A week in Málaga

hola! I went on a holiday with the train from Barcelona to Málaga, were I spent a week enjoying all that Málaga has to offer. Read on further for tips on what to see and do 🙂

With the train

If you are already in Spain it is really easy to travel with the train. I live in Barcelona, took the train from Barcelona Sants to Malaga Maria Zambrano train station. From there it is either about 30 minute walk to the city center, or you can take the metro (located next to the train station) from El Parchel where you’ll take the Line 1 towards Atarazanas and get out at Atarazanas as well. It is only a few minute walk to the city center from there. You can as well take the taxi from the train station to the city center.

i bought the tickets online on the app of Renfe, if you book on time the tickets will be really cheap. I spent about 80 euros for a round trip plus a reserved spot on the train (bought the tickets about 3 months in advance).

Check here trains from and to Málaga.

What I did in Málaga

Catedral de Málaga

The cathedral dates back to 1487, it has beautiful views inside and outside. Outside you’ll find gardens where you can sit and enjoy the view of the cathedral. From the outside the cathedral is already stunning but it is definitely worth it to enter the cathedral as well. A general ticket is 10 euros.

opening hours are: 10:00 / 20:00

More information you can find on their website.

Check Getyourguide for tickets to the cathedral with a guided tour.

Alcazaba

The Alcazaba was built between 1057 and 1063, it has amazing views of Malaga and it is only 3,50 euros and 5,50 for a combined ticket with the Castillo de Gibralfaro.

Opening hours: summer time: 09:00 / 20:00, winter time: 09:00 / 18:00.

More information about tickets and opening hours you’ll find on their website.

Check Tripadvisor & Getyourguide for guided tours in Alcazaba.

Wander around at Castillo de Gibralfaro

The castle was built in 1340 AD to improve the defense of Málaga. It is beautiful to walk around and the views over Málaga are amazing. On the way to the castle you’ll come across the Mirador de Gibralfaro. Keep in mind that the castle is quite high, so you’ll have to climb. When you travel in the summer, don’t forget to bring enough water. A ticket is 3,50 euros or 5,50 if you get a combined ticket with the Alcazaba.

opening hours: summer time: 09:00 / 20:00, winter time: 09:00 / 18:00.

More information, and tickets you can find on their webiste.

Jardines de Puerta Oscura

Designed by architect Fernando Guerrero-Strachan Rosado, this (small) park is absolutely beautiful. Definitely worth to check it out.

Parque de Málaga

This park is located in the center of Málaga, it’s origin out of 1896 and inspired by Cánovas del Castillo. there is a lot to see. and it is quite big. Next to the park you will find the Paseo de Málaga. It is a perfect park to wander around.

Plaza de la Merced

Here was the famous Pablo Picasso born, and where you can find the museum Fundación Picasso museo Casa natal. The square was a public market in the 15th century. In the center of the square you’ll find the monument to Torrijos. Now this square is full with restaurants.

Watch the sunset at Puerto de Málaga

Here you can find lots of restaurants, but you can also go to the part in front of the restaurants, sit en enjoy the sunset.

Walk around Ensanche Centro

In this neighborhood you’ll find lots of street art, it is really nice to walk around and spot the art. There are a lot of restaurants and coffee shops as well.

Plaza del obispo

Here you’ll find the Bishop’s palace from 1762. On one side is the main entrance of the Cathedral. In the center of the square is a fountain that was built in the 18th century. Enjoy at one of the restaurants the view of the cathedral.

Plaza de la Consitucion

Right in the middle of the city you can find this square. Before 1812 it was the main square of Málaga, after they renamed it to Plaza de la Consitucion. Many things were located here like the city council, the mayor’s house, the jail, and many other things. Now it is full of restaurants and stores, and often events are held here.

Relax at Jardines de Pedro Luis Alonso

My absolute favorite park of Málaga, it is soo beautiful and so calm as well. When you need a break of the busy city, this is the place to be. Take a book with you, go sit on one of the many benches and enjoy your day there.

This park was designed in 1947 by Fernando Guerrero-Strachan. The name refers to the first mayor of Málaga after the end of the civil war.

Beach day at Playa la Malagueta

Málaga is a perfect city to enjoy your holiday because it has a beautiful historic center with lots of touristic sights, but as well an beautiful beach on a walkable distance. Take a break from the sightseeing and enjoy a day on the beach of Málaga.

Wander around the old town

The old town is so beautiful, take your time to take in the views, shop at the small boutiques and enjoy drinks & food at the many restaurants.

Check out Calle del Marqués de Larios

The shopping street, here you’ll find all the known stores. In summer they have the festival Ganas de Feria, for this they will decorate the street. This year it starts from 17 August to 24 August.

Enjoy the view at Mirador de Gibralfaro

Like I said before on the way to the castle you’ll come across this viewpoint. It has amazing views over Málaga, keep in mind you’ll have to climb so when it is warm bring enough water. This spot is quite popular so be on time to get a good spot to enjoy the sunset.

Bun and coffee

Take a break, and enjoy a coffee & donut. My favorite is the pistacio donut.

where I Stayed

Hotel Palacete de Alamos

I stayed twice now in this 4 star hotel, and I really liked it. I love the location, in the same street you’ll find a supermarket, it is right in the city center and about a 20 minute walk to the beach. It is located in the old part of Málaga and close to many tourist attractions. I loved the service as well, overall a good experience.

This is what I did in Málaga, hope you can use these tips and enjoy your trip 🙂

More information:

For flights to Málaga check Kiwi.com, for hotels & flights check tripadvisor and trip.com.