Malaga has been in the news lately. For one, Citi opened a hub of sorts for its junior staff in this coastal beauty, luring them with an offer that was hard to refuse. Endless sunny days in Malaga, with no work on weekends. And even though the salaries are lower, more than 3,000 people applied for the job on the spot!
This speaks for the many charms that Malaga, Spain’s sixth largest city, holds for tourists and people across the world.
Malaga is known worldwide for its gorgeous beaches, vibrant culture and delicious food.
Finding a spot in the sand and the sun
Malagueta beach is one of the most popular beaches in Malaga, but there are many others too. You may need to travel a bit further (to the western side of the city) to land at the Playa de la Misericordia. Many travellers review this beach as being less crowded, cleaner and equipped with plenty of stalls selling food and drinks. Alternatively, you can also head to Fuengirola – apart from its beach and the Mediterranean seascape, there’s also the castle. Castillo Sohail is a 10th-century castle perched on a hilltop. The entry to the castle is free, and there’s also a riverside recreational area. So perfect if you want to take a siesta in the sun or breeze through a an easy read!
A budget-friendly city
Malaga offers a complete family holiday – on a budget! It provides a wide variety of things that one can do for free. Yes, you heard it right. While there is an entrance fee to take an inside tour of certain monuments, there are also plenty of places where it doesn’t cost a penny. Some museums, like the one on Pablo Picasso, is free to visit on Sundays, after 3 pm. Plus, with so many resorts, holidaymakers can choose something that fits their budget and requirements.
Such a feast!
Sardines on skewers, salads made of oranges, olives, fish and potatoes. Traditional sandwiches, soups and tapas. You simply can’t go wrong in Malaga when it comes to eating and drinking. You can wake up to a hearty Andalusian breakfast, have a lovely salad for lunch, and start your evening with tapas. If you love what’s on your plate, you can also book a cooking class.
Go ‘Soho’
Private galleries, graffiti by internationally famous graffiti artists, independent shops, gourmet restaurants — The Soho in Malaga is all this and more. It is a neighbourhood that you shouldn’t miss especially if you like the a bit of arts and culture.
Find a handy guide to more about Soho, especially its art scene here.
Try a yoga retreat in Malaga
Many tourists want to master the art of doing nothing and reap its many rewards while they are in Malaga. With a nice towel or a deckchair, and their faithful suntan lotion, a lot of holidaymakers are just content to be on the beach. But if you fancy something different, Malaga offers yoga retreats as well. They come with meditation classes, healthy but delicious cuisines and have you refreshed and rejuvenated in no time.
Coming with kids?
If you are coming with kids, don’t fret. There are things you can do, day trips you can plan. For one, do consider the Tivoli World amusement park. It’s perfect for a family day out with rides that are for both children and adults. You can also do a day trip to Benalmádena for the Selwo Marina Delfinarium. Nothing like a friendly and curious dolphin to make a child’s day, isn’t it?
Where can you stay in Malaga?
Exciting new property — The H10 Croma Malaga, a new 4-star, 138-bedroom property located in the heart of Malaga city centre features a variety of restaurants, bars, rooftop swimming pool, a gym and views of the Andalusian coastline. The property has only recently opened its doors to guests, so you will get everything that is brand-new and sparkling!
Budget-friendly family stay — The Holiday World in Malaga is great, especially if you’re travelling with children. They have a beach club, a summer camp for children, and you could also reserve a room with jacuzzi (if you want to relax whilst the kids are at an activity!). The beach club is not just a water park though. There are seven different zones for various activities and age groups and also a a themed space where children can have fun along with their parents.
A wee bit of luxury — Gran Hotel Miramar GL is a five-star hotel in Malaga with spacious rooms, a sun terrace, spa and two outdoor pools. It also boasts of a rich history — it was used as a hospital in Spain during the Civil War. Plus it is a beachfront property so you are just a breeze away from the beach! They also provide a childcare service, so make sure to take full advantage of that.
You can also look up the Kempinski Hotel Bahía Beach Resort & Spa if luxury is at the top of your mind. Book one of their sea-facing rooms with a terrace, and you won’t be disappointed. You can try out a spa treatment or head to their tennis courts. Personally, I would laze at the terrace with a holiday read and a glass of gin, but go for whatever your heart fancies!
Do you have a favourite memory of Malaga or an insider tip that you want to share with us? If so, do write in. We’re always up for hearing your travel stories.