The Sunniest City in Europe — Home of Pablo Picasso

Málaga, Spain is a dream destination for sun lovers. Located on the southern coast, it boasts the title of the sunniest city in Europe, basking in over 280 hours of sunshine monthly — that's more than 3,000 hours annually. Nestled on the famous Costa del Sol, this city offers more than just bright skies; it is also a hub of culture and the birthplace of Pablo Picasso. 

'Málaga is an incredible place to visit, thanks to its Mediterranean climate. Winters are mild, and summers are pleasantly warm. The city has a rich, often-underappreciated history influenced by Roman and Moorish cultures. Cultural experiences abound, including the Picasso Museum and flamenco performances,' shared Kristin Espinar, founder of Must See Spain. Additionally, she noted, 'Málaga is renowned for its delicious cuisine, especially the fresh seafood and tapas. Be sure to try local chiringuitos, which are popular seaside seafood eateries among locals.' 

Excited to discover this amazing city? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit to Málaga, Spain. 

Top Hotels & Resorts

Gran Hotel Miramar

Indulge in a luxurious getaway at the Gran Hotel Miramar. This historic palace has been transformed into a five-star retreat overlooking the Mediterranean. Each room boasts elegant furnishings in calming natural tones, allowing the stunning panoramic views to take center stage. The hotel's spa is equally inviting, featuring treatments that incorporate local ingredients for a distinct Andalusian experience. 

Finca Cortesín

In 2023, Finca Cortesín was recognized as the premier hotel in Spain and Portugal by readers of Dinogo in the World's Best Awards. Guests are captivated by its whitewashed architecture, vibrant rooms, and breathtaking sea vistas — plus a fantastic golf course designed by Cabell B. Robinson. Here, visitors can enjoy a full 18-hole round followed by relaxation at the spa, offering innovative treatments like oxygenated facials. 

Palacio Solecio

Experience another royal retreat at the Palacio Solecio, an 18th-century palace converted into a hotel. It exudes glamour, featuring four-poster beds, expansive windows that lead to spacious patios, and deep soaking tubs in the bathrooms. Its central location offers convenient access to some of the city's most popular attractions, including the nearby Santiago Church. 

Top Attractions

Picasso Museum

Delve into the life and artistic brilliance of Pablo Picasso at the Picasso Museum, housed in the historic Buenavista Palace. Visitors can admire 144 rotating pieces of Picasso's artwork and enjoy various exhibitions featuring works by other remarkable artists like María Blanchard and Joel Meyerowitz. 

Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Castle

Immerse yourself in the rich history of Málaga with a trip to the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Castle. This ancient Moorish fortress spans an impressive 21,310 square meters. 'Visitor preferences will dictate what is a must-see, but both the Alcazaba and the adjacent Gibralfaro Castle, along with the Roman Theatre, attract many for good reason,' shared Jess Rodley, bookings director at Andorra Escapes, who enjoys summer vacations in Málaga. 'These locations are steeped in history and are exceptionally well-preserved.'

Mercado Central de Atarazanas

Discover the culinary delights of Málaga at the Mercado Central de Atarazanas. Housed in a 19th-century structure, this market has roots dating back to the 14th century. It's a vibrant spot where locals and travelers converge to enjoy a variety of local meats, cheeses, and an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables. The market welcomes visitors every Monday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Carmen Thyssen Museum

Málaga is rich in cultural offerings, so be sure to visit at least two museums. After exploring the Picasso Museum, head to the Carmen Thyssen Museum, located in a beautifully restored 16th-century palace. Here, visitors can admire 19th-century Spanish art, with an emphasis on Andalusian pieces.

La Malagueta Beach

Once you've savored the stunning human-made art, it’s time to appreciate the natural beauty at La Malagueta Beach. Located just 10 minutes from the city center, it’s an easy stop for a quick visit or a full day of relaxation. Numerous beachside bars and restaurants are available to enhance your experience.

Neighborhoods Worth Exploring

Centro Histórico

Centro Histórico serves as the city's vibrant core. Here, visitors can navigate the lively, narrow streets, explore historic plazas, and browse local shops. This area also hosts notable attractions like the Málaga Cathedral, the Picasso Museum, and the Carmen Thyssen Museum, all within a short walk.

La Malagueta

Head over to La Malagueta, the beachside district, for a blend of sun, surf, and culture. While there, don’t miss the Pompidou Centre for an afternoon filled with striking modern art.

La Victoria

Experience local life by visiting La Victoria, one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods. Nestled just north of the city center at the base of Mount Gibralfaro, this area is celebrated for its picturesque scenery, traditional homes, local tapas bars, and vibrant street art.

Ideal Times to Visit

The prime time to visit Málaga is during the summer months. Here, summer lasts from late spring to autumn (May to October), which is important to remember when packing for Spain. This season offers the best weather, with lively outdoor activities and numerous summer festivals, including the Málaga Fair in August, a week-long celebration of Andalusian culture. However, if summer isn’t an option, there are still plenty of other great times to explore.

'Visiting Málaga during the shoulder seasons is highly recommended. I suggest traveling in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November),' Espinar noted. 'The weather is mild, crowds are smaller, and you'll have more energy to discover the city and its attractions.'

Rodley also recommends visiting during the shoulder seasons of April, May, and late September: 'In spring, you can enjoy the beautiful blossoms and flowering jacarandas in the parks and gardens while taking in the mild temperatures and smaller crowds as you explore the city and nearby areas,' Rodley explained. 'If your trip coincides with Easter, you’ll witness the vibrant colors, culture, and festivities of the Holy Week parades. Visiting in September is ideal for wine tours and sightseeing with less tourist traffic. During this time, the weather might still be warm enough for beach visits without the struggle for space on the sand.' Espinar added, 'If you opt for winter (December to February), you'll experience milder and warmer weather compared to the rest of Spain. With fewer tourists, you can fully enjoy the city. Málaga also features stunning Christmas light displays, making it a wonderful December destination.'

Getting There

To reach this sun-soaked destination, fly into Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport, one of Spain's major airports. It offers numerous direct flights to various European cities and connections worldwide via airlines like LATAM, Air France, EasyJet, and Emirates. Located just a few miles from the city center, the airport is a convenient starting point for your journey.

Travelers arriving from cities like Madrid and Barcelona might choose to drive — a great idea, as the AP-7 offers a picturesque journey along the Mediterranean.

You can also reach Málaga by taking a train to the María Zambrano station. Regular trains operate from Madrid, taking about three hours and costing around $75.

Getting Around 

Renting a car is an excellent choice for those wanting to explore beyond the city limits and discover more of the Costa del Sol. Car rentals are available at the airport and in various locations throughout the city, with major providers like Avis, Budget, and Dollar Car Rental.

Málaga features an extensive public transport system that visitors can utilize during their stay, including buses and a metro line covering most areas. Travelers can purchase single tickets or travel passes, which can be easily recharged online. Taxis and Ubers are also readily available throughout the city.