Vibrant Malaga – heart of the Costa del Sol
Book flights to Malaga with Etihad Airways and be charmed by a city with a fascinating history.
From the picturesque terracotta rooftops of the city’s old town streets to the bustling waterfront cafes of the vibrant port, you’ll find plenty to love about Malaga.
Be blown away by magnificent ancient sights such as the Alcazaba and the Castillo de Gibralfaro, then have a change of pace as you visit the Museo Automovilístico de Málaga with its impressive collection of vintage cars.
No trip to Malaga would be complete without seeing the works of the city’s most famous artist, Pablo Picasso.
When you’re not delving into the local history and culture, take time to relax on one of Malaga’s 15 beautiful beaches. You’ll find food from across the globe as well as Spanish specialities perfect for al fresco dining.
Book plane tickets to Malaga with Etihad Airways.
Reasons to visit Malaga
Discover historical sights
Malaga is home to spectacular historical sights, none more impressive than the palatial fortress, Alcazaba, the best-preserved Moorish structure in the country.
Arguably one of the most iconic attractions in the city, it’s situated at the foot of the Gibralfaro hill. Here, you’ll also find a well-preserved Roman theatre.
Not far from the Alcazaba is the Catedral de la Encarnación de Málaga, nicknamed ‘La Manquita’ or ‘The One-Armed Lady’ due to only one of its towers ever being completed.
Sun yourself on scenic coastline
Malaga is the capital of the Costa del Sol – literally translated as the ‘sunshine coast’ – so it goes without saying that there are some fantastic beaches in the area. A 30-minute walk from the city centre brings you to Pedregalejo beach, one of the best in the area.
One of Malaga’s many highlights is its superb port just outside the city centre. Lined with bustling shops and restaurants, it’s the perfect place to grab a refreshing glass of something cold and watch the yachts and ships go by.
Explore Picasso’s influence
Malaga is the birthplace of world-renowned artist, Pablo Ruiz Picasso, whose influence is still felt all across the city.
Head to the centre of the old town to the Museo Picasso Málaga, an unmissable museum housing more than 230 of his masterpieces, showcasing his work from the late 19th century right up until his death in April 1973. Opened in 2003, the museum’s collection of work was all donated by members of Picasso’s family.
Flying to Malaga: FAQs
How many days do I need in Malaga?
There’s plenty to explore in the city, so ideally you should book your Malaga plane tickets to allow for at least five days of sightseeing, with a couple more days for the beach. Bear in mind when making your plans that many places in Spain are closed on a Monday.
What food is Malaga known for?
Gazpacho is a popular local dish. This cold soup is made from tomatoes, green peppers, garlic and served with crusty bread.
Where should I stay in Malaga?
The city’s Centro district is well-placed to make the most of key landmarks and the warm sands of the beachfront. There are plenty of hotels in this area, including both affordable and luxury options.
What is Malaga known for?
Malaga is the capital of the Costa del Sol and you’ll find many museums and monuments celebrating the life of the city’s most famous son, the iconic artist Pablo Picasso.