Malaga
Beyond its 16 sunny beaches, this Andalusian city on the shores of the Mediterranean has a fascinating cultural side. And the birthplace of Pablo Picasso has reinvented itself in recent year, inaugurating museums for all tastes.
Malaga is a city full of historic spots, like the Alcazaba, one of the largest Arab fortresses in Andalusia, or Gibralfaro Castle, which offers the best views over the whole city. At the foot of the castle, there is a Roman theatre and an old town to stroll around. As you walk through its streets you'll find spots like the Atarazanas Market, where you can try vermouth, and monuments like the Cathedral, known as “The One-Armed” (la manquita) due to its unfinished south tower. You can’t miss visiting its roof; it is a unique experience. Here in the city of Picasso, you can visit the excellent Picasso Museum in the centre, and the home where he was born.
But Malaga doesn’t only live on its past. In recent years it has inaugurated the Carmen Thyssen Museum, the only Pompidou Centre outside France -its coloured cubes have become an icon- or the Saint Petersburg Russian Museum Collection.
And if you prefer a more underground culture, look out for the Centre for Contemporary Art, the street art on the city’s buildings, and the alternative establishments in the Soho neighbourhood.
Several things make Malaga a unique place. To start, beyond its monuments, a sunny day spent on the legendary La Malagueta urban beach is a must. Anyone who wants to delve into traditional flavours should visit the seaside neighbourhood of Pedregalejo and try the typical grilled sardines on skewers.
Back to La Malagueta, nearby you can find Muelle 1, a port promenade full of shops and restaurants that is perfect for a sunset stroll to La Farola, a lighthouse that is a symbol of the city.
Another emblem of Malaga? Without a doubt, it's pedestrian street Marqués de Larios, a busy thoroughfare decorated with flowers and which you must visit at least once on a trip to Malaga. At night, this area and its nearby streets become the perfect spot for tapas at establishments that have become an institution, such as Bodega El Pimpi; and for trying the ajoblanco chilled garlic soup.
Malaga is also known for its Film Festival, its Holy Week, its innovative restaurants... But above all, Malaga is joy. And it's catching.
Street art in Malaga’s Soho
The contemporary cultural phenomenon has transformed the city - once a simple seaside resort, it has constructed an identity for itself at the cutting edge of art and culture. Malaga is on the international street art circuit thanks to its Art District, better known as Soho. Huge graffiti artworks signed by Kenny Scharf, Ben Einee, Abraham Lacalle, Obey, Faith47 and others decorate some of its buildings. Design, craft, antiques and other vintage objects abound in the “Made in Soho” market held on the first Saturday of every month. Dining options are very diverse: from the traditional cuisine of Malaga to vegetarian restaurants and gourmet experiences.In addition, Malaga’s Soho is home to one of the city’s latest cultural offerings: the Soho Caixabank Theatre, set up by one of the Andalusian city’s most international ambassadors, the actor Antonio Banderas.
The hacienda of La Concepción has its origin in the union of several farms located on the banks of the Guadalmedina River, north of the city of Malaga. With an agricultural vocation, they included cereal crops, olive trees, almond trees, vines and, above all, citrus fruits. Its creators were the Marquises of Casa Loring, Jorge Loring Oyarzábal and Amalia Heredia Livermore, both children of well-known businessmen who came to the city in search of fortune.
Its creators were the Marquises of Casa Loring, Jorge Loring Oyarzábal and Amalia Heredia Livermore, both children of well-known businessmen who came to the city in search of fortune.
Where to stay in Malaga
This is our list of the best small luxury hotels near Malaga Centro,
I hope you enjoy it.
A beautifully renovated, art-deco property located in the pedestrian heart of the city. Elegantly designed rooms, a rooftop pool and terrace, and a luxurious feel bar with signature cocktails. This hotel is a perfect start for exploring Malaga! This boutique hotel has a unique rooftop pool and a cool rooftop restaurant.
This boutique hotel has Art Deco design and rooms with free WiFi and an LCD TV. Hotel Larios Málaga is just minutes from Malaga’s Picasso Museum. Larios is located on a pedestrian street in the commercial heart of Málaga. It is a short walk from Malaga Cathedral and the Alcazaba. The beach is a 15-minute walk or a short bus ride away.
The Posada del Patio is 5-star hotel, situated in the centre of Málaga, with a rooftop swimming pool and free Wi-Fi. It features a fascinating exhibition of historic objects. All rooms come with welcome products, a safe and a flat-screen TV. They feature a contemporary design and include a modern bathroom.
Featuring an outdoor swimming pool, a terrace as well as a bar, Soho Boutique Equitativa is located in the centre of Málaga, 1.5 km from La Malagueta Beach. With free WiFi, this 4-star hotel offers room service and a 24-hour front desk. The property is non-smoking and is set 1.9 km from La Caleta Beach.
Featuring a seasonal rooftop plunge pool with views and a courtyard, Room Mate Valeria is 200 metres away from Calle Larios. Free WiFi is available throughout. All air-conditioned, soundproofed rooms in this design hotel include a flat-screen TV with USB and HDMI connection, full-length mirror, minibar, and a safe.
