The Perfect 2-Day Malaga Itinerary - The Heartbeat of Andalusia
Updated: May 12
This post includes affiliate links. If you choose to make a purchase through these links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you!
I am aware that Malaga isn't a place to run through in a day, however we didn't have the liberty to spend a week here leisurely enjoying the sandy beaches to ourselves because our idea was to do a road trip through Andalusia. However having spent a day in Malaga, we are sure to come back again, the next time fully armed to spend a week here, leisurely soaking ourselves in the sun and digging my toes in the silky sand of its wonderful beaches.
Agenda: The Perfect 2-Day Malaga Itinerary - The Heartbeat of Andalusia Why Malaga? How to get to Malaga? Where to stay in Malaga? Things to see in Malaga Day 1: Immerse in the Authentic Atmosphere of Malaga Calle Larios La Manquita (Malaga Cathedral) The Centro Cultural Fundación Unicaja de Málaga Mercado Central de Atarazanas (Atarazanas Market) Playa de la Malagueta (Malagueta Beach) Cultural food exploration at Casa Lola Day 2: Explore the historical landmarks of Malaga Museo Picasso Málaga The Roman Theatre of Malaga The Moorish Alcazaba of Malaga Traditional Wine Tasting at Antigua Casa de Guardia Final Thoughts |
Why Malaga?
If you were a traveller like me, my dream holiday checklist would read like a whimsical blend of gorgeous sunshine, sandy beaches, shopping extravaganzas, artistic escapades, historical wonders, delightful local cuisine and wine, a dash of adventure, all topped off with a vibrant nightlife scene. Essentially, I'm on the lookout for a place that effortlessly caters to my every whim and fancy, making it a round-the-clock haven of enjoyment. Ambitious? Perhaps. But hey, a traveler can dream, right?
And perhaps that is why God invented Malaga with a dose of beauty and nature, just so humanity could collectively recognise it as the pinnacle of tourist perfection. Situated in the southeastern part of Spain within the autonomous community of Andalusia, Malaga is situated on the Mediterranean's Costa del Sol, also known as the Coast of the Sun. It boasts a radiant coastline, cultural treasures, vibrant markets, renowned local wines and luxurious amenities. My 2-Day Malaga Itinerary will cover all of mine and your dream holiday checklist. So gear up!
How to get to Malaga?
The Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport stands as a global gateway, offering direct flights for travellers from many countries in EU and select other countries. While for travellers from other continents, there are 1 and 2-stop flights to Malaga. Serving as a central hub for train travel, María Zambrano Station enhances accessibility within Spain providing the experience of train travel to Malaga. Additionally, there are buses that ply between cities and towns to and from Malaga. The allure of Andalusian cruises adds another dimension to the travel experience, with Malaga's ports welcoming occasional arrivals of cruise ships for maritime enthusiasts.
For those opting to travel by car, parking in Malaga poses no challenge. Numerous parking garages and car parks offer convenient options for day trips or extended stays. Our choice was the Parking Plaza de la Marina, strategically positioned just a 5-minute stroll from the bustling Calle Marques de Larios, the city's main shopping street—a highly recommended garage for day-trippers. Another viable option is Parking Arriola, a mere 4-minute walk to Calle Larios and a 1-minute jaunt to the Atarazanas Central Market. If your accommodations align with renowned hotels like Ibis Budget, Novotel Suites, or Hotel MH Malaga, the Indigo Mena car park emerges as the optimal choice, situated next to these hotels and in close proximity to Malaga's city center (a brisk 10-15 minute walk).
Where to stay in Malaga?
Malaga is known to cater to tourists who love to come for holidays with their families for a week or two or more, inviting them to unwind on its pristine beaches for a week or more. Accommodations, ranging from opulent resorts with all-inclusive amenities such as meals, pools, entertainment, multi-cuisine restaurants and beach access, to budget-friendly options, cater to the diverse preferences of tourists. There are several chains such as RIU Hotels & Resorts, Meliá Hotels & Resorts, Barceló Hotels & Resorts, NH Hotels, Curio Collection by Hilton that make the cut.
For pure luxury, Palacio Solecio (luxury hotel set in a historic palace) or Gran Hotel Miramar GL (lavish accommodations and exquisite dining options) would be my recommendations.
For art and culture enthusiasts exploring Malaga's historic sites, food connoisseurs savouring local cuisine, and adventure seekers eager to experience the vibrant nightlife, accommodations closer to these sites and amenities would be preferable, such as:
Hotels - Petit Palace Plaza Malaga (close proximity to the city's attractions), Vincci Larios Diez (prime location on Calle Larios, one of Malaga's main shopping streets), Vinci Selección Posada de Patio (incorporates the remains of Malaga's ancient city wall within its architecture)
Hostels - TOC Hostel Malaga (for budget-conscious travelers), Malaga Stop Hostel AB (for backpackers and solo travelers), La Moraga de Poniente Malaga Hostel (travelers looking for a beach vibe and a laid-back atmosphere while still being close to Malaga's attractions)
Apartments - Hotel Larios Malaga, Hotel Apartamentos Bajondillo (beachfront apartments), Apartamentos Libere Malaga Teatro Romano (central location near the Teatro Romano)
Things to see in Malaga
Day 1: Immerse in the Authentic Atmosphere of Malaga
In my view, the most effective way to explore any city is to walk and, secondly, to fully engage in the genuine atmosphere of the city. Stroll through the streets, discover the markets for fresh produce and flea markets, support local businesses, savour local cuisine, engage with the populace for insights, join tours, and relish the sensation of the open air on your face. And while you do all of this in Malaga, do not forget to check out the traditional Andalusian windows known as Rejas and the Moorish inspired arched windows. So gorgeous I say!
Calle Larios
So, my adventure in Malaga was nothing short of amazing! After a leisurely breakfast and swim at the resort, our first stop was at heart of the city of Malaga - Calle Larios. This street, running from Alameda Principal to Plaza de la Constitución, is the fanciest place to live in Málaga right at the city center. Ranking as the eleventh most expensive street across Spain, it stands out as an iconic destination in Malaga. This pedestrian street hosts renowned establishments, including fashion boutiques, shoe and accessory stores, confectioneries, and restaurants, exuding an air of opulence reminiscent of Dubai's glamour. And you can even see it in the way the local populace are dressed up here.
We were here during the festive period leading to NYE and whole street was adorned with dazzling light displays. What was most interesting for the kids and us too were the extraordinary street performers, showcasing exceptional creativity and talent, unlike anything we had witnessed before.
La Manquita (Malaga Cathedral)
After entertaining ourselves with busker performances and the very vibrant vibe of Calle Larios, we turned right onto Calle Strachan and walked straight 4 minutes to Malaga's most iconic architectural gem - Cathedral of the Incarnation of Malaga, or as the locals call it, La Manquita. The architecture blew my mind - Its architectural style combines the grandeur of the Renaissance-Baroque era with a Gothic influence.
If you have the time, I highly recommend taking a guided tour of the interiors of the cathedral. Highlights within include the Main Chapel, the splendid painting of the Virgin of the Rosary by Alonso Cano, the ancient Gothic altarpiece of Santa Bárbara, and the revered Virgen de los Reyes all of which are must-see attractions. And climbing to the top gave me these incredible views of the historic old town that I won't forget. Get your skip-the-line Malaga Cathedral tickets here. The tour commences at 10:15 AM and lasts for 1.5 hours.
Address: Catedral de la Encarnación de Málaga, C. Molina Lario, 9, Distrito Centro, 29015 Málaga, Spain
Timings: Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM; Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Sunday: 2:00 PM– 6:00 PM.
The Centro Cultural Fundación Unicaja de Málaga
Right next to it, I checked out The Centro Cultural Fundación Unicaja de Málaga, a cultural hub with this stunning orange and yellow facade that added a cool vibe to the scene. The center now holds exhibitions by top-level artists. You can explore the distinguished section of the Episcopal Palace, featuring a porticoed courtyard, an imperial staircase, chapel, and a private garden.
Address: Plaza Obispo, 6, Distrito Centro, 29015 Málaga, Spain
Timings: Mon to Sat - 10 AM to 2 PM and 4 PM to 7 PM; Sun - 10 AM to 2 PM
Mercado Central de Atarazanas (Atarazanas Market)
Our next stop from here was the Atarazanas Market. We headed back to Calle Larios and walked Calle Atarazanas to the local market. It will surprise you but the city's best tapas is sold here. Many of the eateries here freshly cook their tapas and you can indulge in various flavours. Being super famished by now, we made a beeline for the tapas counter to satisfy our hunger. After conquering the voracious appetite, it was time to immerse ourselves in the local atmosphere and live life as the locals do. In Malaga, with tourists dominating the scene and everything seemingly tailored for their luxury, it's easy to assume that the city revolves solely around catering to visitors. However, you'll be pleasantly surprised to discover areas where locals flourish, away from the bustling tourist hubs. One such place is this local market Mercado Central de Atarazanas, where Malaga's residents gather daily to purchase fresh produce. The Atarazanas market operates from Monday to Saturday, opening at 8 am and closing around 2-3 pm, varying for each stall. The Tapas, History and Local customs tour is so worth it. Book it here!
Helpful Tip: Be mindful of the closing time as most catering pull their shutters down by 2:30 pm, so be there well in time to enjoy your meal leisurely.
Address: Mercado Central de Atarazanas, C. Atarazanas, 10, Distrito Centro, 29005 Málaga, Spain
Timings: Mon to Sat - 8 AM to 3 PM; Sundays closed.
Playa de la Malagueta (Malagueta Beach)
With the entire afternoon at our disposal, we deliberated between exploring the Roman theatre and Alcazaba or opting for a beach day. Embracing the local Spanish tradition of a siesta after lunch, we headed straight to the nearest beach. If you prefer to bypass the mentioned attractions and embrace the local beach atmosphere, that too is a good idea. Playa de la Malagueta in Malaga is the ideal destination. It's conveniently reachable by foot (20 minutes). The walk to the beach is surreal, along the beautiful port promenade lined with palm trees, fountains, sculptures & restaurants. The shoreline of this beach is 1.4 kms long and houses some excellent beach bars (Chiringuito). The beach is also known for its iconic Malagueta sign, providing a picturesque backdrop for visitors. For €14, you can secure a palapa and two beach chairs. Should you desire, various vendors are available, offering services like massages, mojitos, and more.
If you dont enjoy the crowds and the chaos of a busy toruistic beach, head to Playa Peñón del Cuervo. Renowned for the prominent peñon (rock) dividing the 450-meter beach, this beach is devoid of beach bars and offers a zen experience. However, this beach needs to be accessed by transport.
Helpful Tip: During summer, the beach tends to get busier in the afternoons, so I recommend visiting in the morning for a more tranquil experience before exploring the city centre.
Address: Paseo Marítimo Pablo Ruiz Picasso, 29016, Málaga, Spain
Cultural food exploration at Casa Lola
After a leisurely afternoon at the beach, crafting sandcastles with the kids and basking in the winter sun, our appetite led us to our appetite led us to Casa Lola for dinner. While strolling through the center earlier in the day, I had noticed the intriguing decor of this restaurant. I immediately looked it up only to notice it had a whopping its 12K+ Google reviews. This small local establishment in a typical Spanish medieval tavern setting piqued my interest. I can vouch for the food, great seafood and salad, and amazing burgers and the vibe is just unreal. However, be rest assured there will be a long waiting, the service is questionable and it can get really loud. Maybe, take it with a pinch of salt just for the food and ambience? And reservation is a MUST!
Address: Casa Lola, C. Granada, 46, Distrito Centro, 29015 Málaga, Spain
Timings: Open Everyday 12:30 PM to 12 AM
Day 2: Explore the historical landmarks of Malaga
Exploring the artistic and historical buildings in Malaga was a delightful experience for me. I found more satisfaction in immersing myself in the authentic and less commercialised charm of this historic city. The city, where Pablo Picasso was born, boasts a vibrant old town adorned with splendid historic structures.
Museo Picasso Málaga
Being Pablo Picasso's hometown, I couldn't miss the Museo Picasso Málaga in the historic old town. It's open even during the festive season, and exploring the life and art of the legendary painter was something else. We decided to do this first thing in the morning after a leisurely breakfast, as you need 2-3 hours for this visit. The museum is located in the historic Condes de Buenavista palace, recognised as the most frequented art gallery in Andalusia. Here you can see 285 of Picasso's works that cover various styles and techniques that provides insight into Picasso's artistic evolution. Kiu was quite intrigued with the chronological order of Picasso's collection. To know more about his life, there is another museum in the same city - the Museo Casa Natal de Picasso, which is in the house where Picasso lived as a child. It shows his family life, belongings, and artworks.
Address: Picasso Museum Málaga, Palacio de Buenavista, C. San Agustín, 8, Distrito Centro, 29015 Málaga, Spain Timings: Open Everyday from 10 AM to 6 PM
The Roman Theatre of Malaga
After a sumptuous Tapas lunch, we set off to the the Roman Theatre of Malaga. The theatre is located in the heart of the historical centre of the city, at the base of the Alcazabilla de Malaga fort. The admission to it is free of charge. Unless you want to literally touch the history of the Teatro Romano, you can also view it from the platform. But trust me, you want to explore it because the history is just amazing. The Theatre was ordered to be built during the reign of the Emperor Augustus in the 1st century AD. Unearthed in 1951 after being buried for centuries, we were able to stroll through the remnants of the ancient Roman theatre, featuring the stage structure, orchestra, and seats for spectators.
Address: Teatro Romano de Málaga, C/ Alcazabilla, s/n, Distrito Centro, 29015 Málaga, Spain
Timings:
April to October: Tue to Sat - 9 AM – 8 PM; Sun - 9 AM to 6 PM; Mondays closed.
November to March: Tue to Sat - 10 AM – 6 PM; Sun - 10 AM to 4 PM; Mondays closed.
The Moorish Alcazaba of Malaga
The Alcazaba of Malaga is one of the most emblematic monuments of the capital of the Costa del Sol and, without a doubt, it is worth a visit if you have more time in hand. During the Islamic period, the Alcazaba was initially built as a fortification, and later became a palace-fortress, and the seat of the city government. The Alcazaba of Malaga is linked to the Gibralfaro Castle by a long line of walls known as La Coracha. It is situated close to the Roman Theater and faces the Customs building, thus the Alcazaba represents a mix of Roman, Arab, and Renaissance influences packed into a small area, making it a unique historical site. You will need approximately one hour and a half to visit this venue and the entry closes 45 minutes prior to the closing time.
Beware: Be cautious of pickpocketing in the vicinity, especially near Teatro Romano. Avoid isolating yourself during a self-guided walking tour.
Address: Calle Alcazabilla, 2, 29012, Malaga
Timings:
April to October: Tue to Sun - 9 AM – 8 PM; Mondays closed.
November to March: Tue to Sun - 10 AM – 6 PM; Mondays closed.
Traditional Wine Tasting at Antigua Casa de Guardia
After all that information was well received and processed, it was time for some Malaga wine! We visited this rustic wine cellar with its large wooden barrels, offering the finest locally produced Malaga wines. Malaga knows its wine! And there is not better place in all of Malaga, than Antigua Casa de Guardia. Antigua Casa de Guardia is a charming wine cellar with a rustic appeal, devoid of pretentiousness, yet bustling with activity. Malaga wines flow directly from the barrels, and the prices are casually written in front of you at the bar. It was quite crowded upon our arrival, making it impractical to bring the kids inside. Instead, we opted to grab a drink and enjoy it outdoors, joining the lively crowd of fellow visitors. The cellar boasts an impressive selection of fortified wines, including the famed Moscatel (Muscat) wines, known for their floral and fruity notes, as well as Spanish sherry. I highly recommend savoring the aromatic Spanish Vermouth or a sweet Vino de Málaga alongside a plate of scallops or snails.
Address: Antigua Casa de Guardia, Alameda Principal, 18, Distrito Centro, 29005 Málaga, SpainTimings: Mon to Thu - 11 AM to 10 PM; Fri and Sat - 11AM to 10 PM; Sun - 11 AM to 3 PM
Final Thoughts
Malaga captivated me with its vibrant atmosphere, reminiscent of my seven years in Dubai. While the city's emphasis on shopping and tourism may seem a bit extravagant compared to other Andalusian cities, Malaga left a lasting impression. It offers everything a tourist destination should, making it ideal for an extended vacation. I am definitely planning to return with my family, not just for two days but for a full two weeks, as the beaches and pampered treatment at the resort truly stole my heart!
If you found my blog post enjoyable, consider giving it a thumbs-up and subscribing for future updates. Don't hesitate to share it with your friends and family as well. If you have any questions or desire further insights into Malaga or any other travel-related topics, please don't hesitate to reach out. Wishing you safe and enchanting adventures, much like the charm of Andalusia!
Good to know you can do quite a bit in 2 days in Malaga. :)