8 Day Trips from Malaga
Are you considering a day trip from Malaga? It’s an excellent way to discover the beauty of southern Spain! Malaga’s great location gives you access to plenty of places within a short drive, so you’re in no shortage of ideas.
Whether you are interested in history and towns rich in culture, quaint villages, picturesque trails, or coastal destinations, this guide has something for every type of traveller. Simply choose your direction or activity, find information about how to get there and the top places to see. Plan your ideal day trip from Malaga and see the best of Andalusia!
Ronda: The City on a Cliff
Ronda is one of the most dramatic towns in Andalusia. Perched on cliff tops and cut into two by the El Tajo gorge. The town is packed with cultural, historical, and natural attractions.
How to Get There?
Driving: Ronda is around a 90-minute drive from Malaga. Great option if you want flexibility and to stop and see the views on the way.
Public transportation: Buses leave frequently from the Malaga central station. This is a 2-hour journey. Make sure to book the tickets in advance, especially in high season.
Top Sights
Puente Nuevo: Ronda’s iconic bridge was built in the 18th century. It connects the town’s two halves over the gorge. Be sure to enjoy the views from the bridge and the trails below.
Plaza de Toros (The Bullring): It’s one of Spain’s oldest bullrings. This site offers a glimpse into Spain’s bullfighting heritage. There is also a museum of artefacts and displays.
La Casa del Rey Moro: This historic house has gardens inspired by Moorish design. It features a fascinating water mine carved into the rock. The house is known for its lush garden and secret steps down the gorge.
Activities
Walking tour: If you’re taking a day trip from Malaga, Ronda’s old town is perfect for a slow walking tour. Simply stroll through the cobblestone streets, enjoy local boutiques, stop at small local cafes. You can find a guided walking tour to provide some local and historical context.
Wine tasting: Ronda is an important part of the Andalusian wine industry, and there are multiple wineries where you can tour and taste wines. You can also head to the bodega to sample local reds and whites with tapas.
Practical Tips for Your Day Trip from Malaga
- Time your visit: Mornings and late afternoons tend to be less crowded, especially at popular spots like Puente Nuevo.
- Plan for mobility: Ronda is located on a high rocky outcrop – the cobbled streets and steep paths can be challenging. Wear comfortable shoes, and be aware of the physical challenges.
- Photographic opportunities: If you want to try and get a picture of the Puente Nuevo from below, stroll over to the Mirador de Aldehuela viewpoint.
Nerja and Frigiliana: Caves, Beaches, and Whitewashed Charm
While there are lots of stuff to do in Malaga, I recommend taking the time out for a day trip to Nerja. Nerja has beautiful beaches and caves where you can see the stunning scenery. There is also the hillside beauty of Frigiliana, one of the prettiest villages in Andalusia.
How to Get There?
Driving: A 50-minute drive along the coastal road from Malaga makes Nerja and Frigiliana easily accessible.
Public transport: There are frequent and inexpensive buses from Malaga to Nerja, followed by a short local bus or taxi to Frigiliana from Nerja’s town centre.
Top Sights
Nerja Caves: These large limestone caves are an extraordinary sight and a highlight of a day trip from Malaga! They feature impressive stalactites and stalagmites. They even host summer concerts in the large cave! A guided tour can provide insights into the history and geology, which makes for an even better experience!
Balcon de Europa: Once a lookout post for defensive purposes, this viewing point is now a quiet place where you can enjoy 360-degree panoramic views over the Mediterranean. There are plenty of cafes and shops where you can grab something to eat or do some shopping.
Frigiliana: Frigiliana is known for its narrow, winding lanes and characteristic Moorish feel. It is a lovely place to wander and try local products such as honey and wine.
Main Activities
Beach time: Nerja has the best beaches in the region, and Burriana Beach is a favourite one because of its golden sand, beachside cafes, and activities like kayaking and snorkelling.
Shopping in Frigiliana: The small artisan shops offer many locally made products, including ceramic items, olive oils, and local wines. You might want to take home a bottle of the sweet wine made locally, and a jar of honey.
Tips for Your Day Trip from Malaga
- Cave timing: Arrive early at the Nerja Caves to beat the crowds. Make sure to purchase tickets in advance if visiting in the summer.
- Pack smart for you day trip from Malaga: Pack smart when visiting Frigiliana, as it can be hot, and the hilly streets can be a workout. Wear comfy shoes, take water, and bring sunscreen.
Caminito del Rey: A Hike Along the Cliffs
The Caminito del Rey trail is an exciting opportunity for those who love nature and get a kick out of adventure. This famous trail runs along stunning cliffs. You’ll travel through the impressive Gaitanes Gorge and see beautiful landscape views.
How to Get There?
Driving: The trailhead is about an hour’s drive from Malaga. The road is pretty straightforward and scenic.
Public transport: Bus and train options exist for nearby towns like El Chorro or Ardales. After arriving in one of the towns, you can expect a local shuttle to bring you to the trail entrance.
Guided tours: Many tour companies in Malaga provide excursions to Caminito del Rey. Usually, they will take you to the cliffs on an organised bus, walk the trail with you, and tell stories.
Trail Highlights
Gorge views: The trail is well known for its gorgeous views along the narrow cliff path. Spend few ours enjoying panoramas of the gorge and surrounding hills.
Suspension bridge: The highlight of the walk is the suspension bridge that hangs over the gorge with its exhilarating views of the canyon below it.
Historical significance: The path was originally built for workers to access hydroelectric plants in the early 1900s. It is a fun historical story worth stopping on your day trip from Malaga.
Activities Along the Trail
Photography: Bring a camera! You will want to photograph the incredible scenery and the unique rock formations and colours.
Nature walks: You may also see some birds and special plant species that thrive in this region.
Tips for the Trail
- Book tickets in advance: Tickets are required for entry and tickets sell out quickly during peak periods. Visit Caminito del Rey official page for availability and book in advance.
- Check the weather: The path is high, so preparing for windy situations is useful. Always check the weather and forecast before you go.
- Wear good hiking shoes: The path can be steep and uneven in places, so it is important to have a quality pair of shoes for safety. Sandals or high heels are not permitted.
- Bring water and snacks: There are no facilities on the path, so you need to pack enough water and some simple snacks, as you will use a lot of energy.
- Restrooms: Keep in mind, that there are no restrooms on the path, but you can find them at the entrance and exit of the path.
- Timing your visit: Try to time your visit early in the morning or late afternoon. This should help to avoid the heat and the crowds. This is also the best lighting for photos!
Marbella and Puerto Banus: Luxury Day Trip from Malaga
If you want a nice experience, consider a day trip from Malaga to Marbella. It has beautiful beaches and an upscale lifestyle. It’s a great place to have a beach day where you can chill, shop, and enjoy some amazing food.
How to Get There?
Driving: Marbella is about a 45-minute drive from Malaga. This is a scenic and easy drive where you can enjoy at the coast.
Public transport: There are several buses from Malaga to Marbella, and every bus takes about an hour. Driving there gives you the chance to explore the surrounding areas.
Highlights
Old Town (Casco Antiguo): Wander Marbella’s picturesque old town, full of charming streets adorned with colourful buildings, plazas, and flower-filled balconies. One of the highlights is Plaza de los Naranjos, where you can sit underneath the beautiful orange trees.
Puerto Banus: known for its luxury yachts, this marina will give you a flavour of Marbella’s atmosphere. You can stroll along the promenade and browse high-end designer shops, cafes and restaurants.
Beaches: Marbella has plenty of beaches, including Playa de la Fontanilla and Playa de Venus. While you’re at the beach, you can soak in the sun or take a dip in the water. Most beaches also have options to rent sunbeds, and many have beachfront restaurants.
Activities
Shopping: When you take your day trip from Malaga, definitely check out Puerto Banus. More than just high-end yachts, Puerto Banus is also home to fabulous shopping. You’ll find plenty of designer and high-end boutique shops for browsing. You can look around brands such as Gucci, Prada, Versace, and Louis Vuitton. If you’re looking for something different, you can also find local artisan shops which sell unique items and handmade products.
Dining: Enjoy local seafood at some of the great restaurants in Marbella. Since you are going to a beautiful coastline, don’t miss eating at some of the local chiringuitos (beachside cafes) that serve seafood. The chiringuitos serve freshly caught local fish and tapas, where you can enjoy the Anderson coastline. Try espeto (grilled sardines) or pescaito frito (fried fish).
Nightlife: In the evening, Puerto Banus comes alive with nightlife. There are numerous bars and clubs to choose from.
Travel Tips for Your Day Trip from Malaga
- Budget considerations: Marbella can be expensive, especially in high-value areas, but many restaurants have budget menu alternatives too, especially during lunch hours.
- Parking: If you are visiting in the summer, you should plan on arriving early if you want to be able to find a place to park. The area gets packed full, especially in the evenings. A good alternative is to take public transport or a taxi and remove the hassle, and you can enjoy the nightlife.
- Dress code: Marbella and Puerto Banús are quite trendy. Beachwear is fine on the sand, but if you want to shop and stop for a bite to eat, dress up a little to fit in with the vibe.
Antequera and El Torcal Natural Park: Nature and History
This one day trip from Malaga will show you cultural sights and scenery. Antequera has history and a bit of culture, and El Torcal Natural Park has incredible natural sights.
How to Get There?
Driving: Antequera and the natural park are about a 45-minute drive from Malaga. Driving is straightforward with views along the way.
Public transport: You can take public transport to Antequera, as there are buses and trains from Malaga. But a car is paramount to visit El Torcal. If using public transport, check the schedule in advance to plan adequately for your visit.
Top Sights
Dolmens of Antequera: These ancient stone structures are a UNESCO World Heritage site. They are some of the oldest megalithic monuments in Europe. The Dolmen de Menga and Dolmen de Viera are impressive and interesting to explore.
Antequera Castle: Located on a hill, this castle provides fantastic views of Antequera and the surrounding towns and mountains. The fortress dates back to the 14th century.
El Torcal Natural Park: El Torcal has stunning rock sculptures created through erosion. The park is also great for hiking, as trails vary in experience, from easy hikes to experienced trails.
Activities
Hiking: El Torcal is a great option for a day trip from Malaga. There are many different trails to hike for every level hiker. The Green Route is popular with families who want to take it easy. The Red Route requires a big effort but is worth it for the views.
Local food: Antequera is full of tapas bars. Be sure to try mollete! This is typical bread served with olive oil and tomato. Also, try local wines or queso de cabra ( goat cheese) if you can! It is typical of Andalusia.
Practical Tips for Your Day Trip from Malaga
- Dress in layers: Be sure to bring a jacket for El Torcal as it can be much colder than Malaga, especially early morning or late afternoon.
- Timing your visit: Antequera is best visited in the morning when there are few other tourists. This allows you to spend the morning at the historical sights and then check out the natural park in the afternoon.
- Plan for photography: Bring your camera to take pictures of the interesting rock formations in El Torcal. The light changes during the day, allowing for some unique photographic images.
- Check park conditions: Check for trail closures or weather advisories before visiting El Torcal. This should be a priority in winter, when the conditions can be unpredictable.
Gibraltar – the Perfect Day Trip from Malaga
Taking a day trip from Malaga to visit Gibraltar will surely be a memorable experience, combining British quirky-ness with Mediterranean scenery. See the famous rock, explore the area rich in history and these breathtaking views that span two continents.
How to Get There?
By car: Driving from Malaga to Gibraltar takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes. There are several parking options near the border. Driving into Gibraltar itself can be slow due to frequent border checks.
By bus: Various buses leave throughout the day in Malaga that arrive at La Linea de la Concepcion. This Spanish town is on the border of Gibraltar, and you can just walk across the border.
Guided tours: Many companies in and around Malaga offer full days to visit Gibraltar with guided tours of the local sites.
Top Sights
The Rock of Gibraltar: This huge limestone monolith offers great views over the Mediterranean. And, on nice days, you can even see the African shore. Take the cable car or walk up to soak in the view.
St. Michael’s Cave: A stunning natural cave featuring massive stalactites and stalagmites, often illuminated with dazzling colours. It is also used as a concert hall.
Europa Point: During your day trip from Malaga to Gibraltar visit the southern tip. There you will see where the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean converge.
The Apes’ Den: Home to Gibraltar’s famous Barbary macaques, the only wild monkeys in Europe. A popular attraction, but be cautious with your belongings as the monkeys are curious!
Activities
Cable car ride: Take the cable car up the Rock of Gibraltar for panoramic views and easy access to hiking trails at the top.
Shopping on main street: Stroll along Main Street for duty-free shopping, British pubs, and local cafes where you can sample Gibraltar’s multicultural blend.
Explore nature reserve: The Upper Rock Nature Reserve has panoramic hiking trails, sites of historical interest, and lookout points over the surrounding landscape and sea.
Birdwatching: Gibraltar serves as a stopover between Europe and Africa for migration, so there is a perfect opportunity for birdwatching.
Tips for Your Day Trip from Malaga
- Currency: On a day trip from Malaga to Gibraltar, remember that Gibraltar uses the Gibraltar Pound (GIP), even though British pounds are widely accepted. Most establishments accept euros as well, but change may be given in GIP.
- Passport required: Don’t forget your passport for the border crossing, as Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory.
- Avoid feeding the monkeys: The Barbary macaques, though a popular favourite, cannot be fed and will incur a fine.
- Best time to visit: Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for avoiding crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Additional Destinations for Day Trips from Malaga
Mijas Pueblo
Mijas Pueblo is a lovely stop for a day trip from Malaga. It is well known for its quaint whitewashed homes and stunning views. The village’s pleasant atmosphere makes it a perfect place to relax and absorb Andalusia’s charm.
Highlights: The village has picturesque streets with colourful flowers, quaint shops, and friendly cafes. Don’t forget a ride on the donkey taxis. The Mirador de Mijas viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the coastline and mountains beyond.
How to get there: You can easily visit Mijas by bus or car from Malaga. It takes about 30 minutes by bus, hence it is a quick and comfortable means of transport to get there for a sightseeing tour.
Activities: Explore the Plaza de las Flores, taste local delicacies in a typical restaurant, and visit the Mijas Bullring, a small but charming arena.
Torremolinos and Benalmadena
These neighbouring beach towns are perfect for a quick and relaxed escape. Both have sandy beaches, seaside cafes bustling with activity, and water sports.
Highlights:
Torremolinos is known for its lively atmosphere, with plenty of beach bars and restaurants. The La Carihuela area features fresh seafood restaurants right by the water.
Benalmadena offers attractions like the Selwo Marina, where you can see marine wildlife, and the Tivoli World amusement park for family-friendly fun.
Cable car: One of the must-try experiences on a day trip from Malaga is the cable car ride to Monte Calamorro in Benalmadena. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the coast and mountains. Once you reach the top, you can explore hiking trails and enjoy exciting bird-of-prey shows.
How to get there: Both towns take about 20 minutes’ driving time from Malaga. Buses operate frequently between Malaga and these seaside destinations.
These day trips from Malaga emphasise the grandeur of Andalusia. Each location has its own distinct taste. So whatever your appetite, whether for history, beaches, or action, you’ll find it here. Stay in Malaga, and discover southern Spain’s highlights, one day trip at a time.
More to Explore
Malaga to Gibraltar: All You Need to Know
Malaga Old Town: What to See and Do
