Sitting on the southern coast of Spain, Malaga is a stunning coastal city that is the perfect romantic getaway for honeymoons and anniversaries alike. Enjoy incredible views, tapas bars galore, colourful architecture, fascinating museums (did you know Picasso was born in Malaga?) and some of the best beaches in Spain.
Before you book your tickets, be sure to research the many incredible places in Costa del Sol and surrounding areas. You’ll be spoilt for choice, but if you need help narrowing down your choices, here are the ten most romantic spots in Malaga.
1. Tour the Port of Malaga
The port is the perfect place to start any trip to Malaga. It’s beautiful, romantic and full of fun things to do as a couple. Combine this with a few stunning sunsets and it will feel like the most romantic destination in the whole world.
Take the time to sit and enjoy an evening drink or light meal at one of the nearby bars. Prices around the port and the city centre are more pricy, but the restaurants and atmosphere are spectacular.
2. Explore Alcazaba Fort
This 11th-century Moorish fort is the perfect adventure for two lovebirds, as it comes complete with secret squares and alleyways to explore to your heart’s content. When you are finished exploring, you can finish your time off at Alcazaba and enjoy the views while you sit on the ramparts. This sure to be a romantic day for the both of you.
3. Plaza de la Merced
Located in the same neighbourhood that Pablo Picasso was born, this plaza is full of picturesque and enticing cafes, restaurants and street performers for you to enjoy. Take a romantic stroll throughout the neighbourhoods and enjoy some time together, watching entertaining performances and experience the streets the infamous Picasso grew up in.
4. Enjoy the Old Town
The Old Town in any European city is almost guaranteed to be a highlight, with its ancient streets and winding roads that are perfect for getting lost in. In Malaga, however, you will be able to enjoy Andalusian architecture to its fullest, pause and enjoy a meal at a variety of small restaurants and cafes, and enjoy shopping to your heart’s content. The entire area has great ambiance and is incredibly enchanting.
5. Enjoy La Caleta
There are a variety of beaches in Malaga, but if you want a private affair head away from the cities, enjoy beaches like La Caleta. This beach can offer much-needed privacy, perfect for a couple wanting to spend time relaxing away from the crowds. If you are not up for a long drive, then you can enjoy this manmade beach located at Malaga’s doorstep, while also experiencing soft sands, clear waters and picturesque views.
6. Wander Through the Botanical Gardens
Make it your mission to visit the Botanical Gardens before you leave, because it is an absolute treat to behold and utterly romantic for couples. This garden, in particular, is massive, with over 121 acres of tropical forest to explore and 57 acres of botanical gardens to wander through. With so much space, you can feel like you have the whole place to yourself, making it extra romantic.
7. See the Sunset from the Parador de Gibralfaro
Parador de Gibralfaro is a great spot to bring your partner up to and enjoy a picnic with, as it offers incredible views over the city. Aim for sunset, and let the sight take you and your partner’s breath away. Pop a bottle of champagne and make wonderful memories together.
8. Wander Through the White Villages
Just outside and surrounding Malaga are the White Villages, which are just as charming as they sound. Completely white, hillside towns are there for you to explore and claim as your own, perfect for an off-the-beaten-track experience and a more authentic taste of the area. You can wander around and explore these less touristy locations to yourself, and finish the day off with local dishes and delicious wine.
9. Visit Colomares Castle
This stunning castle is outside of Malaga, but it is definitely worth visiting on a day trip as it is unusual and stunning – the perfect backdrop for a romantic walk as you explore all that Colomares Castle has to offer.
10. Take a Boat Tour
Set sail for the day or even just an evening on a romantic boat tour for the two of you to enjoy some time out on the water – some tours even include lunch or dinner (most often a fresh catch from the sea) and allow you to drink wine as you enjoy the sight of Malaga from the water.
Make it Happen
When to Go: Malaga is a fantastic destination at any time of year, although if you go in August you can also enjoy the Malaga Feria festival. Spend ten days in succession of one another, enjoying a party of a lifetime.
Make Your Holiday Extra Special: Take your romantic getaway to an extra level and book yourselves a great room or even apartment to enjoy total privacy with your significant other. Treat yourselves to something special like a couple’s massage or a food tour while you are there, and be sure to visit the Picasso Museum.
Get Around: Malaga is a fantastic city for exploring on foot, and it’s a great place to rent a bike or scooter. If you want to explore the local beauty spots then may also want to rent a car.
