Hotels in Malaga

Staying in Malaga

Malaga is one of the European destinations closest to Morocco, and its historic centre can be covered on foot. Around the cathedral, the Alcazaba and the pedestrian streets you will find charming hotels set in old buildings, apartments and a few larger properties. The renovated port and the Malagueta district extend the centre right to the beach, so you can combine sightseeing and swimming without changing hotels. Further east, Pedregalejo and El Palo keep the feel of fishing villages, with their grilled-fish restaurants facing the sea.

Summer is hot and very busy, as are Holy Week and the big August fair, two periods when central hotels fill up well in advance. Spring and autumn bring milder weather and a calmer city. The airport is linked to the centre by a suburban train, buses and taxis, and María Zambrano station receives the high-speed trains from Madrid, Cordoba and Seville. Malaga also makes a practical base for exploring the Costa del Sol, provided you choose a well-placed hotel.

Where to stay in Malaga

• The historic centre

  Cathedral, museums, pedestrian lanes and café terraces: everything is within walking distance. Hotels here often occupy old buildings with rooms that can be small; ask for a courtyard-facing room for peace and quiet.

• La Malagueta and the port

  A stone's throw from the centre, the city beach and the port promenade. More spacious seafront hotels, handy for alternating beach and sightseeing, but in high demand in summer.

• Pedregalejo and El Palo

  East of the city, two former fishing districts right on the water, with a promenade and seafood restaurants. Quieter, with a local feel, and well connected to the centre by bus.

• Around María Zambrano station

  Functional, more recent hotels, practical if you arrive by train or rent a car to explore the Costa del Sol. The centre remains reachable on foot or by public transport.

Good to know before you book

• Parking is difficult in the historic centre: if you are coming by car, choose a hotel with a car park or stay near the station.
• In summer, an air-conditioned room with good sound insulation makes all the difference, especially in the lively central streets where evenings run late.
• For a beach holiday with children, hotels in La Malagueta or the east of the city save you daily journeys; check for family rooms and breakfast.

Questions about Malaga

Frequently asked questions