazanas was first built in the 14th century, Malaga looked […]
Restaurante-Antonio-el-palo-malaga

The top 5 must-try seafood dishes in Malaga

While paella gets all the limelight, especially from foreigners, Malaga’s coastal cuisine offers so much more. This Mediterranean city has perfected the art of simple, fresh seafood preparations that let the quality of the catch shine through. Armed with little more than olive oil, sea salt and centuries of fishing tradition, malagueños have created dishes that are beloved across Spain. If […]
hans-christian-andersen-statue-malaga

Hans Christian Andersen and his relationship with Malaga

Hans Christian Andersen, the Danish writer behind The Little Mermaid and The Ugly Duckling, may have been born the son of a shoemaker in Odense, but his imagination and restless feet carried him far beyond Denmark. A passionate traveller, he explored much of Europe, often with unusual habits and eccentricities that matched his unique character. Among his most curious travel […]
1024px-Ceuta_-_Algeciras_Balearia

What causes the ‘taró’ fog that closes Malaga’s beaches every summer?

If you’ve spent any summer in Malaga, you’ve probably witnessed the taró weather phenomenon at least once. Known locally as el taró, this dense sea mist in Malaga can transform sunny beaches into a hazy, mysterious scene within minutes. What is the taró fog? Taró is a form of Andalusian coastal fog that commonly appears between Malaga and Ceuta, most […]
Luces_Bookshop header

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, […]
Malaga airport

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 […]
Paseo-Maritimo-Antonio-Banderas-malaga

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 […]
chiringuitos-malaga-elpalo

Chiringuitos: Malaga’s iconic traditional beach bars

Did you know that, on average, a chiringuito can be found every 500 metres along the Costa del Sol? They’re even more frequent in bustling tourist centres and in Malaga city, in particular, with one every 150 metres. But what exactly is a chiringuito? A Malaga invention Typically, a chiringuito is a small establishment located on the beach, offering drinks […]
malagueta

7 expert tips for surviving the hot Terral wind in Malaga

Have you heard? The Terral is coming! But are you prepared?! Temperatures around 40 degrees might sound like heaven, but this dry wind makes for an especially unpleasant time and can come in episodes of anything between a few hours to a few days. So, it doesn’t hurt to be prepared. Here are 7 top tips for surviving Terral in Malaga! […]
Sandy beach in Malaga lined with straw parasols and sun loungers along the Mediterranean Sea on a clear sunny day.

The (in)famous Terral wind

If you’ve been in Malaga during the summer, the chances are that you’ve experienced the dreaded Terral. This weather phenomenon is notorious among locals and tourists alike for its intense and often unbearable heat. Temperatures shoot up and the dry heat makes it feel like you’re in an oven. The usually mild Mediterranean climate is suddenly replaced by scorching conditions […]
CAFE CENTRAL

How to order coffee in Malaga: a beginner’s guide

When learning Spanish, when it comes to ordering coffee, you might be familiar with “café con leche” or “café solo”. However, once in Malaga, some new phrases like “corto” (short), “sombra” (shadow) or “mitad” (half) get thrown into the mix. At first, these confuse foreigners and non-Malagueños alike. That’s because this system is unique to Malaga. Go outside of the […]
Nueva_Esperanza_-_Trono_del_Nazareno

Why does it always seem to rain during Semana Santa in Malaga?

Every year, without fail, as Semana Santa approaches, the people of Malaga look skyward, anticipating the arrival of an uninvited guest: rain. This phenomenon seems to persist regardless of when Easter falls, with many processions either being cancelled or considerably shortened due to the wet weather. It’s a recurring scenario that has puzzled Spaniards for years. So, why does it […]
Luke Haynes – Semana Santa procession

What happens if it rains during Semana Santa?

Malaga, with its rich cultural heritage and vibrant traditions, comes alive during Semana Santa, drawing crowds from far and wide to witness its spectacular processions. However, amid the excitement and anticipation, the unpredictable nature of spring weather can pose challenges for the brotherhoods (or cofradías) that organise these events. In Malaga, where Semana Santa holds special significance, brotherhoods go to […]
Luke Haynes – Semana Santa malaga

5 tips for surviving Semana Santa in Malaga

If you didn’t already know, Semana Santa (Holy Week or Easter Week in English) brings Malaga to an absolute standstill every year. Easter in Spain is not just a religious festival, it’s a deep-rooted tradition that dates back centuries and brings whole communities together. In Malaga city alone, between Palm Sunday and Good Friday, there are more than 40 processions (plus […]
calima-malaga-orange-sky (7)

Calima, the Saharan dust that turns Malaga’s skies orange

Given the city’s close proximity to North Africa and the Gibraltar Strait, the people of Malaga are no strangers to weird and wonderful weather phenomena. One, which is quite common throughout the year, is that of calima. This suspension of Saharan sand dust in the skies is a natural phenomenon. It casts a hazy hue over the province and, depending […]
verdiales-music-malaga

Verdiales, the Flamenco-style dance from Malaga

Verdiales, sometimes known as fandangos de Málaga, are a popular Flamenco-style music genre with its roots deeply entrenched in the cultural fabric of Andalucía. Rooted in tradition, verdiales typically adhere to a 12-count rhythm akin to soleares and bulerías, with their melodic framework predominantly set in the key of E phrygian, occasionally venturing into A minor. This musical form’s resonance […]
tenis

Lagunillas: Malaga’s alternative Barrio de las Artes

An obscure maze of alleyways, plazas, and vacant lots, hidden in plain sight behind Plaza de la Merced, Lagunillas is a slice of authentic urban Spain perfectly preserved amongst the city’s most touristic neighbourhoods. Lagunillas looks unremarkable from the outside, and is easily overlooked by art aficionados visiting Malaga in favour of the better known Sojo district, which features several […]
plaza de la merced malaga obelisk

Why’s there an obelisk in Plaza de la Merced?

Anyone who has visited Plaza de la Merced will have doubtless spotted the enormous obelisk located right in its centre. However, you may be surprised to find out that it actually sits atop a mass grave. It contains the remains of General José María de Torrijos y Uriarte, and 48 others, who were put to death after leading an ill-fated […]
coffee stock image

For the love of coffee! The 5 best specialty coffee spots in Malaga

I don’t know about you, but for me, a visit to a new city is never truly complete until I discover at least one coffee brewery. One of those places where the city opens up to you. Where the friendly owner chats away about the best coffees in the world. A modern space with organic design, kinda hipsterish, if you […]
hospital noble

What’s so ‘noble’ about the Hospital Noble?

If you’ve lived in Malaga for some time, you’ll have passed this building hundreds of times. Located beside the Fuente de las Tres Gracias roundabout, from which you can get spectacular views of the Alcazaba, is the Hospital Noble. You’ve probably never been inside because these days the building houses council offices. So why is it called a hospital? And […]
Puente_de_los_Alemanes

Why is there a ‘German bridge’ in Malaga?

Anyone crossing the Guadalmedina river, heading from the city centre out west, is likely to have crossed the Puente de los Alemanes (Bridge of the Germans). But have you ever wondered how it got its name? The story begins on 16 December 1900, when a frigate belonging to the Imperial German Navy, the SMS Gneisenau, crashed into the harbour breakwater. […]
Coffee & breakfast
Daryl Finch

Ana La Fantástica

When a Galician baker brings her homeland’s traditions to Malaga, something rather special happens. Ana La Fantástica is an artisan bakery and café in the heart of Malaga that’s winning over customers with its dedication to proper bread-making. Think rustic loaves, flaky pastries and breakfasts that actually set you up for the day. Artisan bakery in central Malaga The story

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Coffee & breakfast
Daryl Finch

Sueño Pastelería Francesa

Sueño Pastelería Francesa has earned its place among Malaga’s best breakfast spots through sheer dedication to the craft of French pâtisserie. This charming bakery and café lives up to its name – which translates as “Dream French Bakery” – with sophisticated artisan pastries (pastelería artesanal) that impress visually before taking you on a flavour journey. Located in Gamarra, a bit

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Coffee & breakfast
Daryl Finch

Mala Leche Coffee

Finding a table at Mala Leche can be a challenge, which tells you everything you need to know about this popular Malaga café. Tucked away on Calle Castillo de Sohail, not far from Plaza de la Constitución, this warm and laid-back coffee shop has built a devoted following for breakfast and brunch in the city. Its name, Mala Leche, translates

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Traditional Spanish Roscón de Reyes decorated with candied fruit and powdered sugar.
Blog
Daryl Finch

Roscón de Reyes: the traditional Three Kings cake in Spain

No Spanish celebration of Día de Reyes (Three Kings Day) would be complete without a Roscón de Reyes, the sweet ring-shaped cake that graces tables across the country on January 6th. This centuries-old tradition brings families together on the morning of Three Kings Day, creating moments of suspense and laughter as everyone discovers what hides inside their slice. The roscón

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Magi holding a scroll during Three Kings celebrations in Malaga.
What's on
Daryl Finch

Día de Reyes Three Kings parade

Christmas festivities in Spain extend beyond December 25th, culminating on January 6th with Día de Reyes (Three Kings Day). This is when Los Reyes Magos (the Three Wise Men) arrive from the East bearing gifts for children across the country. The celebration is a national holiday in Spain and is the most beloved day among Spanish children, who eagerly await

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A bunch of grapes prepared for New Year’s Eve celebrations in Malaga.
Blog
Daryl Finch

Why do they eat grapes on New Year’s Eve in Spain?

If you’ve ever watched Spanish television on New Year’s Eve or found yourself in a Spanish plaza as midnight approaches, you’ll have witnessed one of the country’s most beloved and slightly bonkers traditions. Eating twelve grapes in twelve seconds as the clock strikes midnight might sound straightforward, but anyone who’s attempted this feat whilst trying not to choke, laugh or

Read More »
Grapes and a glass of champagne prepared for New Year’s Eve celebrations in Malaga.
What's on
Daryl Finch

Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve)

While Spain, and Malaga in particular, is known for its raucous celebrations, many visitors to the city are often surprised by the relatively low-key celebrations for New Year’s Eve (known as Nochevieja, literally “old night”). That said, Malaga still knows how to welcome the New Year with style, and Plaza de la Constitución becomes the beating heart of celebrations as

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Luxury villa complex with swimming pool on the Costa del Sol
Property
Michael Fee

Step-by-step guide to buying property in Malaga

Buying property in Spain can seem daunting, especially for foreign buyers who are unfamiliar with local laws, taxes, and customs. Malaga, with its sunny climate, vibrant culture and attractive coastal lifestyle, is a popular choice for international buyers. While the process might feel complicated, understanding each step can make it much easier. This step-by-step guide takes you through the key

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Exclusive apartment complex with two pools in a Costa del Sol residential area
Property
Michael Fee

Unexpected or hidden costs when buying property in Malaga

When you start looking at properties in Malaga, it’s easy to get caught up in the asking price. A beautiful apartment in the historic centre or a beachfront villa in Pedregalejo can seem like a dream deal… until hidden costs start to add up. For many foreign buyers, these additional expenses come as a surprise and can quickly add around 10%

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Gated apartment complex with swimming pool on the Costa del Sol
Property
Michael Fee

The Malaga property market: What foreign buyers need to know

Malaga continues to shine as one of southern Europe’s most desirable cities, attracting investors, retirees and remote workers from across the world. With its year-round sunshine, excellent transport links and cosmopolitan lifestyle, it’s no surprise that the local property market remains one of Spain’s most dynamic. If you’re thinking about buying a home or investment property in Malaga, 2026 offers

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Property
Michael Fee

The best neighbourhoods in Malaga for foreign buyers

Once seen mainly as a gateway to the Costa del Sol, Malaga has become one of southern Europe’s most desirable cities to live in. Nowadays, its mix of sunshine, beaches, gastronomy and cultural life attracts a steady flow of foreign buyers looking for both lifestyle and investment opportunities. However, the city’s neighbourhoods vary significantly in terms of price, atmosphere and

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High-end apartment with rooftop terrace on the Costa del Sol
Property
Michael Fee

Renting vs buying in Malaga: which one makes more sense?

Many expats and foreign buyers wonder whether it’s better to rent or buy property in Malaga. The decision is not always straightforward and depends on a variety of factors, including your financial goals, lifestyle preferences and how long you plan to stay in the city. As with everywhere else in the world, renting can provide flexibility and lower upfront costs,

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Classic Malaga apartment block in an urban area
Property
Michael Fee

7 things to look out for when renting in Malaga

Once you’ve found a potential apartment in Malaga, there are several important factors to consider before committing. From building quality to contract types and common scams, understanding the local rental landscape can save you money and stress. Here are the 7 most important things to watch out for when renting in Malaga, particularly for newcomers and foreigners. 1. Understanding different

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Bright living room in a well-decorated Malaga apartment
Property
Michael Fee

Do you need an estate agent to rent in Malaga?

Whether you’re moving to Malaga for work, study or simply to enjoy the Andalusian lifestyle, one of your first questions will likely be about finding somewhere to live. The easiest way to tackle the challenge of renting in Malaga would be, of course, to contract the services of an English-speaking estate agent. But, is it really necessary? Or is it

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Historic buildings on a central Malaga street
Property
Michael Fee

How to avoid the most common rental scams in Malaga

Malaga is a brilliant place to live, whether you’re relocating for work, studying at the university or simply embracing the Andalusian lifestyle as a digital nomad. But before you hand over any money for that picture-perfect piso (flat), there’s something you should know: rental scams exist here, just as they do in any popular tourist destination. The good news is

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Traditional apartment building with balconies in Malaga city centre
Property
Michael Fee

Finding a rental property in Malaga

Just arrived in Malaga and looking for somewhere to live? Finding housing in Malaga has become increasingly competitive in recent years, especially if you want to rent an apartment in the city centre. With Malaga forging a strong international reputation as a place to live, work and study, demand for rentals has surged. Prices have risen sharply as more landlords

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What's on
Daryl Finch

Malaga Carnival

After the Christmas and Kings’ festivities are out of the way, we have to wait until around mid-February for the next big party of the year in Malaga. That said, it’s a big one. Like in many towns and cities across Spain, the Carnaval de Málaga is a big deal – a week-long celebration filled with music and colour. Much

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Modern suspension bridge in Fuengirola leading towards the historic Sohail Castle on a sunny day.
Blog
Daryl Finch

The FIVE best day trips less than an hour away from Malaga

Looking for the best day trips from Malaga? You’re in luck. Within just an hour of the city, you’ll find some of southern Spain’s most charming destinations — from whitewashed coastal towns to dramatic mountain landscapes. Each offers its own flavour of Andalusian life, and all are easy to reach by car, train or organised tour. Here are the top

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Town square in Torremolinos with a large Pride flag flying above cafés and pedestrians on a sunny day
Excursions
Malaga Guru

Torremolinos: where the Costa del Sol story began

More than half a century after bursting onto the tourism scene, Torremolinos still defines innovative travel. This vibrant coastal town continually reinvents itself while remaining true to its Andalusian roots. Torremolinos is where the Costa del Sol began. The first hotels appeared here, and fishing families opened simple beach bars serving their daily catch. From those humble beginnings, the town

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Puerto Banús Marbella marina with La Concha mountain
Excursions
Malaga Guru

Marbella: from the exclusive Puerto Banús to the charming old town

Marbella ranks as one of the most celebrated towns along the entire Costa del Sol coastline. Situated approximately one hour’s drive from Malaga, this glamorous resort has cultivated a longstanding reputation for exclusivity and sophistication. World-renowned nightlife, distinguished international visitors and millionaire residents all point towards one defining characteristic: luxury. Why Marbella attracts the rich and famous The town functions

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Blog
Daryl Finch

The top five best city breaks from Malaga

Malaga offers plenty to explore, but many visitors use this coastal city as a gateway to discover other remarkable destinations across Andalucía. The city enjoys excellent transport links. Malaga Airport ranks among Spain’s busiest hubs, while María Zambrano train station connects travellers to destinations throughout the country. If you ever tire of Malaga’s charms, these five Andalusian cities make exceptional

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Excursions
Malaga Guru

Almeria: Natural parks, Moorish castles and movie magic

Getting to Almeria from Malaga takes just over two hours by car, making it one of the more ambitious day trips from the Costa del Sol – but it’s absolutely worth the journey. This eastern Andalusian city sits close to the border with Murcia and often flies under the tourist radar precisely because of its geographical isolation from the main

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Exterior facade of Teatro Echegaray in Malaga, showing its historic architectural details and signage.
Entertainment
Malaga Guru

Teatro Echegaray

Malaga boasts two magnificent theatres, and the Teatro Echegaray stands as the more intimate of the pair alongside the larger Teatro Cervantes. You’ll find this charming venue tucked away on Calle Echegaray, a quiet street right in the heart of Malaga’s historic centre, close to the Cathedral and the Picasso museum. The building opened its doors in 1932 as a

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Autumn
Malaga Guru

October 12th: Fiesta Nacional, Spain’s controversial National Day

October 12th marks Spain’s Fiesta Nacional, a public holiday that commemorates Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas in 1492. This date is controversial for many, representing both Spanish pride and historical colonialism. Previously known as Día de la Hispanidad (Hispanic Day), this remains one of Spain’s two most significant national holidays alongside Constitution Day on December 6th. Catholics also know

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