Malaga is a popular holiday destination, known and loved by many. This vibrant city (the second-largest in Andalusia) has much to recommend, not the least being access to some of the most beautiful beaches on the Costa del Sol. But alongside those obvious charms, there’s a host of very different kinds of attractions to discover – many of which will help you unlock the cultural and historical heart of the region.
For anyone considering a short (or longer) break in this wonderful part of Spain, here are a few ideas to help you craft the itinerary for a holiday to remember for more than just a lovely tan (although you’ll most likely leave with that as well).
Discover 3 of Malaga’s Quirkier Highlights
Malaga’s bustling beachside resorts put you within easy reach not only of picturesque ocean views and long, lazy days in the sun, but also some more unusual and enriching cultural highlights. Here are three of them.
MAUS
The city is home to some magnificent galleries and museums (including the renowned Museo Picasso and the Centre Pompidou), but the MAUS project gives a fascinating insight into a different kind of art – and one that’s arguably just as important. The area that comprises MAUS, is situated in the trendy Soho district, and offers a home to the city’s burgeoning urban street art scene. The streets are the artists’ canvas, transforming the formerly run-down area into a vibrant, contemporary open-air art gallery. Murals decorate buildings, some many stories high, while photography, dance, theatre, sculpture, dance and other disciplines make up the ever-evolving creative project that involves both local and international artists. Grab a map of the project from one of the local shops, and stroll around the streets at your leisure – stopping for coffee or lunch at one of the many cafes or street stalls. Culture, but done differently!
Visit the Atarazanas Market
Any seasoned traveller knows that the way to a destination’s heart is through its food, and the best food is often found at the local markets. This is definitely the case at Atarazanas, a market set in an old shipyard that’s gained a reputation as one of the best in the country. The building itself has great architectural beauty, with an impressive arched entrance, soaring roof and intricate detailing adding to the ambience. Once inside, your senses will be bedazzled by the sights, sounds, aromas, and colour of stalls selling the freshest of fish and meats, exotic produce, fragrant spices, and mouth-watering food that’s ready to eat on the spot. Load up with goodies to take back to your apartment to make your own feast, or settle into one of the bars, where you can rest your weary feet and watch the world go by with good wine and some traditional tapas.
Relax in a Hammam
After a wander through the Old Town of Malaga to soak up the layered history of the city, it’s the perfect place to visit a classic hammam and indulge in a range of treatments that will leave you feeling relaxed and invigorated at the same time. There are numerous places to choose from, all featuring a different range of relaxation rooms, steam rooms, baths, cold-water pools and traditional treatments, whose origins date back thousands of years. Step inside one of these ancient hammams and you’ll be stepping into one of the most important aspects of the rich culture this city holds on to so proudly.
As a thriving Spanish port city with deep historical roots, getting under the skin of Malaga can take quite some doing. But rather than get overwhelmed by trying to see it all and tick off the big ticket items, scratch a little further below the surface to uncover some of its quirkier attractions – of which the ones mentioned above are just the beginning…
Where to Stay
Apartamento El Balcón de la Malagueta: Situated in an absolutely unbeatable position overlooking the ocean, this outstanding apartment in the heart of Malaga features fresh modern interiors, air-conditioning, all the comforts of home, a well-appointed kitchen, and spacious living topped off by a sunny balcony to take in the spectacular views. Just a short distance from several beaches and a host of dining options, the apartment has everything you need and more.
Alboran Beach Terrace: Footsteps from the beach, offering stunning views to the horizon, these thoughtfully-appointed, soundproofed apartments deliver relaxed, spacious living with a fully-equipped kitchen, WiFi, air-conditioning and a host of amenities at your fingertips. With a 24-hour front desk, lift, and allergy-free interiors, the apartments offer the perfect place for a short break, or a longer stay.
Soho Boutique Castillo de Santa Caterina: This charming historic hotel dates back to 1932 and is set in lush, terraced gardens with an abundance of space to relax. The luxury rooms feature unique decor, high-end appointments, and magical views over Malaga Bay. With an onsite restaurant and courtyard dining, attentive staff, and world-class hospitality, this tranquil, ambient accommodation is exceptional in both style and service.
How to Get There
You won’t lose any sleep over organising your trip to Malaga. Flights from the UK to Malaga Airport are plentiful as it’s a very popular route, and you can choose from a range of carriers including British Airways, Iberia, Jet2, and Ryanair. Flight time is around 2 hours and 55 minutes, with fares starting from as little as £24 one way.
After landing in Malaga, getting to your accommodation in the city is a simple matter of pre-booking a transfer with Shuttle Direct. From the airport at Malaga to Malaga centre is a short distance made very simple when you choose one of our convenient services. Your friendly driver will be waiting to get you into the city as quickly as possible so the holiday can begin.
Overview
UK to AGP Flight Time: 2 hours, 55 mins approx.
AGP to Malaga Distance: 12 kilometres
Shuttle Direct Transfer: 18 minutes approx.
Types of Transfer
At Shuttle Direct, we make getting from the airport at Malaga to Malaga accommodation super easy, with our range of shared and private services. We understand that everyone’s different, so we have something to suit all kinds of travellers. Here’s what you can select from.
Our most economical option is the shared shuttle buses, which are safe, comfortable and reliable. Once you land, you’ll make your way to a designated spot at the airport then board the shuttle bus with other travellers. You’ll be dropped at a central point in the city, close to your accommodation. While it doesn’t have the convenience of a door-to-door service, you make up for it with affordability.
The next option is a pre-booked local taxi. This gives you all the benefits of a normal taxi service from the airport at Malaga to Malaga centre, with the bonus of not having to join a taxi queue with other travellers. Your driver will be ready and waiting when you land and will take you right to the door of your accommodation.
If money isn’t an issue and you’d rather travel on your own, one of our private transfers will be perfect – getting you from the airport to the door of your accommodation in style and comfort. A driver will be waiting in the terminal to meet you, then you’ll enjoy a comfortable ride in a luxury, high-end vehicle, with everything taken care of. All you need to do is enjoy the passing scenery.
A minibus transfer is like your own private transfer for a large group of friends or family. Being able to travel in one large-capacity vehicle makes the logistics of getting from the airport at Malaga to Malaga much easier. There’s plenty of room for everybody and their associated luggage, and you’ll be taken from the airport right to the door of your accommodation.
Choosing the Right Transfer
The decision of what is the best airport transfer for your particular needs is something that’s entirely yours. However, when it comes to the choice you make, ultimately it will come down to whether you prioritise cost or convenience.
Cost: If saving money is important to you, you’ll probably be dedicating most of your holiday budget to the fun stuff – so you’ll be looking for a cost-effective airport transfer. One of our shared shuttles is just the ticket. Rest assured, even though you’ll spend less than on a private transfer, you don’t have to compromise on comfort or safety.
Convenience: If you prefer to travel alone, and door-to-door is essential, one of our private luxury transfers from the airport at Malaga to Malaga city centre will suit your needs. You’ll pay a little more for the privilege, but it’s well worth it for the peace of mind.
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct provides affordable, safe and comfortable onward ground transfers to and from a huge range of destinations all over the world. Because we offer various kinds of transfers – from economical shared shuttles to upmarket private luxury rides – we cater to every kind of traveller. Our fleet of well-maintained vehicles and friendly local drivers means we’ve got you covered wherever and whenever you want to go. Booked your flight? Then it’s time to book your airport transfers with Shuttle Direct.
