Frequently asked questions about Malaga

Posted on 14 December 2022

Malaga is a vibrant city, a fun holiday destination, and a historic location. For anyone seeking an amazing Spanish holiday, Malaga should certainly be high on your list. If Malaga has caught your eye, or if a trip to Malaga is coming up, this guide will provide you with some essential information. Answering frequently asked questions about Malaga, this article will help familiarise yourself with the location and perhaps inspire a future visit.

Where is Malaga?

Malaga is a city in Spain, the capital of the Province of Malaga, found on the southern Spanish coast. Malaga is located in the beautiful Costa de Sol, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, about 62 miles east of the Strait of Gibraltar and just 80 miles north of Africa.

What region is Malaga in?

Malaga is in the region known as Andalusia, the second-largest autonomous community in Spain, and its most southern area. Malaga is the second most populous city in Andalusia after Seville and the sixth most populous city in Spain. Andalusia is known for its incredible coastal areas, historic cities, hot temperatures, and strong culture.

Is Marbella in Malaga?

Marbella is located in the province of Malaga, but it is a city in its own right, separate from the city of Malaga. Like Malaga, Marbella is part of the Costa del Sol, located on the Mediterranean Sea, and is situated between the city of Malaga and the Strait of Gibraltar.

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How long is the flight to Malaga?

The flight between London and Malaga takes about 2hrs 50 minutes. The flight distance between London and Malaga is 1,044 miles (1,680 km). The are many UK airports that offer direct flights to Malaga, including London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, Belfast, Cardiff, and Edinburgh.

Where is Malaga airport?

Malaga airport, officially known as Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP), is 5 miles (8 km) southwest of Malaga and has connections to over 60 countries around the world. It is the fourth busiest airport in Spain. It takes about 15 minutes by car to reach the city of Malaga from the airport, making it very convenient.

Should I rent a car in Malaga?

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Renting a car in Malaga is a fantastic way to get around the province and the larger Andalusian region. As you can hire a car from Malaga airport, it’s an obvious choice to make, giving you the freedom to explore at your leisure.

Malaga is the perfect hub from which to explore the Costa del Sol and Andalusia, so by having your own car, you can enjoy the full stretch of coastline, visit secluded beaches, and head to incredible cities like Seville.

Malaga travel distances

– How far is Malaga airport from Nerja? 43 miles (69 km)/52 minutes by car

– How far is Estepona from Malaga airport? 50 miles (80 km)/56 minutes by car

– How far is Benalmadena from Malaga airport? 6.5 miles (10 km)/19 minutes by car

– How far is Torremolinos from Malaga airport? 5 miles (8 km)/9 minutes by car

– How far from Malaga to Marbella? 36.8 miles (59 km)/55 minutes by car

– How far is Seville from Malaga? 125 miles (200 km)/2.5 hours by car

– How far is Granada from Malaga? 78 miles (125 km)/1hr 26 minutes by car

READ ALSO: Scenic drives around Malaga

What time is it in Malaga?

The time difference between the UK and Malaga is GMT+1, so if you want to know the time in Malaga, add 1 hour from the current time in the UK. Spain observes Central European Standard Time.

What is the temperature in Malaga?

Malaga has a gloriously sunny climate, thanks to its fantastic position on the southern Spanish coast. In the summer, the average high is between 28°C and 31°C, spring and autumn see temperatures in the low to mid-20s, and even winter can get as high as 18°C. As a result, Malaga is a lovely destination to visit all year round and is perfect for sun-seekers.

Is Malaga worth visiting?

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Malaga is definitely worth visiting, proving to be a destination that has a little something for everyone. For those seeking to escape the unpredictable British weather, Malaga’s hot and sunny climate will be just what they are looking for. Families will love the beaches of the Costa del Sol, history lovers will find Roman ruins and Andalucía’s Moorish architecture, and Malaga’s delicious tapas will give visitors a taste of Spain’s southern cuisine.

Malaga is also worth visiting for the very reason that you can easily access the treasures of Andalusia via car, placing you in a perfect position for further exploration.

What to do in Malaga?

For those wondering what there is to see and do in Malaga, you’ll be pleased to know that you are spoiled for choice, with lots of attractions and activities to keep you entertained during your visit.

Does Malaga have a beach?

Malaga has kilometres of sandy beaches to relax on, play in, and enjoy. The beaches in Malaga city are located along the Promenade of Pablo Ruiz Picasso, an area lined with bars and restaurants to help keep you refreshed during your time in the sun. You can also easily access other lovely beaches in the Costa del Sol via a short drive from Malaga.

What to see and do in Malaga

– The Alcazaba

– The beach

– Malaga Cathedral

– The Picasso Museum

– The Roman Theatre

– Castillo de Gibralfaro/Mirador de Gibralfaro

– Museo de Málaga

– Botanical garden

– Bike, hike, and enjoy Montes de Málaga natural park

– Explore Malaga harbour (Muelle Uno)

Molly, from the Spanish travel blog, Piccavey, paints a picture of Malaga harbour as a lovely place to explore during your visit: “Muelle Uno is a wonderful place to wander in the evening. Watch the boats, have an ice cream or have dinner at one of the restaurants there. Opened in 2011, this is a great addition to the city of Malaga.”

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Where to eat in Malaga?

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Malaga has a big dining-out culture, with a wonderful range of restaurants to enjoy across the city. There’s everything from humble tapas bars and beachside cafes to fine dining restaurants, so no matter what you are in the mood for, you will find something to strike your fancy. Malaga is by the coast so there are lots of beautiful fish to enjoy, especially the sardine skewers.

Some of the best restaurants in Malaga include:

– La Caravana – is ranked the number one restaurant in Malaga by TripAdvisor.

– Tablao Flamenco Alegria – great food and traditional flamenco performances.

– Dynamit – a small and intimate restaurant with amazing food.

– Casa Ovi – a beloved place to visit for traditional Spanish food.

READ ALSO: Top Places to Eat in Malaga

Where to stay in Malaga?

There are many wonderful parts of Malaga to stay in, providing access to the beach, shops, restaurants and attractions. Those new to Malaga might want to consider the likes of Centro (old town), Calle Larios, Maria Zambrano, Soho, La Malagueta, Pedregalejo, El Palo, and Ciudad Jardin.

Malaga’s historic city centre/old town is often a popular choice for those visiting Malaga for the first time. Staying here puts you in the heart of the city, you have Malaga’s beautiful historic sites right on your doorstep, as well as a whole host of amazing restaurants, bars, and museums.

Answering frequently asked questions about Malaga

We hope this guide has been informative and answered some of your most pressing questions about Malaga. Malaga is a wonderful place to visit, with so much to enjoy, and the perfect spot to start a road trip across the Costa del Sol and Andalusia.

If you would like to rent a car in Malaga, make a booking with our Malaga office for a comfortable vehicle that meets your requirements.

For more tips, guides, and advice, make sure to visit our blog.