10 cosas que ver en Málaga

Malaga is a city of many faces.  From art and culture to beach life, there is something to suit all tastes.  If you are planning a trip, be sure to visit our top 10 sights (below), all easily accessible from the Gran Hotel Miramar.

1. The Alcazaba.  Malaga’s Moorish citadel, this maze of walls and fortifications was built on the remains of the old Roman city.  Climb all the way to the top for views over the Mediterranean Sea and the old city.
2. Picasso Museum.  Possibly the world’s most famous artist, Picasso was born in Malaga in 1881, and his home town is a great place to see this intimate collection of his work.  Pieces from throughout his long career are on display, and there is a lively programme of guided tours, art workshops and live music on offer.
3. The Concepcion Garden (Jardin de la Concepcion).  These lush botanical gardens are home to over 2000 species of plants and some charming secluded spots.  About 5km from the city centre, there are also some great views over Malaga, and guided tours for those who would like to learn more about these historical gardens.
4. Castillo del Gibralfaro.  It’s a steep climb but well worth it for the sweeping views over the Costa del Sol and inland Andalucia.  This 14^th century castle is open to the public, and houses a small exhibition on local history.
5. Thyssen Museum (Museo Carmen Thyssen Malaga).  A great collection, mainly consisting of 19^th century Spanish art, with big names including Zurbaran, Sorolla and Romero Torres. The works are housed in the beautiful 16^th-century Palacio de Villalon, worth a visit in itself.
6. La Manquita.  Malaga’s cathedral is nicknamed ‘la manquita’, or the one-armed lady, on account of her solitary tower (the money for the other is rumoured to have been sent to America to fund one of the factions in the War of Independence).  The interior is intricately detailed, and the cathedral is surrounded by quiet courtyards filled with orange trees.
7. The English Cemetery.  A fascinating glimpse into the past of Malaga’s expat community.
8. Tapas.  Malaga’s centre comes alive at night, and this is one of the best places in Spain to experience a night out ‘de tapas’.  Follow your nose (some of the best bars are hidden away in the backstreets) and bar-hop to your heart’s content.
9. Atarazanas Market.  Fresh fish, fruit, meat and cheese, all in a beautiful building that incorporates a 14^th century Moorish gate into a much larger structure.
10.  Beach.  Malaga is blessed with a few beaches within easy reach of the city centre.  La Malagueta is closest to the city centre, but if you are willing to travel a bit further, you will find plenty of other beaches to explore including the quieter Playa Campo de Golf San Julian and Playa El Dedo, home to popular local beach restaurant El Tintero.

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