One of Europe’s oldest cities, Málaga can trace its roots back to the Phoenicians in 770 BC. With almost 3000 years of history, it can be difficult to pick and choose what to see and where to go while visiting the Spanish city. Do you want to see Roman Ruins? Or learn more about Picasso in the place he was born? Enjoy tapas by the water? Or do all of the above in only 48 hours? 

Here’s the lowdown on everything you need to do and eat while visiting Málaga.

If you’re looking for someone to plan a vacation around the Málaga Half or Full Marathon for you, look no further. I offer trip consultations, tailored travel itineraries, and end-to-end trip planning. I even support running clubs traveling in large groups.

What to Do in Málaga

This list actually includes too much to do in Málaga in 48 hours. Depending on your travel style, you might breeze through this full list, or you might sit down at the water and decide that is where you want to spend your weekend. I have ranked all of the items based on what you absolutely should see, and what you can miss if you run out of time.

Alcazaba de Málaga

This fortress, turned city, turned slums, turned museum is an impressive testament to Málagas history. There are QR codes to scan at the entrance for a free audio tour and then follow the numbers to listen to a free audio tour. The free tour offers an amazing look into this area and the many people who have called it home. 

The Alcazaba is at the top of my list due to its combination of architecture and history that you can learn more about via the free guides.

Mercado Central de Atarazanas

This market can be identified by its massive stained glass windows and gorgeous tiled roof. It is a must see location while passing through the city. Enter hungry! There are lots of excellent fish vendors here who can whip you up an excellent meal. While I was here I got some Octopus and Shrimp on a stick and brought it to a nearby plaza to enjoy.

Málaga Museum

Málaga has many beautiful museums, but this one is probably the best. Free for EU citizens, and only €1.50 for non citizens, the collection of art in this museum will make that seem like a steal. There is also a Picasso exhibit for those who want to see Picasso and learn about the artists without paying more to enter one of his museums. As you journey up the many levels, make sure you take a break on the amazing balcony overlooking the courtyard.

Just Walk Around Málaga

With such a short time in Málaga, there is a lot that you can miss if you don’t take the time to slow down and walk around. I loved walking along through Málaga Park to the pier and lighthouse, or heading up C. Marques de Larios to enjoy some of the more popular shops in the city. In December, this street also has some of the best Christmas lights in the city. The historic section is also filled with so many winding alleys that are a perfect way to lose an hour. While you are walking keep your eyes peeled for the Roman Theater. These ruins are free to see and located near the entrance to the Alcazaba.

Relax by the Water

Next to the lighthouse is a lovely stretch of beach within walking distance of Old City. This beach is perfect to sit down and enjoy the parakeets and waves, or walk around to collect gorgeous pieces of seaglass and some of the smoothest shells I have ever seen.

Castillo de Gibralfaro

Located on the top of Gibralfaro hill, this castle has a small museum, and a free guided tour via QR codes. If you go to both the Castillo and Alcazaba in one day you can also buy the tickets together for a discount. 

I did place the Castillo a bit lower on this list as there is not much left to see. If you have seen the ruins of a European Castle, you have seen the Castillo. What makes this special is the gorgeous views of Málaga and the surrounding mountains that can be seen from this vantage point.

Málaga Cathedral

Towering over the heart of Málaga is the gorgeous cathedral. This renaissance era building cost €10 to enter just the cathedral or €15 to enter the cathedral and go to the roof. You can also do the cathedral for free Monday through Saturday between 8:30AM to 9AM. 

Why is the Málaga Cathedral so low on the list? I don’t find this cathedral to have anything amazingly unique compared to other churches and cathedrals across Spain and Europe. I also think that while the rooftop is nice, the view from the Castillo is cheaper and better.

Where (and What) to Eat in Málaga

These are some of my favorite places to eat while in Málaga, but Málaga has so many amazing restaurants that I could never list them all. If you do decide to find your own places to eat, make sure they have between 200-800 reviews on Google for the best food.

Seafood

Located on the Mediterranean, Málaga has access to a wide variety of delicious seafood. If you love seafood, or if you are seafood curious, this is the perfect place to try some new flavors. 

Mercado Central de Atarazanas

Mentioned above as a great spot to visit, this market also has some wonderful seafood options. The fish is brought in fresh everyday, and there are numerous vendors that you can choose from to grab fish and a drink.

Tapas

Tapas are a key piece in the fabric of Spanish cuisine. Popularized by King Alfonso X of Castile in the 13th century, these small snacks have traveled the globe and are one of the most famous parts of Spanish cuisine today. While you can have one or two tapas as an appetizer, you can also order more and create a full meal. There are lots of Tapas Bars in Málaga, but these two are my personal favorites.

Astrid Organic Tapería

While I do not have any food restrictions, I tend to find that there is always someone in the group who does. Astrids is the perfect compromise. This trendy restaurant has options for all diets. It has quickly become my go to for tapas or large plates while in Málaga.

Casa Lola Stratchen

Located near the Cathedral, Casa Lola is a great spot for traditional Tapas. It was first recommended to me by a friend, as her favorite in the entire city. The restaurant serves traditional tapas with indoor/outdoor seating in the heart of Málaga, only minutes from the Cathedral!

Breakfast in Málaga

There is nothing better than a nice relaxing breakfast while on vacation. Both Julieta and Santa Coffee are great options to go and grab a bite to eat before you start your day.

Santa Coffee Soho

Just like Astrid’s above, Santa Coffee has great options for everyone. I went here as a post half marathon celebration and got a lovely selection of food to both refuel and treat myself post race. If you are feeling an urge from something sweet they have an amazing selection of fresh cakes and breads. 

Julieta Coffee

Julieta saved me. I am not kidding. When I was in Málaga for the half marathon I had three different breakfast spots that would be open with time for me to eat pre-race. All of them turned out to be closed. But Julieta was open! I ordered a wonderful breakfast that was perfect to fuel my race. If you have early morning plans and want to eat breakfast first, make sure you stop at Julieta.

Sweet Treats

Cafe Madrid

You’re in Spain, of course you need to have a Churro dipped in hot chocolate. I went to Cafe Madrid and had an enjoyable experience eating outside and watching the world go by. I will say that service was a bit slow, but I am always happy to soak up the sun and people watch.

Helados Bico de Xeado

If you are feeling the need for some gelato (who isn’t?) I recommend this shop. I had great ice cream here almost every night as the perfect sweet treat to end my day. Try the orange chocolate flavor, trust me.

Where to Stay in Málaga

When visiting Málaga, staying in the Old City is the best choice. Most of your destinations will be in this area, and it allows for you to see more while walking less. The area is also relatively safe (but always be cautious in a new city). Even at night I felt no worries walking around as a solo female traveler.

When to Visit Málaga

The best time to visit Málaga depends on you. If you are looking to avoid crowds I would recommend visiting between November and May. Once the summer starts, people will flood Málaga for the beaches, and in the fall you will be competing with tour groups. 

As for weather, here is what to expect in different parts of the year. 

Warm, but not overbearing: March to June and September to November. These months are perfect for anyone who is hoping to experience the Málaga sun, without stifling heat. 

Hot, hot, hot: June through August. The Mediterranean sun can be a killer, so if you are visiting during these months wear extra sunscreen and drink lots of water. 

Higher chance of rain: I would never claim that Málaga has a true rainy season, but there is a higher likelihood of Rain between November and March. That being said, if you are looking to escape the winter blues, Málaga will still be a delightful place during these months.