Discover below the ranking of must-sees to visit in the Costa del Sol. You can also contribute to this ranking by publishing your reviews :)
The Balcón de Europa in Nerja is a signature overlook on the Costa del Sol. It offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the surrounding mountains. Once a fortress, this site became a promenade after a visit from King Alfonso XII in the 19th century. Surrounded by restaurants and shops, it combines history with coastal relaxation.
Malaga Cathedral, nicknamed La Manquita due to its incomplete second tower, blends Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. Located in the center of Malaga, it features detailed stone facades and a grand interior with intricate chapels. Climb to the roof for sweeping views of the city and the surrounding coast.
Opened in 2015, Pompidou Centre Malaga is the first international outpost of the famous Parisian museum. Featuring an already iconic colorful cube, it holds over 90 works by artists like Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse. Located in the Muelle Uno (Pier One) district, it is perfect for an art fix followed by a harbor walk.
The Museo de Málaga, opened in 2016, holds a collection of over 2,000 pieces ranging from ancient to modern art. Housed in a Renaissance palace, it offers a welcoming space to view works by Francisco de Goya, Pablo Picasso, and Joaquín Sorolla. With workshops for all ages, it is a rewarding stop in Malaga.
The Historical Botanical Garden of Malaga, known locally as La Concepción, is a natural escape just minutes from the city center. Founded in 1855, this romantic garden houses over 25,000 plants across 2,000 species. Explore archaeological ruins, statues, and fountains, or join a tour to see the iconic Avenue of Palms and blooming wisteria.
Gibralfaro Castle, built in the 14th century, towers over Malaga with sweeping views of the city, the sea, and the nearby mountains. Originally a defensive outpost for the Alcazaba, its massive walls reflect its military role in the Kingdom of Granada. Walk the ramparts, photograph the skyline, and visit the small military museum.
The Alcazaba in Malaga is an 11th-century Moorish fortress overlooking the city. Its courtyards, gardens, and fountains feature a blend of Roman and Islamic architecture. Beyond its history, the site provides views of the coast. For a full experience, pair your visit with the nearby Castillo de Gibralfaro, reached via a scenic path.
The Roman Theatre of Malaga, built during the 1st century BC under Emperor Augustus, is a striking piece of history at the foot of the Alcazaba. Rediscovered in 1951, this site lets you walk through ancient seating areas and stages. Interactive exhibits at the visitor center highlight its past. It is a Malaga staple.
Housed in a historic palace, the Picasso Museum in Malaga is a primary stop for art lovers. It displays over 200 works covering every stage of his career, from paintings and sculptures to ceramics. Beyond the permanent collection, temporary exhibits highlight artists like Joan Miró, Henri Matisse, or Alberto Giacometti, tracing their connections to his own evolution.
Nerja Caves are a prehistoric site on the Costa del Sol, discovered in 1959 and home to cave paintings over 42,000 years old. They span nearly 5 kilometers, featuring natural formations like a 32-meter stalactite column. The main hall hosts concerts, while the Museo de Nerja (Nerja Museum) details their geological significance.
Burriana Beach is the largest and most popular stretch of sand in Nerja, covering 800 meters of fine golden shore. This Blue Flag recipient offers clear water, lifeguard patrols, and full amenities. Famous for the Verano Azul series, it hosts the legendary Chiringuito de Ayo, open since 1969. Enjoy watersports and authentic Mediterranean dining.
On the road from Malaga to Granada, I made a stop in Nerja because I had read in my guidebook that the Balcon de Europa offered spectacular views of the Costa del Sol. Indeed, this square is built on…
On the road from Malaga to Granada, I made a stop in Nerja because I had read in my guidebook that the Balcon de Europa offered spectacular views of the Costa del Sol. Indeed, this square is built on a rocky promontory that juts out over the sea, with coves on both sides and a view of the cliffs and the rest of the coast. It could be a good place to grab a bite to eat, but there really is no shade at all.
Compared to the Seville Cathedral, which is not too far away, the one in Malaga might seem small. The exterior is not particularly spectacular. On the other hand, the interior is worth visiting. The w…
Compared to the Seville Cathedral, which is not too far away, the one in Malaga might seem small. The exterior is not particularly spectacular. On the other hand, the interior is worth visiting. The way the light plays on the vaults and the stained glass windows is beautiful, and the woodwork in the choir has the luster of centuries. In short, worth a visit.
Interesting for modern art lovers, but heads up, you will have seen all the permanent and temporary exhibits in 1 hour, whereas a half day wouldn't be enough at the Centre Pompidou in Paris. It's not…
Interesting for modern art lovers, but heads up, you will have seen all the permanent and temporary exhibits in 1 hour, whereas a half day wouldn't be enough at the Centre Pompidou in Paris. It's not that problematic of course, but you just need to keep that in mind so you aren't disappointed.
Relatively new museum that contains artwork and craft objects found locally at archaeological sites. Interesting without being a must-see, you will learn quite a bit about the eventful history of Anda…
Relatively new museum that contains artwork and craft objects found locally at archaeological sites. Interesting without being a must-see, you will learn quite a bit about the eventful history of Andalusia.
Very pretty park with a lot of plants, flowers, fruits, and cacti to see. The layout with the ponds (where you can see fish and turtles), streams, small waterfalls, hills, and trees are beautiful to l…
Very pretty park with a lot of plants, flowers, fruits, and cacti to see. The layout with the ponds (where you can see fish and turtles), streams, small waterfalls, hills, and trees are beautiful to look at. It is a pleasure to walk around in. It takes a solid 2 hours to see the whole thing. On the negative side, the park is a bit out of the way (you need a car to get there, unless there is a bus?), and the constant noise from the highway passing right next to it spoils the experience a little.
Located right next to the Alcazaba, but even higher up, the Castillo de Gibralfaro offers the most beautiful views of the city thanks to its elevated position. From an architectural and artistic point…
Located right next to the Alcazaba, but even higher up, the Castillo de Gibralfaro offers the most beautiful views of the city thanks to its elevated position. From an architectural and artistic point of view, it is less impressive than the Alcazaba because it was exclusively a military fortress and barracks, while the nobility governing Malaga resided in the Alcazaba. If you are short on time, just stick with the Alcazaba. Otherwise, do both. The walk up to the castle, a quick half-hour workout, also offers lovely panoramas. Wear good shoes so you do not slip, especially on the way down.
Of the palaces and fortifications inherited from the Moors in Andalusia, the Alcazaba in Malaga is not the best preserved, nor the prettiest, as it does not reach the finesse of the Alhambra in Granad…
Of the palaces and fortifications inherited from the Moors in Andalusia, the Alcazaba in Malaga is not the best preserved, nor the prettiest, as it does not reach the finesse of the Alhambra in Granada, for example. However, if you are staying in Malaga, it would be a shame to miss it. With an audio guide, you will learn a lot about the history of the city. The elevated position allows you to have beautiful views of the city and its surroundings. I recommend buying a combined ticket for the Alcazaba and the Castillo de Gibralfaro, which is located nearby but even higher up. There are still some remains of the palace that hint at lovely architecture, and pretty gardens with a few fountains.
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