Things to do in Costa del Sol in October
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Overview
October is a great time to visit Costa del Sol.
Costa del Sol has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your October trip to Costa del Sol. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to October. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.
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Best events and things to do in Costa del Sol in October
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Best attractions for Costa del Sol in October
Besides the array of exciting events and activities Costa del Sol has to offer for travelers in October, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in Costa del Sol that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit. Here is a list of our top attractions in Costa del Sol for October.
1. Alcazaba
4.6
(38590)
Fortress
Museums
Hilltop Moorish-style medieval fortress overlooking the sea, with lush, fountain-filled gardens.
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Short queue to enter on a hot Sunday. Was €7 each to go in. The ruins are immense, spread out over multiple layers and over a wide area. The views are incredible. There are so many features to see - gardens, walls, water features, galleries, etc. absolutely worth a visit. Seeing the uncovered Roman amphitheatre was a bonus too. Amazing place to visit.
The Alcazaba is a a beautiful place to explore, there is a lot of architectural history and beautiful gardens. It does require you to walk uphill at times, there are narrow stairs and some tight spaces but it can easily be navigated even at peak times.
We went on a Sunday when admission was free, however we booked on the website to have an English speaking tour which was led by Salvador. He provided a lot of interesting context and historical information - he was also very knowledgeable about the structures and materials used in the fort. We viewed all parts of the Alcazaba and there was time to browse by ourselves later.
The views are magnificent and we really enjoyed the experience.
Loved this piece of history. Walking around and feeling people lived here so many years ago. So much has been preserved and very grateful for this. Also an amazing view over the Bullring, the harbour and coastline. These semi ruins are precious and worth a visit. A must seen in Malaga.
The Alcazaba is absolutely beautiful and full of history. On Sundays from 14:00 the entrance is free. Just be aware that the line starts forming early for the free entrance. The good thing is that once it‘s time, people move in quickly, so the wait isn’t too long.
It was definitely crowded, which made it a bit harder to fully enjoy the place, but the views and architecture are still stunning. If you take your time and wander a bit, you might get lucky and find a few quiet moments without the crowds.
A great experience and absolutely worth visiting!
Fantastic Alcazaba
This is a great moorish castle that is easy to visit as it sits more or less in the Malaga town centre. The views are fantastic and so is the architecture of the building.
We really enjoyed wandering around here, plus it is surrounded by gardens, so in summer when it get really hot it is a nice place to cool off a bit.
€10 to enter this fortress also includes entrance to the castle further on after you exit (note both are free to enter after 14:00pm every Sunday
The walk to the top is really interesting with lots of different areas to climb up steps and explore the pathways can be steep and uneven surfaces but well worth the effort to be presented with amazing views of Malaga !
There’s a small Bar/cafe inside set within an area in the shade and also toilets, recommend to don’t join the long queue for the toilets at the bar and keep moving as you’ll find toilets with little to no queue further on into the grounds
As we visited off peak on a Sunday We queued for around 10 mins to enter but once we came out at 13:40ish the queue was already all the way back out and down to the street for the free entrance on a Sunday
Great spot for a sunny day, but quite old and a bit underwhelming in the sense of the guiding and the information available.
The interiors that can be busier are minimal, and the views are the same as from the other castle higher up the hill so you can pick and visit only one of these two .
You can also combined and buy a ticket for both of 10
euros
Beautiful alcazaba/castle from the 14th century! There are two sections and they are not connected. One has an enormous climb to the top so be prepared! Halfway up there was a parking lot with a couple of tuktuk rides so you can save yourself some of the climb. Amazing views of Malaga and great history!
2. Puerto Marina Benalmadena Oficial
4.5
(37463)
Nature & Parks
Luggage storage facility
Waterfront plaza boasting posh retailers & restaurants in a relaxed, open-air setting.
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*5/5 stars*
Puerto Marina Benalmádena is an absolute gem! 🌟 I recently spent a day exploring this stunning marina, and I was blown away by its beauty and charm 😊.
The marina itself is impeccably maintained, with sleek yachts and boats bobbing gently in the water 🌊. The promenade is wide and pedestrian-friendly, perfect for strolling and taking in the sights 🌴. The views of the surrounding mountains and the sea are breathtaking, and the atmosphere is lively but relaxed 🌟.
What really impressed me was the variety of amenities and activities available 📚. From shopping and dining to sailing and water sports, there's something for everyone at Puerto Marina Benalmádena 🌈. The staff are friendly and helpful, and the whole experience is very well-organized 🤝.
I loved the vibrant atmosphere, with live music and street performers adding to the excitement 🎵. The marina is also home to a range of excellent restaurants and cafes, serving up delicious food and drink 🍴.
If you're looking for a fantastic day out in Benalmádena, Puerto Marina is a must-visit 🌟. With its stunning scenery, excellent amenities, and lively atmosphere, it's a destination that will leave you feeling energized and inspired 🌈.
*Tips:*
- Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade and enjoy the views.
- Try some of the excellent seafood restaurants in the marina.
- Consider taking a boat trip or sailing excursion from the marina 🌟.
Overall, Puerto Marina Benalmádena is a 5-star destination that exceeds expectations in every way 🌟. Get ready for an unforgettable experience!
A very nice place to visit, very beautiful views, tons of restaurants, docks with boats and even found a classic boat there!
The architecture is beautiful there.
We went to see SeaWorld but the surroundings are beautiful as well!
We had tons of fun, had some food, walked around and fooled around as well.
I do recommend visiting it when you are in the area, it's very beautiful and can be very romantic as well if you want too.
The place is beautiful and the shops surrounding the marina are plentiful. There’s a fantastic area upstairs where there are a few restaurants where we had some Mexican food and it was delicious. There’s service was great and as it’s glass fronted with heating as was needed at night in late November you could watch the world go bye.
We love it here. Lovely shops and plenty of places to eat, drink or grab and ice cream. Also plenty of boat trips on offer (we tried two!). We also loved the Sea Life aquarium here.
A must to visit even if it's just for a walk.
A lively, busy marina very morish in more ways than one! We visited in the evening and it was buzzing, so many restaurants to choose from. If you want to do a little shopping there are many to choose from.
Daytime visit was just as good, we stopped for a coffee
Great tourist spot, plenty of choice in restraunts and shops. Comes alive at night and open until late. Nice setting with the boats and water, some great views if you book the right table
If you are nearby, this place is a must see. Sometimes it gets crowded. Lots of nice restaurants and shops in the area. My recommendation.
This is such a vibrant and stunning place. The 3 island complexes are gorgeous and just shows how the other half live.
3. Museo Picasso Málaga
4.3
(33575)
Museum
Art Museums
Restored 16th-century palace with a collection of more than 200 works by artist Pablo Picasso.
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To skip waiting line, we purchased tickets online a day before. I suggest you to take mobile headphones with you. At the entrance you can scan a QR code with the audio guide. Besides Picasso life, two more artists are exhibited. At the -1 floor you can find architectural remains explaining what life was from the museum building itself. It was a nice place.
I visited the museum at 5pm and waited in a queue - I would advise purchasing tickets online however it is possible to purchase tickets after entering the museum.
Backpacks cannot be taken in so it’s a good idea to travel with a smaller bag - there is a storage room operated by staff which was very simple and quick to use. There is also an audio guide so it is helpful to bring earphones.
There are two Picasso collections with an additional medium/techniques room as well as two temporary exhibitions. There is also an archaeology floor which was incredibly interesting! I was there for approximately an hour and a half - I really enjoyed it and had a great time.
Museo Picasso Málaga – A Cultural Gem in the Heart of the City
The Museo Picasso Málaga, Address: Calle San Agustín, 8, 29015 Málaga, Spain, is a must-visit if you’re in the city. Housed in the beautiful 16th-century Palacio de Buenavista, it has a well-curated collection of Picasso’s paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and drawings that really show the evolution of his work. The museum is easy to navigate, the displays are clear, and the atmosphere is calm and enjoyable.
The temporary exhibitions are always interesting, and the audio guide is excellent for getting deeper insights. Located right in the historic centre, it’s easy to combine with a stroll through Málaga’s old town. A perfect stop for art lovers or anyone curious about Picasso.
Queue to enter because had booked to enter at opening time.
Best to book in advance because otherwise you are advised to book online in a queue and then join the queue for those with tickets. It is possible to pay on entry as a last resort.
No leaflets in English available when I visited.
Cloakroom available, plenty of seating so you can rest between viewing, plenty of toilets too.
Museum signage for direction wasn’t the most clear.
Audio guide is good although it’s through QR code on phone so would recommend taking phone and headphones.
Good collection of Picasso’s work :)
Very informative about the mediums and techniques explored over the years
Lovely museum of Picasso’s life work.
Purchase tickets on line before hand and arrive at your allotted time.
Be prepared to line up even with prepaid tickets because they allow only certain number of people in. 5 people come out, 5 people allowed in.
There are several security check points, ticket check and no liquids or food allowed. I’d you have food items you must check them at a cost check area.
Be prepared to spend 2-3 hours absorbing the life and life’s work of Picasso.
There are benches and places to sit to rest if necessary.
The Picasso Museum in Málaga was totally worth the visit. I really enjoyed learning about Picasso’s entire life, from his childhood and marriages to the inspirations behind his art. It was fascinating to see how his style evolved through different periods of his career.
Buying tickets online is definitely the best option to avoid the long lines. The museum is quite popular, so even with tickets, you should expect a bit of a wait.
A must do when you’re in Malaga but you must book tickets in advance especially at the weekend, saw so many people turned away and disappointed as very popular. Great collection and amazing setting to discover the artist and his various work. Highly recommend and give yourself a few hours to visit
The museum is a pretty good size, not too long and boring, but also not too little to see. I'd recommend bringing headphones so that you can listen to the audio guide on your phone comfortably.
4. Santa Iglesia Catedral Basílica de la Encarnación de Málaga
4.6
(34030)
Catholic cathedral
Sights & Landmarks
Iconic national landmark with a 16th-century baroque facade & ornate choir stalls, plus a museum.
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This cathedral is one of the most stunning structures I have ever seen in my life. The exterior is massive and before entering, you think there are dozens of rooms and levels and steps you’ll encounter upon entering. However, the second you walk in, you notice that nearly the entire structure is ONE GIANT INTERIOR cathedral. The ceiling is so high up you can see the occasional bird flying from one end to another. There’s not a single square inch of this place that isn’t intricately decorated or carved with holy imagery. The craftsmanship and variety of materials used are beyond anything you could imagine. Highly recommend you stop by and take a look at this architectural marvel!
This is such a beautiful catherdral. Unfortunately there was a service happening so visiting the interior was not possible. But the exterior is wonderful. It is called the one-armed lady as only one spire was built and the money ran out for the construction of the second. Another interesting fact is that it was a mosque and rather than demolishing this to build the Catholic Church it was incorporated. The ex try error carvings are lovely and the surrounding area very picturesque. It is well worth the visit to the old town and the cathedral
A monumental building with some lovely side chapels will take some time to look around. The entry cost is €9 with lots to see. Do not miss the Incarnation Chapel behind the main alter, it is lovely. The choir has some stunning wood carvings. Give yourself lots of time as there is so much to see.
The Catholic Monarchs ordered the construction of the building. It is popularly known as La Manquita.
The cathedral of the Encarnación is one of the town's most important monuments. The south tower and the main façade are unfinished. It is situated in the historic centre of the town. The building sits where a mosque-Moorish quarter once existed. Work began in the first half of the 16th century, in the Gothic style, ordered by the Catholic Monarchs, and continued in the 17th and 18th centuries. It has its own gardens and a magnificent courtyard. The interior of the cathedral has Renaissance and Baroque influences. Most noteworthy are the choir stalls (17th century) in the central nave and, especially, the sculptural works of Pedro de Mena. The chapels are also very interesting, such as that of the Encarnación, which gives the cathedral its name.
The Cathedral of Málaga is a beautiful place to visit, especially if you enjoy architecture. Built in a mix of Renaissance and Baroque styles, it has impressive columns, peaceful chapels, and stunning details that make the interior really special.
Entrance to the inside of the church is free from Monday to Saturday between 8:30 and 9:00. I went during this time and there were very few people, which made the experience calm and pleasant.
It’s a lovely stop if you’re exploring the historic center. Even if you don’t spend long inside, the architecture and atmosphere make it worth seeing.
Absolutely beautiful Cathedral with lots of history. If you will notice one of the bell towers on the cathedral has not been completed. There is a good reason for this. The money that was to be used to finish the Cathedral bell tower was instead sent to George Washington during the Revolutionary War in the US by Spanish Governor Bernardo de Gálvez. Bernardo de Gálvez was the governor of the Spanish territory of Luisiana which is how it was spelled then. This was because Spain wanted to see Britain defeated in the US Territory as they were arch rivals fighting for influence in the Americas.
Absolutely stunning cathedral in the heart of Málaga! The mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles is beautiful, and the inside is full of light and detail. Even if you’re not into churches, it’s worth visiting just for the architecture and atmosphere. Don’t miss it!
Allow at least an hour for your visit, and check opening times in advance, as access to the rooftop and main nave may differ depending on services or events.
We were in Malaga for the day while on a cruise with NCL.
We walked all around the old city center and eventually passed by the Basilica. We did not have time to enter so I am only commenting on the beautiful outside structure. It is a magnificent example of baroque style. Locally known as The one armed lady! Construction took from 16th to 18th centuries.
Gorgeous cathedral, they call her the "one armed lady" because the right bell tower was never completed. The architecture was beautiful, so much marble and carved mahogany. I have so many photos, it was just overwhelming!
5. Pl. Balcón de Europa
Sights & Landmarks
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Town square with bars & eateries next to the namesake observation platform popular with tourists.
6. Puente Nuevo. Centro de Interpretación
4.7
(32738)
Tourist information center
Sights & Landmarks
An 18th-century arch bridge over a 120m chasm, with an interpretive center in a guardhouse.
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Spectacular views and vibrant atmosphere—an unforgettable highlight of Ronda
Puente Nuevo is absolutely breathtaking and a must-see when visiting Ronda. The views from the bridge—both day and night—are spectacular, offering sweeping vistas of the gorge and surrounding valley. It's a stunning spot for photos and a peaceful place to just take in the natural beauty and architecture.
The area around the bridge is lively and full of charm, with plenty of tapas restaurants (more than a dozen!) offering delicious food and great views. Many have outdoor seating, making it the perfect place to relax, enjoy a drink, and soak up the atmosphere.
There are also several hiking options nearby, with trails that lead down into the gorge or along the cliffside for different perspectives of the bridge. Whether you're just strolling the old town or exploring the paths below, Puente Nuevo is a constant and dramatic presence in the landscape.
This spot is just as magical at night when the bridge is beautifully lit—romantic, quiet, and unforgettable. A definite 5-star experience and a highlight of any trip to Ronda.
This is a very impressive bridge! We paid 5 Euros to go down into the room inside the bridge and thought that was a very cool experience. Outside, it is a bit difficult to get a really good view of the bridge without getting a bit far away from it (you need more than the hour or so that we had), but we still enjoyed the views, especially the scenic views looking out at the cliffs and valleys below. Worth a visit, especially if you have time to explore a bit farther back from the bridge!
The bridge is amazing and home to very nice views. What they don't tell you is that it is in use and very busy with cars. But still, there are vantage points so you can take great pictures. There is also a payed experience that lets you in a certain part of the bridge and it was nice to feel a bit of fresh air. I cannot really recommend the payed experience, sure at 2,50 euros is not expensive but there isn't much to see.
Beautiful views ❤️. And near the bridge you can find many souvenir shops and restaurants. The Fotos where great 👍, I recommend 💯
1 hour 30 minutes from Marbella it's worth going for the puento nuevo bridge over the gorge. I spent 3 hours there and that was just right. Very touristy however it's a lovely town and a good day out for a group and if you sit and eat/drink then you will need about 5 hours. So it's a worthwhile day out.
An absolutely breathtaking landmark! Puente Nuevo in Ronda is truly a masterpiece of architecture and nature combined. The views from the bridge are simply stunning, especially with the dramatic gorge and surrounding cliffs. It’s one of those places that leaves you speechless and makes you appreciate the blend of history and natural beauty. A must-see if you’re anywhere near Ronda — unforgettable and iconic.
Perched above the breathtaking El Tajo gorge, Ronda is a stunning city in southern Spain. Its iconic Puente Nuevo bridge offers breathtaking views, while the Aldehuela Viewpoint. It provide panoramic vistas of the city and its surroundings. Explore the historic old town, visit the Plaza de Toros, and enjoy the serene Alameda del Tajo Gardens.
Ronda’s unique blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty makes it a must-visit destination.
Lovely place to see ,the gorges and ravine and the landscape .You can walk down via the stairs (5euros I think) but we did not.
7. Fundación Cueva de Nerja
4.6
(38976)
Nature preserve
Nature & Parks
Expansive cave complex viewed by guided tour, also hosting a classical music & dance festival.
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You can find all the technical and historical details about this cave on the net. So whatever I say is superfluous. The application offers you a particularly well-thought-out, interpreted story that will put your imagination to work and transport you into an imaginary world. I recommend you not to miss them if you come on vacation.
The caves are excellent, and unlike anything I’ve ever visited before.
The audio tour is great and very informative. However the caves get very busy which really make moving around fairly difficult.
The caves are also quite expensive and for a family of 6 cost over $100.
Despite this the caves are a really unique and beautiful experience that I do recommend.
Amazing experience and a must do when in Nerja. We bought tickets just by Riu Monica hotel by the train stop. Train takes about 15 mins to get there. Had a drink at the cafe which has amazing views. Take headphones as can download tour guide when there.
The Cueva de Nerja is, without a doubt, a must-see natural wonder on the Costa del Sol. This spectacular cave system offers a truly awe-inspiring journey into the geological history of Andalusia.
The sheer size and grandeur of the caverns are breathtaking. The cave boasts one of the world's most impressive geological features: a colossal, record-breaking stalagnate (a column formed by the fusion of a stalactite and stalagmite), which dominates the 'Cataclysm Gallery.' The rich formations, beautifully illuminated, showcase a mesmerizing array of stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone.
Beyond its natural beauty, the Cueva de Nerja is an invaluable archaeological treasure, containing prehistoric paintings and evidence of human occupation dating back tens of thousands of years. This dual nature—as a geological masterpiece and a historical site—makes the visit profoundly enriching.
The tourist route is well-maintained and clearly signposted, providing a comfortable and safe experience. Moreover, the pleasantly cool underground climate offers a welcome respite from the Spanish heat.
In summary, Cueva de Nerja is a spectacular and fascinating natural monument that beautifully marries epic natural formation with deep human history. It is an unforgettable experience.
Such an amazing place! The Nerja Caves are huge and so beautiful. The lights make everything look magical. It’s very clean, easy to walk around, and really well organized. A wonderful experience, totally worth visiting if you’re on the Costa del Sol!
Great place to visit. Audio guide is excellent. Make sure you bring your Bluetooth headphones for the audio guide because it's based on your cell phone. I do recommend getting tickets early if possible especially in the peak season because it can sell out. It's really nice and cool inside the caves and it's nice and hot outside. Don't forget to validate your parking and pay for it before you leave.
Enormously huge cave. 48h before your visit they release a limited 60 tickets for free. Definitely worth the visit. Temperature inside is the same or even warmer (visited in October). You can even download a free audioguide in many languages.
The caves were much bigger than I had expected. You would expect it to be cooler in the caves but it is warm but more humid as you get to the deepest part. Very enjoyable visit along with the VR show! Check it out!
8. Parque de la Paloma
4.6
(25815)
Park
Nature & Parks
Spacious urban park featuring an artificial pond, walking paths, playgrounds & dining areas.
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Absolutely beautiful little find while on holiday, public gyms available for anyone to use, plenty of grassland for dogs and 2 cafe on site to grab a drink and chill. I absolutely loved it! Even found terrapins on the second visit in the water! Was great!
Amazing park! Such a nice walk with plenty of spots to sit and relax. There is a few shops and kids parks, even a mini farm. There is also an outdoor gym for the fitness people out there
I love this park, there's a great playground for the kids, animals, birds, a large pond for ducks, small pond for frogs, cactus area, cafe. Well kept and clean.
A perfect place to visit with children. There are many animals, a playground, cafe or possibility to do your own picnic. We usually buy food for birds before going from the chinos that are nearby.
Absolutely gorgeous. Went around 10am on a Saturday early November and it was breathtaking. Lots of parakeets and other various birds to spot, as well as some small turtles in the water. Really recommend to anyone in the area!
Such a beautiful park in Benalmádena, beautiful to walk around, I particularly liked the cactus garden and the pond with the lily pads, there was so many frogs. We ate in one of the park cafes too which was lovely!
i believe you will not be disappointed, it was a lovely experience for us! we saw a lot of different bird species. it’s a must see in benalmadena!
I love this park as it has so many areas to visit. It was created to bring the world of nature to you.
There are animals also. Wild chickens walk around. Ducks, turtles. Parrots. There are goats penned you can visit. Sculpture in water and out.
Areas of interest, special gardens within.
Close to the sea to give the family a break from the heat.
There is shade and plenty and cafes to relax in and eat or drink.
It was a lovely place to wind away time.
Highly recommended, and you will not be disappointed.
9. Port of Málaga
4.6
(1754)
Harbor
Sights & Landmarks
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The beach port offers a vibrant atmosphere with beautiful views and lively maritime activity. It's well-maintained, with great facilities, making it a pleasant spot for both relaxation and exploration.
The Port of Málaga is a modern, pleasant waterfront area, ideal for a relaxing stroll. Between luxury yachts, cruise ships, and the lively Muelle Uno promenade, it offers a perfect mix of leisure, shopping, and dining. Clean, well-maintained, and vibrant, it’s a must-visit spot to enjoy the sunset or simply unwind by the sea.
Love shopping in Malaga then visiting the port & seeing all the yatchs
The Port is nice. There are many nice yatchs and cruise ships arrive on Thursdays. There is a nice walkway boardering the harbor that has restaurants and shops. Great for walking and taking in the sights.
We stopped in Malaga while on a cruise with NCL. The views of the port and the city from our ship were fastastic.
The dock area is very large but very close to the historic city center. You could walk from the ship as many did but we paid for the shuttle.
We were so tired when we got here after touring 2 museums. The excitement of this area perked us right up! Beautiful scenery, sailboats, yachts, artist market, dining and shopping. A really fun spot to visit.
Lovely area, plenty to see and do
A great area to explore ways something nautical to observe & much more besides. Bars shop & restaurants line one side of the port. The side nearest the city has nice gardens to stroll through & there is a childrens' play area. Boat trips can be booked as well. This is a good area to walk around away from the bustle of the city.
10. Banús Marina Mall
4.2
(2395)
Shopping mall
Nature & Parks
Multilevel shopping center featuring stores selling clothing, shoes, accessories & more.
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Very cool place for shopping 🛍️ we are recommend! 💝
I am a regular at this establishment and I've never posed a complaint until today. The shopping center overall is great but the women's bathrooms are always dirty. This afternoon I began my menstrual cycle and none of the stalls had toilet paper. I asked if the cleaning lady could put some and she said she's coming. I WAITED 20 MINUTES before leaving and when I left I saw her chatting. It was the old blonde one with glasses...
Again, I like shopping here but these things give a bad image and make the experience a hassle.
Not really. Some cheap brands without any highlights. Okay for a stroll but really not impressed by this shopping center. A pity that the brands that had any fashion aspirations are all out of this center. Well, Banus visitors aren’t trendy anyway. What a boring place to hang out.
Safe parking place in Puerto Bañus.
Luxury brand (clothes) shops with a few others. Beautiful but relatively small and limited in choice thus. To visit if you pass by for some shopping eventually.
Car park is spacious and clean. The hourly rate is a bit on high side
Fantastic place to visit, visit Astral bar for an unforgettable cocktail and just soak up the atmosphere of the place
Good location. Good parking. Easy access. A small mall clean with a decent selection of shops. Good ac with 30° plus outside.
11. Castillo de Gibralfaro
4.5
(19824)
Castle
Sights & Landmarks
Ruins of a 1300s Moorish castle & fortress atop Mount Gibralfaro with walkable walls & scenic views.
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Great place to visit, but be prepared for a LOT of uphill walking. If you go in summer, bring super comfortable sneakers, a hairband, and plenty of water. The view from the top is absolutely breathtaking! They even provide fresh tap water at the hilltop for free, so don’t forget to bring a bottle or flask. The total cost is €17 to visit the main castle and the hilltop. You can drive up, but walking is more fun and a great workout. I did the walk in 34°C in August—and I survived!
We were so lucky the day we visited — it happened to be a free entrance day for museums and attractions, so we saved €10 per person! 🎉
Surprisingly, it wasn’t crowded at all. The views from the lookout point and the castle are stunning — a full 360° view of Málaga that’s absolutely worth the effort. Inside the castle is beautiful and well preserved.
👉 A few tips if you’re going:
The walk up is a good incline, about 10 minutes. Definitely skip high heels — I wore flat sandals and ended up taking them off to walk down!
Wheelchair users: the castle grounds themselves are accessible, but the hike up is not. If you need access, make sure to take a taxi or the hop-on hop-off bus straight to the entrance. The view is worth it!
If you don’t feel like climbing, the hop-on hop-off bus takes you to the top. You can also ride up and then walk down toward town for amazing views without paying entrance.
In summer, try to avoid the hottest days — even with mild weather we were glad it was overcast.
At the top, there are toilets and a small café.
Along the climb, you’ll find guys selling bottled water for €1.50 — handy if you forget yours.
A must-see if you’re in Málaga, whether for the history or just for those incredible views. 🌿🏰
Beautiful historic castle with one of the best panoramic views of Málaga — you can see the port, the bullring, and the entire city all the way to the sea.
There’s a small free parking area at the top, but spaces are limited, especially on weekends. If it’s full, you can also park lower down and enjoy a scenic uphill walk through the pine forest about 15–20 minutes.
Walking along the ancient fortress walls is a highlight the views from every corner are stunning, especially at sunset.
Inside, you’ll also find a small museum with historical artifacts and models of the old city.
Bring comfortable shoes, water, and your camera it’s absolutely worth the climb.
The tickets cost 10€ combined with al Cazaba, and can be buy at the entrance machine
The entire experience is well worth making time for. You can start the hike from near the tourist booth situated outside the Alcazaba and Roman Theatre.
It is an uphill walk and definitely requires some time especially if you are walking in the heat, or don’t hike a lot. There are opportunities to rest along the way and take many pictures but it can be a tight squeeze and certain points. There isn’t a lot, if any side support for people to hold onto so it might be hard for someone finding heights difficult. You can climb majority of the way up for free (including a viewing platform) however to enter the very top you need to pay. If you need fresh cold water there is someone who sells it for €1.50 along the way.
We didn’t have a ticket but it is possible to queue up (on the left) at the entrance and you can purchase tickets with cash or card. The views are something else and it is absolutely insane how gorgeous Malaga is!
Interesting Castle and grounds with great views over the city and coast. We walked from the city up the hill which was pleasant although could be a challenge in the heat of summer. Quite a popular attraction so it was crowded when we visited in the late morning - probably worth planning an earlier or later visit to avoid the crowds.
This is a beautiful castle with beautiful fruit and olive trees. The panoramic views of malaga are breathtaking and price to visit is very reasonable. There is a small cafe but the food offered is limited but there is a real opportunity here to improve it to make it a better experience for visitors.
Entrance fee was €7 - we didn't go in. The views were truly stunning from the footpath. Very steep footpath which I would not recommend in the wet weather. The local bus is easy from Alameda Principal. It stops outside the fort for one hour (Sundays) and brings you back. I imagine the bus is busy. We walked back. The footpath looked very busy later in the day. I recommend going early when it is quieter and cooler.
Well worth the strenuous hike up (can get there by road, I believe). Very well maintained walls of the old castle. You can walk pretty much the entire length and the views are spectacular. Not a ton inside the castle walls, but the views alone make this a must do. Free on a Sunday after 2 pm. It'll be nice and quiet if you go before that and pay.
12. Old Town
Neighborhoods
The quaint Old Town is home to Renaissance-era whitewashed buildings, flower-draped balconies, and narrow, winding streets. Plaza de los Naranjos draws visitors with its orange trees, 15th-century Ermita de Santiago church, and restaurants with terraces, serving traditional dishes like gazpacho and meatballs. Avenida del Mar is a long, narrow plaza dotted with palm trees and bronze sculptures by Salvador Dalí.
13. Bioparc Fuengirola
4.5
(19934)
Zoo
Outdoor Activities
Zoo with animals & birds in naturalistic enclosures, a recreated jungle clearing & kids' play area.
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What a lovely place this is. The most picturesque zoo I've ever been to. The design and the architecture is beautiful and the animals all look relaxed, even in the heat.
It is a small place but we visited late afternoon on a Monday and it was really quiet. Lots of time and space to take in the atmosphere and see the animals. The historical "lab" type building in the middle is superb and adds a great layer to the experience.
Kids loved it. Staff throughout the park really seemed to love their jobs. Friendly extremely knowledgeable and keen for us to see animals we may have otherwise missed.
If you take your time, and don't rush round it's really good value for money.
This is a hidden gem. We have been in Fuengirola for several months and have not prioritized checking this out. Having seen a number of the best rated zoos in the world, we did not expect much. Of course, as a bioparc, they are not trying to compete with the big zoos. The park is nicely laid out and is much larger than we had expected with a good range of animals. Like most zoos/bioparcs this was laid out in geographic regions. We are older/retired and went as a couple. It was easy to stroll through the park which was busy but not crowded. It was clear that the kids we saw were having a good time. Part of this is the habitats are not huge so it is easy to see the animals and there are some areas where you are ‘in’ the cage allowing very close viewing of the animals. The real gem for us was the very educative exhibit on the mapping of the world and Spain’s role in doing so. All-in-all the park was a treat. At the end of the visit, we were able to upgrade to an annual pass with our entry fee credited to the purchase.
Lovely zoo... had my dad in a wheelchair and its very accessible. Found it can be a bit confusing which way to go but absolutely beautiful parc.. Tigers were snoozing so didnt see them. The mini aquarium is beautiful and air conditioned which was ideal as it was roasting outside. Cafe food not great quality at all.. but facilities clean and tidy
We spent about 4 hours here. The place is quite large and so well laid out. You can download an app to tell you all about the park and guide you through it. We also went for the VR under sea experience and it was brilliant. There’s a huge variety of animals in the zoo and so much going on you don’t know where to look first from orangutan’s to lions, lemurs, crocodiles. It’s a great day out.
Amazing day out. We went as a family of 4 and we all saw animals that we’d never seen. Very well set up and designed and the animals look well taken care of. Very friendly and helpful staff. We spent about 3 1/2 hours in there including a stop in the cafe for a drinks which were reasonably priced. It is well shaded and the aquarium is quite cool to get out of the heat. Also a note if you park in the large underground parking lot 2 streets over you can ask for a parking coupon that gives you 50% off parking.
We had an amazing day at Bioparc Fuengirola with our children. It’s an experience we will never forget!
- Highlights:
• The setting is beautiful and immersive, with lush vegetation that makes you feel like you’re walking through a real jungle.
• The animals are very close to visitors, with no visible cages, which allows for a unique and respectful observation.
• The park is clean, well-maintained, and easy to navigate, even with young children.
• The educational activities and keeper presentations are well-designed and engaging for kids.
• We especially loved the free-roaming lemurs, the majestic gorillas, and the impressive giant baobab.
• The African group’s night show was fantastic – lively, festive, and a great surprise for the whole family!
• We also had the chance to enjoy the night tour, which was a magical experience and gave us a different perspective on the animals.
• Thanks to our special ticket, we were allowed to exit and return after 7:30 PM to enjoy the evening shows — a real bonus!
- Point to consider:
• The entrance fee may seem a bit high, but the quality of the experience makes it well worth it.
In short, it’s a perfect family activity — fun, educational, and respectful of wildlife. My kids are still talking about it!
The African performance and night visit made it even more special.
I highly recommend this park to anyone visiting the Costa del Sol.
One of the best places I've ever been. It felt like walking through the jungle. The animals habitats were so well designed. Each area of the parc was clean and well thought out. Fantastic place for both adults and kids. There was so much to see and go around. Not too crowded which was lovely. Truly magical.
Really good setup. Loads to see and the facility itself was in great condition. Most importantly, the animals all looked healthy and well cared for. We stayed for around 5 hours so while it's not the cheapest, value for money is great.
14. La Carihuela
Neighborhoods
Popular Mediterranean resort La Carihuela is defined by its summer beach scene, with hutlike outdoor chiringuito bars serving cold beer and classic pescaíto fried fish, alongside upscale Spanish sea-view restaurants. The waterside promenade draws locals and holidaymakers for evening strolls, and rugged headland Punta Gatuna has a quiet lookout spot for sunset views. Flashy modern dance clubs get busy after dark.
15. Benalmádena Cablecar
4.5
(5293)
Mountain cable car
Transportation
The 15-minute journey up Mount Calamorro in this modern cable car provides spectacular views.
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Amazing experience! The wait was about 60 minutes, but they’d had maintenance a couple of days before, so it was probably busier than usual. The cable car ride itself was really smooth, and the views — both on the way up and from the top — were absolutely stunning. Once you’re up there, you can grab a big pint and enjoy the scenery, but I definitely recommend bringing some water because it gets very hot. Totally worth it for the views and the experience! 🌄🚠
Was a good experience. Paid about €20 ea for the return journey. Great views and nice walks at the top. Some reasonable shoes are needed as the stones are worn smooth by many feet. All the paths we saw had good metal handrails.
Didn't stay for the Falconry exhibition but looked like it would be great.
Great to finally go up the in cable car after seeing it across the AP7 for so many years.
Cable car is a nice ramble up the mountain, quite steep at times near the top, the carriages are a little small but offer a good view as you ascend or descend. The peak offers good views over the surrounding countryside and there are a number of walking routes to take. The Cable car is open late and offers the chance to view a sunset and the towns lit up at night. It was quiet when I went.
Amazing views!!
Located close to the metro and only around 15 minutes walk from Benalmadena beach it is easy to find and reach.
I visited midweek and there was no big queue and the self service kiosk made it easy to purchase tickets.
The cable car journey was smooth enough as you start to see the elevated views.
At the top there are 2 viewpoints and both are worth the walks to get to them. Some sections may be steep and the stones that you walk on may be slippy in parts but it is worth the hike for the amazing 360 degree views of the Costa Del Sol coastline.
It is worth the price and would highly recommend to visit.
It is gorgeous up there. Depending on the time of year, you have to make sure the clouds aren't getting stuck over the mountains and your golden. Great hikes for all.
A definite highlight of our trip to Benalmadena! The cable car ride itself is a wonderful experience, lasting about 15 minutes and offering beautiful views as you ascend the mountain. Once you get to the top of Calamorro, the panoramic views are truly spectacular and worth every penny. Yes, the queues can sometimes be long, but trust me, they are absolutely worth it. If you're spending a couple of days in the area, make sure this is on your list. A 100% recommended activity for everyone!
This is a must do experiance,even if you are scared of hights, just close your eyes because the view's at the top are amazing. There is also a cafe and toilets at the top. And if you are fit and like a challange, you can walk up the last part of the mountain.
Amazing trip up to the top of the mountain — a fantastic little adventure, especially if you enjoy exploring. Be sure to wear proper walking shoes, as the trails at the top can be a bit steep, but the views and experience are well worth it. The ride takes about 15 minutes each way. It is a bit pricey if you buy tickets on the day, so we’d recommend booking online in advance for a discounted rate.
16. Bullring of the Royal Cavalry of Ronda
4.5
(2079)
Bullring
Sights & Landmarks
Museum of bullfighting in an 18th-century bullring associated with legendary matador Pedro Romero.
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The Plaza de Toros heritage site of the RMR is one of the most visited cultural complexes in Andalusia with more than nine million visitors in the last ten years.
Excellent architecture and location.
The Plaza de Toros de Ronda is a bullring in Ronda, it has a diameter of 66 metres (217 ft), surrounded by a passage formed by two rings of stone. There are two layers of seating, each with five raised rows and 136 pillars that make up 68 arches. The Royal Box has a sloping roof covered in Arabic tiles. The design of the main entrance to the bull ring features two Tuscan columns and the royal shield of Spain surround by baroque edging. The main door is large enough to allow horses and carriages to enter the ring, and above the door is an iron wrought balcony that embodies the bullfighting culture.
Visiting the Bullring of the Royal Cavalry of Ronda was one of the highlights of our trip. Even if you’re not a fan of bullfighting, the place is worth seeing for its history and architecture. Standing in the middle of the arena feels surreal, and the museum collections with costumes, saddles and antique weapons are really impressive. Easy to visit, and right in the heart of Ronda’s old town, definitely a stop we recommend. Greetings from Romania 🇷🇴🐾
Amazing bull fighting arena. Loved it. People might say it was cruel, but probably not crueler than hundreds of thousands of bovine being cut up for food every day. It’s all in perspective, entertaining the masses. Must visit place to go.
Nice little tour on the oldest bullring of Spain. Advice: take the audio guide so you’ll get really interesting history facts that you wouldn’t get. Visit is about 1h, and ok with kids.
Great experience. Very rich and interesting history. The museum is very interesting. Bull fighting isn't exactly a good thing (in my opinion it's a bit cruel) however the experience was amazing and it is an important part of their history. The ring was also used as an army base by either side during the Spanish Civil war.
I thought it was worth a visit. We brought sandwiches and sat in the bleachers and ate them while checking out the arena and doing some tourist watching. Cool to see and oldest in Spain!
Beautiful Bullring. Probably the oldest and best renovated in Spain. It has a museum and gift shop. A definite must visit when in Ronda.
One of the first bullfighting arenas built in Spain. Large and impressive. Recommended if you are visiting the city.
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