Malaga City Break: Best alternative city according to Forbes

• Posted on July 2, 2024
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• Posted in Travel Tips
• Reading time: 8 minutes

Malaga is ranked as the best “alternative” city in the world for a city break, according to Forbes, an American magazine specialised in the world of business and finance.

Why “alternative” city?

In this study, a Google search of hundreds of destinations has been used to create a list of the most popular alternatives to the capitals of the countries.

That is to say, they have not taken into account the capitals of the countries, but rather smaller cities where you can discover the pulse of life, the people and the magic of the place.

According to the results Malaga is the most popular alternative capital for a city break, with 478,000 global searches carried out annually for ‘Holidays in Malaga’.

Why choose Malaga as alternative for a city break?

In this article we are going to take you on a tour and show you the many beautiful reasons to discover this ancient port city, with its cheerful and open-minded people.

Just as a little footnote: Surely there are hundreds of articles about Malaga on the internet. But we, MalagaCar.com know what we write about.

We are a company for car hire at Malaga airport and we know our beautiful province very well, as you will find out in our extensive Costa del Sol Guide.

When is the best time to visit Malaga?

Without exaggeration, Malaga is almost paradise on earth and very visitable during the 12 months of the year. One could say that here in Malaga we almost live in an eternal spring.

Characteristic for Malaga is that there are plants, flowers, shrubs and trees in bloom all year round, bringing an enormous variety of colours and aromas to delight the senses.

Thus Malaga is an ideal destination in winter.

For the same reason many couples choose Malaga for a romantic getaway on Valentine’s Day.

In our article  The best time to travel to Malaga we give an overview of what to expect in Malaga in each season.

Great dates for a city break in Malaga

In addition, there are several important dates in the city throughout the year. They are big celebrations that attract many visitors every year.

They are ideal if you like to “bathe in the crowds”, enjoy life in the streets and experience first hand how the Malagueños celebrate their festivities.

• As a little tip, if you choose to visit for Easter, the Malaga Fair in August or to see the Christmas Lights, book your centrally located hotel well in advance, as these are very popular dates.

Also included here is Halloween in Malaga, a joyous celebration that the Malagueños have embraced with open arms. If you’re in the city at this time of year, you’re sure to have a great time.

What to see in Malaga in one day

We won´t fool you, if you can only spend one day in Malaga, you don’t know how many great things you’re going to miss out on.

Whatever your reason for coming to Malaga with limited time, we’ll help you make the most of your stay.

We don’t think it’s best to run a marathon to see the maximum number of monuments.

But to savour Malaga, discover charming corners, places and its friendly and open people, like the bay that has been welcoming travellers for millennia.

More nice ideas in Malaga

Boat & Catamaran Tour

If you’re strolling through the beautiful Palmeral de Sorpresas and Pier One in the Port, take the opportunity to see the city from the sea.

• There are several companies offering touristic boat tours with panoramic views.

Another option is to book a catamaran tour and go further out to sea to spot dolphins, celebrate a birthday or watch the sunset. And there’s even a sunset with a DJ – what a great plan! The prices are very affordable, it can be a good idea to surprise someone.

As we mentioned before, the offer of activities in Malaga is very varied and every year there are more and more great things to see and experience.

Historical Botanical Garden

We have dedicated a complete article to the historic Botanical Garden of Malaga, a wonderful green oasis. We can highly recommend a visit throughout the year.

• In addition, during the Christmas season, the garden hosts the spectacular light installation “Lights of the Botanical Garden“. A very beautiful activity.

Music Festivals on the Costa del Sol

And we also present you with other very attractive options here. If you like live music, take a look at Music Festivals on the Costa del Sol.

Maybe you want to combine your stay in Malaga with a festival.

Healthy Activities in Malaga

A city break is also perfect to take the opportunity to visit a Spa or go to a Yoga class on the beach, for example.

• Here are some great ideas for healthy activities in Malaga.

Gastronomy in Malaga

In Malaga, as a good Mediterranean city, there is a huge gastronomic offer from the most traditional Andalusian to international fusion cuisine.

• If you are strolling through the old town of Malaga, don’t miss a visit to the Bodega El Pimpi with its unique tradition and Andalusian culture.

Fancy something special for the occasion? Discover the Michelin Restaurants in Malaga, one in Pier One and the other in the old town.

And of course, we also have a very tempting list with the best Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants in Malaga, which will surprise you!

The Best Rooftop Terraces in Malaga

Another very attractive facet for visitors and locals alike are the terraces in Malaga with views.

Having lunch, dinner or a drink at sunset with views over the city is simply a pleasure.

The best charming hotels in Malaga city centre

Are you coming to Malaga for a few days to enjoy a getaway?

We have for you the best charming hotels in the heart of the city, a few metres from the main street Calle Larios, close to museums and the port of Malaga.

The best free activities in Malaga

Having some free admission activities in Malaga on hand is not a bad idea for those on a tighter budget.

Many of the monuments and public spaces offer the possibility of free entrance. For instance the Historical Botanical Garden Finca de la Concepción, the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro, the Cathedral of Malaga and almost all the museums of Malaga.

Activities and Events in Malaga, month by month

When you plan to travel to Malaga for your city break, apart from visiting monuments or museums, you might be interested in knowing the Events in Malaga.

The city is full of life and culture, both during the day and at night. And surely you´ll find something interesting to do during your stay.

Is it worth hiring a car in Malaga?

That depends on what kind of stay you are planning. If you are just going to move around the city and the centre of Malaga, you don’t need a car. You can get there from Malaga airport and the train station Maria Zambrano comfortably by suburban train.

The historic centre is ideal for walking. Alternatively, you can rent a bike or hire an electric scooter in many places.

If you want to get out of the city and discover our beautiful province, hiring a car in Malaga is the best thing to do.

If you are wondering if it is difficult to drive in Malaga, here we tell you everything you need to know.