valuable travel information about Malaga for travellers
Since thousands of years the most important civilisations of the Mediterranean, southern Europe and the north of Africa have established themselves in Malaga, because of the strategic location of the bay of Malaga. From the port of Malaga many trade routes have been established, connecting this part of Spain with many other mediterranean countries like Italy, Greece, Egypt or Turkey.
Overlooking the harbour we find the Alcazaba, an Arab fortresses which is considered one of the biggest in southern Spain. Today the Alcazaba, together with the Roman Theatre which is just a stonethrow away, host the Archaeological Museum. Many valuable pieces dating back to the Greek, from Phoenician and Roman time can be contemplated and admired. The museum also offers interesting information about the history of malaga and the most important civilisations who established themselves in this part of the Mediterranean some time in the past.
Another fantastic viewpoint is the castle of Gibralfaro. It offers a fantastic view of the city, the Malagueta bullring and the busy harbour of Malaga, as many cruiselines have selected the new terminal at the port of Malaga as a hub for their cruise ships. From the new Muelle Uno it is just a short walk to the Paseo de la Farola, a seafron promenade which is a popular place for a stroll amongst all Malagueños and one of main leisure areas in the city center. From Gibralfaro you can enjoy wonderful views of the historic quarter of Malaga with places like the Pasaje de Chinitas, Calle Larios, and Calle Granada or the Plaza de la Merced, the site of the house in which the famous spanish painter Pablo Ruiz Picasso was born. In the center of the square we can admire the the monument to Torrijos. Malaga is certainly not the most suitable way of visiting the city center, because many streets in the historical center are pedestrian and vehicles are not allowed.
Not far from the birthplace of Picasso we find the Cathedral of Malaga, amongst the local population also known as La Manquita, because right tower has never been finished. For art lovers the Museum of Fine Arts and the Picasso Museum are a must visit. Make sure to book your entrance tickets in advance, because the Picasso Museum is normally booked out very quick.
The Malaga Park (Paseo del Parque) is another popular place with the Malagueños. It is a beautiful avenue flanked by gardenswhich are a good example of a Mediterranean garden. Just in front of the park you can admire the Town Hall of Malaga.
The most popular beach in the city is without a doubt la Malagueta: recommended for watching the Mediterranean sunrise it can be considered to be the main beach in Malaga. On the large promenade of the Malagueta beachfront you can find clubs, bars and restaurants and clubs where you can enjoy a nice meal, music a drink or a nice conversation while watching the world go by.
If you have booked a rent a car in Malaga an area whcih certainly should not be missed is the Axarquia, a region with sub-tropical temperatures which is protected from the cold northern winds by a beautiful mountain range. Some of the towns and villages which comprise the Axarquia are Vélez Málaga, Sayalonga, Frigiliana, Colmenar, Benamocarra, Alcaucín, Iznate, Salares, Nerja, Cómpeta, Torrox, Almáchar, Periana and Rincón de la Victoria.
Over the last decade Malaga has become a dream destination for golfers from all over the world and the airport, gateway to the Costa Sol, receives thousands of tourists every year who come to play golf in Malaga. This is no wonder as the province features several championships golf courses and an assortment of luxury hotels with facilities for golfers and beach tourist alike.
A holiday in Malaga would be complete without trying the local gastronomy and culinary offerings. Due to its proximity to the Mediterranean there is a bountiful supply of seafood all year around. The dietary habits and preparations of the region have influenced the local produce of the land.