Costa del Sol gateway - and an art-and-tapas city in its own right.
Most UK travellers pass through Malaga on the way to the Costa del Sol, but the city itself is the surprise - a Moorish fortress over the old town, Picasso’s birthplace, a buzzing tapas scene and a sandy city beach.
Year-round sun, a 12-minute train from the airport to the centre, the gateway to the whole Costa del Sol, and winter temperatures that still hit the high teens.
April to June and September to October for warm, comfortable days. July-August is hot and packed; winter is mild (17°C) and the cheapest the city gets.
Coffee on the Plaza de la Merced, then the climb to the Gibralfaro castle for the view before the heat.
The Hammam Al Andalus Moorish baths in the old town, and flat seafront runs along the Paseo Maritimo.
Stay in Soho or the upper old town rather than right on the beach strip.
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The old town - the cathedral, the Alcazaba, the Picasso Museum and the best tapas streets. Walkable and central.
The city beach and marina - seafront hotels and the palm-lined promenade, a short walk from the old town.
The arts district - street-art murals, design hotels and a younger, creative scene between the centre and the port.
No - UK visitors can stay visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period across the Schengen area.
The C1 commuter train reaches the centre in about 12 minutes and runs every 20 minutes - cheaper and faster than a taxi.
Yes - winter days average a sunny 17°C, making it one of Europe’s best off-season city breaks.
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