Nerja is a true jewel nestled on the shores of the Mediterranean, a place we discovered by chance. Why by chance? Because it wasn’t part of our original itinerary for our Andalusian vacation. We ended up here on the day we visited Granada because we couldn’t get tickets for the Alhambra. With plenty of time left, we decided to spend the rest of the day at the beach. A quick search on the map showed us that some of the most beautiful beaches near Granada were in Nerja. And that’s how we stumbled upon one of my favorite spots from this trip.
With a lively town center and a true vacation vibe, Nerja beautifully preserves the authentic charm of Spain’s white villages, with its narrow streets and traditional holiday homes.
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1. How to Get to Nerja
As I mentioned earlier, we visited Nerja on the same day we went to Granada, and it was a great decision. We had enough time for both places, especially since we didn’t visit the Alhambra. The drive from Granada to Nerja took about an hour, and from Nerja to Málaga, it was only a 40-minute trip.
The quickest way to get from Málaga to Nerja is by renting a car. This allows you to explore the stunning landscapes along the Costa del Sol and make stops in the various towns and villages along the coast.
Alternatively, you can take the ALSA bus from Málaga’s main terminal, which offers a direct route to Nerja in about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Once you arrive, you can easily explore the town on foot, as no additional transport is needed to visit the key attractions.
2. Where to stay in Nerja
Nerja is a gorgeous little town, and if you have the time, it’s worth staying for 1–2 nights. You can choose to stay either in the town center or near Playa de Burriana, where you’ll find a range of hotels and rental apartments.
Accommodation in Nerja :
3. Top Things To Do in Nerja
Nerja isn’t overflowing with tourist attractions, as it’s more suited for a relaxing vacation rather than one packed with sightseeing. Most tourists come for the beaches, but there are still a few must-see spots worth adding to your list.
Cuevas de Nerja
The Nerja Caves are one of the main attractions in the area. Discovered in 1959, they feature some of the oldest cave paintings in the world.
Balcón de Europa
Located in the heart of the town, Balcón de Europa is an iconic viewpoint you mustn’t miss. It offers one of the most breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the coastline.
Plaza de los Cangrejos
This charming square, with direct views of the sea, is close to the main beach. Here, you’ll find a few restaurants and benches, making it a perfect spot to relax.
The City Center
Although not a tourist site in itself, Nerja’s old town is full of terraces, restaurants, shops, and of course, tourists. Despite the crowd, I loved the vibe and could have wandered there for hours.
Museo de Nerja
The Nerja Museum is perfect for history lovers. It offers a deep dive into the town’s history, including detailed information about the famous caves.
4. Best Beaches in Nerja
Nerja is home to some of the most stunning beaches along the Costa del Sol, which was the main reason we decided to visit.
Playa de Burriana
The largest and most popular beach in Nerja, Playa de Burriana, is renowned for its fine sand and top-notch facilities.
Playa de Calahonda
This small beach is located just below the Balcón de Europa. It’s a cozy spot, surrounded by the picturesque coastal landscapes.
Playa El Salón
A favorite among the locals, Playa El Salón is close to the town center, making it a convenient option for a relaxing beach day.
Playa de Maro
Located about 5 kilometers from Nerja, Playa de Maro is a stunning beach surrounded by cliffs and Mediterranean vegetation.
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Happy travels!🥰
