Hotels in Málaga

Málaga: Where Sun-Kissed Shores Meet Timeless Treasures

Discover the vibrant allure of Málaga, a dazzling gem on Spain's Costa del Sol. This captivating city seamlessly blends sun-kissed beaches like La Malagueta with a thriving cultural scene, highlighted by the stunning CAC Málaga and historic monuments like the Gibralfaro Castle. Stroll through the charming streets of Málaga Centro, where cozy cafes and boutique hotels await. Immerse yourself in the rich history and artistic heritage that flourishes in every corner. Whether you’re soaking up the sun or exploring world-class museums, Málaga promises an unforgettable blend of relaxation and inspiration, perfect for every traveler. For the best hotel rates in Málaga and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Málaga

Some of the best places to stay in Málaga are Málaga Centro, Carihuela and Fuengirola City Centre. Málaga Centro, Carihuela, and Fuengirola City Centre offer unique experiences for travelers. Málaga Centro is vibrant, steeped in history, and perfect for first-time visitors, with amenities like shops and restaurants. Carihuela boasts beautiful beaches and a laid-back atmosphere, ideal for relaxation. Fuengirola City Centre provides a lively coastal vibe with entertainment options. Accommodation ranges from budget to luxury hotels in all areas, with varied room rates to suit different budgets, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveler. Here are some of the best hotels in Málaga that our travelers love:

1. Málaga CentroOpens in a new window: Málaga Centro is the heartbeat of the city, brimming with cultural landmarks and vibrant energy. It’s close to the stunning Malagueta Beach, the renowned Picasso Museum Malaga, and the magnificent Málaga Cathedral, making it an ideal base for culture and beach enthusiasts. For accommodations, consider Gran hotel Miramar GLOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star hotel perfect for beach lovers and business travelers, featuring direct beach access and natural hot springs. Another excellent option is Only YOU Hotel MalagaOpens in a new window, also a 5-star property in the city center that welcomes pets and offers luxury amenities. Lastly, Vincci Seleccion Posada del Patio HotelOpens in a new window caters to business travelers with its modern facilities and luxury services.
2. CarihuelaOpens in a new window: Carihuela is a charming coastal neighborhood known for its family-friendly atmosphere and beautiful beaches, including Carihuela Beach and Bajondillo Beach. It’s perfect for families and couples seeking outdoor adventures and relaxation. Hotel Palia Las PalomasOpens in a new window is a fantastic 4-star hotel that offers amenities for children, making it ideal for family vacations. For a more luxurious experience, Vincci Selección AleysaOpens in a new window provides direct beach access and thrilling adventure sports options, while Hotel MS TropicanaOpens in a new window focuses on beach and adventure activities, ensuring guests have plenty of exciting options during their stay.
3. Fuengirola City CentreOpens in a new window: Fuengirola City Centre is a vibrant area known for its beautiful beaches, such as Los Boliches Beach and Fuengirola Beach, perfect for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts. The city center location provides easy access to various dining and shopping options. Leonardo Hotel Fuengirola Costa del SolOpens in a new window is a well-rated 4-star hotel offering direct beach access and a natural accommodation experience. For families, La Zambra Resort GL, in the Unbound Collection by HyattOpens in a new window is a luxurious 5-star hotel with child-friendly services and facilities. Another excellent choice is Higueron Hotel Malaga, Curio Collection by HiltonOpens in a new window, which combines business amenities with beach access, ideal for those traveling for work or pleasure.

Things to do in Málaga for first time

Málaga is a vibrant coastal destination perfect for a three-day getaway, offering stunning beaches, picturesque mountains, and lush parks. Travelers can enjoy activities like boating, diving, and hiking, alongside shopping and exploring diverse art exhibitions. Its blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences makes it a must-visit spot. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Málaga:

• Day 1: Start your Málaga adventure with a relaxing morning at Malagueta Beach, where sandy shores and the Mediterranean Sea await. After soaking up the sun, head to the nearby Treasure Caves, a fascinating natural wonder known for its stunning rock formations and beautiful views. Conclude your day at Playa del Dedo, where you can enjoy a picturesque sunset and unwind with a refreshing drink at a beachside café.
• Day 2: Kick off your day at Carihuela Beach, a vibrant spot famous for its lively atmosphere and delicious beachside restaurants. From there, take a short stroll to Malapesquera Beach, where you can engage in water sports or simply relax by the sea. Wrap up your day with a visit to Bil-Bil Castle, a unique landmark that offers panoramic views of the area and a glimpse into Málaga’s rich history.
• Day 3: Begin your morning at Los Alamos Beach, known for its beautiful scenery and laid-back vibe. Next, head over to Benalmadena Marina, where you can explore shops, restaurants, and enjoy a scenic boat ride. Finally, spend your afternoon at Bajondillo Beach, a popular location for sunbathing and swimming, while indulging in some local tapas at a nearby chiringuito.

5 tips to find a great Málaga hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly times to visit Málaga are January, November, and December, when hotel rates are lower. For international travelers, it's advisable to book flights at least 8 months in advance to secure more affordable options. Domestic travelers should also aim for the same timeline to take advantage of cheaper fares. To really soak in the charm of Málaga, plan for at least a 3-4 day stay, which allows you to explore its beautiful beaches and fascinating museums. This way, you can enjoy a great value for money while discovering the city's main attractions.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Looking for last-minute deals to Málaga? You could find great rates by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. Here, you're more likely to uncover discounted hotel offers as your travel date approaches. To maximize your savings, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, so you can stay informed about flash sales and special promotions. Don't miss your chance to snag fantastic deals for Málaga!
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Málaga.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center of Málaga and close to local attractions usually tends to be more expensive. If you decide to stay a bit farther from the city center, you can take advantage of various transportation options like a car, bus, taxi, or bicycle, or even walk around to explore the area while likely saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Málaga and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Málaga

Here are a few popular dishes in Málaga, Andalusia, Spain:

• Paella: A quintessential Spanish dish, paella originates from Valencia but is popular throughout Andalucía. This vibrant rice dish is typically cooked in a wide, shallow pan and combines saffron-infused rice with a variety of ingredients such as chicken, seafood, or vegetables. In Málaga, you might find local variations featuring fresh catch from the Mediterranean, making it a must-try for seafood lovers.
• Gazpacho: This refreshing cold soup is perfect for Málaga's warm climate. Made from blended ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, garlic, and olive oil, gazpacho showcases the region's fresh produce. It’s not only a dish but a cultural experience, often enjoyed during summer gatherings and served as a starter in many local restaurants.
• Tortilla Española: A beloved Spanish omelet, tortilla española consists of eggs, potatoes, and onions, creating a hearty and satisfying dish. It's often served in tapas bars across Málaga, where locals and tourists alike share plates, making it a perfect representation of the communal dining culture.

Best time to go to Málaga

Málaga experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 54.0°F (12.2°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 80.4°F (26.9°C). November is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Málaga, March, April, and July are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by dry to light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, October to December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.