Things to do in Malaga Historic Centre

Activities, attractions and tours

Malaga Historic Centre which includes shopping, street scenes and heritage architecture
Malaga Historic Centre featuring a city, night scenes and heritage architecture
Malaga Historic Centre
Malaga Historic Centre
Malaga which includes a city
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Top places to visit

1. Picasso Museum Malaga

Located in the heart of the Old Town, Museo Picasso Malaga is a monumental tribute to an exceptional local talent: Pablo Picasso. Browse the nearly 300 works by the world-famous painter and sculptor. See early 19th-century sketches of landscapes, cubist impressions and modern 20th-century portraits. While here, also admire the grand setting for the museum, the elaborate 16th-century palace called Palacio de Buenavista.
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Picasso Museum Malaga showing interior views and art as well as an individual femail

2. Alcazaba

Built between the eighth and 11th centuries this palatial fortress was named Alcazaba, the Arabic word for citadel. The military-style structure was fortified with double stone walls and tall towers, erected to see enemies approach. Take a historic journey by entering through the fortress’ magnificent gates and explore gardens, towers and patios. From the Maldonado Tower (Torre de Maldonado), you can see all the way to Africa on a clear day.
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Alcazaba featuring heritage architecture and a statue or sculpture

3. Málaga Cathedral

This ornate and stately cathedral is known among locals as La Manquita, or “The One-Armed Lady,” because its tower was intended to be one of two. The first tower was erected to an imposing 276 feet (84 meters), but then construction ceased because the funds were sent to American troops in the War of Independence in 1780. Even without the second tower, the cathedral is grand.
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Malaga Cathedral which includes religious elements, a church or cathedral and interior views

4. Plaza de la Merced

The Plaza de la Merced is a spacious 19th-century square in Malaga’s historic center. Lined with cafés, bars and restaurants, Plaza de la Merced really begins to buzz in the late afternoon, when visitors join the gathering locals to soak up the last rays of the sun and exchange stories. Linger on a terrace on the northern side and order tapas or coffee. Find the bronze statue of Picasso sitting on a bench and visit Picasso’s Birthplace.
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Enjoy the sunshine with the locals in this historic Old Town plaza filled with majestic monuments, Picasso tributes, lanterns, trees and restaurant terraces.

5. Central Market of Atarazanas

The Mercado de Atarazanas is an impressive sight, a covered fresh produce market housed in an old Arabic building with a history that goes back to the 14th century. What was once a shipbuilding yard when the Moors ruled is now a market selling fresh and local products. Embark on a food shopping expedition and stay for tapas in one of the bars.
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Browse stalls for fresh local produce and experience the sights, sounds and smells of this longstanding market set in a historical building.

6. Malaga Roman Theatre

The oldest monument in Malaga city is one of the few Roman ruins still remaining in Andalusia. Having withstood the test of time and warfare over the centuries, the ancient Malaga Amphitheatre has been brought back to life and now hosts open-air performances in the summer.
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Malaga Amphitheatre which includes cycling and heritage architecture as well as an individual male

What to do in Malaga Historic Centre

Popular places to visit

Port of Malaga which includes night scenes and a city

Port of Malaga

One of Spain’s most popular cruise ports is a great place to experience the atmosphere and history of lively, welcoming Málaga.

Port of Malaga
Malagueta Beach featuring a beach, swimming and a coastal town

Malagueta Beach

Laze under the Andalucían sun on this popular beach, which is just a short stroll from Malaga's historic city center.

Malagueta Beach
Picasso Museum Malaga showing interior views and art as well as an individual femail

Picasso Museum Malaga

Within the Palacio de Buenavista, a 16th-century palace, is this museum showcasing the life and works of Malaga’s most celebrated artist.

Picasso Museum Malaga
Calle Larios

Calle Larios

During your visit to Malaga Historic Centre, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Calle Larios. While in this walkable area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Calle Larios
Alcazaba featuring heritage architecture and a statue or sculpture

Alcazaba

Explore the lavishly decorated residence of Moorish sultans and other rulers in this thousand-year-old fortress built on the remains of a Roman settlement.

Alcazaba
Malaga Cathedral which includes religious elements, a church or cathedral and interior views

Málaga Cathedral

The “One Armed Lady” and her ornate Baroque and Renaissance features has charmed locals for over 200 years.

Málaga Cathedral
Gibralfaro Castle which includes general coastal views, heritage architecture and a bay or harbor

Gibralfaro Castle

Malaga’s most famous landmark sits on top of a mountain and offers panoramic views of the city and the Alboran Sea, stretching all the way to Africa.

Gibralfaro Castle
Plaza de la Merced

Plaza de la Merced

Enjoy the sunshine with the locals in this historic Old Town plaza filled with majestic monuments, Picasso tributes, lanterns, trees and restaurant terraces.

Plaza de la Merced
Central Market of Atarazanas

Central Market of Atarazanas

Browse stalls for fresh local produce and experience the sights, sounds and smells of this longstanding market set in a historical building.

Central Market of Atarazanas
Málaga

Málaga

Frequently asked questions

Is Malaga Historic Centre worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Malaga Historic Centre is explore Malagueta Beach. Tick this leading attraction off your list, then experience more of this area's shopping and bars and pubs.
How do I spend a day in Malaga Historic Centre?
Start your day with a visit to Malagueta Beach. Then, check out other parts of Malaga Historic Centre for local dining and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Malaga Historic Centre?
Spend the day at Malagueta Beach and discover why it's rated as the top tourist attraction near Malaga Historic Centre.
Is three days enough to stay in Malaga Historic Centre?
With a three-day escape to Malaga Historic Centre, you can comfortably visit the area's many great sights, including Malagueta Beach and Málaga Cathedral.
Is Malaga Historic Centre a walkable neighbourhood?
Exploring Malaga Historic Centre on foot is easy, with leading sights like Malagueta Beach and Málaga Cathedral both within walking distance. Well-known neighbourhoods like Málaga Centro and Ensanche Centro are also located only 0.64 kilometres and 0.48 kilometres from the centre of Malaga Historic Centre, so you can add a few more adventures to your day — no wheels required.
What are some activities to do in Malaga Historic Centre with kids?
If you're searching for tours and attractions for all ages, take a look at these terrific ideas for what to do in Malaga Historic Centre with kids.

What to do in Malaga Historic Centre for adults?
Cortijo de Torres Municipal Auditorium is one of the main things to do in Malaga Historic Centre. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Malaga Historic Centre?
Near Malaga Historic Centre, Malagueta Beach is an excellent spot for anyone wanting to experience the area without dipping into their pocket. Also, wander around parks and other nearby neighbourhoods, and ask a local tour guide for advice. It's a simple way to find out about the best free things to do in Malaga Historic Centre.