Malaga City
BEST BEACH
For those that don’t mind jumping in the car, the nearby seaside resort of Nerja offers sandy coves, and magnificent views up and down the coast. Sheltered by the impressive Sierra de Almijara Mountain range, Nerja offers more than 9km of beaches, with something for everyone..
BEST ART AND CULTURE
Malaga is actively campaigning for the title European Cultural Capital 2016, and it’s easy to see why it might win. The Alcazaba is arguably the most important historic monument in Malaga and a must see attraction. With its series of stone walls, Moorish archways, winding corridors, rose gardens and ancient irrigation channels, it is definitely one of Southern Spain’s most iconic sites. Don’t miss it. Malaga is also the birthplace of Pablo Picasso and no visit to Malaga would be complete without a visit to the Museo Picassa Malaga which has extensive archives and insights in to the artist’s prolific life.
BEST AREA FOR NIGHTLIFE
To enjoy the atmosphere of the city its best, visitors should embark on an evening of bar-hopping and take pleasure in the wonderfully inexpensive way to sample a large variety of local tapas, mixed with some great Spanish wines.
A popular spot is the Tapeo de Cevantes, which provides a fantastic bustling atmosphere and some delicious tapas. Alternatively live music venue Onda Passadena (Calle Gomez Pallete) has regular flamenco shows and offers a night to remember. The best time to visit Malaga City is the third week in August, which is when the town is taken over for the ‘summer festival’ or ‘Feria de Malaga’) and is said to be the biggest festival in Anadlucia. It is also the best time to see bullfighting.
BEST ACTIVITIES/SPORT
The local water park, Parque Acuatico Mijas is about half an hours drive from Malaga and offers a great day out for families. Alternatively head to the nearby beaches for a unrivalled selection of watersports. If you’re staying in town, visit the Park of Málaga (parque de Málaga), a botanical garden founded in 1876, which makes a pleasant jumping point for exploring the local historic streets. Important historic buildings, include the town hall (Ayuntamiento), and the customs palace (Palacio de la Aduana).
CHOICE PICK
El Palo, to the east of the city is a typical fisherman’s village and the place to go for that veritable ‘catch of the day’. El Palo offers visitors the opportunity to take in an authentic coastal atmosphere and enjoy good quality and great value dining.
British Airways offer flights to Malaga from £75 pp (one way). Terms and conditions apply. See ba.com/cityoffer for details.