There are numerous places to visit near Malaga if you want to see more of Andalusia. From beach towns to historic fortresses to picturesque places in the mountains, there is something for everyone.
Malaga is ideal as a starting point for tours to the most beautiful places in Andalusia.
When you are done with all the best things to do in Malaga, be sure to plan a few more days to visit some of the must-see places near Malaga.
1. Visit Nerja
The municipality of Nerja is a beach town near Malaga with the Sierra Almijara mountain range in its vicinity. Its Muslim name is Narixa which translates to “abundant source.”
One pride of the town of Nerja is the Balcon de Europa. This viewpoint is set on a cliff overlooking the vast Mediterranean Sea and the majestic Sierra Almijara.
There used to be a watchtower where the Balcony stands erect. Its surroundings are filled with quaint coffee shops sharing the same breathtaking scenery as this Nerja attraction.
Another must-see in Nerja is the Gardens of Capistrano Playa, adding color to the elegant white villas occupying the neighborhood.
2. Tarifa
Tarifa belongs to the province of Cadiz and is at the south tip of the Iberian Peninsula. Despite its small size, Tarifa is frequented by visitors, especially for its watersports activities.
The beaches in Tarifa are more than enough to make you want to stay, probably construct a small cottage, and live by the ocean.
The sand is pristine, the waves inviting, and the atmosphere in its purest state. Some of the cool activities you can do in Tarifa include stand-up paddling, surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing.
Take a trip down memory lane and explore the old streets of Tarifa. See gorgeous white houses and stunning courtyards that truly give off some rustic vibes.
3. Granada
Another great place close to Malaga is Granada, the capital of the Spanish province of the same name.
Read here how to get from Malaga to Granada.
The Moorish heritage is widely evident in the community, as depicted in courtyards and gardens fit for royalty. Granada is definitely one of the places to see near Malaga, Spain.
One of the best things to do in Granada is to visit the captivating Alhambra. Built around the 1200s – 1300s, this fortress is frequented by visitors because of its rich history and enchanting beauty.
Another tourist destination in Granada that is not to miss is the Sierra Nevada. From the city proper, you can reach the mountain ranges in just thirty minutes.
During your short drive, get treated to lush scenery and see the rich vegetation surrounding the mountains.
Tip: Hike the Ruta del Gollizno
Less than one hour away from Granada is the beautiful Ruta del Gollizno. I highly recommend this hike when you want to escape the city life for a few hours.
The route has a length of around eight kilometers and offers spectacular views.
4. Fuengirola
People go to Fuengirola primarily for its beautiful and pristine beaches that occupy seven kilometers of the coast.
A leisurely walk through the Paseo Maritimo will give you a great introduction to this seaside town.
Don’t miss the Sohail Castle during your visit to Fuengirola. It may have undergone countless rebuilding, yet the value of this Castle still holds dear and true.
A visit to the Sohail Castle is one of the fun things to do in Fuengirola.
5. Torremolinos
West of Malaga, we have the town of Torremolinos. It is considered one of the most upbeat destinations near Malaga, Spain.
A visit to this coastal town is not complete without visiting at least one of its numerous chiringuitos or beach bars-slash-cafes.
Ask locals for recommendations, and they will most likely point you towards the district of La Carihuela.
Should you want a more wholesome atmosphere, head over to the Parque La Bateria. This park is spotless and organized, with several activities that cater to the whole family.
An artificial pond can be explored by renting a small boat and paddling your way past fountains and green sceneries.
6. Antequera
Visiting the quaint town of Antequera proves to be a popular activity for those thinking about what to do near Malaga.
Situated in the hills of Andalusia, Antequera exudes an old charm that is unique to the medieval period. Preserved ruins are set amid an abundant valley that produces delicious olives and vibrant sunflowers, among others.
Antequera is the largest municipality in Malaga when it comes to the surface area. It is regarded as the “heart of Andalusia” because it lies at the center of the region, being shared by the provinces of Malaga, Granada, Cordoba, and Seville.
Antequera is located 62 kilometers away from the city center of Malaga. The El Torcal National Park Reserve is one of the many reasons why visitors drive here from Malaga.
From afar, the El Torcal de Antequera registers as something unusual – almost alien-like to onlookers.
Its limestone landscapes are byproducts of the whole place being submerged deep in ocean waters for millions of years and are quite interesting to study up close.
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Tim Kroeger, founder of Universal Traveller, leverages extensive experience in luxury travel and tourism to offer firsthand insights into emerging hospitality trends.
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