Did you know that Málaga was the birthplace of the famous painter Pablo Picasso? Its rich architectural and cultural heritage is sure to charm you, as are its natural landscapes. In 3 days in Málaga, let yourself be seduced by the Alcazaba, Gibralfaro Castle and the many art museums. Follow the Petit Futé Guide to discover what to do in Málaga in 3 days, in the vibrant atmosphere of this Andalusian pearl.
Day 1: What to do in Málaga in 3 days? Alcazaba, Atarazanas Market and Cathedral
As you'll soon see, many activities are concentrated around the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Castle. Don't hesitate to spread out your visits to take full advantage of each one!
To book: Discover Malaga's vibrant history by booking this guided tour of the city's historic center with a local.
Morning: Alcazaba and Roman Theatre
Start your first morning with a must-do in Málaga in 3 days: the alcazaba fortressan 11th-century Muslim building. As an added bonus, the path offers superb views of the port and historic center! Once at the top, you'll discover the palace with its two twin patios typical of the Muslim era.
What to book Malaga's Alcazaba is one of the most beautiful attractions you can visit during your stay in the city, so we recommend booking this guided tour.
Right next to the Alcazaba, we invite you to visit Málaga's Roman Theatre, an impressive vestige dating back to the time of Augustus. This theater, used until the 3rd century before being recycled by Muslim dynasties for the fortress, now houses a small museum to deepen your knowledge of that era.
Good to know: a visit to the theater is free! A good plan for those looking for free things to do in Málaga.
You've still got a little time left. Treat yourself to a visit to the Museum of Flamenco Art at the Peña Juan Breva. A true immersion in Spanish culture! Antique guitars, traditional garments and flamenco artworks are just some of the 5,000 pieces on display.
Afternoon: Historic center, Atarazanas Market, Málaga Cathedral
After a good gazpacho, a typical Andalusian dish, you start the afternoon exploring Málaga's historic center. Better still, you'll spend this early afternoon at the atarazanas marketmarket, housed in a former 14th-century arsenal.
Good to know: open Monday to Saturday from 9am, doors close at 2pm. Don't delay!
With its colorful windows and historic Muslim door, the place is simply sublime. Take the opportunity to sample fresh local produce: fruit, vegetables, fish and shellfish cooked on the premises. In short, an authentic gourmet break that will delight your taste buds.
Your visit to downtown Málaga continues peacefully under the mild Andalusian sun. So mild, in fact, that Málaga is an ideal destination to visit in November, to take advantage of the fine weather for a while longer. Nestled between the port, the Alcazaba hill and the Guadalmedina river, it's made up of pretty, winding streets reminiscent of the old Arab medina, including the Calle Marqués de Larios, the main shopping street, and the Calle Alcazabilla, lined with bars and restaurants.
Along the way, don't miss Málaga's superb cathedral, a true masterpiece of the Spanish Renaissance. Unfinished, with one tower missing, it is affectionately known as "La Manchote". Inside, its high, magnificent ceilings, organs and stained glass windows add their own touch of wonder to this beautiful 3-day visit to Málaga.
Related article: Andalusia, between nature and culture
Day 2: What to do in Málaga in 3 days? Gibralfaro Castle and museums
What to book day 1: Explore Málaga by booking this audio tour on a multi-stop bus. You hop on and off whenever you like on an itinerary that takes you to the city's main attractions and monuments.
You've been waiting for it, here it is: Gibralfaro Castle! Your day begins at the heart of this Málaga must-see, with a few other visits full of surprises.
Morning: Gibralfaro Castle and viewpoints
Your morning begins with a visit to the gibralfaro Castlesituated on a hill 132 metres above sea level. From up there, you'll dominate Málaga, enjoying exceptional panoramic views along the way. The fortress, which dates back to Arab times, consists of two fortified enclosures and several towers. These include the Torre Blanca, an imposing flanking tower used as a prison, and the Torre Mayor, offering an attractive vantage point. Inside, you can still see the remains of a mosque converted into a chapel, water tanks and a well dug into the rock.
Want to see more? Visit the nearby Coracha and Gibralfaro viewpoints. From these strategic vantage points, you can admire a spectacular panorama of the port, the town and the sea. The Coracha viewpoint, located along the slope linking the castle to the Alcazaba, offers a unique perspective of the city walls.
Tip from Petit Futé: Visits to Gibralfaro Castle are free on Sundays from 2pm. The rest of the time, the price is just €3.50, and €5.50 for a joint visit with the Alcazaba.
Afternoon: Pablo Picasso Museum-Home and Málaga Museum
Start the afternoon with a visit to the Pablo Picasso's Birthplacelocated in the building where the artist was born in 1881. This immersive museum presents the artist's personal works and objects, as well as ceramics, engravings and other illustrated books testifying to the evolution of his art. Through the permanent collection - complemented by a selection of graphic works by contemporary artists such as Miró and Bacon - you relive Picasso's entire career.
To book : click here to book your ticket to the Musée Picasso in advance.
Your steps will then lead you to another must-see: the Museo de Málaga, housed in the Palacio de la Douane. In the Fine Arts section, you can admire works by great masters such as Velázquez and Goya, as well as 19th-century Spanish paintings. The modern art collection includes works by Picasso and other 20th-century Spanish artists. The museum also boasts an archaeological section. Comprising over 15,000 pieces, ranging from the Bronze Age to medieval times, it illustrates Málaga's rich and varied history.
Want to end your stay in style? Spend an unforgettable last evening in Málaga by booking this catamaran excursion to admire the Alboran Sea at sunset.
Day 3: What to do in Málaga in 3 days? Soho, El Cubo and the Concepción Botanical Gardens
On this last day of your 3-day visit to Málaga, we turn to more modern neighborhoods.
Morning: Soho district, Port of Málaga, Centre Pompidou
Street art fans will love Málaga's Soho district, a hotbed of urban art! Everywhere, spectacular graffiti by renowned artists decorate the walls. This dynamic district is also home to art galleries, artists' studios and original shops. In short, this is Málaga's unusual place to discover during your stay!
Your morning continues on to the port of Málaga, surrounded by wide promenades lined with palm trees, boutiques and terraces offering breathtaking sea views. It's a fairly quick stroll, but a very pleasant one nonetheless.
Finally, your steps will lead you to the Center Pompidou de Málaganicknamed El Cubo. Covered in 1001 colors, you can't miss it! Its permanent collection, comprising over 80 works by emblematic artists such as Picasso, Miró and Magritte, is quite simply unique in the world.
If you're a modern art lover passing through Malaga, be sure to visit the Centre Pompidou and book your ticket in advance right here.
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Afternoon: Caminito del Rey or Botanical Gardens
Your last afternoon is all about nature. You have two choices: El Caminito del Rey or the Jardin Botanique de la Conception. Long considered the most dangerous in the world, el Caminito del Rey is a spectacular 8-kilometer trail. Now safe, it takes you across footbridges suspended over 100 meters high, offering unforgettable views of the canyons and valley. Ideal for adventure lovers!
To book: Explore the Caminito del Rey in El Chorro, once considered one of the most dangerous hiking trails in the world , by booking your entry ticketright here .
If you prefer a more peaceful atmosphere, opt for the La Concepción Botanical-Historical Gardena 100% romantic setting created in 1855. The garden features over 1,000 tropical and subtropical plant species from every continent. With its palm trees, aquatic plants and wooded areas, it's a magical place to stroll.
Finish your stay in style by booking this live flamenco show at Flamenco Alegría . Enjoy traditional tapas and drinks, listen to superb singing and guitar pieces and admire the acrobatic dancers on stage.
Where to stay in Málaga for 3 days? Our selection of the best hotels
Don't hesitate to look for a hotel located in the historic center for your 3 days in Málaga. You'll be close to most of the sights.
- The cheapest
Simple but effective, that's the credo of theHotel Sur, located in the historic heart of Málaga. Clean, welcoming and with underground parking (for a fee), this inexpensive establishment is best booked here.
- The quietest
The promise of peace and quiet in the heart of Málaga's city center is theHotel Don Curro. Although the atmosphere is stuck in the 80s, you'll feel right at home in this quality establishment, with its generous welcome. Click here to book.
- Best located
Hotel Trebol is one of the many well-located establishments in Málaga. With no fuss, it offers spacious, comfortable rooms. The pleasant welcome is a welcome bonus! Book your room your room in Málaga.
Superb, varied and majestic, Spain invites you to experience a change of scenery. Live it to the full by discovering our 15 must-sees in Andalusia, to complete your trip perfectly. Among them, don't miss a visit to Granada, the sparkling jewel of southern Spain, as well as the 17 must-sees in Seville, the city where miscegenation takes on its full meaning.
The article to read: What to do in Spain? The 21 most beautiful places to see!
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