Highlights of the Province of Málaga
If you’re searching for what to see in Malaga province, rest assured there’s far more to it than sunbeds and sangria. This corner of Andalusia is packed with character, from cliffside towns to ancient ruins and proper mountain scenery.
Read on to learn all about Malaga’s highlights, including towns and cities, natural wonders, historic sites, and of course, the best beaches and coastal destinations.
Must‑Visit Towns and Cities
Start in Málaga city, where Moorish architecture still towers above the old centre and Picasso’s legacy gets more attention than the beach. You can wander through Roman ruins, dive into local markets and be back at your rooftop bar by sunset.
Next, Ronda earns its place on any list with its enormous gorge and gravity-defying bridge. You’ll find ancient bathhouses, a famous bullring, and some of the most spectacular views in the entire region.
Down on the coast, Nerja delivers sea air with a splash of culture. The Balcony of Europe viewpoint is the crowd-puller, but the old town has charm and the caves nearby are staggering.
Then there’s Frigiliana, perched above Nerja and full of steep streets, colourful doors and enough photo spots to eat up your morning. Small, tidy, and genuinely lovely.
You could also make time for Mijas, Antequera or Vélez‑Málaga. Each offers something different. Antequera is steeped in history, Mijas has great views, and Vélez gives you a taste of local life without the tourist crowds.
Natural Wonders and Outdoor Spots
Málaga province isn’t short of wow-factor landscapes. El Torcal de Antequera is one of the standouts, with massive rock formations that look like something from a fantasy film. Bring decent shoes and a camera.
Nearby, the Laguna de Fuente de Piedra becomes a flamingo hotspot each spring. The scale of it might surprise you, and it’s ideal for a peaceful walk if you want a break from towns and traffic.
If heights don’t bother you, El Caminito del Rey is the one to beat. This walkway clings to the side of a gorge and was once labelled the most dangerous path in the world. It’s perfectly safe now, but still gives you a bit of a buzz.
And if you want real wilderness, the Sierra de las Nieves National Park offers proper hiking trails and the chance to escape to the hills. You’ll find rare wildlife here too, including Spanish ibex and birds of prey.
Historic Sites and Cultural Attractions
One of the best parts about exploring what to see in Malaga province is stumbling across history when you least expect it. In Málaga city, you can visit the Alcazaba, the Cathedral, and the Gibralfaro Castle, where the views stretch from the port right across to the mountains.
Inland, Antequera is a history lover’s dream, with baroque churches and Moorish towers, but also prehistoric dolmens recognised by UNESCO. It’s one of those towns where every corner has something to say.
But not everything here is about castles and cathedrals. If you’re after something more hands-on and heartwarming, Donkey Dreamland in La Cala de Mijas is well worth your time. It’s a rescue centre that gives mistreated or abandoned donkeys a proper retirement. Visitors can book a guided walk, meet the animals, and learn how they’re cared for. It’s one of those spots that quietly stays with you long after the beach memories fade.
Beaches and Coastal Destinations
While Málaga city has its fair share of sandy stretches, some of the best coastal spots lie just beyond the city limits. Head east and you’ll reach Rincón de la Victoria, a seaside town that’s close enough for convenience but far enough to avoid the constant buzz. Its main beach is wide, accessible, and backed by a lively promenade with ice cream kiosks and chiringuitos that take grilling fish seriously.
Further along, Torre del Mar is popular with locals who like their beaches spacious and their lunch affordable. It’s not overly polished, but that’s part of its charm. Families tend to flock here thanks to its relaxed atmosphere and shallow waters.
Nerja, perched on the eastern edge of the province, is more dramatic. The coastline here is a mix of coves and headlands, and Burriana Beach is the headline act. It’s well-equipped with showers, sunbeds, and restaurants.
On the western side of the province, Benalmádena and Fuengirola cater to a more resort-style crowd. You’ll find long promenades, enough bars and restaurants to last a lifetime, and beaches that are easy to access from the train line. They’re not the quietest, but they’re convenient if you’re staying nearby or just want a quick paddle before lunch.
Marbella offers a different pace. The beaches here are glitzier, with cabana beds, sushi menus, and cocktails with oversized garnishes. But you can also find more casual options near San Pedro de Alcántara, where the beaches are less flashy and the prices a little more grounded.
For a closer look at the entire coastline, have a read through our blog on Costa del Sol beaches.
Map of Malaga Province
This interactive map shows the layout of the areas of Malaga province. Handy, because some of the distances here are deceptive. Málaga to Ronda might look close, but you’ll want a good couple of hours to get there. The map helps you work out the smartest base for your trip, whether you’re beach-bound, heading inland or planning a bit of both.
Explore the Best of Malaga Province
The variety on offer is what makes Malaga province such a solid holiday choice. You could start your day walking a cliffside path, be eating fresh sardines by lunch, and finish up in a quiet mountain village with a glass of wine.
If you’re ready to plan your trip, take a look at the accommodation on offer with At Home – Costa del Sol. We’ve got everything from stylish coastal flats to large villas with pools, quiet countryside houses and centrally located town rentals. Whatever you’re after, you’ll find something that fits.
Book your stay today and make the most of your time in one of Spain’s sunniest provinces.
