Welcome to Malaga, a city with a fascinating past and a lively and dynamic present. Although the beaches and beach life of the Costa del Sol are the main attraction for many tourists, the historical centre of Malaga is well worth a visit for anyone curious about the area’s past and present.
Malaga’s Old Town is a veritable treasure trove of sounds, sensations, from its winding cobblestone alleyways and charming squares to its splendid architecture and famous museums. In this blog article we take you on a Tour of Malaga’s historic centre, highlighting the city’s main attractions, our insider knowledge and our tips for making the most of your time. Grab a Malaga city map, wear comfortable shoes and get ready to explore its ancient charm.
Discover:
- What is the old town in Malaga called?
- How to get to the old town:
- Exploring the old town: Best reccomandations
- Recommandations for local dishes and drinks to try
- What is the nearest beach to Malaga old Town?
- Main Streets and squares
- Popular events and festival
- Best time to visit Malaga
- Main coastal localities near Malaga
- Final thoughts and recommendations
The Spanish terms “Casco Antiguo” or “Centro Histórico” are used to refer to Malaga’s Old Town. Inside the confines of the old Moorish walls, it is the historic city core. Several of the city’s most well-known landmarks and attractions, including the Alcazaba fortress, the Roman Theatre, and the Picasso Museum, can be found here, a labyrinth of winding, tiny streets and lanes.
How to get to the old town:
From Malaga AirPort:
Taking the train is the most convenient method to get to the Old Town. There are 20-minute trains connecting the airport and the city center that depart from the Málaga Renfe Cercanias rail station, which is right outside Terminal 3.
The nearest station to the Old Town is Malaga Central Alameda, where you can get off the train headed for Fuengirola. The trip costs about €1.80 per person and takes about 12 minutes.
Alternatively, you can take a cab from the airport to the Old Town, which takes roughly 15-20 minutes and costs between €20 and €25.
From Malaga Train Station:
Using the Cercanias train is the most efficient way to get to the Old Town while arriving in Malaga by train. The bus terminal is just next to the train station, and trains depart towards the city center every 20 minutes. The nearest stop to the Old Town is Malaga Central Alameda, where you can board a train headed for Fuengirola and exit the vehicle. The trip takes about 5 minutes and costs about €1.80 for each passenger.
An alternate option is to take a cab, which will take about 10 minutes and cost between €10 and €15 to get from the train station to the Old Town.
Exploring the old town: Best reccomandations
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Malaga’s Old Town is a quaint and lively neighborhood that is home to many historical structures and important cultural sites. The “Centro Histórico” has plenty to offer everyone, whether they are interested in history, art, food, or shopping. Some of the best sights and activities in this busy neighborhood are easily recognizable in the streetmap of Malaga and are listed below:
- Alcazaba:
One of the most significant landmarks in the Old Town is the Alcazaba fortification. Its 11th-century Moorish fortress provides stunning views of both the city and the port. Each person must pay about €3.50 to enter the castle.
- Cathedral:
The Malaga Cathedral is another well-known landmark in the Old Town. The 16th century saw the construction of this magnificent cathedral in the Renaissance style, which is renowned for its breathtaking interior and imposing bell tower. The cost of admission to the cathedral is roughly €6 per person.
- Picasso Museum:
The Picasso Museum is a must-see attraction in Old Town for art enthusiasts. The great artist, who was born in Malaga, has a sizable collection of his works on display in this museum. Each visitor must pay about €10 to enter the museum.
- Atarazanas Market:
In the center of the Old Town, there is a thriving indoor market called Atarazanas Market. A large variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, fish, and regional delicacies are available here. It’s a fantastic location for both experiencing the local culture and shopping for trinkets.
- Tapas Bars:
The Old Town is renowned for its bustling restaurants and tapas bars. There are numerous locations where you may sample authentic Andalusian foods, such fried fish and Iberian ham.
Recommendations for local dishes and drinks to try
- Fried Fish:
Sardines or anchovies, which are small, regional fish, are frequently used to make the fried fish that is so well-known in Malaga. Several tapas bars in the Old Town provide fried fish, but El Tintero and Casa de la Tortilla are two of the best places to try it. - Gazpacho:
Cold soup called gazpacho is made from tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and garlic. It’s a cool dish that’s ideal for sweltering summer days. Casa Lola and La Cosmopolita are a few of venues in the Old Town where gazpacho is advised. - Espetos de Sardinas:
Sardines are roasted on a skewer over an open flame and are known as espetos de sardinas. They are a well-liked street snack in Malaga, and you can frequently find them being prepared at beachside restaurants or on the sand. Chiringuito Antonio and El Caleo are two popular spots in the Old Town to try Espetos de Sardinas. - Sweet Wine:
Made from grapes produced in the surrounding hills, Malaga is renowned for its sweet wines. These wines are ideal for relaxing off with on a warm summer night or serving with dessert. Moscatel and Pedro Ximenez are two well-liked sweet wines to sample. - Vermouth:
In Spain, aperitifs frequently include a glass of vermouth, a fortified wine. In numerous tapas taverns and eateries in Malaga’s Old Town, you may get this popular beverage. Yzaguirre and Padró & Co. are two well-liked brands to test.
Whatever your preferences, the above mentioned tripadvisor restaurants in Malaga have something to offer everyone. To get a true sense of the city’s culture and cuisine, try some of the regional foods and beverages while you’re there.
What is the nearest beach to Malaga old Town?
Malagueta Beach is the closest beach to Malaga Old Town. It is close by and may be reached on foot from the Casco Antiguo area to the east. Malagueta Beach is a well-liked destination for both tourists and residents.
It is renowned for its fine beach, clean sea, and abundance of dining and entertainment options. The 1.2-kilometer-long beach features a number of activities like beach volleyball, water sports, and sunbathing. A journey to the Malaga Marina area for a leisurely day by the sea is unquestionably worthwhile if you’re in Malaga Old Town.
Main Streets and squares
- Calle Larios:
One of the most well-known alleys in the city is Calle Larios. Very easy to reach with a Malaga Old Town Map It is a broad pedestrian avenue that is surrounded by classy structures, expensive stores, and cafes. It’s a well-liked destination for both tourists and locals, especially around Christmas Time when the street is decked out in holiday lights. - Plaza de la Constitución:
This is Malaga’s central square. It is a busy and energetic area surrounded by old buildings, cafes, and eateries. The square is where the city’s renowned clock tower is located, and it’s a well-liked gathering place for locals. - Calle Granada:
In Malaga’s Old Town, Calle Granada is another well-liked street that runs parallel to Calle Larios. Traditional stores, eateries, and taverns line the length of the street. It’s a fantastic location for soaking up the local flavor. - Plaza del Obispo:
The striking Cathedral of Malaga is situated in this square, which is at the center of the city’s Old Town. The square is surrounded by historical structures and is a well-liked location for photographs. - Calle Carretera:
Another well-known street in Malaga’s Old Town is called Calle Carretera. It’s a charming, character-filled street that is winding and narrow. The area is ideal for exploring on foot because it is lined with classic stores, cafes, and pubs.
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Popular events and festival
The Old Town of Malaga is a thriving and cultural neighborhood that hosts several events and festivals all year long. The following are a few of the most well-known occasions and celebrations you may attend in the Old Town:
- Malaga Fair:
The greatest and most significant event in Malaga is the fair. A week-long celebration of food, culture, dance, music, and festivities is held in August. The Old Town is converted into a vibrant and energetic fairground, complete with a wide variety of street vendors, attractions, and entertainment options for all ages. - Holy Week:
Easter’s preceding week is known as “Holy Week,” and it is a time for religious celebration. Processions, parades, and celebrations are frequently held in the Old Town, which serves as a living testament to the customs and values of the neighborhood. It is a time of solemnity and adoration, as well as magnificent beauty and spectacle. - Flamenco festivals: Malaga Old Town is home to a large number of flamenco bars and venues. Flamenco is an essential component of Andalusia’s culture. The Old Town hosts a number of flamenco festivals and performances throughout the year, giving guests an opportunity to feel the passion and fervor of this well-known art form.
Best time to visit Malaga
Your choices and the things you hope to experience during your trip will determine when is the best time to visit Malaga Old Town. Here are some suggestions for the ideal travel times depending on several considerations:
- Weather:
Malaga is renowned for having a mild temperature all year long. The summer months, from June through August, can be extremely hot and muggy, with highs of up to 40 °C (104 °F). The spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) seasons are good if you prefer cooler temperatures. - Festivals & Events:
The best time to visit Malaga Old Town would be during the festivals themselves if you’re interested in taking part in any of the many festivals and events conducted there. There are many events to select from throughout the year, but the Malaga Fair in August and the Holy Week celebrations the week before Easter are two of the biggest. - Crowds:
During the busiest travel months (June to August), Malaga Old Town can become extremely congested, particularly on weekends and during festivals. The shoulder seasons (April to May and September to October) are a fantastic choice if you wish to stay away from the throng. - Budget:
During the busiest travel season, hotel and activity prices may increase. If you’re on a budget, the low season (November to February) might provide some amazing offers and discounts.
Main coastal localities near Malaga
- Torremolinos: Just 15 minutes from Malaga International Airport, Torremolinos is a well-liked vacation spot for people looking to party and catch some rays. It’s a fantastic choice for all kinds of travelers because to its pristine beaches, buzzing bars and clubs, and family-friendly attractions.
- Benalmadena is a picturesque town with a marina, a beach, and a historic center brimming with stores, eateries, and pubs. It is only a short drive from Malaga.
- Fuengirola is a vibrant town with a lengthy promenade, a sandy beach, and a ton of restaurants, cafes, and stores that is only around 25 minutes from Malaga.
- Marbella: The jet set loves to visit Marbella because of its opulent resorts, premium shopping, and flashy nightlife. From Malaga, it is located about 45 minutes away. Marbella Old Town is extremely quaint and endearing and offers a variety of fascinating corners to discover.
- Estepona is a wonderful town with a historic center, a lovely beach, and a stunning marina. It is located on the western end of the Costa del Sol.
These are only a few of the several seaside towns close to Malaga that are worthwhile seeing. The Costa del Sol provides something for everyone, whether you’re seeking a wild nightlife or a tranquil beach vacation.
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Final thoughts and recommendations
With a rich history and culture that is unrivaled anywhere else in the world, Malaga Old Town is a genuinely special and singular location. This charming area has something for everyone, whether you want to explore the little streets and alleyways, indulge in some of the delectable local fare, or simply take in the lively atmosphere at one of the many festivals and events.
- Take your time:
Malaga Old Town is best visited slowly, so be sure to do so and take in the sights, sounds, and tastes of the area.
- Get lost:
Being lost is one of the best ways to enjoy Malaga Old Town and uncover hidden treasures that you otherwise would not have seen. Therefore don’t be reluctant to veer off the route!
- Enjoy some of the regional fare:
Malaga is renowned for its mouthwatering seafood as well as its traditional fare like paella and gazpacho. On your visit, make sure to try some of the regional cuisine.
We hope that this information has been useful to you as you plan your trip to Malaga Old Town. Pack your bags and begin exploring this enchanting and unique neighborhood right away!
Don’t forget to leave a comment below to share your experience with us. And don’t hesitate to provide any more advice or suggestions if you have any. Enjoy your trip!
2 thoughts on “Malaga Old Town: A Guide to Exploring its Historic Charm”
Greetings! Very useful advice in this particular article! Its the little changes that will make the biggest changes. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you very much for your interest!