The Real Malaga City Overview

A Malaga city overview would not be complete without exploring the rich history surrounding the region. There is also much to do within Malaga and all along the Costa del Sol. Tourists will not be disappointed in the museums, nightlife, shopping or any of the hotels and accommodations. It is truly a vacationer's paradise in every sense of the word.

A Bit of History

Malaga city, once occupied by the Moors grew into one of the Iberian Peninsula's centre of trade. As a result, fortresses were erected that still stand as monuments of its historical triumph over invasion after it was conquered b Isabella and Ferdinand in 1487. However, because of its earlier occupation by the Romans, Greeks and Phoenicians, there is evidence in all of its oldest architecture which lends way to the city's charm.

How to Get There

Visitors to Malaga city can arrive by air via the Malaga airport which is less than 8 km from the city centre to the west. It is a busy airport which supports all of the travel to the Costa del Sol. Flights arrive and depart daily servicing more than 60 major cities around the world. Main highways link major cities in the region and travel by bus or car from the airport is convenient.

Where to Stay

Once you reach Malaga, there are several choices in accommodations. You can choose from villas, hotels, or apartments, depending on the length of your stay and your own personal preferences. Most are within walking distance to the cities major tourist spots and within a short drive of golf, hiking, restaurants and bars.

Eating Out

There is no shortage of choices when it comes to eating out in Malaga city. Some of the most famous tapas bars are located near Calle Nueva right in the centre of the action. These include Rincon de Mata, Taperia Siglo XX1, El Trasiego, and bohemian favourite, Taberna Rincon Chintas.

Must-See Sights

As with all of Europe, churches and cathedrals are major tourist destinations and Malaga city does not disappoint. The Cathedral, built between 1528 and 1782 was erected on a site once housing a mosque. Insufficient funding forced the Cathedral to limit its towers to one instead of the planned two.

The Castillo de Gibralfaro is a castle that is best known for the location of the siege by Ferdinand and Isabella which lasted three months. It is named as such because in the early 1300s it served as a lighthouse.

A well-known landmark, the Alcazba is a fortress where the city celebrated its first Catholic Mass following its siege by the Christians. Today, is houses a museum and beautiful gardens.

Malaga is the birthplace of the famous artist, Picasso. It is here that a museum paying tribute to his life and art is housed.

Shopping

Calle Marques de Larios is the main street for shopping in Malaga city. Be sure to bring plenty of money, because only the most exclusive of boutiques are located here. For more reasonable choices there is the Plaza de la Constitutcion. Also, small side alleys provide better bargains for souvenirs.

Nightlife

Musical bars are very popular among tourists and locals in Malaga city. Some offer all night flamenco, jazz, and plenty of subjects for people watching. You can also find O'Neills Irish Pub along Calle Luis del Velazquez, which just shows how diverse this city can be. Musical theatre can be enjoyed at the Miguel Cervantes Municipal Theatre which features many well-known headliners.

No Malaga city overview can do justice to the variety of sights and activities available. From the beach front shores just a short distance away to the rich cultural attractions downtown, Malaga city has something for everyone.