Sights & culture
Step into history, feel the passion of flamenco and lose yourself in the beauty of Andalusian landscapes.
What to see in Málaga
Landmarks & historic sites
Alcazaba & Gibralfaro Castle
Explore Málaga’s Moorish heritage with a visit to the Alcazaba, an 11th-century fortress of lush courtyards and defensive walls. Then climb up (or take a bus) to Gibralfaro Castle for sweeping views over the city, port, and mountains — especially stunning at sunset.
Málaga Cathedral (La Manquita)
Nicknamed “the one-armed lady” because one tower was never finished, this Renaissance cathedral is a city icon with an impressive interior.
Plaza de Toros La Malagueta (Bullring)
This 19th-century bullring is one of Málaga’s cultural landmarks. Inside, the Bullfighting Museum showcases costumes, posters, and history, while today the arena also hosts concerts, festivals, and events.
Atarazanas Market
A vibrant central market with a striking stained-glass window. Perfect for tasting fresh local produce.
Plaza de la Constitución & Plaza de la Merced
Historic squares filled with life, terraces, and cultural history. 🍹Plaza de la Merced is where Picasso was born.
Flamenco shows
Teatro Flamenco Málaga Club
An unforgettable experience where dance, guitar and singing intertwine to create a flamenco show that transcends borders
Calle Lazcano, 5
Kelipe Centro de Arte Flamenco
An intimate venue offering passionate, authentic flamenco performances that immerse you in Andalusian tradition.
C. Muro de Puerta Nueva 10
Peña Juan Breva
One of Spain’s oldest flamenco clubs, showcasing traditional singing, guitar, and dance in a historic setting.
C. Ramón Franquelo, 4
Tablao Alegría
A lively spot by the port where you can enjoy dinner and drinks while watching professional flamenco artists.
C. Vélez Málaga 6
Art
Tickets from 13€
Museo Picasso Malaga
Located in Picasso’s birthplace city, this museum holds over 200 works by the artist, tracing his creative journey. Set inside a restored palace, it’s one of Málaga’s most visited attractions.
Palacio de Buenavista Calle San Agustín, 8
Centre Pompidou Málaga
Easily spotted by its colorful cube at the port, this is the first Pompidou outside France. It showcases modern and contemporary art, from bold installations to temporary exhibitions.
Museo Carmen Thyssen
Focused on 19th-century Spanish painting, especially Andalusian landscapes and traditions. A must for understanding Málaga’s cultural and artistic heritage.
Plaza Carmen Thyssen, C. Compañia 10
Automobile & Fashion Museum
A quirky and unique collection combining classic cars with haute couture. Visitors can see vintage Rolls-Royces next to Chanel gowns — a surprising mix of style and history.
Sor Teresa Prat Avenue, 15
Teatro Cervantes
Málaga’s main theatre, built in the 19th century, hosting opera, concerts, flamenco, and the annual Málaga Film Festival. A cultural landmark in the city.
C. Ramos Marín, Distrito Centro
Nature & hikes
Málaga Mountains Natural Park (Montes de Málaga)
A protected natural area just outside the city, with hiking trails, picnic spots, and viewpoints. Known for pine forests, wildlife, and rustic ventas (traditional countryside restaurants).
Caminito del Rey
A breathtaking hiking trail that winds through the rugged Guadalhorce Gorge, surrounded by dramatic cliffs, rivers, and unique rock formations. Entry is by timed ticket, and reservations must be made well in advance as tickets often sell out quickly.
Puerto de las Atalayas, 58km from Málaga
Los Montes Wine Route
A rural escape into Málaga’s hills, combining vineyard visits, wine tastings, and countryside walks. A great way to experience local flavors and landscapes beyond the city.
Paseo del Parque
A lush, botanical-style promenade in the city centre, lined with exotic plants, fountains, and sculptures. Perfect for a peaceful stroll between the historic centre and the port.
Local events
December
Málaga Marathon
A popular international marathon that runs along the coast and through the historic centre.
What to see in Torremolinos
Landmarks & historic sites
Free entry
Casa de los Navajas Torremolinos
Step inside a Neo-Mudéjar mansion with ornate interiors and sweeping sea views.
C. Antonio Navajas Ruiz – Bajondillo, Torremolinos
Flamenco shows
Pepe López Flamenco Show
Step into one of Andalusia’s most legendary tablaos, where fiery dance and soulful guitar create an unforgettable night.
Torremolinos
Art
Casa de los Navajas
Step into a Neo-Mudéjar mansion by the sea that now hosts art exhibitions in its ornate halls.
C. Antonio Navajas Ruiz – Bajondillo, Torremolinos
Nature & hikes
Molino de Inca Botanical Garden
Wander through lush gardens of exotic plants, fountains, and historic water mills in a peaceful oasis.
Torremolinos
Local events
early October
Feria de San Miguel
A mix of daytime festivities, music, dance, food, and local culture.
Torremolinos
What to see in Benalmádena
Landmarks & historic sites
Tickets from €3
Colomares Castle Benalmádena
Wander a fairytale monument dedicated to Columbus, blending castles, ships, and cathedrals in stone.
Finca La Carraca.
Ctra. Costa del Sol S/N, Benalmádena
Benalmádena Puerto
Stroll through a whitewashed Andalusian village of cobbled streets and flower-filled balconies.
Benalmádena
Flamenco shows
Peña Flamenco Benalmádena
An intimate venue offering passionate, authentic flamenco performances that immerse you in Andalusian tradition.
Avenida del Gamonal 12, Benalmádena
Art
Pre-Columbian Art Museum Benalmádena
Discover an unexpected collection of Mayan and Aztec treasures in the heart of a whitewashed Andalusian village.
Plaza de las Tres Culturas, Benalmádena
Nature & hikes
Cable Car to Monte Calamorro
Glide up the mountain for breathtaking coastal views and hiking trails surrounded by nature.
Benalmádena
Senda Litoral (Coastal Path)
Walk or cycle a scenic wooden boardwalk that hugs the coastline with endless sea views.
Málaga - Fuengirola
What to see in Fuengirola
Landmarks & historic sites
Sohail Castle Fuengirola
Explore a seaside Moorish fortress that now hosts open-air concerts and cultural events.
Fuengirola
Flamenco shows
Tipi Tapa Fuengirola
Dine on tapas and Andalusian specialties in a lively setting where flamenco shows burst with color, rhythm, and passion.
Calle Malaga, 4, Fuengirola
Art
Bioparc Fuengirola
Explore a lush, immersive zoo where animals live in recreated natural habitats designed for conservation.
C. Camilo José Cela, 6, y 8, Fuengirola
Nature & hikes
Senda Litoral (Coastal Path)
Walk or cycle a scenic wooden boardwalk that hugs the coastline with endless sea views.
Málaga - Fuengirola
Local events
December - January
Christmas Market & Festivities
Plaza de la Constitución transforms with Christmas lights, artisan stalls, ice skating, and concerts.
Plaza de la Constitución
February
Carnaval de Fuengirola
Colourful parades, costumes, and lively celebrations before Lent, bringing music and dance to the streets.
What to see in Mijas
Landmarks & historic sites
La Cala de Mijas
A former fishing village turned seaside gem, La Cala de Mijas charms with sandy beaches, tapas bars, and its historic coastal watchtower.
La Plaza de España
Ermita de la Virgen de la Peña
A hermitage carved into the rock, dedicated to the patron saint of Mijas, offering both spiritual charm and stunning panoramic views over the coast.
Av. del Compás, 7, Mijas
Watchtowers of La Cala de Mijas
Ancient defensive towers along the coast, built to guard against pirate attacks; Torreón now houses a small local museum.
Cala de Mijas
Flamenco shows
Free
Flamenco Shows in Mijas Pueblo
On Wednesdays and Saturdays at around noon, there are free performances in the square — a casual, local feel where you can catch flamenco dancers and music outdoors.
Plaza de la Constitución
La Bóveda del Flamenco
A restaurant and flamenco spot in Mijas Pueblo where you can enjoy tapas or dinner and a live flamenco show in a more relaxed, intimate setting.
Mijas Pueblo
Casa Navarra
Traditional restaurant setting with flamenco performances in the heart of the white village — good for combining culture + dining.
Mijas Pueblo
Art
Around 3€ entry
Centro de Arte Contemporáneo
A gem in Mijas Pueblo with works by Picasso, Dalí, Miró, and other Spanish masters; the permanent Picasso ceramic collection is a must-see.
CAC Mijas
Carromato de Mijas
A quirky collection of micro-artworks and curiosities (like a shrunken head, painted grains of rice, and mini sculptures) — a fun stop for families.
Av. del Compás, 22, Mijas
Nature & hikes
Pico Mijas
A challenging hike that takes you up to Pico Mijas (1,150 m) — panoramic views stretching from Málaga to Gibraltar, even Morocco on clear days.
Pico Mijas
Sendero Fuente de la Adelfa
A medium-level trail through pine forests with shaded paths, wild herbs, and great birdwatching opportunities.
La Bola Trail (Cerro del Moro)
Walk or cycle a scenic wooden boardwalk that hugs the coastline with endless sea views.
Málaga - Fuengirola
Local events
5th January
Three Kings Parade
Floats, costumes, and plenty of sweets thrown to children as the Reyes Magos arrive in the village to mark Epiphany.
What to see in Marbella
Landmarks & historic sites
Marbella Old Town
Wander through whitewashed streets and flower-filled squares where Andalusian charm comes alive.
Iglesia de la Encarnación
Step inside this 16th-century church to admire its golden altar and peaceful atmosphere.
Murallas del Castillo
Glimpse Marbella’s Moorish past in the remains of its ancient fortress walls.
Avenida del Mar
Walk a palm-lined 🌴promenade decorated with Dalí sculptures leading to the sea.
Puerto Banús Marina
Stroll along luxury yachts, designer shops, and buzzing waterfront restaurants. 🍱
Flamenco shows
Tablao Ana María
Experience an intimate flamenco performance in Marbella’s Old Town, paired with a traditional Andalusian dinner at the venue’s restaurant.
Plaza del Santo Cristo, 4
Teatro Marbella Flamenco Show
Dine on organic, farm-to-table cuisine in a beautiful Andalusian patio while enjoying an authentic flamenco show full of passion and energy
Plaza Altamirano, 3
Hotel Venues & Summer Festivals
Discover seasonal flamenco nights in Marbella’s resorts and open-air stages, adding rhythm and tradition to summer evenings. Or have a look at our Málaga guide to flamenco shows.
Art
Museo del Grabado Español Contemporáneo
Focused on Spanish printmaking, including works by Picasso, Miró, Dalí, and Tàpies.
C. Hospital Bazán
Free-entry
Ralli Museum
Free-entry museum near Puerto Banús, showcasing Latin American and European contemporary art.
Urb.coral Beach, Rio Verde, N-340
May 2026
Marbella Art Festival
Focused on 19th-century Annual event where artists exhibit in the streets of the Old Town.
Street Art in San Pedro
Colorful murals transforming walls into open-air galleries.
San Pedro, 14km from Marbella
July-August 2026
Starlite Festival
Exclusive open-air concert series in a quarry, with international artists.
C. Albinoni
Nature & hikes
La Concha Mountain
The most famous hike above Marbella, rewarding climbers with panoramic views of the coast and, on clear days, across to Morocco.
Sierra Blanca
Discover rugged mountain trails that wind through dramatic landscapes, from gentle walks to challenging climbs.
20km from Marbella
Parque de la Constitución
Relax in a hidden green oasis near the beach, with leafy gardens, fountains, and an open-air auditorium.
Marbella
Puerto de Juanar
Escape into olive groves and pine forests on scenic trails just 20 minutes from Marbella, a favorite spot for hikers and nature lovers.
Ronda
Discover a breathtaking mountain town perched above a dramatic gorge, famous for its iconic Puente Nuevo bridge, bullring, and stunning views.
1h30 by car from Marbella
Gibraltar
Cross into British territory to explore the Rock of Gibraltar, meet its playful wild monkeys, and enjoy sweeping views across to Africa.
1h by car from Marbella
Tarifa
Stand at the southernmost tip of Europe where the Mediterranean and Atlantic meet, famous for its golden beaches, surf culture, and views across to Morocco.
2h by car from Marbella
Local events
December
Starlite Festival
Marbella’s Starlite festival is a long-running international music, art, fashion, and film festival in a natural quarry setting (the “Cantera” in Nagüeles)
Inacua Centro Raqueta
