Malaga, a city that once shone in the shadow of the bustling resorts of the Costa del Sol, has become a cultural destination to be reckoned with in Andalusia. My four-day trip in this city was a real revelation, allowing me to dive into its rich artistic and historical heritage, while soaking up the vibrant energy of this ever-changing city.
Immersion in the art one of things to do in Malaga
As soon as I arrived, I headed to the Museo de Malaga. This museum houses an impressive collection of archaeological artifacts and works of art. The collection of fine arts, mainly composed of 19th century Andalusian landscape and genre paintings, highlights the talent of local artists and the evolution of artistic styles over time. The archaeological collections, bequeathed to the city by the noble family Loring-Heredia, extend from the neolithic fragments discovered in the nearby Cueva de Nerja to a headless statue of a Roman noble.
After the museum, I explored the Soho neighborhood, a district transformed into an urban art hub by an influx of street artists. Today, it’s home to massive contemporary murals and trendy cafes, ethnic restaurants and street markets.
Exploring the History of Malaga
On the second day, I visited the Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress perched on a hill overlooking the city. Built in the 8th century, the Alcazaba offers panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean.
Walking along its ramparts, admiring its lush gardens and fountains, is to go back in time and soak up the history of this thousand-year-old city. Although the interior of the castle does not contain many original elements, the walkway and towers offer spectacular views of the city and the port.
From the Alcazaba, a winding path leads up to the ruins of the Castillo de Gibralfaro. Built in the 14th century, this castle served as a lighthouse and military barracks. I then visited the cathedral of Malaga. Malaga Cathedral presents an impressive mix of architectural styles, mainly from the Renaissance with Gothic and Baroque elements. Its construction lasted more than 200 years and was never completely completed. The grandiose interior of the cathedral houses an impressive dome vault, a carved cedar choir and magnificent chapels decorated with 18th century altarpieces.
Day trip in Malaga to Nerja
For my third day, I took a day trip to Nerja, a charming coastal town located about 50 km east of Malaga. Nerja is famous for its beautiful beaches and dipping cliffs, as well as its caves, which shelter spectacular geological formations. The Cueva de Nerja, discovered in 1959, is one of the largest and most beautiful caves in Spain. It is filled with huge stalactites and stalagmites and presents Neolithic fragments that are now part of the archaeological collection of the Museo de Málaga.
After visiting the caves, I enjoyed the Mediterranean sun by walking on the Balcón de Europa, a walk offering an amazing view of the coast.
Relaxation and Gastronomy
For my last day in Malaga, I decided to relax and enjoy the famous gastronomic scene of the city. Malaga is famous for its gastronomy, which includes both Michelin starred restaurants and fish huts.
I started my day with a walk in the Paseo del Parque, a promenade lined with palm trees and tropical gardens that stretches on the old seafront of the city. Then I visited the Mercado Atarazanas to discover the animation and colors of a traditional Spanish market.
In the late afternoon, I enjoyed a fresh seafood dinner at El Balneario de los Baños del Carmen, a seafood restaurant located in a fabulous setting on the beach
My trip to Malaga allowed me to discover a dynamic city, rich in history, art and culture. I was impressed by how the city has reinvented itself in the 21st century, with new art galleries, an emerging arts district and a booming food scene. Malaga is the ideal destination for a city break, offering a unique mix of art, history, gastronomy and sunshine.
What I learned from this trip in Malaga:
- Malaga is much more than just a gateway to the Costa del Sol. The city has its own identity, with a rich history and vibrant culture.
- Malaga’s art scene is booming, with world-renowned museums and alternative neighbourhoods dedicated to urban art.
- Malaga’s gastronomy is delicious and affordable, with a wide variety of tapas and traditional dishes to discover.
- Nerja is a must-do excursion from Malaga, with its spectacular caves and sandy beaches.
I highly recommend Malaga to anyone who wants to discover an authentic facet of Andalusia, far from the clichés of seaside resorts.