Malaga in the Costa del Sol region of Spain is a very popular destination for British people to visit, and even move to. With it being on the Mediterranean Sea, there are plenty of beaches to enjoy in the summer, and even the cold winter months are warmer than they are in the UK.
If you are interested in moving there, you will be wondering what some of the best things to do in Malaga are – places to go, activities you can partake in, and where the best food and drink can be found.
We have created a list of some of the best things to do in Malaga, so that you can plan what to do with your time when you get there. Some of these may even become favourites of yours that you do over and over again.
1. Visit shopping malls
It may not seem like the most cultural activity, but one of the things to do in Malaga is go shopping at some of the best malls Spain has to offer. Everyone needs to go shopping at some point for some reason, so knowing where to go can be very helpful. Also, shopaholics will love visiting these malls full of premium brands as well.
Malagaโs shopping malls have a large variety of shops to suit all of your needs, and the malls themselves are nicely decorated, so you can even just enjoy looking around.
Examples of some popular malls in Malaga are:
Plaza Mayor
This is open from 10am to 10pm, and is located not far from both Malaga Golf Club, and the beach.
McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Malaga
Also not far from both the golf club and the beach, McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Malaga is open from 10am to 10pm as well.
Muelle Uno
Further up the road, still close to the beach, and with a view of the sea, Muelle Uno is another option for shoppers. It is open from 11am to 11pm, though restaurants in the mall are generally open from 12pm to 12am.
There will be something for everyone if you are interested in shopping malls in Malaga.
2. Visit a historical site
Spain is full of wonderful historical sites with interesting stories. One of the best things to do in Malaga is visit one of these many places.
There are so many different types of historical sites you can go to, from old castles, to cathedrals with intricate and beautiful architecture, and even an ancient Roman theatre.
A list of places of historical significance includes:
Alcazaba
This fortress is the oldest part of the famous Alhambra, and is well worth a visit for a glimpse into the days of Spainโs Muslim period
Malaga Cathedral
Work began in the 16th century, but it was fully built in the 18th century; Malaga Cathedral is one example of Spainโs renaissance architectural style; parts of it are still unfinished to this day, but it does not fail to impress with its gardens and architecture
Malaga Roman Theatre
This is one of the oldest historical sites in Malaga, and was rediscovered in 1951 when it was uncovered during construction work; in the modern day, performances have been held here again, allowing you to have a truly Roman experience
Castillo de Gibralfaro
Connected to the Alcazaba is Castillo de Gibralfaro, with it being mostly built in 1340 to prevent enemy forces attacking from the mountain of Gibralfaro
3. Go to the beach
With Malaga being on the Mediterranean coast of Spain in the Costa del Sol, it is only natural that there are many beautiful beaches to visit. A trip to the beach is one of the best things to do in Malaga.
If you fancy a lounge in the sun, a dip in the sea, or want a day out with the family to let your children build sand castles, then there are plenty of places to choose from.
Some of the beaches in Malaga are:
Malagueta Beach
With a promenade lined with palm trees, Malagueta Beach is a popular place for both locals and tourists alike; this means it will be busy, but at 12km (7.5 miles) long, you should be able to find a spot to enjoy the gentle rolling waves of the blue sea.
Playa del Penรณn del Cuervo
Great for picnics in the shade of the palm trees, or in the beaming sun, Playa del Penรณn del Cuervo is a fantastic beach that is normally not as busy as Malagueta, but is still a wonderful place to visit. It is named after a rock which stands in the sea at the edge of the beach. It even has a path that eventually links up with Malagueta.
Playa de las Acacias
This is a smaller beach, but that does not mean it should be ignored. It is a popular swimming and sunbathing spot, and has plenty of stalls with snacks nearby, as well as restaurants serving fresh fish for when you get hungry.
Aside from the beaches we have listed, there are many more both within Malaga, and in areas nearby that are just a short trip outside the city.ย With so many options, and with a sunny beach visit being such a relaxing experience, it is one of the greatest things to do in Malaga.
4. Play some golf
Golf fans will be able to take part in their favourite pastime, making it one of the best things to do in Malaga, with there being a golf club right near the beach. Not far from the city itself, you will find other golf courses as well.ย
Here are some of the best golf locations that are in and around Malaga:
Chaparral Golf Club
Closer to Marbella, but still within the province of Malaga, is Chaparral Golf Club. It is an 18-hole course set amongst a forest, so you will feel like you are adventuring through nature, and you will not have to worry about any urban distractions.
Parador de Malaga Golf
This course is located close to the centre of Malaga, and has a hotel and other amenities on site. You even have the opportunity to play tennis if you want to mix it up. The course also has 18 holes.
Golf Torrequebrada
South of Malaga, but just 20 minutes from the airport, lies this 18-hole course surrounded by trees and green hills. If you just want to practise your swing, then there is also a driving range.
You will be able to find other golf courses throughout the province of Malaga, that are just a short trip outside the city itself. To find more golf courses around Malaga, you can use websites such as tee times to see rates and locations of other ones.ย
5. Go to a museum
Would a list of things to do be complete if there was no mention of museums to go to? From art and history, to cars and fashion, there is something for everyone who likes to explore the past, or creations of other people.
Here are a few examples of museums you can take a trip to:
Automobile and Fashion Museum
Speaking of cars and fashion, this museum combines the two. If you love old cars, then this is perfect for you, if you are taking someone along who likes fashion but not cars, then they have something to enjoy as well. Lovers of both will have the time of their lives. Even art lovers will have something to see, with there being art installations and more. From Ferrari to Chanel, there are classics for everyone.
Museo Picasso Malaga
When you mention Malaga, you have to mention one of its most famous sons, Picasso. He is one of the most famous artists to ever live, with people who know little about art even knowing his name. This is the perfect place to see some of Picassoโs masterpieces, from the famous, to the lesser known.
OXO Museo del Videojuego
Anyone interested in video games will find something that interests them here, whether they are adults who want to relive their childhood with classic games and consoles, or if you want to show your children the games that led to what they have today, there is something interesting for all. You can even play on some old consoles. They also hold exhibitions on different topics from the history of video games.
Just like with everything else we have mentioned in this blog, there are plenty of other museums to visit, with even places like Alcazaba having a museum to explore the history of the fort. Have a look around and see what catches your eye.
How we can help
Now you know about some of the best things to do in Malaga, you will need to get a visa for Spain and do some of the activities we have mentioned.
Luckily, our helpful team is here to assist you with the process of applying for a Spanish Visa, including helping you to choose the right visa for you, and with getting your documents ready for your application. For example, they can help you with applying for an ACRO Police Certificate, which is a requirement for every Spanish visa.
Call us, email us, or use our website chatbot to contact our team, or book a free 10-minute assessment. This initial contact allows the team to see how they might be able to help you, and plan your next steps.
If you are unsure about whether you should use our services, then visit our page on why you should choose us.
Get in touch with us today to see how we can help you get to Malaga.
