what you want to do in Malaga
We always talk about the dark days before Christmas, but the days after Christmas are, in my opinion, the worst. It seems like the months of January and February have a subscription to dreary winter weather. The street scene doesn't get any better: everyone is pale, grumpy, and drenched. And what's with cars driving through deep puddles just as you ride by? I say let's fast forward to spring.
Last week I spent a few days in Malaga and what a delight it was. The sky is a clear blue and during the day you can walk along the promenade in a light sweater or T-shirt. At night it cools down quite a bit, but no one seems to mind. The terrace heaters are turned on and everyone is happily chatting over Rioja late into the night. Furthermore, it’s a compact city, everything is within walking distance and you can shop just fine. If you're interested in art and culture: Picasso was born here and you can visit his birthplace. Both Ryanair and Transavia, Vueling, and easyJet fly to this destination, so you can always score a good deal. I would say: nothing is holding you back.
The highlights:
Pedregalejo
Malaga is by the sea, which makes it extra nice. Besides a harbor where you can eat well and watch luxury yachts in the summer, there is a long promenade and many city beaches. Pedregalejo is the fishing district of Malaga and I would definitely recommend taking a look here. You’ll find jogging hotties, nice restaurants, and quirky low-rise buildings. Here you can eat charcoal-grilled sardines that are prepared right on the beach in wooden boats, but I also spotted the trendier La Machina with a cocktail menu.
Paseo Maritimo el Pedegal 42
La Barra de Zapata
This is a restaurant with a unique philosophy that everyone must experience at least once. I won’t tell you why, as it’s better to just experience it. You do need to make a reservation and you’ll be there for at least two hours. I’ll give you one hint: the truffle risotto contains so much shaved truffle that you won’t understand how they do it.
Calle Salinas, 10
Castillo de Gibralfaro
This 14th-century castle towers high above the city. Once you’re done shopping, put on your hiking shoes and make the steep climb up. Along the way, you’ll have a fantastic view of the Mediterranean Sea and the harbor. I must warn you about the quite aggressive squirrels at the viewpoint, and no, this is not a joke. Those creatures are just not afraid of people and they think you have food. My husband even said: ‘What could a squirrel do to you?’, to which I replied: ‘It can bite through a nut.’ The castle itself is beautiful to walk through and for those who need more motivation, there’s a great coffee shop with homemade carrot cake.
La Merced
This neighborhood is known for its unique graffiti. You see towering artworks everywhere, perfect for your Instagram. I’m trying really hard to come up with another line of text here, but actually, everything has already been said.
Picnic Dreams Boutique Hostel
In addition to dorms that you share with 9 perfect strangers (not my thing but very cheap), they also have simple yet comfortable rooms furnished with recycled materials. But what you really come for is the lovely vegetarian restaurant on the ground floor with a fantastic healthy breakfast and great tacos and burgers for later in the day.
Calle San Juan de Letrán 9
Desal Café
You can easily walk past it, but they have the most delicious Eggs Benedict with smoked salmon. Really, I want to go back immediately just thinking about it. They also have juices, homemade granola; everything you need to get through the day. It’s a small place with only four tables inside and four outside, so sometimes you have to wait a bit. But it’s worth it!
Calle Nosquera 2
