Malaga has won the hearts of many tourists over time, and today it ranks among the most popular vacation destinations in Spain and Europe. For most tourists, Malaga serves as a transit point for exploring Andalusia. This is primarily due to its airport, but also because it provides easy access to many other cities.
Malaga is also a perfect destination for a 2-3 day city break, which is enough time to visit the most important tourist attractions. Below, you will find five of the most important tourist attractions in Malaga that can be easily visited during a city break.
Malaga Travel Guide – Recommendations for your trip
5 days Andalusia itinerary – What to visit in Andalusia
Accommodation in Malaga:
Apartamente/Studiouri️
1. Alcazaba and Gibralfaro
Alcazaba is a word of Arabic origin, meaning “palace” or “castle.” It is the most important tourist attraction in Malaga and one of the most striking examples of Moorish military architecture in Spain. Construction was completed in the 11th century, and it served not only as a defense fortification but also as a residence for Muslim governors.
A bit higher than the Alcazaba, you can visit Gibralfaro, another impressive fortification that tops the list of tourist attractions in Malaga. From there, you get the most beautiful panoramic view of the entire city, which is the main reason I recommend not missing it.
The entrance ticket for Alcazaba and Gibralfaro can be purchased together and costs €5.50. If you only want to visit Alcazaba without Gibralfaro, you can buy a single-entry ticket for about €3.
If you visit these attractions in summer, be sure to bring water, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and something to cover your head, as it is extremely hot and you will be walking in the sun most of the time. The path is paved and relatively easy to walk, but the heat can be very intense.
2. Malaga Cathedral
Officially known as the Catedral de la Encarnación, Malaga Cathedral is one of the city’s most iconic tourist attractions. Construction was completed in the 18th century but not entirely, as one of the towers remains unfinished to this day. This is why the cathedral is nicknamed “La Manquita,” meaning “the one-armed lady.”
The interior of Malaga Cathedral can be visited for €10, and tickets can be purchased on the official website, where you can also find the access schedule.
3. Parque de Malaga
Also known as “Parque de la Alameda” because it stretches along Alameda Principal Boulevard, Malaga Park is one of the largest green spaces in the city. It hosts an impressive collection of plants and trees, including tropical species brought from Africa, Asia, and America.
4. Malaga Botanical Garden
The Botanical Garden is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Malaga. It is a true green paradise, renowned for its lush biodiversity and postcard-worthy landscapes. The garden was created in the 19th century and today enjoys a well-deserved place among the most beautiful botanical gardens in Europe.
The garden covers a large area (see the map below), so you need to reserve a few hours to fully enjoy everything it has to offer. Entrance costs €5.20, and tickets can be purchased at the entrance. Here you can find the opening hours.
5. Calle Larios
Calle Larios is the most famous and elegant pedestrian street in Malaga, and one of the most iconic in all of Spain. It is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and the architecture of historic buildings that provide an impressive backdrop. Calle Larios hosts numerous shops, restaurants, and cafes, as well as important community events such as Semana Santa or Feria de Malaga.
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Happy exploring! 🥰
