10 reasons to visit Malaga this autumn

Before the long, cold winter sets in, why not treat yourself to a dose of sunshine in warm, vibrant Malaga? And if you need an excuse, here are 10 why you should visit Malaga this autumn.

Easy to get to

Dozens of flights come into Malaga Airport every day from dozens of cities in Northern Europe. And if you book ahead or choose to come to Malaga midweek you’ll probably get a good deal.

Then when you arrive, all you need to do is get on the Airport bus (€4 one way, buses every 30 minutes) or the Cercanías train (€1.80, every 20 minutes) into the city centre. It really couldn’t be easier.

Find out more about Malaga Airport.

Lots of sunshine

The autumn is one of the best times to visit Malaga – daytime temperatures reach a very pleasant 20+ degrees while at night, they rarely drop below 15 degrees. It’s warm enough to sunbathe at the beach and the Mediterranean reaches its warmest temperatures in September and early October.

Even if it isn’t quite bikini weather, you can still sit out in a t-shirt and soak up some very welcome rays as late as the end of November.

Perfect sightseeing temperatures

By early September, the summer humidity has disappeared and you can sightsee without feeling the heat. This means you can pack many more Malaga attractions into your day (but don’t forget to leave time to hit the beach).

Clear autumn light

The light is best in autumn – the views of the surrounding mountains and Mediterranean are well-defined and far-reaching, and on very clear days you can make out Morocco beyond. Make the most of this lovely bright light from one of the viewpoints in Malaga.

We recommend the Gibralfaro Castle for 360-degree views, taking a stroll along Muelle Uno or enjoying the vistas from one of the rooftop terraces in Malaga.

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Amazing art

The art museums in Malaga run a year-round calendar of exhibitions and this autumn is no exception with a choice of artists and styles to suit everyone. Highlights on the art scene if you’re visiting Malaga from September onwards are:

• The Echo of Picasso at the Picasso Museum, showcasing 30 works by renowned artists, influenced by Picasso’s creativity.
• Magical Thinking, an exhibition of Ettore Sottsass’ design at the Pompidou Centre.
• Baroque saints from the 17th century at the Thyssen Museum.

READ ABOUT ART IN MALAGA 

Culture for everyone

As it does every season, Malaga has a full calendar of musical events, dance, theatre and art. And best of all, many concerts are free or have bargain tickets. For example, tickets for many shows and concerts at the Cervantes Theatre during September and October cost as little as €12. Find what’s on in Malaga in autumn by reading our what’s on this month post. 

If you’re planning to travel outside Malaga city, read our guide to autumn events on the Costa del Sol.  

Autumn produce

Autumn in Malaga means grapes, figs, custard apples and persimmons. The muscatel grapes that grow in the Axarquía region to the east of Malaga city are harvested during early September ready to be pressed for wine or dried for raisins. Figs are sold fresh or dried and you can also buy fig cakes (torta de higo – delicious eaten with a slice of cheese).

Look out for the new autumn produce at the Atarazanas market, open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 3pm.

Read all about the different autumn fruits in Malaga.

Chestnuts galore

By mid-October, roasted chestnut stalls open around the city and the scent fills the streets reminding you that autumn is here even if the weather reminds you more of summer. Stop by a stall and buy a portion (from €1 depending on how many you buy) for a taste of autumn in Malaga.

(Don’t forget your guide)

If you’re visiting Malaga in autumn, our ebook Malaga on a Short Break is your perfect companion. Whether you’re visiting for 3, 4 or 5 days, this guide has all the inspo and recommendations you need for the perfect holiday.

Download yours now for just €4.95 – or treat yourself to a cheeky 25% off with the discount code WEB (add at checkout).

Comfort food

They’re the ultimate comfort food and autumn is the perfect excuse to indulge in a plate of churros (or their thinner version known as tejeringos) dipped in thick chocolate. For the best place for your dose, head for the busy, busy Casa Aranda in Calle Herrería del Rey (one block east of Atarazanas Market). If you’re looking for a quieter venue, go to the Casa Aranda in Calle Santos, just south of the Carmen Thyssen Museum.

(By the way, our Guide to Malaga lists the best places for churros in Malaga.)

Perfect gifts for Christmas

And lastly, why not visit Malaga for some early Christmas shopping? There are some great gift shops in the streets around the Carmen Thyssen Museum and Plaza de los Mártires. Or stock up on Malaga produce in one of the specialised shops – we like Princesa in Calle Granada (near Plaza de la Merced) and La Mallorquina on Plaza Feliz Saenz. Or get them an eguide to Malaga – see what’s in our shop. 

And a return visit for Christmas?

And if you loved Malaga so much this autumn, why not make a return trip for Christmas? It’s one of the loveliest times of the year with an amazing display of lights along Calle Larios.

For full details about Malaga Christmas lights plus other activities during this festive time, check out our guide to Christmas in Malaga.