Contents:
- Food, Glorious Andalusian Food
- Day One: Pipirrana Malagueña
- Day Two: Gazpachuelo Malagueño
- Day Three: Pescaíto Frito
- Where to Stay
- How to Get There
The delights of Malaga are well documented. With a plethora of golden beaches, unlimited sunshine, and no dearth of historical attractions, this lovely Andalusian gem lounging on the edge of the Mediterranean is confident, cosmopolitan and cultural, much loved by visitors from all over the world. Beyond even that, however, there is yet another reason to adore Malaga: its food.
Food, Glorious Andalusian Food
Like most countries in Europe, the cuisine of Spain can vary quite dramatically depending on the destination, due to the diversity of climate and terrain. Even within a province there are many regional differences, and this is particularly true of the southern province of Andalucia, with its mix of mountainous, desert, and coastal areas. The cuisine of Malaga, a location situated on the beautiful Costa del Sol, is, naturally, highly inspired by the ocean (both the Mediterranean and the Atlantic, to the west), and there is a freshness and flavour to its tapas and traditional dishes that’s easy to love and very hard to resist.
If you’re planning a three-day minibreak, it can be hard to fit in everything you want to see, do and, let’s face it, eat. So, here’s a head start on three delicious traditional Malagan dishes you really shouldn’t miss. What you eat in between these is up to you… buen apetito!
Day One: Pipirrana Malagueña
Pipirrana malagueña is the perfect choice for lunch on your first day to ease you into the Spanish lifestyle. The dish comprises a generous, chilled mound of freshly chopped cucumber, onion, tomatoes, and red and green bell peppers, seasoned with salt, high quality Spanish olive oil, and the country’s famous sherry vinegar. Served up accompanied by octopus, tuna, clams, prawns, mussels, or really any kind of fresh seafood, the dish is refreshing and light — ideal after a busy morning at the beach!
Offered as a starter or main course, you’ll find pipirrana malagueña on practically every menu, and there’s often some kind of “house” variation, depending on the availability of seafood.
Day Two: Gazpachuelo Malagueño
Gazpachuelo Malagueño is one of the best-known local dishes of Malaga and was originally known as a “poor man’s” food, due to its hearty consistency and ability to sustain hard-working fishermen for long periods. Basically a white fish soup, it comprises potatoes (and sometimes peas), mayonnaise, water, salt, and various kinds of fish, shrimp, prawns, clams, and langoustines, boiled to make a thick broth — something between a soup and a stew. Although the name gazpacho suggests it is served cold, this isn’t the case. Some versions may include hard boiled eggs added at the last minute, and it is often served with toast.
Don’t be deceived into thinking Gazpachuelo Malagueño is a mere soup, the incredibly delicate flavours and aromatic scent of the seafood mixed with the heavier, lingering taste of the mayonnaise will stay in your mind (and taste buds) for a long time.
Three: Pescaíto Frito
One of the absolute stars of Malaga’s outstanding cuisine is the pescaíto frito (also sometimes called pescato frito), which again utilises the bounty of the sea, this time in the form of a variety of fresher than fresh fish, including dogfish, baby squid, red mullet, anchovies and more. This part of the region’s gastronomy can be traced back to the third century BC, inspired by the Phoenicians and today’s version is irresistible.
In fact, any kind of fish and seafood can be used, as long as it is cut into small, manageable pieces. It’s then rolled in a very thin coating of flour and deep fried until golden and crispy. It sounds simple — and it is — but the key is in the quality of the Spanish olive oil used and, of course, the freshness and quality of the seafood. It’s served equally simply, with a dusting of salt and a lemon wedge to season. Pescaíto frito is the perfect gourmet finish to your holiday and you’ll be amazed that such an explosion of flavour can be contained in such an unassuming plate.
So there you have it, three delicious taste experiences not to be missed on your visit to Malaga. Make sure you try them all and have fun finding your own personal favourites among the rest of the city’s incredible gastronomical offerings!
Where to Stay
Anahita Boutique Hotel: Set in a brilliant location right in the centre of the city, and within walking distance of many highlights, this stunning boutique hotel evokes an ambience of low key luxury and history. Rooms are beautifully appointed with tasteful furnishings and every mod-con. Along with room service and a 24-hour front desk for your convenience, there’s an excellent onsite restaurant, bar, free Wifi and the option of a room with a balcony. Enjoy a taste of the real Malaga.
Madeinterranea Apartments: Located in a conveniently central position in the heart of the Old Town, these lovely apartments are the perfect base from which to explore the city and beyond. Apartments are fully equipped with a kitchen, washing machine, satellite TV, private bathroom, and plenty of space to relax. With air-conditioning, free Wifi, and stylish decor and furnishings, this could be the home-from-home you’re looking for.
Malagueta Beach Apartment: Situated close to the picturesque harbour and beach, this bright, modern apartment is still only a short walk to the centre and historic highlights. You’ll feel right at home in this one-bedroom apartment, appointed with air-conditioning, free WiFi, well-equipped kitchen, and more. Take in gorgeous views over the mountains and city, and enjoy a lazy five minute walk to the beach.
How to Get There
As a popular destination with visitors from the UK, getting to a short break in Malaga is made very easy. You’ll fly into Malaga Airport (AGP), which takes just under three hours. Numerous carriers offer a range of options for the route, including Ryanair, Jet2, Iberia, and British Airways.
Once you land, the most convenient and hassle-free way of getting the rest of the way to your chosen accommodation is on a pre-booked transfer with Shuttle Direct. A friendly, professional driver will be waiting to get you from the airport at Malaga to Malaga city centre, all you need to do is sit back and watch the scenery.
Overview
UK to AGP Flight Time: 2 hours, 55 mins approx.
AGP to Malaga Distance: 12 kilometres
Shuttle Direct Transfer: 20 minutes approx.
Types of Transfer
Here at Shuttle Direct, we’re proud of our prompt, professional service and our reputation as the market leaders in onward ground transport. Aside from the guarantee of a comfortable ride in a clean, modern vehicle, another reason people love us so much is that we understand the need for choice. We offer a great range of services with something for everyone.
Shuttle Bus: A shared shuttle bus is one of the best value for money airport transfers you can get. Getting from Malaga Airport to Malaga city centre is only a short trip, but you need your ride to be reliable, which, when you pre-book with us, is assured. You’ll go to a pre-arranged meeting spot at the airport, then travel with other passengers to a central drop off point convenient to your accommodation. While this option isn’t door-to-door, there’s no compromise on your comfort or safety.
Taxi: Another reasonably priced option to get from the airport at Malaga to Malaga city centre is to pre-book a local taxi with us. This is a great solution if you like to travel alone and want to be taken right to the door of your hotel or apartment. Once you arrive at the airport, instead of having to stand in a taxi queue with other passengers, a friendly, helpful driver will be waiting for you so you can be on your way without delay.
Minibus Transfer: The logistics of travelling with a large group of family or friends can sometimes be overwhelming, but we’ve got you covered. When you pre-book one of our cost-efficient larger capacity minibus transfers, everyone gets to travel in one vehicle. There’s plenty of room for all the luggage, and this door-to-door service is fantastic value for money.
Private Transfer: If you want to start your holiday off in style, one of our private airport transfers from Malaga Airport to Malaga centre will give you the touch of luxury you’re looking for. A professional driver will meet your flight inside the terminal then escort you to your vehicle and set off on the short trip without delay. In no time at all you’ll be at your accommodation settling in. Comfort and convenience guaranteed!
Choosing the Right Transfer
The decision of which airport transfers to book to get you from the airport at Malaga to your Malaga accommodation is one you must make for yourself. Our range of punctual, professional services ensure you’re not only travelling in comfort, you’ve got the peace of mind that you’re working with one of the market leaders. Your decision should be based on whether your top priority is cost or convenience.
Cost: We’re proud to offer the most value for money services available, so if your main focus is keeping to a budget, one of our shared shuttles will ensure a reliable and comfortable ride for a very reasonable price. Our helpful drivers will get you to a convenient drop-off point close to your accommodation.
Convenience: On the other hand, if your top consideration is travelling on your own and getting from Malaga Airport to Malaga without any stops along the way, one of our luxury private airport transfers, or a pre-booked taxi will deliver you to the door of your accommodation in style.
About Shuttle Direct
If you’re looking for a cost-effective service and stress-free ride to and from airports in a huge range of destinations all over the world, Shuttle Direct has you covered. We are proud of our reputation in onward ground transport, backed by our promise of great communication, friendly, helpful drivers, and safe, comfortable, modern vehicles. No matter whether you choose a shared shuttle or a top of the range luxury private transfer, you’ll get one of the most recommended and professional services around. Pre-book today to ensure your on time, reliable ride.
