What to do in Malaga, Spain

I’ve written about many cities, so it makes sense to finally include Málaga, the place where I’ll be running my second marathon in three weeks.

Málaga is a good choice for a simple reason: it’s easy to enjoy. The city has a relaxed vibe, it’s walkable, and it works well as a destination in both summer and winter. If you’re looking to escape cold weather, it’s an especially good choice.

Málaga combines beach areas, historic sites, modern museums, and great Andalusian food. Whether you have a long layover or just a weekend, it’s a city that doesn’t require much planning to have a good time.

Here are my tips for getting the most out of your visit to Málaga as a non-rev traveler.

How to non-rev to Malaga

Málaga–Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) is one of Spain’s busiest airport and a great option for standby travelers. It’s well connected across Europe, with flights operated by both major carriers and low-cost airlines.

Here’s a quick overview of airlines flying non-stop to AGP. Use the StaffTraveler app to check flight loads and availability.

London	British Airways, easyJet, Ryanair
Amsterdam	KLM, Transavia
Paris	Air France, Transavia
Frankfurt	Lufthansa
Zurich	SWISS, Edelweiss
Bussels	Brussels Airlines, TUI fly
Rome	ITA Airways, Ryanair
Oslo	Norwegian
Istanbul	Turkish Airlines

Stroll the Historic Center

Málaga’s old town is compact, lively, and easy to explore on foot. Begin in Plaza de la Constitución and make your way through the surrounding streets filled with shops, cafés, and tapas bars. The area is full of sunny squares, pedestrian-friendly lanes, and a mix of historic buildings and modern spots, making it a great place to get a feel for the city before diving into specific sights.

Relax at the Beach

One of the best things about Málaga is how close the beach is to the city center. La Malagueta is the easiest option for a quick swim, a place to unwind by the water, or a simple seaside lunch.

If you prefer a quieter, more local atmosphere, walk 20–30 minutes to Pedregalejo. This former fishing neighborhood has calm waters and a long stretch of beachfront restaurants where you can try espeto de sardinas, the region’s famous grilled sardines.

Visit the Alcazaba

The Alcazaba is Málaga’s Moorish fortress-palace and one of the best-preserved examples in Spain. It has gardens, courtyards, and elevated viewpoints overlooking the harbor and the old town.

The path up is relatively easy. For a higher viewpoint, continue to Gibralfaro Castle, which offers panoramic views of the Costa del Sol.

It’s best to visit early in the day to avoid the midday heat.

Visit the Cathedral of Málaga

No visit to Málaga is complete without stopping by its iconic cathedral, nicknamed La Manquita (“the one-armed lady”) because one of its towers was never finished. Inside, you’ll find beautiful chapels, detailed woodwork, and a calm, cool space that makes for a nice break from the busy streets outside.

For amazing city views, you can also book a rooftop tour. It takes you up to the cathedral’s upper terraces, where you’ll get sweeping views of the old town and the sea.

Tip: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.

Take a day trip to Ronda

If you have extra time in Málaga, a day trip to Ronda is a good option. The town is set on both sides of a deep gorge and is known for the Puente Nuevo, the large stone bridge that connects the two sections of the city. Ronda also has several historic sites and viewpoints, making it a worthwhile excursion from Málaga.

Spend your day wandering the old town, exploring the Arab Baths, visiting one of Spain’s oldest bullrings, and enjoying lunch at a restaurant overlooking the cliffs. It’s an easy and scenic trip from Málaga by train, bus, or rental car and a perfect escape if you’re craving a mix of nature and history.

Try Tapas

No trip to Málaga is complete without eating tapas! The city is full of traditional bodegas, casual bars, and modern tapas spots where you can hop from place to place trying small plates. Order classics like patatas bravas, boquerones en vinagre, gambas al pil-pil, or ensaladilla rusa.

For a true local experience, squeeze into a standing-only bar, chat with the staff, and let them recommend whatever’s freshest. Málaga’s tapas culture is relaxed, delicious, and one of the easiest ways to feel at home in the city.

Check seat availability for your non-rev flight today and start planning your sunny getaway.

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