How to Spend the Perfect One Day in Málaga Itinerary

Last Updated on 23rd May 2024 by Charlotte Nadeau

This post may contain affiliate links. Please check out my privacy policy and disclosure for more information.

The lush, oceanfront city of Málaga has been attracting travellers for millennia. And if you only have a short time to explore the Spanish city, then be sure to check out this one day in Málaga itinerary in order to plan your trip!

It’s actually one of the oldest cities in the world, first founded by the Phonecians some 3,000 years ago. Since then, it’s been home to Romans and Moors, all leaving their mark on the city to create the patchwork of architectural styles and cultures that you’ll find today. 

In recent years, the Costa del Sol, which Málaga is the capital of, has supercharged as a tourist destination, with beach resorts along the coast like Marbella, Puerto Banus and Fuengirola becoming some of Europe’s most popular holiday destinations. 

But many overlook the draws of the city of Málaga. With beautiful architecture, glorious history and delicious food, it’s well worth popping here for a day when you’re on holiday in the Costa del Sol – or it’s a warm year-round warm destination that you can visit while on a wider Spain trip. 

For more Spain inspiration, be sure to check out the best hidden gems of Spain and the best Spain quotes. Otherwise, here’s exactly how to spend one day in Málaga! 

One day in Málaga itinerary

Historic castles, Andalusian tapas, traditional bathhouses… here’s how to see and do it all on a day trip to Málaga!

The Alcazaba

The Moorish Alcazaba majestically overlooks the city of Málaga and is without a doubt one of the best things to do here – in fact, it should be the first stop that you make in the city! 

Dating back to the 11th century when the Moors were occupying Andalucia, the Alcazaba was built as a fortress to defend the city. This was particularly important in Málaga, given its proximity to the sea. 

The Alcazaba has ornate detailing, with courtyards, palatial rooms and beautiful viewpoints, and it’ll take at least an hour to explore. 

If you want a full education into the history of the complex, this Alcazaba and Roman Theatre guided tour includes entrance and a knowledgeable guide who will fully detail its history and significance to the city. 

Museo Picasso Málaga 

Dedicated to the famous artist Picasso, who hailed from the city, the Museo Picasso Málaga boasts 200 works of art – including paintings, drawings and sculptures. 

Focusing on his artwork but also with exhibits about his life, this museum is a must-visit if you’re at all interested in art or Picasso – or if you want to see another side of Málaga! It’s usually busy, so expect to queue or buy your tickets in advance like the ones here.

Málaga Cathedral 

A stunning example of Renaissance architecture, Málaga Cathedral was constructed between 1528 and 1782. It was constructed on the site of a mosque which was demolished after the Moors left the city. 

For one of the best views in the city, climb up to the top of Málaga Cathedral where you can take in the surrounding architecture and far-reaching coastal vistas. For an even greater insight into Málaga Cathedral, consider booking this Skip-the-Line Malaga Cathedral Tickets with Tour.

Tapas at Mercado Central de Atarazanas

If you’re searching for a casual lunch in Málaga, head to Mercado Central de Atarazanas for tapas! 

This laid-back market is housed in a historic building that dates back to the 14th century, and has been used as a boatyard, a warehouse, an arsenal, a military hospital and a barracks  before transforming into the market that it is today!

There are plenty of stalls where you can purchase cold meats and cheeses along with other Spanish food, or head to one of the tapas restaurants to enjoy Málagan staples such as gambas (prawns), fried aubergine with honey or avocado salad. If you’re curious about learning more about the food market together with a local guide, consider booking a food tour like this one.

Antigua Casa de Guardia

If you fancy a post-lunch beverage, head to Antigua Casa de Guardia. This busy wine bar is the oldest in Málaga, and you can sample various traditional and fortified wine here at bargain prices. Don’t expect to be able to sit down, but you can guarantee a completely authentic atmosphere! 

Plaza de la Merced

A lively square in the heart of Málaga, Plaza de la Merced is one of the main squares of the city.  

It’s home to a monument to General Torrijos, a local hero who fought for democracy in the 19th century. Nowadays, the monument is a popular meeting place for locals. 

There are a few cafes lining the square, but they are generally quite overpriced. At Christmas, this is one of the best areas for lights and festivities in Málaga! 

Castillo de Gibralfaro

Looming over the whole city, Castillo de Gibralfaro was built in the 14th century to protect the Alcazaba. 

Today, the castle’s walls and towers remain open to the public, where visitors can imagine how troops used the watchtowers to look over the city and examine the waterways for enemy invasions. There’s also a small military museum at the centre. 

It’s a 25 minute uphill walk to the Castillo de Gibralfaro from the city centre, and public transport options here are limited. If you don’t fancy the hike, you may wish to get a taxi or Uber from the city centre (the drive is less than 10 minutes). You could either take another taxi or walk downhill to get back to the city centre! 

Malagueta

History lesson complete, it’s time to relax on the beach! Malagueta is the main beach of Málaga, and although it’s not quite as dreamy as the other beaches in the Mediterranean, it’s perfect for a quick swim. 

After you’ve explored Malagueta, take a stroll along Málaga harbour, where you’ll find the Centre Pompidou Málaga and various markets, restaurants and bars. 

Hammam Al Ándalus Baños Árabes

Finish a busy day of sightseeing with a dip in the Hammam Al Ándalus Baños Árabes. While these baths don’t date back to the Moorish times, they have been refurbished to reflect bathhouses during this era. 

You’ll find various pools of differing temperatures, along with treatment rooms and relaxation areas where you can enjoy delicious mint tea. It’s the ideal place to relax and unwind before checking out some of Malga’s bars and restaurants in the evening! 

You can book your ticket on Get Your Guide by clicking here. Sessions last for 1.5 hours – for this Málaga itinerary, I recommend the session at 6pm, although you could opt for an earlier or later one if desired. 

Dinner at El Pimpi

Sitting close to the Alcazaba is one of Málaga’s most famous restaurants, El Pimpi. The 40 year old restaurant is named after a character called “Pimpi”, who was a tour guide who would meet people at the boats at Málaga port and show the, around the city. 

Nowadays, El Pimpi is a popular eatery and bodega, offering to-share menus with dishes like Goat cheese and marinated salmon salad, prawn croquettes and hand-cut Iberian acorn-fed cured ham. Booking is recommended. 

Check out Málaga’s bars

After you’ve finished eating, you’ll be in the heart of the city, ready to check out some of Málaga’s best bars and dance the night away! 

One of the best budget options is 100 montaditos, a Spanish chain with beer and wine costing around two euro, and tapas (if you’re still hungry!) starting at one euro per plate. 

If you fancy something a little more upmarket, check out The Pharmacy, a speakeasy-style bar serving a range of cocktails, along with Spanish and international wine and beer. 

For dancing, Bambu is one of the most popular nightclubs in the centre of Málaga. In true Spanish style, it stays open until 4:30 am at the weekend! 

Where to stay in Málaga

If you’re looking for somewhere budget-friendly to rest your head, Málaga Lodge Guesthouse is a friendly, no-frills guesthouse with comfortable private rooms (some with a shared bathroom). Check prices and availability here.

Barcelo Málaga is located right next to the train station and is a stylish and sleek place to stay, with a delicious breakfast buffet, small rooftop swimming pool and even a slide leading from the first floor down to the lobby. Check prices and availability here.

For somewhere more luxe, Vincci Selección Posada del Patio is a five star option with huge rooms overlooking the city, a well-equipped gym and on-site swimming pool. Check prices and availability here.

How to get to Málaga

Exceptionally easy to reach, Málaga has train and bus connections to most major cities in Spain – train is more expensive, but a lot quicker, with journeys to Barcelona in the country’s northeast taking as little as 5 hours 30 minutes. 

Málaga Airport is just 8 kilometres away from the city, and it’s a sizable hub with flights to many European cities. A train runs from the airport directly to the city, taking just 15 minutes. 

How to get around Málaga

Málaga is a walkable city; if you like exploring new places on foot, you probably won’t feel a need to use public transport (apart from maybe to get to Castillo de Gibralfaro). Just be sure to pack some comfortable walking shoes!

With this being said, the Metro de Málaga connects various spots int he city centre, and there’s also a bus system. Uber also works in Málaga. 

Málaga’s often overlooked by holidaymakers in the Costa del Sol, but its historical attractions provide a refreshing change from the coastline’s endless holiday resorts. If you’re at all interested in history, architecture, wine or gastronomy, it’s well worth spending at least a day in Málaga while you’re in Andalucia!

Enjoyed reading about how to spend one day in Málaga? Pin this article now, read it again later: