Malaga: 12 Things to Do in the Beautiful Historic City

Malaga is one of the famous cities in Spain. It is located on the Costa del Sol coast south of Spain, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Malaga is home to several civilizations, including the Roman and Phoenician civilizations and the Islamic Andalusian.

The history of Malaga spans about 2,800 years, as it was founded by the Phoenicians in 770 BC, making it one of the oldest cities in Europe. After the fall of the empire and the end of the Visigothic era, the city of Malaga came under Islamic rule for 800 years.

The city has become an important regional trading centre, and the famous traveller Ibn Battuta described it as one of Andalusia’s largest and most beautiful cities. It provides amenities both on land and in the sea.

Malaga contains some of the most tourist places in Spain, ideal for family tourism, such as museums of culture, arts, and antiques. It also has a group of developed beaches surrounded by mountain ranges and many magnificent parks. In the coming part, we will learn more about Malaga, its places, and things to do there.

Weather

The climate in Malaga is semi-tropical, with mild winters and hot summers. The city experiences the warmest winter of any European city. The temperature average in winter is 17 degrees from December to February, while the temperature average in summer is 26 to 34 degrees between April and November.

Things to do in Malaga

As it is known, Malaga is one of the famous European cities. It is full of many fantastic places to visit and discover, so let’s learn more about Malaga and what you can do there.

Alcazaba of Malaga

One of the most iconic landmarks in Malaga, the Alcazaba, is a fortress palace that dates back to the 11th century during the Muslim rule of Andalusia. This remarkable structure is one of Spain’s best-preserved examples of Moorish architecture. As you ascend the winding pathways to the fortress, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. The Alcazaba was designed as both a military stronghold and a residence for the Muslim rulers, and its layout reflects these dual purposes.

The fortress is built on a hillside, using the natural terrain for defence. As you wander through the Alcazaba, you’ll encounter a series of interconnected courtyards, each with unique features, such as ornate fountains, tranquil gardens, and elaborately decorated arches. The structure is a testament to the Moorish ability to blend beauty with functionality. Don’t miss the chance to explore the Nasrid Palace, located within the Alcazaba, where you can admire intricate tilework and stucco decorations that harken back to the splendour of Moorish Spain.

Malaga Cathedral

Malaga Cathedral is another famous attraction in Malaga. It was built in the 16th and 17th centuries on the site of an earlier mosque.

The cathedral is famous for its style, which combines the Renaissance and Baroque styles, as evident in the construction of its tower. When you enter the cathedral, you will see that it is divided into many parts. There is a chapel on the south path, decorated with a painting of the Virgin with Saints.

Also, when you enter the choir chapel, you will see on the wall kneeling figures of the Catholic Monarchs by Pedro de Mena. The chapel also contains the statuette of the Virgin. If you see the exterior, you will find out that it wasn’t finished; only the 86-meter North Tower was finished. You can see a magnificent view of Malaga from the rooftop by climbing 200 staircases in the North Tower.

Picasso Museum 

Malaga is the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, one of the most influential artists of the 20th century, and the city pays homage to its most famous son, the Picasso Museum. Housed in the Palacio de Buenavista, a stunning Renaissance building in the heart of Malaga, the museum features a comprehensive collection of Picasso’s works spanning his entire career. With over 200 pieces on display, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and drawings, the museum provides a deep dive into Picasso’s artistic evolution.

One of the highlights of the Picasso Museum is the collection of early works that show the artist’s development from a young talent into a groundbreaking modernist. The museum also features several pieces from his later periods, including examples of his revolutionary Cubist style. Temporary exhibitions often complement the permanent collection, exploring various aspects of Picasso’s work and his influence on other artists. The museum’s setting in the historic district adds to the experience, as you can combine a visit to the museum with a stroll through the charming streets of Malaga’s old town.

Roman Theatre

Just below the Alcazaba lies another of Malaga’s historical treasures—the Roman Theatre. Dating back to the 1st century BC, this ancient theatre was used for various performances and public events during the Roman era. The theatre was only rediscovered in the mid-20th century after being buried for centuries beneath the city. Today, it has been carefully restored and is one of Spain’s oldest surviving Roman structures.

Visiting the Roman Theatre is like stepping back in time. The stone seating tiers, or cavea, are remarkably well-preserved, and you can easily imagine the spectacles that once entertained Roman citizens here. The theatre is still used occasionally for performances, providing a unique opportunity to experience ancient history in a living context. Adjacent to the theatre, the Interpretative Centre offers additional insights into the history and significance of the site, with informative displays and artefacts from the Roman period.

Gibralfaro Castle

For history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, visiting Gibralfaro Castle is an absolute must. This 14th-century fortress, perched on a hilltop overlooking Malaga, was built to protect the nearby Alcazaba and has been a symbol of the city’s defensive strength for centuries. The castle is named after the lighthouse (faro) that once stood on the hill, dating back to Phoenician times.

The climb to Gibralfaro Castle can be challenging, especially during the hot summer, but the effort is well worth it. Along the way, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Malaga’s skyline, the port, and the surrounding mountains. Once at the top, you can explore the castle’s ramparts and courtyards, which provide a fascinating glimpse into the period’s military architecture. The castle also houses a small museum that offers insights into its history and significance. The best time to visit is late afternoon when the setting sun casts a golden glow over the city and the sea.

Automobile Museum of Malaga

The Automobile Museum is considered one of the best 10 museums in the city; it is distinguished by its spacious area of 6000 m2 and divided into 13 rooms.

The museum includes about 100 from Mercedes, Ferrari, Rolls-Royce, and a host of precious accessories such as fresh ostrich leather seats, silver and ivory handles, a dashboard decorated with echoes of pearl, and more. Also, about 200 pieces of clothing collected from 7 world-famous fashion fairs reflect this period.

Market Hall

It is considered a historical market with a horseshoe-shaped Islamic gateway that dates to the 14th century. The market was renewed after being closed for many years.

Inside the market, sellers sell fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, meat, and cheese. A stained-glass window depicts the historical landmarks of Malaga and adorns the interior.

Basilica of Victory

The Basilica of Victory is located north of the Picasso Museum. It is one of the essential places in the city, built in the 17th century. The Catholic Monarchs pitched a siege of Malaga there during the Reconquest.

When you visit the church, you will see a 15th-century figure of the Virgen de la Victoria, which was a gift from Emperor Maximilian I to King Ferdinand. Also, paintings and sculptures decorate the church.

La Malagueta Beach

It is the perfect place to spend your day with family and friends. It is located between the port and La Caleta beach and is 1200 meters long and 45 meters wide. The beach offers Fun water and beach leisure activities like hammocks, canopies, and pedal boats.

Holy Week

Holy Week is a famous celebration that takes place in Malaga. It dates back more than 500 years to the time of the Catholic Monarchs’ Reconquest of Andalusia. You will be delighted to see this celebration, where the evening parade features lavish floats accompanied by lively marching bands or musicians singing flamenco songs.

There is also the Museum of the Holy Week. It is located in the hospital of San Julian and was built in the 17th century. It displays about 150 different exhibits, such as sculptures and processional images.

Malaga Park

Malaga Park is one of the famous parks in Malaga. It is a place where you can find beautiful nature, green plants, and fountains. It is also the perfect place for children to have fun with their families. Besides that, it contains attractive play areas for children, a small open-air theatre, and some glimpses of the city’s history and monuments.

Malaga’s Museum of Glass and Crystal

The museum contains many collections of glasswork from the Old Ages to the Greek, Roman, and Byzantine eras and stained glasses from the 19th century. Malaga’s Museum of Glass and Crystal is located inside a beautiful house built in the 18th century and contains glasswork, paintings and décor.

Conclusion

Malaga is a city that invites exploration, offering a rich tapestry of experiences that cater to all kinds of travellers. From its ancient fortresses and bustling markets to its vibrant art scene and beautiful beaches, Malaga is a destination that seamlessly blends the old with the new. Whether wandering through its historic streets, relaxing on the beach, or indulging in the local cuisine, you’ll find that Malaga has a unique charm that’s hard to resist. So the next time you plan a trip to Spain, include Malaga in your itinerary—you won’t be disappointed.