Winter In Malaga Travel Guide: Things To Do In Malaga In Winter
Spending winter in Malaga is one of the best decisions we had due to its pleasantly warm weather, averaging around 17°C.
You can make the most of this inviting climate to explore the city’s historic sites, unique museums, cuisine, and pristine beaches. Plus, the bonus of fewer crowds makes it an ideal winter destination on the Costa del Sol.
Weather in Malaga During Winter
The winter weather in Malaga is pretty mild, just hovering around 17°C(63°F), even in December and January.
It’s not scorching hot like in the summer, but it’s definitely much warmer than most other places in Europe, such as central/northern France, Germany, the UK, Scandinavia, etc., during this season.
We were able to wear T-shirts and enjoy the beaches, but you may want to bring a jacket along if you tend to get cold easily.
You can definitely take advantage of the mild temps to spend time relaxing at Malaga’s cafes, roam the charming old town, and go for those relaxing coastal walks. The weather may be a bit wetter than peak summer, but a little rain never hurt anyone.
Does It Snow in Malaga?
Malaga is not exactly the place where you’d expect snow in winter. The weather is usually pretty mild, with a fair bit of rain. So, these conditions make snowfall very rare.
How Long Does the Sun Rise in Malaga?
Unlike some other Mediterranean spots that might have their fair share of rain and colder spells, Malaga doesn’t hold back on the sunshine during winter.
You get a good 5 to 6 hours of daylight every day. Coming from a place where winter means grey skies and snow, it was amazing to have blue skies almost every day.
We made the most out of the beautiful weather by exploring historic spots, strolling the lively streets, and hitting the beaches. Plus, the humidity is bearable, just around 60% to 70%.
Although the shorter daylight hours posed a bit of a challenge, it wasn’t too bad overall. We were able to complete most hikes within the expected time, while still enjoying the views and scenery.
Winter Temperature in Malaga
Malaga during winter is pretty mild compared to the winters up north in places like London, Paris, or Berlin. We didn’t need to pack our heavy winter jacket because the temperatures hover between 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F), especially in December, with an average temperature of around 17°C.
In January, it gets a bit cooler, with average temperatures of 13-15°C (55-59°F). You might notice a slight nip in the air, but it’s far from the freezing winters you might be accustomed to. February starts to warm up a bit, with temperatures ranging from 14-16°C (57-61°F).
Evenings do bring a touch of chill, with temperatures ranging around 7-10°C (44-50°F), but you won’t be battling frostbite here. In fact, if you’re like me, trying to escape the bone-chilling cold around other corners of Europe, Malaga is the place to be during the winter months.
Here’s a chart illustrating the average monthly temperatures and rainfall:
Month | Average High | Average Low | Avg Rainfall
November | 18°C (64°F) | 11°C (52°F) | 90 mm (3.5 in)
December | 16°C (61°F) | 9°C (48°F) | 105 mm (4.1 in)
January | 16°C (61°F) | 8°C (46°F) | 79 mm (3.1 in)
February | 17°C (63°F) | 9°C (48°F) | 58 mm (2.3 in)
Does It Rain In Malaga During Winter?
Malaga has a tendency to rain a bit, around 5-6 days a month, from December to February. But this didn’t spoil our experience. Actually, the rain keeps everything green and lush, so it’s not too shabby.
Every once in a while, you might also run into a storm or a heavy downpour. So, we advise keeping an eye on the weather forecast while planning your Malaga winter itinerary.
Best Things To Do In Malaga In Winter
It’s not just the weather that makes Malaga a winner in the winter months. This city has so much more to offer, too. From sampling its best food to checking out its historical sites, museums, and galleries, there’s a lot on the tourist trail that will keep you entertained.
Explore the Historic Center
If you’re a fan of history and culture, like us, immersing yourself in Malaga’s rich heritage is a must. It’s an excellent way to spend a winter day, and you’ll discover so much about this vibrant city.
Here are the top historic centers that you must visit:
Marvel at Alcazaba Castle
Alcazaba has been around since the 11th century and is one of the best-preserved alcazabas in Spain. As you wander through its walls, you’ll come across the ruins of ancient palaces, baths, mosques, and lush gardens.
Oh, and don’t forget to check out the archaeological museum inside, showcasing all the cool artifacts found right there.
The entrance fee to get into the Castle is around 3.50 euros per person. What’s great is that they offer discounts for students, seniors, and children.
It is open Tuesday through Sunday, giving you time to explore between 9 am and 6 pm. Just keep in mind that it’s closed on Mondays and holidays like Christmas Day or New Year’s Day.
We would recommend doing a tour, even if you think you know a lot already about the Alcazaba’s history.
> Save Cost With Alcazaba and Roman Theatre Guided Tour
As for ticket availability, you can purchase your entry tickets right on-site, but remember that for guided tours, it’s better to book them in advance online.
Feel the Majesty of the Gibralfaro Castle
Just a stone away from Alcazaba, you’ll find Gibralfaro Castle. This one’s a bit younger, built in the 14th century to provide extra protection to the city.
When it comes to timing, try to hit this place up in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds. We advise wearing comfy shoes because this castle will have you climbing loads of stairs and navigating uneven terrain.
The views when you are at the top are epic, and you can see the whole city and the ocean – totally gorgeous on a sunny winter day. We remember taking hundreds of photos trying to capture the perfect panorama.
With an entrance fee of only 3.50 euros per adult, we consider this to be one of the budget-friendly outings that give a glimpse into Malaga’s rich history.
Given its shorter winter hours from 9 am to 6 pm, try to get there mid-morning so you can explore at a leisurely pace before it closes.
Journey Through the Cathedral of Malaga
Another must-see is Malaga’s Cathedral, known as “La Manquita” or “One-Armed Lady” because one of its intended towers was never built. Dating back to the 16th century, this place is smack in the city’s center, and you really don’t want to miss it.
This imposing Renaissance cathedral has a beautiful interior and displays a mix of architectural styles. If you are an art lover, you will definitely appreciate the Cathedral Museum with works by famous Spanish painters.
For 8 euros, you can get in to see this incredible historic building. Now the hours are a little shorter in winter – it’s open on weekdays from 10 am to 9 pm but closes early at 6 pm on Saturdays.
Going there is a bit of a workout because you have to take around 200 steps, but the view up there is absolutely worth it. You’re standing 84 meters high, and the panoramic views of Malaga, the port, the beaches, and the mountains are just stunning.
The lack of summer crowds during winter makes it an excellent time to visit the Cathedral of Malaga. Oh, and don’t forget to dress respectfully, as it’s still an active place of worship.
Step Back in Time at the Roman Theatre
You gotta check out the Roman Theatre if you’re ever in Malaga. This place is crazy old – we’re talking from the 1st century AD! It’s hard to believe there’s a legit Ancient Roman ruin just chillin’ in the middle of the city.
The best part is that the entrance fee is free! The theater is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm during the winter months, November to February. It’s closed on Mondays and on holidays like Christmas, though, so plan accordingly.
When you’re there, make sure to check out the excavated remains. The rows of seating, curving up the hillside, give you a feel for the sheer scale of this place.
You can fully appreciate the theater’s shape and scope, and on a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of the ocean.
You’ll find plaques with illustrations and info to help you visualize how this theater looked in its heyday.
And don’t forget to climb to the top – it’s a jaw-dropping view from up there. Also, the theater is wheelchair friendly with ramps leading up to the seats, which is really nice.
Now, when you’re planning a visit to the theater, know that it’s pretty exposed. So, even when the wind’s just a bit gusty, it can get chilly. Our tip? Bundle up and leave those umbrellas at home. They can go all Mary Poppins on you with the wind!
So if the weather’s not great, with it all rainy and wet out there, you really wanna watch your step on those slick spots, like the stone benches or the stairs.
Go slow, and make sure you’ve got some decent shoes on – that way, you won’t end up doing an impromptu slip-and-slide routine.
Educational Things To Do in Malaga
If you’re looking to spice up your trip with some educational sightseeing, Malaga got your back. The city is bursting with fascinating museums that will satisfy your intellectual curiosity.
Get ready to soak up to soak up some seriously good Spanish history.
Immerse Yourself in Art at the Picasso Museum
One must-visit museum in Malaga is the Picasso Museum, located in the Buenavista palace. You can check out his early works, including his childhood paintings, sculptures, and even some personal memorabilia.
You might think winter is an odd time to visit, but it’s actually the perfect season to go. The crowds are much smaller compared to the hectic summer tourist season, so you can truly savor the art without the hustle and bustle.
It’s open daily from 10 am to 6 pm, except Mondays and big holidays like Christmas and New Year’s. Just a tip, though: it’s smart to book your tickets in advance, as they limit the number of visitors.
> Museo Picasso Málaga Entry Ticket
Discover Artistic Masterpieces at the Centre Pompidou Malaga
You’ve got to swing by the Centre Pompidou Malaga if you’re into modern and contemporary art. It’s like a mini version of the one in Paris. There are collections of over 80 pieces by artists like Bacon, Magritte, and Frida Khalo.
The Centre Pompidou is open Wednesday through Monday from 9:30 am to 8 pm during the winter, except holidays and Tuesdays. You can still visit the museum on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, but it’s only until 3 pm.
It is best to book your tickets online so you don’t have to wait around.
> Center Pompidou Málaga Ticket
Uncover the Beauty of Spanish Art at the Carmen Thyssen Museum
Another go-to place for art enthusiasts is the Carmen Thyssen Museum. You can admire over 230 pieces of 19th-century Spanish paintings by artists like Sorolla, Zuloaga, and Romero de Torres here.
What we found particularly charming were the Andalusian patios and Islamic architectural details in the palace.
You can get to explore this museum Tuesday through Sunday from 10 am to 8 pm. I’d say go early in the morning or evening to really beat the crowds since there won’t be as many big tour groups then.
Their general admission ticket costs 10 euros, which is pretty reasonable. If you buy them online ahead of time, you can definitely skip the lines.
> Carmen Thyssen Museum Ticket
Relax at the Beach
Don’t let the cooler temps fool you – Malaga’s beaches are still chillin’ all winter long! The colder months mean way smaller crowds, cheaper prices, and a super laidback vibe. If you’re looking to soak up some sun and relax, head to these three top spots:
Experience the Vibe at La Malagueta
La Malagueta is a fantastic neighborhood in Malaga that has a lot to offer, even in the winter months.
This gorgeous beach stretches for about 1.2 kilometers, with soft golden sand and crystal-clear waters – it’s perfect for swimming and sunbathing!
Just a tip: get there early to snag your spot, especially during the peak season.
Indulge in Tranquility at Pedregalejo Beach
Pedregalejo Beach is a year-round hotspot, even in the winter. Getting there is a breeze – you can hop on a bus (lines 11 and 34 stop right at the beach entrance), drive, bike, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the seaside promenade for some fantastic views.
Even in the winter months, Pedregalejo Beach doesn’t leave you high and dry when it comes to things to do. The 1.2 km stretch of sandy beach is perfect for taking a dip in the calm, shallow waters.
Discover Coastal Serenity at El Palo Beach
El Palo Beach is located in the eastern suburbs of Malaga City and boasts a nearly 1.2-kilometer stretch of sandy shoreline.
During the winter months, you might be surprised to find that you can still take a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean at El Palo Beach.
One of the coolest things about El Palo Beach is how close it is to Malaga City. It’s just a short 10-15 minute bus or taxi ride to the city’s historic center.
From there, you can easily explore must-see attractions like Gibralfaro Castle, the Alcazaba, Malaga Cathedral, and the Picasso Museum.
Explore Nature
The mild winter climate in Malaga is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy nature and outdoor activities. There are tons of ways to appreciate Malaga’s natural beauty during the winter months:
Hike the Caminito del Rey
The Caminito del Rey hike is hands down one of the best things we’ve done in Malaga during the winter months.
This thrilling cliffside trail clings to the steep walls of El Chorro Gorge – we’re talking narrow walkways, crazy bridges, and even some tunnels carved right into the rock. Those transparent platforms that hang out over the cliffs had our knees shaking a bit.
The cooler temps from November through February make the hiking way more comfortable than in summer when the heat is killer. Plus, you skip the intense crowds of summer.
Just be ready to bundle up, especially if you are sensitive to cold temperatures – that wind chill is no joke. Note that they may close certain spots for safety reasons if the weather is really bad.
In most outings, sunny days are always the best option. So, do yourself a favor and check the weather forecast before you set off. It can also impact availability – heavy rain or wind might mean cancellations.
The Caminito del Rey is open Tuesday to Sunday, and you can explore this breathtaking trail from 9 am to 3 pm. Note that it is closed on Mondays and holidays.
Since this is a popular destination, spots fill up fast, especially on weekends. Online is the way to go for reserving your tour ticket ahead of time.
> Get Caminito del Rey Entry Ticket in Advance
Also, if you want to learn the history of the walkway, take full advantage of the guided tour.
> Caminito del Rey Guided Tour
Explore the Montes de Malaga Natural Park
The Montes de Malaga mountains near Malaga are enjoyable natural areas to explore during the winter months. This area spans approximately 5,000 hectares and is conveniently located just 5 kilometers north of the city center.
The best part is you can enjoy these scenic overlooks that give panoramic views of the mountains all year round, as there are no closures, even on holidays.
Driving by rental car or taxi is the most convenient way to reach the park, as public transportation options are limited. The drive will mostly take you about 15-20 minutes.
The mild weather, with highs around 18°C(64°F) and lows around 8°C(46°F), makes the park an enjoyable natural area to explore during the winter months as long as you are ready with your gear appropriate for your chosen trail difficulty.
Rain is possible during the winter season, so checking forecasts in advance is recommended to ensure proper preparation.
If you’d like to enhance your experience, you can consider joining guided tours. These tours provide an excellent opportunity to discover the park with the added benefit of local insights and expertise.
> Experience 3-Hour E-Bike Tour of Montes de Malaga Natural Park
Winter Activities In Malaga
The Spanish city of Malaga comes alive with festive activities and events during winter. Here are the top activities you can do to get into the holiday spirit.
Get Dazzled in the Christmas Lights Displays
You’ll absolutely love the Christmas lights and festivities in Malaga during winter.
First, check out Calle Larios, the city’s main shopping street. It’s dressed up with so many twinkling lights, forming a magical canopy above you. You can even find massive Christmas ornaments along the way.
And don’t miss the Plaza de la Constitución, which is a centerpiece with a towering Christmas tree surrounded by lights, perfect as a backdrop for your holiday photos.
Don’t forget to visit the Jardín Botánico-Histórico La Concepción, where you can witness the enchanting nighttime wonderland with lights winding through the gardens. What’s best is you may visit the garden for free!
It is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm. Just remember that they are closed on holidays like Christmas and New Year.
Experience the Enchanting Nativity Scenes
Malaga in winter offers a delightful experience as you embrace the festive tradition of nativity scenes, locally known as “Belenes.”
The tradition was popularized by the Catholic Church and the nobility. Now, you may think looking at nativity scenes sounds kinda boring. But, in Malaga, these belenes are the main event!
You’ll find them in Malaga Cathedral, Carmen Thyssen Museum, and Town Hall. And don’t be surprised to come across some in people’s homes too – families take great pride in setting up their own belenes, often passing them down through the generations.
Count Down to an Unforgettable New Year’s Eve Celebration
The heart and soul of the action during New Year is the Plaza de la Constitución. You’ll witness thousands of people packed into this lively square, live music pumping, lights flashing.
When that clock strikes midnight, there are epic fireworks over the harbor that are just so amazing. Speaking of the harbor, it’s amazing to watch the fireworks show from Malaga Port, too.
Winter Season In Malaga
Malaga enjoys mild winters, which is perfect for spending your outdoor activities. Here are some activities you can do during the winter months in Malaga:
Malaga in November
You’ll find mild temperatures during November, with highs around 18°C (64°F) and lows at 11°C (52°F). It’s the perfect time if you’re like us, enjoying cooler weather without shivering.
One thing we loved about November in Malaga is the smaller crowds. It’s the shoulder season, which means you can enjoy the city’s attractions without the hustle and bustle of too many tourists. Plus, you’ll save some bucks on hotels and flights.
In November, the Rabbit Festival is totally worth checking out. It’s this cool annual festival they put on in the second week of November that’s all about rabbit dishes and Malaga’s food culture. You can celebrate the Rabbit Festival in the town of Parauta.
And here’s something for the music lovers – the Malaga Jazz Festival that happens around the second week to the third week of January. You’ve got jazz, blues, funk, and soul performances. It is mostly celebrated in the Cervantes Theatre.
They usually hold free jazz concerts around open spaces in the city. So, be updated about the announcements, and don’t miss that out.
Malaga in December
In Malaga, winter kicks off in December with relatively mild weather, offering daytime temperatures around 16°C (61°F) and cooler nights at 9°C (48°F). You’ll still get a good 5 hours of sunshine daily, so you can enjoy being outdoors without any problem.
There are special events you shouldn’t miss in Malaga in December:
Nativity Scenes Competition
If you’re looking for a more traditional touch, you absolutely have to check out the Nativity Scenes Competition. Various churches and venues go head to head to create the most intricate and detailed nativity scenes, depicting the birth of Jesus. It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local holiday spirit.
Christmas Concerts
And for those who appreciate the arts, there are some fantastic Christmas concerts and shows in venues like the Cervantes Theatre. The performances are accompanied by beautiful holiday decorations, making it a truly magical time to enjoy music and dance.
You can also watch other concert shows like Flamenco, even in the winter months in the Flamenco Alegria. You get to enjoy traditional drinks and witness the Andalusian culture.
> Grab Your Tickets For The Flamenco Show Alegría
New Year’s Grape Eating
The entire city comes alive to welcome the new year. Don’t forget the tradition of eating 12 grapes at midnight – one for each chime of the clock.
It’s believed to bring good luck for the upcoming year. Just a word of advice: don’t choke on the seeds while you’re trying to keep up with the countdown!
Malaga in January
Winter in Malaga is pretty mild, especially in January. You can expect highs around 16°C (61°F) and lows of 8°C (46°F). The good news is it rarely gets below freezing, so it’s quite comfy for exploring.
But here’s the thing – January is the rainy season. It’s not too bad, though, with an average of 79mm (3.1 inches) of rain spread over ten days.
Now, here’s the fun part. January 6th is Three Kings Day, and it’s a big deal in Malaga. It’s all about celebrating the Three Wise Men who visited baby Jesus.
The city center comes alive with a fantastic parade, and you’ve got to see the colorful floats and the people dressed up as the Three Kings.
Malaga in February
Winter in Malaga during February is quite pleasant, with daytime temperatures around 17°C (63°F) and cooler nights at 9°C (46°F). Although there’s a slight uptick in rainfall, don’t worry – heavy downpours are rare.
There are fun events happening in Malaga in February. Malaga’s Carnival is always the way to go. It usually kicks off in early to mid-February.
Imagine concerts, shows, and lively parades with colorful costumes and floats parading through the streets. You’ll also witness a children’s parade and games from noon to 2 pm.
What to Eat in Malaga In Winter
It’s time to warm yourself up from the inside out with some classic winter comfort foods in Malaga.
Mulled Wine (Vino Caliente)
There’s nothing better than sipping on a nice warm mug of mulled wine during the winter in Malaga. It is a rich red wine infused with cinnamon, orange, and cloves.
It is also perfect to enjoy a glass of vino caliente at the beachside restaurants, where you can relax with a drink while looking out at the sea.
Roasted Chestnuts (Castañas Asadas)
Munching on hot, sweet, roasted chestnuts is one of our favorite things about visiting Malaga in winter. And they’re super cheap – usually just a few euros or so for a big cone overflowing with chestnuts.
You can sprinkle it with a little salt or sugar, too, depending on what you are feeling.
Churros Con Chocolate
There’s nothing that hits the spot on a chilly winter day in Malaga like eating hot churros. You should not miss those long, crispy sticks of fried dough rolled in sugar that you dunk into a steaming cup of thick hot chocolate.
Cafe Aranda has been serving them up since way back when, and you can have it for less than 4 euros. That’s quite a steal for such delicious treats.
Turrón
This tasty turrón is huge during the holidays. It’s made from honey, egg whites, and crunchy nuts – so addicting! You can find a variety of turrón in the Atarazanas Food Market, which is open from Monday to Saturday.
Marzipan Fruit
Marzipan fruit is an almond-sugar sweet that has been made in Malaga since the days of the Moors. Its subtle honey taste greatly balances the nuttiness. You’ll find marzipan shaped like tropical fruits – all colored to look just like the real thing.
Now, marzipan isn’t the healthiest treat – but hey, we’re on vacation. And those almonds provide a tiny nutrition boost, so we don’t feel too guilty indulging. Just pace yourself, or you’ll end up in a sugar coma from all the sweet almond goodness.
Spanish Hot Chocolate (Chocolate Caliente)
There’s nothing better than warming up with a nice hot cup of chocolate when the cold winds start blowing through Malaga in winter. The locals here have turned hot chocolate into an art form – it’s so thick and creamy, not like the watery stuff we drink back home.
Getting Around Malaga in Winter
You’ll find a variety of transportation options to help you explore Malaga.
Hop on a Bus
First off, Malaga’s public buses, run by EMT Malaga, are probably your best bet to see the sights in the city center and head to the beaches. They’re not just convenient but also easy on the pocket. I’d highly recommend grabbing a rechargeable travel card if you’re planning to hop on and off these buses a lot.
Take a Train
To visit nearby towns, take the train. There are a few different lines along the coast that can get you to Alora and Fuengirola in an hour. A little tip: make sure to check the timetables in advance, as train frequencies can be a bit hit-and-miss.
Ride a Taxi
In case you’re in a hurry or don’t fancy navigating public transport, taxis are all over the place in Malaga. You can just wave one down or ask your hotel to call you one. They use meters, so you know the price upfront.
Just be prepared for possible surge pricing during busy hours.
Metro
Malaga’s got a simple metro system, too. There’s Line 1, which runs from Andalusia Tech to El Perchel, and Line 2, which goes from Palacio de los Deportes to El Perchel. It’s a handy way to move around, especially if you want to explore the historic centers. Don’t forget to grab your tickets before you hop on for a hassle-free experience.
Rent a Car
Now, if you’re feeling adventurous and want to explore places beyond the city, renting a car is your best option. So, a small tip, use a GPS to help you navigate the city’s twists and turns.
Just remember, the historic center can be a bit tricky with tiny streets and limited parking. Also, don’t forget to pay attention to parking regulations and any vehicle restrictions – you don’t want to end up with a surprise penalty fee.
Zoom Through the City With Electric Scooter
Malaga also embraces the micro-mobility trend with electric scooter rentals and bike sharing. They’re perfect for short trips and taking in the sights.
Electric scooters and bikes have an age limit of 18, but rules can change anytime. So if you are planning to make use of these transport modes, make sure to double check on the latest regulations whenever you visit.
And, of course, one thing that never changes is safety! Don’t forget to wear helmets for protection, be sure to stick to designated lanes, and be mindful of pedestrians.
Take a Stroll
In Malaga’s city center, you’ll find that it’s easy to get around on foot. Just keep in mind that winter days have shorter daylight hours, so plan your walks accordingly. And make sure you’re wearing comfy shoes.
Also, it gets dark early in winter. So, be extra cautious when crossing streets and bring a flashlight just in case
Day Trips From Malaga in Winter
Explore Malaga with these epic winter day trips:
Granada and The Alhambra Tour
When it starts getting chilly on the Costa del Sol in winter, the perfect little getaway is a day trip to Granada. It’s only a 2-hour bus ride from Malaga. Grab a morning bus, and you’ll be wandering the streets of Granada before lunchtime.
Granada has this Albayzín neighborhood, which is an old-school Moorish with cute little cave houses and killer views looking out over the Alhambra.
You also get to visit Alhambra – a Moorish architecture and gardens straight out of a fairy tale. Give yourself at least 3-4 hours to explore, wander around the Nasrid Palaces, check out the cool courtyards, and relax in the gardens at the Generalife.
If you want to add a lot of insights into what you’re seeing and skip any hassles with tickets or transportation, you can book a guided tour online
Caminito del Rey Trip
If you’re looking for an epic adventure near the Costa del Sol in winter, you gotta check out the Caminito del Rey.
This iconic cliffside path got a makeover in 2015, complete with wooden boardwalks, railings, and safety lines. The whole route is around 7.7km long and takes about 3 to 4 hours to finish.
To go there, it’s like a 61km drive inland from Málaga, kinda winding roads, but the views are amazing. You can drive yourself or grab a tour bus from the coast.
When you’re there, make sure to arrive with some spare time on your hands, as the ticket office closes half an hour before the park’s closing time.
You’ll also want to leave the little ones at home for this hike. There are some unprotected dropoffs that make it unsafe for kids under 8.
If you wanna take some planning off your plate, you could look into a tour.
> Caminito del Rey Guided Tour with Bus
Ronda and the Setenil Trip
One of our favorites is Ronda, about 2 hours northwest of Málaga.
Ronda is unbelievable – it’s built right on top of a gorge with insane views from the Puente Nuevo bridge. The iconic Puente Nuevo bridge is open year-round and offers spectacular views of the El Tajo gorge and surrounding landscape.
On the way there or back, you can detour to little places like Setenil de las Bodegas. It’s this quirky little town built right into the cliffs along the gorge. Houses and buildings literally carved right into the rock – it’s so cool to see.
We recommend booking your trip online in advance so you’ll have a slot and won’t miss out on these amazing places.
> Full-Day Bus Trip to Ronda and Setenil
Gibralfaro Castle & Malaga City Tour
Gibralfaro Castle is an epic 14th-century fortress on a hill with gorgeous views over the city. It is on a 130-meter hill overlooking Malaga. The castle features double perimeter walls, several towers, ruins of a mosque, and beautiful gardens.
You can also explore the cathedral in the city center, which gives a total Gothic/Baroque/Renaissance vibes. Their Spanish painting collection is impressive, even for an art history nerd like us. Malaga also has a lot of museums perfect for art and culture lovers.
To fully experience Malaga’s flavors, be sure to sample local tapas and wines at spots like El Pimpi and La Tranca. Savoring the regional cuisine and vintages should be a highlight of your visit.
> Visit Gibralfaro Castle and Enjoy the Electric Car City Tour
Spend Your Winter in Malaga
With sunny skies and cool temperatures, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how much there is to experience in Malaga during the winter.
It’s time for you to get to learn the rich history of ancient castles and theaters and then admire masterpieces in world-class museums. You can also hike through lush natural parks and push your limits on the thrilling Caminito del Rey.
Let Malaga’s warmth wrap around you this winter – you’ll leave with lifelong memories and a piece of your heart still lingering in southern Spain.
