Getting ready for your stay
Essential tips and practical information to help you prepare for your holiday
on the Costa del Sol
Planning a trip to Málaga? Whether you’re coming for the beaches, culture, or food, knowing a few practical details will make your stay smoother. Here’s everything you need to know before you go. From visas and currency to local transport and healthcare.
Best time to visit
Málaga is one of Spain’s sunniest cities, offering a welcoming climate throughout the year. The best time to visit is during spring, from March to May, and autumn, between September and November. These seasons bring mild, comfortable temperatures that are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities, while avoiding the heavy crowds of the summer months. Summer in Málaga can be very hot, which is perfect if your main focus is enjoying the beaches, though you should expect busier streets and higher accommodation prices. Winter, on the other hand, is cooler but still pleasantly mild compared to much of Europe, making it a good option for those seeking a quieter trip.
Travel Essentials
Passport & visa
For practical travel details, visitors from the EU and Schengen Area do not need a visa to enter Spain for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Travelers from outside the EU should check visa requirements before departure to ensure they meet entry regulations. The official currency is the Euro (€), and while credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, it is useful to carry some cash for small purchases, taxis, or local markets.
General information
Spanish is the official language, although English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, and shops across the city. Learning a few words of Spanish will enrich your travel experience and is often appreciated by locals. Málaga operates on Central European Time (CET), which is UTC+1, shifting to UTC+2 during the summer months. Spain uses type C and type F plugs, with a standard voltage of 230V, so make sure to bring an adapter if your devices use a different plug type.
Transportation
Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) is the main gateway to the region, located only 8 kilometres from the city centre and offering both domestic and international flights. From the airport, you can reach the city by train, bus, or taxi. The Cercanías commuter train links Málaga with nearby towns such as Torremolinos, Benalmádena, and Fuengirola, while the EMT bus network and two metro lines provide efficient connections within the city itself. Taxis are metered and easy to find at designated ranks, and ride-hailing apps such as Cabify are also available. Once in the centre, Málaga is very walkable, with most sights located within a short distance
Mobile phone network
Staying connected is simple. Visitors from EU countries benefit from the “Roam Like at Home” policy, which means no additional roaming charges apply. Travellers from outside the EU may find it convenient to purchase a local SIM card or order an eSIM online before arrival for easy connectivity.
Local SIM cards are available from major providers such as Movistar, Vodafone, Orange, and Yoigo, all of which offer prepaid plans and can be found at the airport or in shops across the city.
Alternatively, travelers can now order an eSIM directly from Spanish providers such as Lycamobile, Simyo, Lebara, or Tu eSIM.
How to order an eSIM:
Choose your preferred plan (tariff)
Enter your email address
Complete payment
Register your passport details
Receive a QR code via email to activate your eSIM instantly
Useful links:
Free Wi-Fi can also be found in many cafés, hotels, and public spaces throughout Málaga.
Rent a car
While Málaga has excellent public transport, renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. You can reach hidden beaches, white villages, and mountain roads that buses don’t cover, or head straight to a golf course, water sports centre, or countryside activity without hassle. Driving also lets you combine more destinations in a single day. And what better way to enjoy the sunshine than cruising the coast in a convertible with the top down?
You can book your car directly with us, making the process quick and hassle-free. We offer a premium car rental service with the option of delivery, so your vehicle can be brought straight to you — giving you more time to enjoy your holiday and less time dealing with logistics.
Healthcare
In terms of health and safety, Málaga has both public hospitals and private clinics with high standards of care. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) can be used by EU citizens, but comprehensive travel insurance is recommended for all visitors. In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Pharmacies, easily recognised by the green cross sign, are spread throughout the city and generally open from morning to evening with a midday break. At least one pharmacy operates 24 hours on a rotating basis. You can consult them HERE, the most known in the city centre is “Pharmacy Caffarena” in Alameda Principal, 2.
Shopping
Malaga offers diverse shopping opportunities, including designer boutiques, department stores, markets, and souvenir shops. VAT (Value Added Tax) is included in the prices displayed, and tax-free shopping is available for non-EU residents on eligible purchases.
Payments are straightforward, with cards accepted almost everywhere and ATMs readily available. Tipping is not compulsory in Spain, though it is common to leave a small amount as a gesture of appreciation — usually rounding up the bill or leaving around five to ten percent in restaurants.
Explore more with REMS
Now that you know the essentials, why not dive deeper into planning your trip? Our prepared Itineraries are designed to help you make the most of your time in Málaga and the Costa del Sol whether you want a cultural weekend, a food-focused getaway, or a day trip along the coast. And if you prefer to explore at your own pace, you can check out our curated guide, packed with the best tips on sights & culture, gastronomy, entertainment, sea & wellness, and water sports & outdoor activities.