If you are looking for some amazing day trips from Malaga in autumn, we have 10 great ideas for you. We already know, everyone loves the summer months, sun, beach and that lively feeling. But whoever has ventured to come to Malaga outside of the high season months, will inevitably come back!
Malaga is a wonderful destination all year round, but especially in the fall. While most people associate it with summer fun, sun and beach, there is so much more to discover in this beautiful region.
You can enjoy its culture, history and gastronomy without the crowds and the heat. And you can explore its stunning landscapes and charming white villages under a bright and sunny sky.
- No refuelling fee
- Free cancellation
- Hire without intermediaries
- Pay when you pick up your car
In Malaga and the Costa del Sol, summer lasts for many months and the sky is blue and clear.
That’s why, when autumn comes and the temperatures become more pleasant, we enjoy it with enthusiasm. The sky gives us amazing chromatic shades thanks to the appearance of the first clouds.
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Malaga Day trips
Today we suggest day trips from Malaga in autumn. Which by the way, has nothing to do with the autumn of northern Europe, as here we still have a great weather even in “mid-winter”.
It is the perfect time to enjoy active and adventure tourism. Or to discover Malaga or the white villages of Arab origin… You choose!
Walk the Coastal Path
One of the best ways to appreciate the beauty of the Costa del Sol is to walk along its coastline. That’s why we recommend you this idea: The coastal path. This is an ambitious project that aims to connect all the towns and villages along the coast with a continuous path that runs by the sea.
The path is almost finished and it offers you a unique opportunity to discover stunning beaches, cliffs, coves and marinas. You can walk as much as you want and enjoy the views, the breeze and the sun. You can also stop at any of the bars and restaurants along the way and taste some delicious local food.
Some tips
Along 160 km of the Costa del Sol from Nerja to Manilva, we can walk (and in some sections cycle) by the sea, along boardwalks and wooden walkways. Discover beautiful natural areas with their fauna and flora, ancient Nasrid watchtowers and some of the most beautiful marinas in the Mediterranean.
The coastal path runs alongside the towns that make up the Costa del Sol: Rincón de la Victoria, Torre del Mar, Algarrobo and Torrox on the eastern Costa del Sol. And Estepona, Marbella, Mijas, Fuengirola and Benalmadena, Torremolinos and Málaga on the western Costa del Sol.
As a footnote: Some people usually walk the part of the coastal path that corresponds to their locality. And others take it as their own personal Camino de Santiago and walk the entire path in 5 or 6 days.
Undoubtedly, a very interesting idea. Especially considering that we have excellent weather conditions to be able to do the route almost all year round. We tell you all the details and everything you need to know about the coastal path.
Discover the viewpoints along the Costa del Sol
Our article on Viewpoints along the Costa del Sol will take you on a journey through some of the most stunning landscapes and seascapes in Spain. From the Mirador de Mijas, where you can admire the Sierra de Mijas and the Mediterranean Sea, to the Balcon de Europa in Nerja, a former fortress that offers spectacular views of the coast, you will discover why this region is so popular among tourists and locals alike.
The linked article is a perfect complement to our previous one about the Coastal Path, a 200-kilometer route that connects different towns and beaches along the Costa del Sol. Whether you are looking for adventure, culture or relaxation, you will find something for everyone in this beautiful part of Andalusia.
Whether you like to walk along the Mediterranean coastling. Or you just like to be in one place and enjoy natural balconies overlooking the coast or historic sites. You’re sure to find some inspiration here about charming places to see on your next visit.
City Break Malaga
A Malaga city break is always a good idea. Even with just a few days or a long weekend. A change of scenery and a visit to Malaga will do the trick. You will be amazed by the rich history and culture of this vibrant city, where you can explore museums, cathedrals, castles and gardens.
You will also enjoy the sunny weather and the sandy beaches of the Costa del Sol, where you can relax or have some fun. And don’t forget to taste the delicious local cuisine and wine, with tapas bars and restaurants for every budget and preference.
A Malaga city break is the perfect way to discover one of Spain’s most charming destinations.
Combine breakfast on a terrace in the sun with a stroll through the old town. Discover charming corners, visit a museum. Or simply let yourself be carried away by the enormous shopping and cultural offer of this vibrant Mediterranean city.
We can also recommend going to some of the best roof top terraces in Malaga to eat or just have a drink and enjoy the views.
And if you’re in the centre, stop by El Pimpi and try the best organic delicacies, hams and wines with designation of origin in this unique place in Malaga.
Botanical Garden La Concepción
Within a city break in Malaga you can’t miss the wonderful Historical Botanical Garden La Concepción with centenary trees, water, and abundant vegetation and flowering throughout the year.
Precisely because the flowering is all year round, we can visit it in different seasons to continue discovering the opulent flora.
The Botanical Garden also hosts a variety of events, such as the spectacular Christmas Garden at Christmas time (from December to the beginning of January), which turns the garden into an enchanted place at night with millions of points of light.
An absolute must if you are in Malaga at this time of year!
Route of the Buddhist temples in Malaga
And here we propose a slightly different route. You don’t have to be a Buddhist to be inspired by this ancient culture based on compassion and marvel at the unique structures, peace and magic that surrounds them.
There are several Buddhist temples in Malaga province, some more remote and others on the coast that we can visit free of charge, as everyone is welcome.
The largest in the west, the Enlightenment Stupa, is located in Benalmadena, with beautiful views over the coast. So, there’s no excuse to discover it, you’ll love it!
Trips to the interior of the province
If you are looking for a different way to experience Andalusia, why not explore the interior of the province of Malaga?
You will be surprised by the diversity and beauty of this area, where you can find stunning natural parks, charming white villages, historical monuments and delicious gastronomy. Whether you want to hike through breathtaking landscapes, visit ancient castles and churches, or taste local specialties like fried fish and gazpacho, you will find something for everyone in this region.
Trips to the interior of the province of Malaga are a great opportunity to discover a hidden gem of Spain.
Genalguacil, the open-air museum village
Relatively close to Estepona is located this white village. It is quite peculiar because of its art, which is distributed all over the village in the most unexpected places.
Every two years in Genalguacil there are artistic meetings. During 2 weeks the participating artists live together with the inhabitants of the village. And the works of art are permanently exhibited in the streets and squares.
Genalguacil is located 500 m above sea level in the Genal Valley in the heart of Serrania de Ronda. This means slow travel, as the secondary roads are winding through forests of pines, cork oaks and chestnut trees, which offer a spectacular play of colours in autumn.
The museum village is located 40 km from Estepona, driving through the Sierra Bermeja Natural Park, with its highest point at 1,400 metres above the sea. It offers spectacular views of the entire Costa del Sol, the Rock of Gibraltar and, on a clear day, the African coast.
We have been to Genalguacil, discover it in our article!
The Caminito del Rey
Since its reopening in 2015, the Caminito del Rey has become the most visited natural site in the province of Malaga.
It is a spectacular aerial path that has been rehabilitated along the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes.
Once it was one of the most dangerous trails in the world. Nowadays it´s an attractive route through this beautiful natural landscape. And even more so now in autumn, when temperatures drop and nature offers spectacular colours and contrasts.
This route is being touristically exploited nowadays, meaning that you have to buy a ticket and stick to a certain timetable.
We have several extensive articles with everything you need to know to plan your excursion to the Caminito del Rey/strong>.
As a footnote: The most emblematic places such as the Caminito del Rey or El Torcal suffer some overcrowding during weekends and bank holidays. So we advise to enjoy these beautiful places during the week whenever you can.
El Saltillo, the unkown Caminito del Rey
The El Saltillo route runs along a gorge that links the villages of Sedella and Canillas de Aceituno in the upper Axarquia.
The route along the irrigation channels that bring water to the village from the river has existed for many years. Yet, it never had the fame of the Caminito del Rey (perhaps because there are not so many climbers who have killed themselves…), despite having many similarities due to the spectacular views and vertiginousness.
However, although scenically it can be easily compared to the Caminito del Rey, in terms of difficulty it is much more difficult. We tell you all about it here to plan your visit to El Saltillo and its suspension bridge.
El Torcal de Antequera
Among the most visited places in the province of Malaga is undoubtedly El Torcal in Antequera.
These curiously shaped limestone rock formations are located 1,200 metres above the sea. There are two well-signposted circular itineraries for all levels and are suitable for families.
There is also an interpretative centre that organises different activities for all ages, such as guided tours, visits during full moon or to see the Perseids. And there is as well as a small picnic area.
Everything you need to know to visit El Torcal, climate, parking, how to get there, etc.
Dolmens of Antequera
The Dolmens of Antequera are located very close to El Torcal and the city of Antequera with its rich cultural and historical heritage.
Dolmens are prehistoric constructions made of large stones. In Antequera, Malaga we have our own particular Stonehenge from the Neolithic period, about 6,500 years old.
A visit to the Dolmens of Antequera is a must if you love prehistory.
Active tourism and adventure sports in Malaga
If you are looking for some excitement and adventure in Malaga, you will find plenty of options to choose from. Malaga is not only a beach destination, but also a paradise for active tourism and outdoor sports.
You can enjoy
- hiking and trekking to the highest peaks of Malaga, such as La Torrecilla or La Maroma
- climbing on the amazing rock formations of El Torcal or El Chorro
- rafting on the Genil river
- ballooning over Ronda or Antequera
- caving in the Cuevas de Nerja or Ardales
- zip lining across gorges and valleys
- vias ferratas on vertical walls and bridges
- tandem paragliding over stunning landscapes
These are just some of the activities that you can do in Malaga to have an unforgettable experience.
Can’t believe all the things you can do in Malaga? Read our article about active tourism in Malaga to find out more!
The white villages of the Axarquía
For lovers of slow travel we have another charming proposal: Discover the white Moorish villages of the Axarquía, the easternmost region of the province of Malaga.
Nestled on the slopes of this mountainous area, the white villages bear witness to the many centuries of Moorish cultural presence.
We have put together an article with everything you need to know about the most beautiful white villages of the Axarquía. The region has highest mountain in the province, La Maroma, with more than 2,000 metres.
They are ideal villages to discover with slow travel or as starting points for hiking routes.
White villages of the Genal Valley
In the region of Serranía de Ronda we find another jewel of the province of Malaga, the beautiful Genal Valley.
This area is one of the few almost virgin places left in the province, hidden inland, reached after many winding curves along country roads, treating the visitor to magnificent views of the crystal clear waters of the river Genal and vast centuries-old forests.
This emerald jewel is home to a total of 16 white villages of Arab origin and has a special microclimate and abundant rainfall that has led to a great variety of flora and a unique and singular landscape.
If you enjoy hiking, or simply want to discover this corner and its rich local gastronomy, we invite you to visit this natural paradise, its villages and its people.
Sierra de las Nieves National Park
And last but not least, we present you the new jewel in the crown, Sierra de la Nieves.
In 2021 it was declared the first national park in the province of Malaga.
Sierra de las Nieves (“Snowy Mountainrange“) is a stunning mountain range in the Serranía de Ronda. With the Torrecilla Peak at 1,919 metres above sea level, where it usually snows in winter, hence its name.
This beautiful area has lush Spanish fir forests. They are now protected from urban development as a national park.
Sierra de las Nieves has twelve villages with Moorish origin and a special charm: Alozaina, Casarabonela, Tolox, El Burgo, Yunquera, Monda, Guaro, Istan and Ojen, Serrato, Ronda and Parauta.
Whether you like to go on one of the many hiking trails or spend a day in the villages, for example during the chestnut harvest, here we tell you more to plan your visit to Sierra de las Nieves.
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Recommendations for the Caminito del Rey in autumn and winter 