While Torremolinos, a scenic village in the Spanish Costa del Sol, is mainly popular for its sandy beaches, it’s worth getting off the towel and exploring this former fishing town’s wealth of cultural attractions. Whether you’re interested in the monuments, the gastronomy, or the flora and fauna of Torremolinos, the rich history of this popular holiday destination is bound to surprise and charm you. Beyond its beaches, there’s a whole other side of Torremolinos that most tourists miss. Here are some tips to make the most of a holiday filled with class, culture, and sunshine.
Planning a family trip to Torremolinos? Check out our guide here.
Discover the Hidden Gems
While strolling around the town centre, don’t miss the Neoclassical church of San Miguel, which honours Torremolinos’ patron saint, St. Michael the Archangel. Although the church looks unassuming from the outside, prepare to marvel at its intricately decorated stained glass windows.
*Insider’s Tip: If you’re around on a weekend, you can even sit in on a Mass.
During your walk around Torremolinos, you can easily spot the Torre de Pimentel, which is the town’s fourteenth-century defence tower and looms an impressive 12 metres above the ground. It was named a Heritage of Cultural Interest at the end of the twentieth century.
If you’re an architecture enthusiast plan to take a tour of La Casa de los Navajas, which is considered a Building of Historical Interest today. Due to its vicinity to Playamar Beach, this striking palace from the twentieth century, which was built in the neomudéjar style, is often overlooked, but is an absolute must for tourists who seek to learn about Torremolinos’ history.
*Insider’s Tip: Adults should expect to pay about €2 to enter the palace. While the site is open from Monday to Friday, be aware that opening times may vary.
Enjoy Some Entertainment
Tired of walking? Take a boat! Leaving from the town of Benalmadena, which is a mere 20-minute bus ride away from Torremolinos: you can bask in the sun and delight in a beautiful ocean view on a boat tour. Depending on which trip you choose, you can either float along the shoreline, or venture further into the depths of the ocean for dolphin viewings. These tours are a perfect way to recharge and take in the beauty of the area’s coast and sea life.
*Insider’s Tip: At the time of writing, an adult ticket for a dolphin trip cost €16. For a coast tour, expect to pay around €10. Click here for more information.
Eat and Drink in Style
After seeing the sights of Torremolinos, treat yourself to a lavish meal at one of the village’s upmarket restaurants. Be sure to wine and dine at El Figón de Montemar, which offers a tasty insight into homemade Spanish cooking. With its wide-ranging wine list and menu, which features fresh and innovative ‘dishes of the day,’ the saying that ‘variety is the spice of life’ rings very true at this authentically local restaurant.
If you just can’t get enough of Torremolinos’ impressive seafood selection, enjoy top-notch service and cuisine at Frutos, which is known for its scrumptious seafood and shellfish, and for its wine list, which is nothing short of excellent. With its mouth-watering dishes and elegant ambiance, you won’t be able to say no to dessert, either!
*Insider’s Tip: To secure a table at these popular venues, it’s often best to make a reservation. Call +34 952 376 462 for El Figón de Montemar and +34 952 381 450 for Frutos.
How to Get to Torremolinos
If you’re a seasoned traveller, a trip to the Costa del Sol is a piece of cake. For as little as £32, you’ll exchange coats for t-shirts in less than three hours. The majority of the UK’s airports target Málaga (AGP) airport, which can be reached with a variety of airlines, including Lufthansa and easyJet.
For a safe, speedy, and trustworthy transfer from the airport to your hotel, we highly recommend booking with Shuttle Direct, which offers a direct service to Torremolinos for as little as €6. For extra comfort, indulge in the luxury of our private, chauffeured vehicles.
Where to Stay
With its modern, spacious rooms, private balconies, and scenic gardens, the Medplaya Hotel Pez Espada is a favourite among older couples. Enjoy everything from personal flat-screen TVs to fine dining and evening entertainment in this four-star hotel, which is situated in a tranquil area from which the town centre is easily reachable by foot. For additional convenience, the Málaga airport is a mere 20-minute drive away with Shuttle Direct’s services.
If you’re after an ocean view, enjoy the four-star luxury of Melia Costa del Sol, which is only a one-minute walk away from Bajondillo beach. Pamper yourself with a massage, steam bath, or sauna treatment in the hotel’s spa, or take a half-mile stroll into downtown Torremolinos. At night, spend some quality time with your spouse while listening to live music. What’s not to love?
About Shuttle Direct
Turn your dream of finding convenience, punctuality, and comfort all in one transport service into reality by travelling with Shuttle Direct! Throughout Europe and North Africa, you’re in the best hands with Shuttle Direct’s reliable and helpful drivers, who will make shared and private transfers to and from airports as fast, safe, and comfortable as possible. For a stress-free and luxurious travel experience, book with Shuttle Direct.
