Planning a trip to Malaga for Semana Santa? You’ve come to the right place. This week is gonna be filling the city’s streets with processions, music, and centuries-old tradition for an entire week.
If you’re curious about the history and traditions behind the event, I’ve already covered that in depth in my previous article.
Here, we focus more on the practical side: dates, schedules, and everything you need to plan your visit.
2026 Semana Santa Schedule
Heading to Malaga for Semana Santa but not sure which days are worth it? This year, Holy Week runs from Palm Sunday, March 29, to Easter Sunday, April 5, and with over 40 processions filling the streets, it can be hard to know where to start. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.
In the table below I’ve broken down every day of the week, how many processions to expect, and how crowded it gets, to give you a better idea of what to expect.
And if you want to go deeper, you can find the official schedule and full itineraries for every procession here.
Now that you have the full picture, let’s dive into each day of Holy Week in detail: what’s happening, which processions to look out for, and what kind of atmosphere to expect on the streets of Malaga.
Day 1: Palm Sunday – March 29
Semana Santa kicks off with a bang: Palm Sunday is the busiest day of the whole week, with 9 processions taken to the streets. The mood is festive and colorful, with children in traditional robes and crowds lining every corner of the city.
It commemorates Jesus’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem, and you can genuinely feel that joyful energy in the air. With that being said, let’s take a closer look at each procession!
1. La Pollonica
- – Departure: 9:50
- – Arrive at Tribuna: 12:00
- – Arrive at Torre Sur: 14:00
- – Arrive at Cathedral: 14:10
- – Return to Temple: 16:15
La Pollinica is the procession of Palm Sunday, the one that officially signals Holy Week has begun. Setting off from Iglesia de San Agustín, it carries two images: Father Jesus at His Entry into Jerusalem and Mary Most Holy of Protection.
What makes it truly special? Hundreds of children dressed in white robes waving palm fronds: it’s chaotic, joyful, and genuinely moving. Trust my word, you don’t wanna miss this one!
Perfect for: Families with kids, first-time visitors, and anyone who wants to ease into Semana Santa with a procession that’s more joyful than solemn.
2. Lágrimas y Favores
- – Departure: 15:00 from Iglesia de San Juan
- – Arrive at Tribuna: 16:00
- – Arrive at Torre Sur: 18:00
- – Arrive at Cathedral: 18:10
- – Return to Temple: 22:15
Are you an Antonio Banderas fan? Then you’re in luck: being an active member of this brotherhood, he actually marches in this procession. So, if you want a chance to actually spot the man himself, make sure you’re outside Iglesia de San Juan by 15:00 when the procession sets off.
That alone makes it one of the most talked-about of the entire week! For the best experience, head to the Alameda or Plaza de la Marina where you can take it all in without being squeezed into a crowd.
Perfect for: Antonio Banderas fans, and anyone who wants an elegant, cinematic start to Palm Sunday.
3. Dulce Nombre
- – Departure: 14: 15
- – Arrive at Tribuna: 16:40
- – Arrive at Torre Sur: 18:40
- – Arrive at Cathedral: 18:50
- – Return to Temple: 22:50
This procession is known for its devotion and beautiful imagery so, if you’re looking for something deeply traditional with no excesses, this is for you!
It sets off from Parroquia de la Divina Pastora, but can I give you my honest advice? Skip the main streets and head to the secondary streets of the city center, where you can feel the real atmosphere and admire the throne up close.
4. Salutación
- – Departure: 14:30
- – Arrive at Tribuna: 17:25
- – Arrive at Torre Sur: 19:25
- – Arrive at Cathedral: 19:35
- – Return to Temple: 22:00
Have you ever seen a procession that looks even better as the sun goes down? Salutación gives you exactly that kind of experience: dramatic and deeply moving.
It starts from Parroquia de la Santa Cruz, but if you want to feel closer to the action, Calle Carretería is your spot.
Still not convinced? The Christ image is simply spectacular, you really have to see it for yourself.
Perfect for: photographers and Instagram lovers looking for that perfect dramatic shot, especially with the golden hour, as the sun goes down.
5. Humildad y Paciencia
- – Departure: 15:35
- – Arrive at Tribuna: 19:35
- – Arrive at Torre Sur: 21:35
- – Arrive at Cathedral: 21:45
- – Return to Temple: 02:15
This procession represents one of the most intimate moments of the Passion, Christ accepting suffering, and you can feel it in every step.
Setting off from Casa Hermandad, don’t expect the biggest throne in Malaga, this one wins on atmosphere. The slow rhythm and dramatic lighting make it deeply emotional, but if you really want to feel it, watch it at night, it’s a whole different experience.
Perfect for: anyone who appreciates the more intimate, reflective side of Semana Santa.
6. Humildad
- – Departure: 15:15
- – Arrive at Tribuna: 18:05
- – Arrive at Torre Sur: 20:05
- – Arrive at Cathedral: 20:15
- – Return to Temple: 23:40
Looking for something that feels truly authentic, far from the tourist trail? Humildad is exactly that.
Setting off from the Basílica y Real Santuario de Santa María de la Victoria y de la Merced, along certain stretches of the route, the public actually walks alongside the procession, creating an atmosphere you simply won’t find elsewhere.
Want to enjoy it at its best? Skip the busy central spots and find a quieter stretch where the throne moves freely and you can actually breathe.
Perfect for: those looking for a genuine, locally-rooted experience away from the more tourist-oriented processions.
7. El Huerto
- – Departure: 17:45
- – Arrive at Tribuna: 20:10
- – Arrive at Torre Sur: 22:15
- – Arrive at Cathedral: /
- – Return to Temple: 01:30
Want to see history told on a throne? Huerto is the procession for you.
Setting off from Casa Hermandad, this classic Malaga brotherhood depicts the Agony in the Garden with striking detail and narrative power. With Huerto, Palm Sunday starts to take on a more serious and profound tone.
Perfect for: history lovers and anyone who’s looking for something deeper and more emotional.
8. Salud
- – Departure: 16:20
- – Arrive at Tribuna: 18:50
- – Arrive at Torre Sur: 20:50
- – Arrive at Cathedral: 21:00
- – Return to Temple: 00:00
This one is special, locals genuinely wait for it all year.
It sets off from Iglesia de San Pablo and has an incredible energy. But I’m telling you, it gets pretty crowded so, if you want to enjoy it properly, catch it before it hits the center. By the time it reaches Larios? Good luck finding a spot.
Perfect for: anyone who wants to experience Semana Santa the way malagueños do.
9. Prendimiento
- – Departure: 16:30
- – Arrive at Tribuna: 21:00
- – Arrive at Torre Sur: 23:00
- – Arrive at Cathedral: /
- – Return to Temple: 01:30
Already tired of the crowds? Don’t worry, Holy Monday is less intense. It comes with 6 brotherhoods hitting the streets and a more breathable atmosphere.
Prendimiento depicts the arrest of Jesus, and the scene is one of the most expressive and dramatic of the entire day, it’s carefully organized, and that makes the whole thing even more impactful. Want to see it up close without being crushed by the crowd? Head to Carretería or the Tribuna de los Pobres, trust me on this one.
Day 2: Holy Monday – March 30, 2026
That said, if you ask me, the highlight of the day is El Traslado del Cautivo: an early-morning transfer where the statue of Jesús Cautivo is carried from his chapel to the processional throne. If you’re around the Trinidad district, you’ll feel just how deeply personal this day is for locals.
1. Pasión
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 16:50 · 17:35 · 19:35 · 19:45 · 23:25
Looking for a procession that’s right in the heart of the city? Pasión is your answer. Its route winds through the historic center, making it one of the most accessible of the entire week for visitors. Want a great spot without the Larios chaos? Plant yourself on Calle Granada or Plaza del Siglo, central enough to feel the atmosphere, comfortable enough to actually enjoy it.
Perfect for: anyone who wants to enjoy the show without moving too far. The route is so central that you barely won’t need to.
2. Crucifixión
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 15:55 · 18:25 · 20:25 · 20:35 · 01:00
Don’t let the age fool you, despite being the youngest brotherhood of the day, founded in 1977, Crucifixión delivers one of the most powerful scenes of Holy Monday. The sculptures are the Most Holy Christ of the Crucifixion, which shows the moment in which he had been crucified, and Mary Most Holy of Major Sorrow in her Solitude.
Perfect for: anyone looking for something with a more serious and introspective tone.
3. Columna
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 16:45 · 19:00 · 21:00 · — · 00:30
Few processions in Malaga carry this kind of emotional weight. The statue depicts Jesus tied to the column during the scourging, a deeply painful and moving image that resonates instantly. The devotion of its followers is unlike anything else you’ll witness during the week: passionate, and completely authentic.
Where to watch it: head to Tribuna de los Pobres if you want to be closer to the throne and avoid the chaos of Calle Larios.
4. Perdón
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 17:30 · 19:50 · 21:50 · 22:00 · 00:30
Setting off from the Perchel neighborhood, this brotherhood has that old-school Malaga feel that’s getting harder to find, lifelong locals, deep neighborhood devotion, and an atmosphere that takes you back to another era. It moves smoothly between the neighborhood and the center, making it a great one to catch while linking several processions in the same day. Want the best experience? Head to Pasillo de Santo Domingo: special atmosphere, and less of the central crowd chaos.
Perfect for: anyone who wants to feel the genuine devotion of the Perchel neighborhood up close, this one is as local as it gets.
5. Cautivo
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 17:30 · 20:30 · 22:35 · — · 02:30
If there’s one procession that defines Holy Monday, it’s this one. Cautivo, known as the Lord of Malaga, is one of the sculptures with the greatest popular devotion during the entire Semana Santa. My honest tip? Go to Barrio de la Trinidad for the departure, it’s raw, emotional and deeply personal. Watching it in the center is impressive, but nothing compares to seeing it leave its own neighborhood. Let me tell you, you don’t wanna miss this one!
Perfect for: anyone who wants to experience the most emotionally charged moment of Holy Monday.
6. Estudiantes
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 17:30 · 21:40 · 23:40 · — · 01:00
If you thought Holy Monday was all solemnity and silence, Estudiantes is here to prove you wrong. This is the young Holy Monday par excellence: a brotherhood deeply linked to the University of Malaga, with massive participation from young people and an energy that’s completely its own. The atmosphere is lively, loud, and incredibly fun. For the best spot, head to Plaza de la Aduana or Císter, a monumental setting where the procession looks absolutely incredible, and you’re close enough to Alcazabilla to catch it before or after.
Perfect for: young people and Erasmus students looking for a lively, joyful introduction to Semana Santa, proof that Holy Week isn’t just for the deeply religious.
Day 3: Holy Tuesday – March 31, 2026
Holy Tuesday brings 6 processions to the streets of Malaga, so, when planning your day, keep in mind that the crowd level is gonna be pretty high. The day holds a special place in the hearts of Malagueños, largely thanks to the presence of La Novia de Malaga (The Bride of Malaga), one of the city’s most beloved images.
1. El Rocío
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 15:00 · 17:40 · 19:45 · — · 23:30
Want to watch a procession comfortably without spending the entire day trapped in the center? This procession is your answer. Setting off from the Victoria neighborhood, this brotherhood offers one of the most complete experiences for spectators: a smooth stretch through Carretería, and a deeply atmospheric return through Merced and Plaza de la Victoria. Two great viewing options? Calle Carretería or the Tribuna de los Pobres, if you want an up-close experience with room to breathe, or head to the Victoria neighborhood during the return for a more intimate, local feel.
2. Las Penas
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 17:45 · 18:40 · 20:45 · 20:55 · 01:00
Don’t want to venture far from the center? Las Penas has you covered. Setting off from the Oratorio de Santa María Reina y Madre, this one is perfect for those who want a great procession experience without leaving the historic center. My advice? Catch it before it hits the official route, either on Pozos Dulces or Calle Compañía.
3. Nueva Esperanza
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 15:45 · 19:30 · 21:35 · — · 04:30
Nueva Esperanza is one of the major processions of Holy Tuesday. Why? You may be wondering. Well, because of its circuit and long hours. It starts all the way from Nueva Malaga and winds through Eugenio Gross and Martínez Maldonado before hitting the official route. Want to watch it with space to breathe? Head to Martínez Maldonado or Mármoles before it reaches the center. Prefer to see it up close on the official route? The Tribuna de los Pobres works perfectly on the return.
4. Humillación y Estrella
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 17:45 · 20:20 · 22:25 · — · 02:15
This is one of those processions that feels deeply rooted in the soul of Malaga. It carries two powerful images: Our Father Jesus of Humiliation and Forgiveness and Mary Most Holy of the Star, an 18th century sculpture.
Want the best experience without too much chaos? Head to Puente de la Esperanza or the Pasillos, the atmosphere there is raw, authentic, and completely brotherhood-focused.
5. El Rescate
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 17:45 · 21:10 · 23:15 · — · 02:00
Rescate, the second procession of the day from the Victoria district, carries two powerful images: Our Father Jesus of the Rescue, that represents the Arrest of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, and the statue of Mary Most Holy of Grace.
Where to watch it? Head to Tribuna de los Pobres if you want to see it from just a few metres away, but Álamos–Carretería is also a fantastic option, with a clear stretch that gives you room to actually enjoy it.
6. La Sentencia
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 19:15 · 22:00 · 00:05 · — · 01:45
Closing Holy Tuesday in style, Sentencia carries two striking images: Our Father Jesus of the Sentence, depicting Pilate’s court, and Mary Most Holy of the Rosary in her Sorrowful Mysteries.
Position yourself at the start of Plaza de la Merced or along Carretería before it hits the official route. This way you’ll actually see the throne rather than just watch it disappear into the Larios crowd. You’ll thank me later.
Day 4: Holy Wednesday – April 1, 2026
Are you more of a night owl? Then this is your day! The 7 processions happening this day run deep into the night, with some brotherhoods not returning to their temples until after midnight. Crowds are high, but you already knew that by now! Expect a tonal shift too: the atmosphere becomes noticeably more solemn and reflective as the week moves closer to Good Friday.
1. Fusionadas
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 17:15 · 18:00 · 20:00 · 20:10 · 23:50
This is one of the most spectacular shows of the day if you ask me, and with 4 thrones taken to the streets, it’s easy to see why. Departing from the Parish of San Juan, it tells the story of the Passion in sequence: the flagellation of Christ, the raising of the Holy Cross, the death of Jesus on the Cross, and finally Our Lady of Major Sorrow.
Want to avoid the Larios messiness? Head to Comedias or Nosquera for a closer viewing. Prefer something more dramatic? The stretch through Císter and the Patio de los Naranjos is simply breathtaking.
2. Mediadora
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 16:00 · 19:20 · 21:20 · 21:30 · 01:30
If you love the idea of a procession that truly takes over the entire city, Mediadora is your pick. Departing all the way from Huelin, it carries Our Father Jesus Nazarene Redeemer of the World and Our Lady Mediatrix of Salvation through one of the longest routes of the day.
Want to catch it with space to breathe before it hits the deep center? Head to Puente de la Esperanza or Calle Hilera.
Perfect for: Anyone who loves the idea of a long, city-wide procession with plenty of street life, and doesn’t mind moving around to catch it in different spots.
3. Salesianos
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 17:15 · 19:54 · 21:54 · 22:04 · 00:45
Salesianos stands out straight away: it’s one of the few brotherhoods of the day with a single throne, depicting the third of the Seven Last Words of Jesus.
It departs from the Capuchinos area, a neighborhood full of character, and its route makes it one of the easiest processions of the week to plan around.
Want a comfortable spot to watch it? Going to Calle Carretería or the Tribuna de los Pobres is your best bet: catching it before it enters the official circuit makes it relaxed, accessible, and with a great view.
4. Sangre
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 18:00 · 20:19 · 22:19 · — · 00:10
Did you know this procession is brought to the streets by the oldest brotherhood of Malaga’s Holy Week, founded all the way back in 1507? That alone makes it worth seeing.
Sangre carries two thrones: the Most Holy Christ of the Blood and Mary Most Holy of Consolation and Tears, a deeply moving combination that has been walking these streets for a very long time.
Perfect for: Anyone looking for a serious, historic brotherhood with a deeply engaged and devoted crowd.
5. El Rico
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 17:55 · 21:04 · 23:04 · — · 01:05
Ever heard of a procession where an actual prisoner is symbolically released in honor of Christ? That’s exactly what happens in this procession. One of the most well-known brotherhoods of the entire week, even among people with no connection to brotherhood culture. Classic, solemn, and deeply rooted in Malaga’s history.
Make sure you’re at Plaza del Obispo early for the release act: that’s THE moment. If you’re like me and always looking for the perfect shot, the stretch through Alcazabilla and Plaza de la Aduana is your place, you’ll get the perfect view!
6. La Paloma
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 20:15 · 22:07 · 00:12 · — · 01:45
Fair warning: La Paloma is not for the faint-hearted. The throne is one of the heaviest of the entire week, carried by 280 bearers, and the crowds that come to see it are absolutely massive. If you don’t like crowds, sit this one out.
Still with us? Then head to Calle Carretería or the Tribuna de los Pobres, great visibility, an incredibly passionate crowd, and the throne passes so close you can almost touch it.
7. Expiración
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 21:15 · 23:10 · 01:15 · — · 03:45
Expiración is one of Malaga’s true treasures. The Most Holy Christ of the Expiration is a masterpiece that depicts the last breath of Christ with breathtaking detail. Behind it comes Mary Most Holy Crowned of Sorrows, accompanied by a contingent of the Civil Guard.
Once night falls and the crowd goes quiet, the atmosphere becomes something else entirely. For a wide, comfortable view, head to Puente de Tetuán or Alameda Principal. Trust me on this one!
Day 5: Holy Thursday – April 2, 2026
Hear me out: this day has pros and cons. The pro? It’s the most important day of Malaga’s entire Semana Santa: 8 processions, massive religious significance, and the legendary Spanish Legion marching through the city alongside the iconic Cristo de la Buena Muerte.
The con? Crowds are extreme, this is genuinely the hardest day of the week to find a good viewing spot. So if you’re set on experiencing Holy Thursday, plan well in advance and arm yourself with patience, you’ll be standing in crowds for hours.
1. Sagrada Cena
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 17:00 · 17:40 · 19:40 · — · 22:55
Sagrada Cena is one of those processions that anyone can appreciate, even if you’ve never followed a brotherhood in your life.
The first throne depicts the Last Supper of Jesus with his apostles, while the second carries Mary Most Holy of Peace. The scene is immediately readable and visually spectacular, no prior knowledge needed.
And given the size of that throne, do yourself a favor and watch it in a wide open space where you can actually take it all in. My suggestion? Alameda Principal or Tribuna de Los Pobres.
2. Viñeros
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 17:15 · 18:35 · 20:35 · 20:45 · 22:50
Viñeros is more than just a procession, it’s a cultural symbol of Malaga.
As the name suggests, the brotherhood was founded in 1615 by the city’s viticulturists and it has one of the most recognizable aesthetics of the entire week.
It carries two sculptures: Our Father Jesus Nazarene of the Vineyard Owners, depicting Jesus carrying the cross, and Our Lady of Transfer and Solitude of the Vineyard Owners. Its passage through the center always delivers some of the most beautiful moments of Holy Thursday.
3. Santa Cruz
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 17:35 · 19:25 · 21:25 · 21:35 · 23:45
Santa Cruz might not be the most talked-about procession of Holy Thursday, but that’s exactly what makes it special.
Departing from Parroquia de San Felipe Neri in the Capuchinos–Molinillo neighborhood, this is one of those brotherhoods that truly shines when you watch it without rushing.
Skip the most congested spots and head to Nosquera or Muro de las Catalinas, where it’s easier to move around and enjoy the procession.
Perfect for: anyone who prefers intimate experiences over mainstream events.
4. Vera Cruz
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 19:00 · 19:55 · 21:55 · 22:05 · 01:15
Carrying the Most Holy Christ of the True Cross and Blood, the oldest image of Christ in the entire city, dating back to the 16th century, this brotherhood delivers a completely silent procession, making it one of the most unique and atmospheric moments of the entire Semana Santa.
Departing from San Juan in the historic center, its route winds through the official route and returns through streets of Nosquera and Muro de las Catalinas.
5. Mena
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 18:55 · 20:20 · 22:25 · — · 02:10
This is the one everyone talks about. It departs from Parroquia de Santo Domingo in the Perchel neighborhood, carrying the image of the Most Holy Christ of the Good Death and Our Lady Crowned of Solitude.
The highlight of this procession is the presence of the Spanish Legion, singing their iconic El Novio de la Muerte.
For the best experience, head to Plaza de Arriola or Puente de la Esperanza to watch the Legion march past. Unforgettable.
6. Zamarrilla
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 19:30 · 21:35 · 23:40 · — · 04:15
Departing from Ermita de Zamarrilla in the Trinidad neighborhood, Zamarrilla is one of the most highly anticipated and heavily followed brotherhoods of the night. It returns to the brotherhood house deep into the night: a long, immersive experience from start to finish that is definitely worth staying up for.
Want to feel the rush without getting swallowed by the Larios crowd? Head to Carretería or the Tribuna de los Pobres.
Perfect for: Night owls who want to experience Semana Santa at its most electric.
7. Misericordia
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 19:50 · 22:25 · 00:35 · — · 04:00
Misericordia is one of those processions that truly fills the street. Coming from the Perchel neighborhood, it carries two powerful thrones: Our Father Jesus of Mercy, depicting Jesus falling with the cross, and Our Lady of Great Power, accompanied by a contingent of the Spanish Air and Space Force.
I have to warn you though: on Maundy Thursday, with Malaga already packed to the brim, this procession feels especially intense.
Want to watch it with room to breathe? Head to Puente de la Misericordia or Alameda de Colón.
8. Esperanza
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 21:45 · 23:10 · 01:25 · — · 03:45
Dating back to the 16th century, Esperanza is one of the most popular brotherhoods of the entire Holy Week.
Departing from the Basílica Menor del Paso y la Esperanza in the Perchel neighborhood, it carries a deeply moving depiction of Jesus carrying the cross.
For the best view, head to Plaza de la Constitución, the space gives you room to actually take it all in.
Day 6: Good Friday – April 3, 2026
Holy Thursday was too intense? Don’t worry, Good Friday is a completely different story.
This is the most solemn and sacred day of the week: 8 processions filling the streets, and not a single brass band in sight. Instead, the city falls into near-total silence, mourning Jesus’s crucifixion and death.
The grand finale? The midnight Servitas procession, where the streetlights along the official route go dark: an eerie, breathtaking moment that stays with you long after the week is over.
1. Monte Calvario
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 16:00 · 18:40 · 20:45 · 20:50 · 00:00
Monte Calvario departs from the Basílica y Santuario de Santa María de la Victoria, carrying two deeply moving thrones: the first depicting the moment Jesus is wrapped in a shroud, and the second the image of Holy Mary of Mount Calvary.
Head to Císter or Plaza de la Aduana as it descends toward the Cathedral: it’s one of the most spectacular stretches of the entire day.
Perfect for: anyone who is looking for a more reflective and contemplative tone.
2. Descendimiento
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 16:30 · 19:20 · 21:25 · 21:35 · 00:15
Departing from La Malagueta, it winds through Paseo de Reding, Aduana, and the Cathedral: a stunning contrast of sea and city that makes every step of the route feel like a painting.
The first throne depicts the descent of Christ from the cross while the second carries Mary Most Holy of Anguishes.
The combination of the imagery and the route makes this one of the most visually striking processions of Good Friday.
3. Amor y Caridad
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 16:50 · 20:00 · 22:05 · — · 02:00
Departing from the Basílica y Real Santuario de Santa María de la Victoria, it follows a long, winding route through Alcazabilla, Plaza de la Aduana, into the center, and back through narrow streets where the atmosphere becomes incredibly intense.
It carries two powerful images: the Most Holy Christ of Love, an 18th century sculpture of Christ died on the cross, and Our Lady of Charity.
For the best spot without the stress, head to Alcazabilla or Plaza de la Aduana: consistently one of the most popular stretches of the day thanks to its monumental setting.
4. Dolores de San Juan
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 19:05 · 20:50 · 22:55 · 23:05 · 00:35
If your plan is to spend Good Friday in the center without moving too far, this procession is your perfect match.
Departing from Iglesia de San Juan, it carries two deeply moving images: Jesus dying on the cross and Our Lady of Sorrows.
A classic brotherhood, deeply tied to the historic streets of Malaga, with a solemn atmosphere that fits the silence of Good Friday night like a glove.
5. Santo Traslado
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 19:30 · 21:30 · 23:35 · — · 02:45
Santo Traslado departs from Parroquia de San Pablo Apóstol in the Trinidad neighborhood, carrying two deeply solemn images: the transfer of Christ to the Sepulchre and Our Lady of Solitude.
A procession that feels far from the tourist trail, with the raw and authentic atmosphere of one of Malaga’s most traditional neighborhoods.
Perfect for: anyone looking for a less touristy and more authentic experience, away from the crowds and closer to the real spirit of the day.
6. Piedad
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 19:30 · 22:15 · 00:20 · — · 02:00
Piedad departs from the Capuchinos/Molinillo neighborhood, carrying a single, deeply moving throne: the Virgin Mary cradling the dead body of Jesus after the descent. Simple, powerful, and utterly human.
Want to experience it with a real neighborhood feel and good visibility? Head to Ollerías or Cruz del Molinillo before it enters Carretería, far less stressful than the center and much more intimate.
7. Santo Sepulcro
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 19:20 · 22:40 · 00:45 · — · 02:15
Santo Sepulcro is no ordinary brotherhood, it is the official brotherhood of the city of Malaga, which means the Mayor and members of the City Council actually participate.
The first throne depicts Jesus dead in the Sepulchre, while the second carries Our Lady of Solitude, dressed in mourning clothes.
As the official city brotherhood, it receives full media coverage and carries a weight and solemnity that sets it apart from every other procession of the day.
8. Servitas
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 22:15 · 23:40 · 02:00 · — · 03:30
Servitas has the privilege of closing Good Friday and it does so in the most dramatic way possible. Departing from Parroquia de San Felipe Neri in the Capuchinos/Molinillo neighborhood, it carries the smallest throne of the entire Holy Week.
And here’s the fun part: as it passes, every single streetlight along the route is switched off, plunging the city into complete darkness.
Perfect for: anyone chasing that intimate, deeply atmospheric Good Friday finale. The kind of moment you’ll remember long after the week is over.
Day 7: Holy Saturday – April 4, 2026
Wondering where all the processions went? Don’t worry, you didn’t miss anything: Holy Saturday is the one day of the week with no processions at all. Why? You may be wondering. Because it’s the day Catholics observe Jesus resting in the tomb, so the streets are quiet and the brotherhoods stay home. Use it to rest your feet, grab a good meal, and recharge for Easter Sunday. Trust me, after everything you’ve seen this week, you’re gonna need it!
Day 8: Easter Sunday – April 5, 2026
And just like that, the mood flips completely! Easter Sunday is the most joyful day of the entire week, it celebrates Jesus’s resurrection, and you can feel that energy in every corner of the city.
Now, don’t let the 1 procession fool you, this one is a big deal. Representatives from all brotherhoods march together in one single, spectacular procession that represents the unity of the entire Semana Santa. And let me tell you, with medium crowds, it’s the most stress-free viewing experience of the entire week.
1. Resucitado
Schedule (Departure / Tribuna / Torre Sur / Cathedral / Return to Temple): 10:00 · 11:05 · 13:00 · — · 15:15
Resucitado is the grand finale of the entire Semana Santa. Departing from Parroquia de San Julián, this procession carries the Most Holy Christ Resurrected and Mary Most Holy Queen of the Heavens, and what makes it truly unique is that all brotherhoods attend together.
After a week of solemnity, silence, and intensity, the mood finally lifts. It’s colorful, joyful, and wonderfully relaxed.
Perfect for: anyone looking for a daytime, cheerful, and family-friendly procession to close the week: no extreme crowds, just the perfect way to say goodbye to Semana Santa.
Tips to Make the Most Out of Semana Santa 2026 in Malaga
Crowds everywhere, streets blocked, processions running late, sound familiar? Semana Santa in Malaga is absolutely worth it, but without a bit of preparation it can quickly turn into a stressful experience. Don’t let that happen to you. Here are our top tips to make sure you enjoy every single moment of it.
- 1. Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers: Malaga during this time of the year has warm afternoons and chilly evenings. And remember to keep it respectful: this is a religious event at its core.
- 2. Leave the car at the hotel, streets get blocked constantly! If you must drive, park near the Palacio de los Deportes and hop on the metro to Atarazanas. It runs until 2:00 AM during the Holy Week.
- 3. Pack smart: umbrella, snacks, water, cash (ATMs run dry fast), a power bank, and above all, patience.
- 4. Book accommodation now! Seriously, don’t wait. City center is ideal, but expensive. If you wanna save some cash choose the suburbs with metro access, but be prepared for a very crowded subway experience. Just don’t leave it to the last minute.
- 5. Best free viewing spots: Calle Larios and Alameda Principal are solid, but the real local gem is La Tribuna de los Pobres on Calle Carretería, as you’ve probably already gathered from how many times I’ve mentioned it throughout this guide. Make sure to get there early though, locals have zero mercy for latecomers.
- 6. For the best photos shoot during golden hour and skip the flash and selfie sticks. Be considerate of others, and try not to block their view.
- 7. Stay safe! Watch out for pickpockets, keep an eye on kids at all times, agree on a meeting point with your group, and save 112 (Spain’s emergency number) in your phone.
See You in the Streets of Malaga!
And that’s the end of your Holy Week guide to Malaga 2026. It’s an intense, beautiful, and unforgettable week, and the secret to enjoy it? Pick 1–2 must-sees per day, leave room for improvisation, and never rush. The magic of Semana Santa often happens in the unexpected moments.
If you need a break from the processions and want to taste the real Malaga, join one of our tapas tours, because no trip to the city is complete without the food. And if you’re travelling solo and want to meet people, a pub crawl is the perfect way to do it. We’ve got you covered either way. Are you ready to experience this amazing week?
