Málaga / Spain

Malaga, one of the oldest cities in Spain, is located on the sunny coast of Costa del Sol by the Mediterranean Sea. More than 2,800 years of history have left a unique blend of Phoenician, Roman, and Moorish monuments here, complemented by wide boulevards, a modern port, and pleasant city beaches. Alcazaba Fortress, Gibralfaro Castle, Roman Theatre, and the cathedral nicknamed "La Manquita" create the unmistakable atmosphere of an Andalusian city. Thanks to its rich history, excellent gastronomy, and pleasant Mediterranean climate, Malaga is among the most popular stops offered by Mediterranean cruises.

What to taste in Malaga?

Malaga's cuisine is based on fresh fish, seafood, olive oil, and traditional Andalusian recipes.

• Espetos de sardinas – sardines skewered and grilled over charcoal, a typical specialty of Malaga's beaches.
• Fritura malagueña – a mix of lightly fried fish and seafood.
• Ajoblanco – cold almond soup with garlic, olive oil, and grapes.
• Porra antequerana – thick tomato soup served with ham and egg.
• Boquerones en vinagre – marinated anchovies served as tapas.
• Málaga Wine – traditional sweet fortified wine from the province of Málaga.

Why will you love Malaga?

• Historical Monuments – Alcazaba, Gibralfaro Castle, Roman Theatre, and Renaissance Cathedral remind us of the city's more than two thousand years of history.
• Atmosphere of Andalusia – lively streets, tapas bars, palm promenades, and the port create a unique Mediterranean atmosphere.
• Costa del Sol within reach – beautiful city beaches, sunny weather, and excellent conditions for relaxation and trips around the area.

Practical Tips:

•  Official Language: Spanish, but in tourist areas, you can also communicate in English and German.
• Currency: Euro (EUR)
• Opening Hours: Shops, restaurants, and tourist attractions usually open between 10:00 and 20:00. Some restaurants have a midday siesta, usually between 14:00 and 17:00. On Sundays and holidays, most shops are closed, but tourist areas and restaurants generally remain open on weekends and holidays.
• Public Transport: Málaga has an excellent public transport system, including buses, two metro lines, and taxis. Tickets are affordable and can be purchased directly from the driver or using a rechargeable card. The city center is easily accessible on foot, and many attractions are concentrated in a small area. There are also train connections to surrounding towns and the airport, which is located about 10 km from the center.
• Weather: Málaga has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers (25–35 °C). With more than 300 sunny days a year, it is an ideal destination almost all year round. The main tourist season lasts from May to October, but even in winter months, visitors come for the pleasant weather and quieter atmosphere.

The Most Interesting from Malaga's History:

Malaga was founded by the Phoenicians in the 8th century BC and soon became an important trading port in the Mediterranean due to its advantageous location. Later, it was part of the Roman Empire, from which the Roman Theatre has been preserved. The city experienced its greatest prosperity during the Muslim rule, when the monumental Alcazaba Fortress and Gibralfaro Castle were built, which remain among the most important monuments in Andalusia. After the city's conquest by the Catholic Monarchs in 1487, the construction of the Renaissance Cathedral began, and Malaga gradually transformed into an important commercial center of southern Spain. Today, it is a sought-after tourist destination that combines rich historical heritage, a modern port, Mediterranean atmosphere, and the birthplace of one of the most famous painters of the 20th century – Pablo Picasso.

Useful Information

• How to choose the right cruise?
• How to choose a cruise company?