11 Things You Must See When Visiting Malaga

February 1, 2022

by Beata Vasvary

8 minutes read

Sitting in the heart of Costa del Sol, Málaga is proud to have the best of the Andalusian culture and charm. It is a vibrant, outdoor paradise that fuses ancient history with modern vibes. Málaga is home to art and culture, beautiful sun-kissed beaches, countless hikes, hills, and historical landmarks. So there is plenty of history, fun and sightseeing waiting to be enjoyed – here are 11 things you must see when visiting Malaga.

Things You Must See When Visiting Malaga

1. Step back in time at the ancient Roman Amphitheatre

Are you interested in history? Visit the Roman theatre located at the bottom of the Alcazaba. It is the oldest site of Málaga! It dates back to the 1^st century but it was only discovered in the 1950s. That’s so exciting!

Through the ruins of the theatre, you can discover the Roman influence in Málaga. Admire the different layers of seating and take a closer look at the different artifacts that were unearthed from the theatre. Since this is one of the few surviving Roman ruins in the south of Spain, it is definitely worth a stop while you are in the old town.

Things You Must See When Visiting Malaga

2. Explore Malaga’s Moorish past at the Alcazaba

The Alcazaba is probably the most well-known tourist attraction in Malaga. Perched on the slopes of the lush and green Gibralfaro Mountain, it is a beautiful Moorish fortress-palace and valuable monument from the Islamic era.

So why is it one of the best places to see in Málaga?

The Alcazaba is a pretty cluster of old buildings with mixed architectural styles (Roman, Moorish, Renaissance), accompanied by charming gardens and amazing panoramic views of the city. It is a must-see!

Things You Must See When Visiting Malaga

3. Meet the one-armed lady – Malaga Cathedral

Visiting Malaga Cathedral is an essential part of all travel plans. You can see its tower rising up from almost all parts of the old town leading you the way to its gates. Marvel at its tall spires, intricate archway entrance, huge wooden doors, and stained-glass windows.
If you are seeking a great view, you should consider the rooftop tour as well!

Why is it called “La Manquita” (The one-armed lady)?

The Malaga Cathedral is unique in many ways but its most prominent feature is that it has only one single tower in the north. Its construction lasted for 200 years but got suddenly halted because of a lack of funding. As a result, the cathedral tower is only completed on one side, leaving the other tower looking like it has been severed. So this is how the cathedral earned the colloquial term “La Manquita”.

4. Discover Spanish and Andalusian paintings: Carmen Thyssen Museum

The Carmen Thyssen Museum houses a world-class collection of 19th and 20th-century Spanish paintings. However, not only are the paintings interesting here, but also the building itself, since it is a 16^th century Renaissance palace. A work of art in itself!

The permanent collection consists of 230 works that brilliantly summarise 19th-century Spanish art. It is a gem of a museum so it should be at the top of your list of things you must see when visiting Malaga.

5. Time Travel at the Automobile and Fashion Museum

You must know that Malaga is full of museums. Most of them are related to art. But let me tell you that this museum is different from the others. This museum houses one of the most important collections of old cars in southern Europe.

When you visit this museum, you will see a collection that goes back to the beginning of the 20th century. You will see about 100 classic cars, like Cadillacs, Aston Martins and Bugatti. But that is not everything. Besides classic cars, the museum also offers a fashion collection. You can visit a total of seven fashion galleries and, you will see 200 original pieces of haute-couture, all from different decades. It is a museum that both men and women love to visit.

Things You Must See When Visiting Malaga

6. Work on your tan at Costa del Sol’s best beaches

During your trip to Malaga, it would be a shame not to enjoy some of the wonderful beaches close by. There is barely any rain year-round, so you cannot pick a bad time to work on your tan.

The city is home to some fantastic sandy stretches, the most famous being La Malagueta with its giant sign. It never lacks activity or excitement! A little further from the city center and therefore not as crowded, Playa Peñon del Cuervo is famous for its characteristic rock formation. For those who prefer a little more tranquility, Playa de el Palo boasts shallow waters that make it ideal for a family-friendly day out.

7. Cheer at the Rosaleda Stadium

Sports fans, listen up! Do you want to cheer on the home team at one of the most beloved stadiums in all of Spain?

The first stone of the stadium was laid in 1936, however, due to the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War it took four years for building works to actually start. You can visit a football event every week from August to May from Europe’s best league. You can also take a guided stadium tour that includes the dressing room, VIP areas, Presidential box, press room and a museum dedicated to the history of Malaga’s beloved soccer team!

8. Watch a live Flamenco Show

Did you know that the traditional Spanish Flamenco dance originated in Andalucía, the region of Spain where Málaga is? So, what better place to see a live Flamenco show?

A Flamenco show is undoubtedly a unique experience. It typically begins with a solo guitarist, then joined by talented singers and dancers. Then everything comes together and you will experience an enchanting fusion of music, movement and storytelling. It’s all about raw energy and vibrant passion. It is simply unmissable!

Things You Must See When Visiting Malaga

9. Visit Málaga during the Holy Week (Semana Santa)

The Holy Week in Málaga offers a unique appeal in Spain, not only for those who participate in the processions but also for all those visitors and tourists from throughout the world who spend the week in Spain.

The Holy Week is an ancient tradition that dates back to the age of the Catholic Monarchs. For more than 500 years of history, Holy Week of Málaga has been constantly present in the religious and popular feeling of local people. So it is truly a big deal!

What is celebrated?

It is the annual commemoration of the Passion of Jesus. Religious devotion, art, color and music combine in the commemorative acts of the death of Jesus Christ: the processions. There are spectacular floats that the men carry on processions that take place from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday. You will see several meters-tall floats and the Virgin Mary beautifully dressed.
The Holy Week is an important reason to visit the city of Málaga and enjoy this celebration that, for the locals, unquestionably marks the beginning of spring.

10. Visit Málaga during Feria de Agosto

Every year in August, Málaga is getting ready for its biggest summer festival of the year: Malaga Fair. It is a long week of celebrating Spanish culture and traditions, full of dancing, eating and drinking. Nowadays, Feria de Malaga is a huge event where you can feel the special atmosphere and vibes in the city. Its streets are vibrant at this time, decorated with flowers and paper lanterns.

There is nothing more Spanish or Andalusian! Just forget about the mundane problems and take the time off to party.

Things You Must See When Visiting Malaga

11. Wander in Málaga’s Soho district

The area is also called the art district, for a good reason. It is an intriguing cultural and commercial area located close to the central part of the city. Soho got its new look in the framework of MAUS project (Málaga Arte Urbano Soho) the aim of which was to revitalize the previously misused and neglected area.

While you are strolling down the streets you will be surprised by how street artists have transformed and renovated this once decaying neighborhood. You will also find plenty of handicraft shops, art galleries, fancy restaurants and trendy bars here.
Take a pleasant stroll in the Soho district and discover this “life art gallery”!