Must-Do Activities in Malaga, Spain

Discover Malaga's Historic Architecture

If you're visiting Malaga for the first time, make sure to tour the city's most impressive attractions and Gothic architecture. Your journey includes a trip to the scenic Gibralfaro, perched on a hilltop, where you can take in stunning views of the harbor, city, and iconic bullring from the summit.

Descend to the Plaza de la Merced and stroll to the 11th-century Alcazaba. This historic site is where the king of Granada commissioned a fortress inspired by the Alhambra. Conclude your tour at the stunning Cathedral of Malaga.

Unwind on the Beach

Malaga boasts 16 beautiful beaches, which is one reason so many tourists flock to southern Spain in the summer. Each beach in Malaga has its unique appeal. Playa de La Malagueta is the nearest to the city, while Playa de Las Acacias, just east of the city center, is favored by locals seeking to avoid the crowds at Playa de La Malagueta.

Discover the Caves of Nerja

Travel east from Malaga to the historic town of Nerja, which boasts a center dating back to 1487. If you book a shore excursion to the Caves of Nerja, your journey will begin with a tour of Nerja itself. You'll find plenty to explore, including a 9th-century castle and a 17th-century church featuring Baroque-Mudejar architecture.

After exploring the town, guests will proceed to the renowned caves that are millions of years old. As you venture deeper, you'll encounter the world's largest stalagmite columns, towering at 161 feet and measuring 59 feet in diameter.

Discover Marine Conservation Initiatives

Cruise passengers eager to learn about local marine conservation initiatives should consider booking the Go Green - Marine Conservation and Wildlife Protection excursion. Your adventure begins at a marine museum focused on the rich marine life of the Alborán Sea. You'll encounter exhibits featuring creatures from the waters between Africa and the Iberian Peninsula, including sperm whales, great white sharks, and five species of turtles. Many of the marine animals in the aquarium are being rehabilitated after suffering injuries.

After visiting the museum, you'll journey to a natural park situated on an island estuary, which is home to a diverse array of birds, foxes, native fauna, and other wildlife.

Embark on a Day Trip to Granada

During your cruise to Malaga, you can opt for a full-day shore excursion to explore Granada, the capital of Andalusia. This nine-hour tour will guide you through some of Granada's most remarkable sights. Your first stop is the Carlos V Palace, built in the 16th century, featuring a Renaissance design with a square structure surrounding a circular courtyard—unique in Spain.

Following the palace visit, guests will explore the Albayzin quarter, Granada's oldest district. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features a blend of Moorish and Andalusian architecture. A key highlight of the tour is the Royal Chapel, the final resting place of Spanish monarchs King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella.

Explore the British Overseas Territory of Gibraltar

Another popular day trip from Malaga is to Gibraltar. Begin your day with a scenic drive across southern Spain to reach Gibraltar. After crossing the border, you'll switch to a smaller vehicle that’s more suited for the narrow streets of Gibraltar. One of the tour's highlights is a visit to Europa Point, the southernmost point of Gibraltar, where on a clear day you can gaze across the bustling strait and see Africa in the distance.

Other notable attractions on this trip include St. Michael's Cave, thought to have been inhabited since the Neolithic era. You'll also visit the 11th-century Moorish Castle. Keep an eye out for Gibraltar's most famous residents—the Barbary apes that roam freely around the cliffs and lower town.

Discover Local Malaga Cuisine

If you're eager to delve into local flavors, book a Malaga gastronomy shore excursion. Your journey begins at El Pimpi, a traditional bodega co-owned by Antonio Banderas, where you’ll savor local wines accompanied by classic tapas. Thanks to Malaga's Mediterranean setting, expect delightful seafood tapas like prawns and fried anchovies. Next, you’ll visit El Merendero de Antonio Martin, a creative Andalusian restaurant known for its innovative dishes made with the freshest seasonal ingredients.

Embark on a Hiking Adventure

Malaga is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. If you want to stay active during your cruise, consider the King's Gaze Hiking excursion. This thrilling hike takes you along a narrow path that winds through a rocky gorge. You’ll navigate stairs, boardwalks, and wooden bridges perched high above the river, traversing a trail that was once deemed the world's most dangerous pathway, about 325 feet in elevation.

Whatever your interests may be, Malaga has something to offer everyone. Still planning your cruise to the Canary Islands? Don't forget to subscribe to receive the latest cruise deals and special offers directly in your inbox.

Where will your next cruise take you? Share with us in the comments!