Málaga attractions

Picasso is everywhere in Málaga - and rightly so, seeing as he was born here. The Museo Picasso Málaga, now one of the area’s most popular tourist attractions, showcases 285 works donated by members of Picasso's family. Visit the house where Picasso was born and see real masterpieces by the artist himself, plus art by luminaries like Miró, Christo, Bacon, Bross, and more. Check out artifacts, family memories, his graphic artwork from 1931 - 1971, and take a look at the 19th-century books inside the library. It’s an art lover’s dream!

Strolling to the port along Málaga's picturesque seafront will have you squinting into the distance at a sleek multicolored cube. Upon closer inspection you’ll realize it’s not some weird tardis, it’s just Málaga’s branch of the Centre Pompidou in Paris, affectionately known by locals as El Cubo. Putting the city on the cultural map, the centre has over 80 artworks, dating from 1905 onwards, including significant pieces from Frida Kahlo, Pablo Picasso, Rene Magritte, and more. Temporary exhibitions with works from Pompidou Paris keep the collections exciting and relevant.

For incredible views of Gibralfaro Castle and Alcazaba, head to Pier 1 Port of Málaga, a relatively new neighborhood that connects the cruise terminal to the historic center and the Park of the Palms. This shopping and leisure-packed part of town also boasts a number of restaurants, activities, and facilities to entertain the kids - no matter the budget. It’s particularly nice to walk around at night. Go for a long stroll as the sun is setting over the water, then head to one of the bars in the Malagueta area for cocktails and tapas.

With tempting small plates everywhere you look, you could fill up on tapas before you’ve even taken a bite of dinner. That can be good news since the local dinner time is quite late (think 10pm!). Make sure to try the grilled sardines. To eat them like the locals, head to the old fishing district of El Palo, where they’re served six to a stick at a number of beach bars. Wash them down with the sweet Málaga wine, available everywhere, but particularly good at La Casa del Guardia or 'The Guardhouse' - the oldest tavern in Málaga.