Top 4 Things to Do in Malaga in One Day

Situated on the Costa del Sol in southern Spain next to Seville, Malaga offers a diverse range of attractions and experiences that make it worth visiting if you plan to visit Spain for your next trip. 

Known as the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, Malaga also has a lot of landmarks with rich histories to learn about and explore. From the Roman Theater, to the Moorish fortress, you can visit all the must-visit sites in Malaga in one day without breaking the bank. 

While you can always join Malaga city tour to make exploring the city easier, you can also arrange a DIY trip to Malaga on a budget.

This time, Paulina of Visit Southern Spain will take us to the sunny city to find out what to do in Malaga in a day. So, where do you need to go if you have 24 hours in Malaga?

How to Explore Malaga in One Day (on a Budget)

Malaga is surprising in many ways, from its calm beaches, lovely nightlife, barbecued sardines to 300 sunny days per year. A traveler can enjoy all these things without paying any penny. The place was often overlooked by travelers but it recently has come into the mainstream.

There are spots that travelers can enjoy visiting under their budget. The city has a lot to offer and travelers have realized that it is the city of traditions, and beauty and is very cheap.

There are some things to do here that you wouldn't want to miss out on and will be able to enjoy under a modest budget. It is because there are plenty of free activities to explore. Read on to discover the free activities to enjoy in Malaga.

Did you know?

Malaga is one of the oldest cities in the world. Founded by the Phoenicians in 770 BC, it remains its role as an important trade center in Spain due to its strategic location between Europe and North Africa.

malaga fc stadium

Atarazanas Market

Malaga's central market exists since the 14th century and it was originally constructed by the Moors as a shipbuilder's yard. The market has a fascinating history along with a crowded atmosphere. It is a great place to visit even if you do not want to buy anything.

Locals like it to shop for local products including oils, fish, olives, seasonal fruits, and vegetables. You can easily afford to buy some of these products for under $10. The market opens from Monday to Saturday and runs from 8:00 am until 2:00 pm.

malaga city
Source: Pixabay.

Malaga's Center of Contemporary Art

Visiting the Centre of Contemporary Art (also known as CAC) will offer you to witness a fantastic collection of 20th and 21st-century art. It features popular artists like Plague Eliasson, Demian Hirst, Louise Bourgeois and many of the Andalusian artists. Visiting the Museum is free and it will never disappoint you.

Alcazaba and Castillo de Gibralfaro

The Alcazaba fortress and Gibralfaro castle are Malaga's top two famous landmarks that will take your breath away. These both are unmissable attractions for anyone who visits the city.

You can enjoy a walk through the perfectly curated gardens and eucalyptus trees or take a view from the castle that can't be replaced. Enjoy free entrance to both the landmarks after 2:00 pm on Sundays.

Malaga's Viewpoints

The Gibralfaro hill offers the best viewpoints around the city. One is situated on the side of the Gibralfaro hill, along with the gardens and the castle and the other one is situated on top of the hill next to the castle. Reach there by car if you don't want to walk.

If you are traveling on a modest budget, you can still figure out where to stay in Malaga at a low cost. $10 USD is approximately 8 Euros in Malaga that can buy you a bunch of things from famous eateries to traditional items.


Contributor: Paulina of Visit Southern Spain.

Paulina is a fervent travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by boat hitchhiking. Blogging in English and Español since 2015, she wants to share her passion for sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, or sailing.


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