10 things to do in Malaga in July

Temperatures in July rank as the hottest statistically in Malaga and the mercury certainly rises during this month. But don’t let the heat put you off because there are still plenty of reasons to visit the city. Read on for our pick of experiences, tastes, activities and events for inspiration for things to do in Malaga in July.

Take in some Terral

Keeping to its busy year-round calendar of events, Malaga has several major musical festivals in July including the annual Terral festival. Named after the hot wind that blows from inland every so often in the summer, this event celebrates international music.

As usual, there’s a great line-up of international singers and musicians performing at the (air-conditioned) Cervantes Theatre. Check out our monthly round-up of what’s on in Malaga for full details.

Make it a month for summer fruit

All this sunshine and heat makes great ripening weather for fruit. You’ll see the market stalls literally groaning with delicious summer delights such as peaches, nectarines, cherries, plums, melons and watermelons. If you can, try the watermelons grown locally at Churriana – as sweet as they come!

Get to the right beach

When the mercury rises, the beach beckons. Although Malaga beaches don’t rank among the best in Spain, they do offer a great place to get some time out from sightseeing and shopping. Plus all the city beaches have blue-flag status this year! And best of all, there’s a good selection so you can choose the right one for you. Check out our Malaga Beach Guide and find the perfect spot for your towel.

Admire some gorgeous glass

Our museum pick for things to do in Malaga in July takes glass in all its forms as its theme. The lovely Glass Museum in the old quarter has possibly one of the world’s biggest collections – see it in stained-glass windows, ornaments, vases and well, glasses. Not only that, but the museum itself is also well worth a visit – it’s in one of the oldest buildings in Malaga and simply oozes history.

Find out more in our dedicated Museum Guide.

Stay cool

One of the biggest challenges in Malaga in July is keeping cool especially when the hot wind blows from inland. But don’t worry – it isn’t that difficult.

Check out our tips on how to stay cool even when the temperature is as high as it gets.

Shop for summer

One of the best ways to keep your cool in July in Malaga is with a fan. Do as the locals do and don’t leave your hotel or self-catering accommodation without one. Check out the handmade fans for sale at one of the arts and crafts markets in Malaga or buy one from Casa Pedro Mira on Calle Especería. Men can also use fans – go for black, brown or grey for extra coolness.

Go west

Mostly flat and very compact, Malaga makes a great city for walking and in July, we recommend the tour to the western seafront. It has one of the best seafront promenades on the Costa del Sol with more than enough room for pedestrians, cyclists and skaters. You’ll find keep-fit equipment, children’s play areas, table tennis and chess boards too. Time your walk for midday and enjoy a quick dip before a seafood and fish feast for lunch.

Check out the gardens

Fans of Guide to Malaga will know that we’re keen on getting off the beaten tourist trail. So, as one of the things to do in Malaga in July, we suggest a stroll through the Pedro Alonso and Puerta Oscura Gardens. They lie to the east of City Hall and are perfect for strolling in the shade on a July afternoon.

Get some glitz and glamour

If you’re taking a holiday on the Costa del Sol, it wouldn’t be complete with a visit to Marbella. The resort provides an interesting contrast with Malaga and makes an easy day trip. If you’ve got your own transport, drive slightly further west to Puerto Banús, one of the loveliest marinas in southern Spain and a great spot for some A-list people watching.

Take an evening stroll up high

After a long, hot day, the best time for walking is in the evening. Our top suggestion for things to do in Malaga in July is to walk up to the Gibralfaro viewing platform after 8pm to enjoy the evening sunset over the city. It’s still a tough climb, but you’ll probably have a sea breeze to cool you down and the views will be more than worth it.

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