Malaga
This thousand-year-old Andalusian city offers a perfect combination of culture, sunshine and beaches. Over the centuries it has been home to many civilisations, not least the 800 years of Arab rule after the Umayyad conquest. High-speed trains (AVE) run between Malaga and Madrid. The journey takes about two and a half hours.
It’s right on the Costa del Sol, so you can enjoy its beaches and explore its seafront walks and the port, which is an integral part of the city.
Malaga is a frequent destination for cruise ships. But it also offers interesting buildings to visit, such as the Alcazaba, Gibralfaro castle, and the Roman theatre, and several important museums, especially the new Picasso museum, honouring one of Malaga’s native sons.
landmarks THAT CANNOT BE MISSED
Don't miss
Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Castle: Two great monuments that date from the Arab occupation. The Alcazaba was the palace and fortress of the Islamic rulers of the city, and the castle was built to protect it. They both offer great views of Malaga and the sea.
Cathedral: Known as 'La Manquita' (the amputee) for its missing tower, it was commissioned by the Catholic Monarchs.
Roman theatre: From the time of Augustus, it was hidden underground for centuries.
Picasso’s Malaga: A tour takes place in the house where the painter was born, the Picasso Museum and the church where he was baptised.
Interesting museums: As well as the Picasso, Malaga boasts around thirty museums. They include the Carmen Thyssen, the Centre Pompidou Malaga and the St Petersburg Russian Museum Collection.
Excursions from Malaga: You can take a day trip to the stunning town of Ronda, or make the most of the Costa del Sol by visiting the famous beach resorts of Torremolinos, Benalmádena, Fuengirola, Marbella or Estepona.
Shopping
Malaga is also an excellent spot for shopping. There are over 1000 shops in the historic city centre, with the most famous designers on the iconic Calle Larios. It you are looking for something traditional, you’ll love its crafts. Pottery, for example, would make for a good souvenir, as Malaga has been famous for gilded ceramics since the Islamic period.
Mosques
The main mosque of Malaga is in the Andalusí Cultural Centre, at 3, Calle Ingeniero de la Torre Acosta. It can hold 1000 people.
