With a long list of monuments and museums, Malaga offers some great things to see and do. But what if you’re not a fan of Moorish architecture or Picasso? What if Roman ruins or contemporary art doesn’t hit the spot for you? In this post, we go beyond sightseeing in Malaga and offer some alternatives.
Walking in Malaga
Our first alternative to sightseeing in Malaga suggests you simply enjoy walking around the city. Malaga has lots of pedestrian spaces that make great spots for strolling in your own time without the noise and smell of traffic.
No need to pop into any of the monuments and museums on the way. Just enjoy the sunshine, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the quirky corners. And don’t forget to pop into the odd shop or café/bar on your way.
Our favourite spots for strolling in Malaga are:
Calle Larios and around
Most of the streets around Calle Larios are pedestrian-only spaces. Pop off into the side streets and lose yourself in the old quarter.
For a change – walk north of the Carmen Thyssen Museum and explore the area around Calle Andrés Pérez, great for hidden corners.
Calle Alcazabilla
A wide open space next to the Alcazaba Fortress and Roman Theatre that you don’t have to visit but we’re sure you’ll enjoy your views.
For a change – take a stroll along the new walkway up to the walls of the Alcazaba. Entrance next to the Roman Theatre visitors’ centre and open 10am to 5pm (last entry 4.30pm).
El Palmeral and Muelle Uno
A leisurely stroll under the Pergola and then along Muelle Uno takes in the port and La Malagueta as far as the lighthouse. Time your walk for the end of the day and you can enjoy the sunset over the city skyline.
For a change – on your way back, cross into the Paseo del Parque at the Pompidou Centre and walk back to Calle Larios. Lots of fine trees, sculptures, fountains and urban bird life. link
Seafront promenades
The main beaches in Malaga beaches have long promenades, perfect for strolls, as long or as short as you like. Walk east from the lighthouse as far as Pedregalejo and El Palo or west from the Plaza de la Marina to the end of the La Misericordia beach.
For a change – hire a bike and cycle along the promenades.
Shopping in Malaga
Shopping makes a great alterative to sightseeing in Malaga because there’s plenty of it and lots of variety. Whether you like window shopping, need some serious retail therapy, are looking for a vintage piece or fancy a nostalgic visit to a traditional shop, Malaga has it all. Check out our dedicated shopping posts below and plan your shopping trip to Malaga!
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT SHOPPING IN MALAGA
Foodie Malaga
Malaga is fast making a name for itself as something of a foodie destination. This is a city that takes pride in both its traditional recipes and the latest culinary creations. From simple grilled sardines and gazpachuelo soup to Michelin-starred dishes, Malaga has something for all tastes and budgets.
Don’t forget the drinking as well. Explore the large world of Malaga wine link – whites, reds and sparkling as well as the traditional sweet. The city has several good craft beer venues too. And then there’s the coffee – not only will you find lots of great places to get your caffeine fix, there are lots of ways of asking for it too. Read more about ordering coffee in Malaga.
Take in a show
Malaga has a great cultural scene with, again, something for everyone. So if you’d rather be watching a show or enjoying flamenco than sightseeing in Malaga, here are our suggestions:
- The Cervantes Theatre link has a year-round programme of concerts, plays, performances and dance. Tickets are good value too – they typically start at €12.
- The Albeniz Cinema link shows original version films with a good weekly choice of the latest on the movie circuit. It also has regular showings of film classics.
- Jazz in Malaga is alive and well, and several venues host regular live concerts. Birdland Malaga is 1of the best.
- Flamenco shows take place regularly around Malaga. Read our dedicated blog post to find out more about where to see flamenco in the city.
