Updated 2016
Malaga is a large city on the southern coast of Spain, in the Andalusia region. It’s a major transit hub more than a major tourist destination, but there is plenty to keep a traveler who is passing through busy for a couple of days. Many people fly into Malaga as the gateway into the surrounding Costa Del Sol beach resort strip, but this city should not be overlooked as nothing but a place to catch a bus or rent a car. You’ll want to do that at some point, but among other things this is Picasso’s birthplace.
What To Do
Yes, this is where Picasso was born and there are two places to check out in Malaga relating to the 20th Century master painter. There is the Picasso Museum, which has permanent and rotating temporary displays of the artists work. And there is Picasso’s Birthplace in the center of the city. This very affordable attraction also has displays of some key paintings, but also different objects from the painter’s
childhood.
This was a Moorish city for centuries and you’ll find two Moorish castles here open to visitors. Alcazaba is the more ornate of the two and it’s much easier to get to, but the Castillo de Gibralfaro offers fantastic views from its mountaintop location and is accessible by bus if you don’t have the energy to walk up the mountain yourself. Of course you’ve got the beaches the area is famous for as well. There is a nice beach located very near town, but nicer and less crowded beaches are just to the east.
Getting There
You can get to Malaga by train from Seville, and by bus from nearly anywhere in the region, but most people who come will want to book a flight into Malaga International Airport. This is the country’s third largest airport and is well served by many budget carriers. This keeps prices quite competitive for European holidaymakers who flood the area during winter and spring.
Have you considered taking a repositioning cruise? A common port of departure is Malaga!
Where To Stay
There are a few hostels in Malaga and many hotels in Malaga from which to choose. As you know, this is a resort area so things can get crowded during winter and spring. There is also a major festival season in August so even with the scorching temperatures the city can get crowded. Plan ahead if you are coming during peak times.