Capital of the Costa del Sol and a starting point for beach holidays and rural villa retreats, Malaga is also a city with real soul. A burgeoning art scene, restaurants that rival the very best of Spain, all under a cloudless sky that blesses the city with sun every day. This is a coastal city with a glorious past and a proud future.
When Romans ruled
Head to Malaga's Roman theatre for a detailed look back into Roman Hispania. In addition to the cavernous amphitheatre, you’ll find an interpretation centre giving you a feel for day-to-day Roman life. Take in an open-air concert on a balmy summer evening as the amphitheatre returns to its original use after dark. It dates from the 1st century AD, but was only unearthed by workers in the 1950 and has been sensitively restored since then.
It sits adjacent to the Alcazaba. A winding path next to the Roman amphitheatre climbs into lush greenery, magenta bougainvillea and row upon row of orange trees. This restored Moorish palace-fortress dates back to the 11th-century. Intricate arches, peaceful courtyards and pretty fountains are reminiscent of ancient Malaga.
A peek at Picasso
See how Malaga inspired Pablo Picasso at the Museo Picasso in the city centre. Get a view of the great master and his work as more than 200 pieces adorn the gallery’s walls. Admire paintings from Picasso’s youth, sculptures, sketches and a gallop through cubism.
Picasso’s birthplace museum (or the ‘Casa Natal’) has been an official heritage site since 1983. It’s situated in the heart of the historic centre of Malaga. See interesting artefacts from the beginning of Picasso's home and cultural life, as well as works by the artist and his father.
Coasts and castles
Indulge in southern Spain's answer to St. Tropez with a drive along the coast to Marbella. The old town draws in the crowds for its famous cobbled streets and stunning plazas overflowing with beautiful fresh flowers. It’s here where you’ll find unique shops and art galleries waiting to be browsed. Sip freshly squeezed juice in courtyards filled with orange trees. The extravagant harbour isn’t short of luxury yachts. Grab a coffee in one of the waterfront cafes, watch the world go by and see how many celebrities you can spot.
Sprawled at the foot of the Sierra Nevada, the rose-tinted walls of the Alhambra Palace look out over the city of Granada. This building alone is reason enough to make the two-hour drive from Malaga. Lavish palatial suites, serene courtyards and trickling fountains adorn the inside. Come to Granada for exquisite gardens and impressive Moorish architecture, but stay for the cosy tapas bars and laid-back city vibes.
Amazing Andalusia
Find time to journey around the small towns and villages of inland Andalusia. Take a day trip to the small town of Mijas. White houses huddle on the hillside, pavement cafes spill into winding cobbled streets and the whole town bursts with colour thanks to an abundance of fresh flowers. Views stretch over the hills and out to the sparkling sea.
Stop in Ronda, a town perched on the sheer cliffs of El Tajo gorge. Admire the ancient layers of arches of the bridge linking the old Roman part of town to the new, and explore Spain’s oldest bullring.
If you want to experience quintessential Spain, Andalusia is the place to go. Explore the sights, arrange car rental in Malaga and venture out to the coast or head inland to the hills for a slice of the quiet life.
