Málaga

Málaga Travel Guide

• About Málaga

The birthplace of Picasso is home to historic fortresses, great beaches and a thriving tapas scene, so it’s little wonder that Malaga is the Costa del Sol’s shining, understated gem. To say Malaga is overlooked is something of an understatement. But as one of Spain’s liveliest, most enticing cities, it couldn’t be more different from the Costa del Sol resorts nearby, where English is the lingua franca and all-day breakfasts displace traditional tortillas. The Picasso Museum is Malaga’s major draw but the city’s museums are numerous and history lurks in every corner with the ruins of the Roman Theatre and the wonderful Alcazaba fortress. In fact, with about 30 museums Malaga is the museums capital of Spain. Higher up, Gibralfaro Castle offers pristine examples of Moorish, Roman and Christian architecture. Plaza de la Constitucion remains the heart of the old town, constantly criss-crossed by locals heading to a web of narrow pedestrian lanes. Stroll along Calle Larios, Malaga’s glitzy shopping street, using the soaring Cathedral as your guide – its single tower is a distinct landmark on the skyline. It’s a city in transition too. Between the port and Malaga’s Contemporary Art Centre is the revived neighbourhood of Soho. New bars, restaurants, micro-breweries, shops and street markets give it an alternative vibe. The surreal architecture of Malaga’s promenade, El Palmera de las Sorpresas, leads to the wonderful harbour development of Muelle Uno where 15 urban beaches remain a hidden secret. When it comes to food, Malaga comes into its own. From gastrobars and experimental fine-dining to traditional tapas and casual chiringuitos (beach bars), there’s no getting away from great plates. Wash it all down with some local Moscatel or vino dulce (sweet wine). At night, there’s no shortage of bars, clubs or live music. Spaniards play late, so many shows begin at midnight, but if that’s not your scene, there’s always a bar selling churros (fried doughnuts) and hot chocolate too. It often surprises first-timers that Malaga is more than a gateway to the Costa del Sol, but for those in the know, it’s a destination to return to over and over again.

• Málaga History

Malaga doesn’t try to hide her history: the port, the Roman theatre, the Alcazaba, the art, the unfinished Renaissance cathedral, even the tapas show scars of a bygone era. The Bastetani were the first to settle in Malaga, but it wasn’t until the Phoenicians established a home here in 770BC that the city was bestowed with its first name – Malaka. The Roman Republic came to rule the city in 218BC, before merging with the Roman Empire at the end of the first century, when the Roman theatre was built. When the Empire fell, the Byzantine Empire seized upon the city and held onto it until AD624 when they were banished by the Visigoths. Malaga was one of the many cities invaded and conquered during the Umayyad conquest of Hispania. Soon after, city walls were erected for protection. The Alcazaba fortress was built and the city began to flourish as a port. The Reconquista reached the city in 1487 and Malaga was under siege for four months until the Catholic Monarchs wrestled the city from Muslim rule. Earthquakes rocked the city in 1494 and 1680, before some 26,000 residents died in yellow fever epidemics in 1741 and 1800. Industry declined as trade agreements were torn up and a phylloxera outbreak in the late 19th century destroyed vineyard crops. In 1907, rising water levels along the Rio Guadalmedina tore out a bridge. It crashed into two more bridges downstream, causing flooding which injured 21 locals. During the Spanish Civil War, the Battle of Malaga in 1937 left 4,000 Republicans dead as Nationalists stormed the city. It wasn’t Malaga’s last tragedy though, as in 1982 a flight heading for New York aborted its take-off, went through the airport fence, crossed the motorway and burst into flames.

• Did you know?

In 1487, the first-ever ambulances (actually bedded wagons) appeared in Malaga to take the wounded away from the frontline. Pablo Picasso was born here in 1881. The Germans’ Bridge was gifted to Malaga by Germany in 1909 to thank residents for assisting a wrecked German frigate in 1900.

• Weather in Málaga

Málaga’s mild winter temperatures make it a pleasure to visit all year round. Even while the rest of Europe is shivering, you have a good chance of being able to stroll through town in a T-shirt. It’s hot in summer but not oppressively so – the seaside location saves it from becoming the furnace that inland cities like Seville can be. August is Málaga’s main fiesta time, which means things can get pretty crowded, so book ahead. Off-season months like February or November can be pleasant times to explore the city, with low accommodation prices and fewer tourists.

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Things to see in Málaga

Attractions

• Carmen Thyssen Museum

Inside the 16th-century Palacio de Villalon is Malaga’s most comprehensive art collection, accumulated over time by Baroness Thyssen. Old Masters, landscapes by the Romantic painters, naturalists and fin-de-siecle works all receive plenty of attention in this four-floor museum. From Andalucian paintings depicting flamenco, gypsies, bullfighting and religion to works by Dario de Regoyos, it’s a must-visit for art fans. Audio guides are available and there are regular guided tours of the permanent and temporary exhibitions. There’s a cafe and courtyard here too. Address: Plaza Carmen Thyssen, Calle Compania 10, Malaga. Telephone: +34 902 303 131 Opening times: Tues-Sun 10:00-20:00. Website: www.carmenthyssenmalaga.org Admission Fees: Yes Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

• Castillo de Gibralfaro

Malaga’s highest ground is occupied by the walls and towers of this impressive 14th-century castle, built to defend the Alcazaba fortress below. Visitors can stroll through the peaceful gardens and along the castle ramparts for wonderful views over Malaga and its landmarks such as the bullring, cathedral and harbour. There’s a good cafe and a small museum which explores the history of the fortress as a military garrison and lookout post. Leave time to enjoy a drink on the terrace of the nearby luxury hotel, Parador de Málaga Gibralfaro, especially around sunset. Address: Centre, Camino Gibralfaro s/n, Malaga. Telephone: +34 952 227 230 Opening times: Daily 09:00-20:00. Website: www.alcazabaygibralfaro.malaga.eu Admission Fees: Yes Disabled Access: No UNESCO: No

• Picasso Museum

It was Picasso himself who wanted his works exhibited in the town where he was born and a combined effort saw it realised in 2003. Housed in a 16th-century Andalucian palace, the collection of around 233 works of art includes paintings, drawings, sculptures, ceramics and graphics, from his earliest works up to the 1970s. Notable for the portrayal of the women and children in the artist’s life, the collection shows his changing styles and bold creations alongside temporary exhibitions. There are guided tours, audio guides, a library/archive and pleasant garden cafe. Address: Palacio de Buenavista, Calle San Augustin 8, Malaga. Telephone: +34 952 127 600 Opening times: Daily 10:00-19:00. Website: www.museopicassomalaga.org Admission Fees: Yes Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

• Centro de Arte Contemporáneo (CAC)

On the edge of Malaga’s Soho neighbourhood, by the river Guadalmedina, is this spacious, gleaming white space, set in what used to be the old wholesalers’ market of Malaga. It has a small permanent collection of contemporary 20th- and 21st-century visual art, but it’s the quality of the temporary exhibitions and international collections which draws the crowds. It’s especially popular on Sundays when the café terrace soon fills up. As well as the outside bar and patio area, the centre’s Oleo sushi restaurant is also excellent. Address: Centre, Calle Alemania s/n, Malaga. Telephone: +34 952 208 500 Opening times: Daily 10:00-20:00. Website: www.cacmalaga.eu Admission Fees: No Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

• Museo Casa Natal

The Fundación Picasso has transformed the Pablo Picasso’s birthplace into an absorbing museum. With a recreation of a 19th-century hall, and family rooms with original objects and photographs, it’s an insight into family life of the artist and his parents, José Ruiz Blasco and María Picasso López. Photographs, posters and postcards bring Picasso’s Malaga to life, while a few doors down is the Foundation’s temporary exhibition venue. Both are on Plaza de la Merced, one of Malaga’s most impressive squares, lined with popular bars, cafés and restaurants – and a lifesize Picasso sculpture on a bench. Address: Centre, Plaza de la Merced 15, Malaga. Telephone: +34 951 926 060 Opening times: Daily 09:30-20:00. Website: www.fundacionpicasso.es Admission Fees: Yes Disabled Access: No UNESCO: No

• Alcazaba and Teatro Romano

Dubbed the ‘mini-Alhambra’, after the impressive palace-fortress in the Andalucian city of Granada, Malaga’s Moorish rulers once resided and ruled from here. Set in the foothills of Gibralfaro, Alcazaba was mostly built in the 11th century and its horseshoe arches and geometric Islamic decoration remain fine examples of Moorish architecture and its terraced gardens are beautiful. Below the Alcazaba is the Roman amphitheatre which dates back to the 1st century BC, as well as the Renaissance-era Aduana (Customs Building). The Alcazaba also has an archaeological museum and the city views from the upper levels are wonderful. Address: Centre, Calle Alcazabilla 2, Malaga. Telephone: +34 952 217 646 Opening times: Daily 10:00-18:00. Website: www.juntadeandalucia.es Admission Fees: Yes Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

• Concepción Botanical Gardens

These impressive botanic gardens just north of town are well worth the visit for its peaceful lake, tropical and sub-tropical plants and trees, and great views over Malaga. Created in 1855 by the Marquis and Marchioness of Loring, several routes explore the gardens, such as ‘Jewels of La Concepcion’ which offers an overview, ‘Themed Gardens’, the ‘Around the World in 80 Trees’ route, Viewpoint Route and the Forest Route, which takes in views of the Montes de Malaga Natural Park. Address: Centre-north, Camino del Jardín Botánico 3, Malaga. Telephone: +34 951 926 180 Opening times: Tue-Sun 09:30-20:30. Website: www.laconcepcion.malaga.eu  Admission Fees: Yes Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

• MIMMA – Interactive Museum of Music

Containing one of Europe’s largest private collections of musical instruments, MIMMA utilises the latest technology to let visitors interact with pretty much everything on offer and uses smart technology to adapt the visit to each tourist by asking questions and using a ‘smart bracelet’ to personalise the interactive kiosk experiences. With over 100 instruments and musical objects from a range of periods, countries and cultures, it encourages visitors to use the ‘Please Play’ panels and test out instruments. They also run children’s activities on weekends and holidays, making it a good choice for family visit. Address: Centre, Palacio Conde de las Navas, Calle Beatas 15, Malaga. Telephone: +34 95 221 0440 Opening times: Daily 10:00-19:00. Website: www.mimma.es Admission Fees: Yes Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

• Museo Revello de Toro

This museum houses the permanent collection of work by portrait artist and figurative painter Félix Revello de Toro, which he left to the city of his birth. There are 142 pieces in the collection, including 104 oil paintings, drawings and sketches that belong to the museum itself. The building was one of only a handful of domestic buildings in Malaga in its time and was once the former home of Pedro de Mena, who was the main maker of religious images in the 17th century. There’s also a gallery for temporary exhibitions. Address: Centre, Calle Afligidos 5, Malaga. Telephone: +34 952 062 069 Opening times: Tues-Sat 10:00-20:00, Sun 10:00-14:00. Website: www.museorevellodetoro.net  Admission Fees: Yes Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

• Museum Jorge Rando

Dubbed the ‘living room of art in Malaga’, this museum houses a permanent collection of works by local expressionist Jorge Rando as well as temporary exhibitions by other artists who continue to contribute to the expressionist movement. The museum is also a cultural hub for talk, concerts and film shows, organised by the Jorge Rando Foundation. The building, a former monastery, is worth seeing too, for its mesh of new oxidised steel and concrete with the old brickwork of the cloister. There’s also an interior courtyard with a 100 year old orange tree, which makes a wonderful retreat from the streets outside. Address: Centre, Calle Cruz del Molinillo 12, Malaga. Telephone: +34 952 210 991 Opening times: Mon-Sat 10:00-21:00. Website: www.museojorgerando.org  Admission Fees: No Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

Tourist Offices

• Municipal Tourist Office

Address: Port, Plaza de la Marina, 11, Malaga. Telephone: +34 951 926 020 Opening times: Daily 09:00-19:00. Website: www.malagaturismo.com  There is another office Pasaje de Chinitas 4, just off Plaza de la Constitución ( Telephone: +34 951 308 911 )   which is open Mon-Fri 09:00-19:30 and Sat-Sun 09:30-15:00. Several more information kiosks are dotted around the city, including at the airport and bus station as well as by the Teatro Romana, the Cathedral and at Plaza de la Merced. The tourist office offers free self-guided free iPod city tours with various themes such as Picasso’s Malaga and the Monuments Route.

Tourist passes

• The MalagaCard

Website: www.malagacard.com  includes entry to most museums and attractions, including the Picasso Museum, Alcazaba and Castillo de Gibralfaro. It also includes various city-wide discounts. You can buy it online or any shops/agencies where you see the MalagaCard sign. For even better value, take the City Sightseeing Malaga bus tour, which is included with the MalagaCard but can also be done separately.

Things to do in Málaga

• Find a feast for the eyes at Malaga Central Market

Malaga Central Market’s stained glass window floods the space with light, whilst the ironwork of the Moorish archways delight as much as the fresh produce. Bustling with life, the market is great for voyeurs; enjoy a seat, salted Malaga almonds and crisp Alhambra lager.

• Get lifted above the city with help from the one armed lady

Malaga Cathedral  ( Telephone: +34 952 215 917 ) Was designed to have two towers but funds went awry and only one was ever completed. Impressive none the less, the ‘one armed lady’ is a fine feat of renaissance architecture. Visitors are welcome to view the panoramas from the cathedral roof with day and night tours offered.

• Marvel at the might of a Moorish fortress

Excellently preserved, Alcazaba fortress was originally built in the 11th century and offers a reminder of Moorish dominance in Spain as well as superb city views. Set above Malaga, the building is a network of corridors opening to sun-flooded patios and gardens, and is situated next to the Roman amphitheatre.

• See world famous artwork in a pop-up museum

In effect, a pop-up museum (albeit for five years), the newly opened Pompidou Centre Telephone: +34 951 926 200 Website: www.centrepompidou-malaga.eu is a brightly coloured, portside cube that houses contemporary art. Careful curation shows the depth of renown, including work by Picasso, Kahlo and Bacon, all loaned from its Parisian namesake.

• Visit Paseo del Parque and walk the harbourfront

No visit to the city is complete without a harbourfront walk. Paseo del Parque is a wonderfully shaded garden, filled with palm trees, fountains and shrubs, which runs alongside the harbour as well as the surreal, but wonderfully designed, El Palmera de las Sorpresas promenade. As it ends, it becomes Muelle Uno, a rather swanky-looking strip of restaurants, bars and shops primarily designed to attract cruise ship day trippers. It also doubles as a hub for locals and visitors with cafés, ice cream parlours and bike hire stands. Turn a corner and the Lighthouse marks the end of this section before the city beaches begin at Malagueta, stretching eastwards to the beach districts of Pedregalejo and El Palo.

Málaga tours and excursions

Málaga tours

• Bicycle tours

Málaga Bike Tours offer fun two-wheeled trips around the city and also hire bikes. Tours on offer include standard city routes, plus ‘alternative Malaga’ (the eclectic side of the city) and a tapas-tasting excursion. Telephone: +34 951 138 349 Website: www.malagabiketours.eu 

• Walking tours

We Love Málaga’s walking tours provide charismatic guides who will show you the city and explain its history, as well as take you to sample tapas and watch flamenco if you choose. Telephone: +34 646 543 566 Website: www.welovemalaga.com 

Málaga excursions

• Marbella

The Costa del Sol resorts aren’t everyone’s cup of tea but posh Marbella, with its charming old town and glitzy Puerto Banús marina complex, is definitely worth a visit. For further information, visit Marbella Town Hall Tourist Office, Glorieta de la Fontanilla s/n. Telephone: +34 952 768 760 Website: www.marbellaexclusive.com

• Lobo Park

To get away from the touristy coast, head north to Antequera, a beautiful and ancient town with enormous prehistoric dolmens and, a short way south, the rocky massif of El Torcal and the howling wolves at Lobo Park. Telephone: +34 952 031 107 Website: www.lobopark.com

Shopping in Málaga

Shopping in Malaga is gratifying, not least for the variety of shopping experiences, from atmospheric streets and the Sunday market to modern malls and quirky stores.

• Key areas

Smart, pedestrianised Calle Marqués de Larios is Malaga’s main shopping street, lined with chic national and international brand name stores. The surrounding streets west of Calle Larios, namely Calle Nueva and San Juan, offer much of the same. North of Plaza de la Constitucion, there are numerous shops along Calle Granada and along the harbour at Muelle Uno. It’s also worth exploring Soho neighbourhood for its small but quirky selection of stores.

• Markets

For the freshest food in atmospheric surroundings, visit the daily market, Mercado Atarazanas. Once a Moorish ship repair yard and still with an original horseshoe archway, this is the place to pack for a picnic or find seafood snacks at their freshest. On Sundays, take the bus from the main Alameda Principal to the ‘Rastro’ market where bargain clothes, gadgets, shoes and antiques are to be found.

• Shopping centres

You can find everything under one roof at the Malaga branch of El Corte Inglés, Avenida Andalucía 4-6, packed with Spanish fashion, homeware and a good supermarket that’s handy for speciality food souvenirs. Another good bet is Vialia, the shopping mall attached to Malaga’s main station, Maria Zambrano, and opposite is an El Corte Inglés outlet store.

• Opening hours

Traditional shop opening times are Monday to Saturday 10:00-14:00 and 17:00-20:00, but several shops remain open throughout the siesta.

• Souvenirs

Ideas to take home include Malaga’s vino dulce (sweet wine), olive oil, Andalucian ceramics and traditional embroidered fabrics. If ceramics are your thing, try Alfajar at Calle Cister 1, for modern and traditional pieces.

• Tax information

Spain applies a sales tax, known as IVA, on many goods. Non-EU residents can get a refund when they spend over €90.15 in shops with the Tax-Free logo and request a Tax-Free refund voucher. At the airport, before checking your luggage, present your purchases, receipts, passport and travel documents at the Tax Refund office.

Restaurants in Málaga

With an almost incomprehensible number of restaurants for a city of its size, eating out in Malaga is rewarding. From the venues along the revamped Muelle Uno harbour to the informal seafood chiringuitos (beach restaurants/bars), which line the seafronts of El Palo and Pedregalejo, choice and quality are not hard to come by. Traditional tapas haunts and modern gastro-bars can all be found in the centre too. The Malaga restaurants below have been hand-picked by our guide author and are grouped into three different price categories: Expensive (over €50) Moderate (€30 to €50) Cheap (up to €30) These prices are for a three-course meal for two or its tapas equivalent, with a standard bottle of wine. IVA (tax) is usually included on bills. Tipping around 10% is expected at upscale restaurants, but optional (although appreciated) at informal spots and tapas bars.

Expensive

• José Carlos García

Cuisine: Contemporary Mediterranean Set in a sleek glass-and-steel building overlooking the sailing boats and yachts of the Port of Malaga, this small and stylish restaurant has earned a Michelin star for its inventive, beautifully presented cuisine. Inside are two dining rooms and a glass cube showcasing the chefs at work, and outside there’s a relaxed dining terrace. Address: Pza. de la Capilla, Puerto de Málaga, Malaga. Telephone: +34 952 003 588 Website: www.restaurantejcg.com

• Restaurant Amador

Cuisine: Spanish, International It’s worth heading out of town for the views, food and service at this renowned restaurant. Headed up by chef Amador Fernandez, a member of Andalucia’s fine-dining ‘Gastroarte’ movement, food varies from unusual tapas like oxtail croquettes and traditional Malagan almond and garlic gazpacho-style soup to wild grouper and slow-cooked steak. There’s an impressive wine list to match. Address: Calle de Bandaneira, 6, Puerto de la Torre, Málaga. Telephone: +34 952 432 862 Website: www.restauranteamador.com

• Vino Mio

Cuisine: Spanish, International If you’re looking for a flamenco restaurant, Vino Mio is Malaga’s best bet. This modern eatery, situated near the Cervantes Theatre, has a very reasonable tapas menu but its more inventive dishes, such as black tagliatelle with king prawns and kangaroo fillet steak, are reserved for the a la carte menu. In the warmer months, try and get a table on the terrace. There’s a nominal charge for the flamenco show. Address: Centre, Plaza Jeronimo Cuervo 2, Malaga. Telephone: +34 952 609 093 Website: www.restaurantevinomio.es

Moderate

• El Meson de Cervantes

Cuisine: Spanish Deservedly popular, El Meson de Cervantes combines a cosy tapas bar atmosphere with a restaurant setting. Dishes to look out for include Iberico pork with pumpkin and pineapple relish, red tuna with cauliflower puree and homemade vegetarian quiche. Private dining areas can also be booked. The restaurant is around the corner from sister tapas bar, El Tapeo de Cervantes, which is equally recommended. Address: Centre, Calle Álamos, 11, Malaga. Telephone: +34 952 216 274 Website: www.elmesondecervantes.com

• Taberna La Antigua Malaga

Cuisine: Seafood Situated in Soho, a recently revived neighbourhood between the main Alameda Principal and the port, this taverna-style restaurant takes its inspiration from the ancient seafaring heritage of Malaga. A huge sea-themed fresco adorns one wall and fresh seafood and fish is always guaranteed with grilled turbot and prawns among the best dishes. There’s outdoor seating on the street and it’s popular with locals too. Address: Soho, Calle Trinidad Grund 12, Malaga. Telephone: +34 640 347 809

• Los Mellizos 

Cuisine: Seafood Casa Juan Los Mellizos is a perfect villa for all the homestays of the country, familiar people, friends and family of reunions and celebrations from numerous salons and a spacious terraza located in the centro of the Carihuela plaza. Our special nuestras and estrella plates with their arroces, which are found in many different formats: arroz caldoso, arroz with food, vegetable paella, arroz negro, etc… Dispose of private parking and our también where we load the primera at the time of nuestros customers in the Carihuela parking. Address: C. Sancha de Lara, Distrito Centro, Málaga. Telephone: +34 951 563 624 Website: www.losmellizos.net

Cheap

• La Campana

Cuisine: Seafood If you’re looking for some tasty fresh fish, or just want some seafood nibbles, feast at this buzzing marisquería (seafood) restaurant in the historic centre alongside the local office workers. There are plenty of good wines on offer too, including local sweet varieties. La Campana is also a good spot for catching sports events on the TV screens and its streetside setting lends itself perfectly for a spot of people-watching. Address: C. Granada, 35, Distrito Centro, Málaga. Contact: info@lacampanamalaga.es Website: www.lacampanamalaga.es

• La Chancla

Cuisine: International This bar-restaurant is part of Hotel La Chancla on the beachfront of Pedregalejo, one of Malaga’s seaside neighbourhoods, just a short bus or pleasant cycle ride away from the centre. On a beachfront lined with bars, restaurants and informal chiringuitos (beach restaurants/bars), La Chancla stands out for its particularly impressive salads, burgers and cocktails, and the beach views ensure you linger beyond lunch too. Address: Pedregalejo, Paseo Maritimo Pedregal, 64, Malaga. Telephone: +34 952 206 900 Website: www.lachanclahotel.com 

• Las Merchanas

Cuisine: Tapas Traditional tapas offered in a laid-back tavern with kitschy, old-fashioned decor. This quirky tapas restaurant is themed around Santa Semana, or Holy Week, with religious iconography, posters and framed photographs adorning the walls. It’s popular with locals, too, who cram into the back room or small rooms upstairs, and there’s also pavement seating. Specialties include the house croquetas and peri-peri prawns. Address: C. Carretería, 92, Distrito Centro, Málaga. Telephone: +34 615 029 669 Website: www.latranca.es

Málaga Nightlife

Nightlife in Malaga buzzes after dark all year round. It’s always lively around Plaza del Merced and Plaza Uncibay, where many of the city’s bars are. The streets of Calle Granada, Calle Beata and Calle Álamos are also good spots to head to. There’s also a lively bar scene tucked away on Plaza del Vado del Maestre, just off Calle Calderería in the old town. The rooftop bars of hotels such as the AC Palacio and Molina Lario are perfect for sunset cocktails. During the summer and at weekends, there’s a lively beach nightlife scene in Malaga’s beach neighbourhoods of Malagueta and Pedragalejo. Visit the tourist office to pick up leaflets showing what’s on, or grab a copy of the daily newspaper Sur (also printed in English) to find out about cultural events in Malaga. Alternatively, check their Website: www.surinenglish.com

Bars in Málaga

• Bodega Antigua Casa de Guardia

If you want a sense of old Spain, you can’t do better than this traditional wine bar which dates back to 1840. Locals and tourists love the atmosphere, where wine is poured direct from the barrel and the no-frills interior is all part of the charm. It’s a good place to try local Malaga wines or a glass of seco (dry), which is similar to sherry. Address: Centre, Alameda Principal 18, Malaga. Telephone: +34 952 214 680 Website: www.antiguacasadeguardia.net

• El Pimpi

Nestled by the Roman Theatre and Alcazaba fortress, it’s the location of this popular bodega-style bar-restaurant, which is its biggest draw. With a warren of rooms and private dining areas inside, it also offers plenty of outdoor seating including a seafood and cocktail bar, El Pimpi Marinero, a nod to Malaga’s traditional marine heritage, where punters can prop up for a legendary El Pimpi beverage. Address: Centre, Calle Granada 62 and Calle Alcazabilla, Malaga. Telephone: +34 952 225 403 Website: www.elpimpi.com

• La Terraza de Larios

You’d never know from the plain entrance, but take the lift up to the fifth floor of the Room Mate Larios hotel and you’ll find one of Malaga’s best terrace bars with views over the cathedral and city skyline. Malaga’s bronzed and beautiful chill and chat on the chic lounging sofas and mingle among the fake grass, while the bar serves up delicious cocktails. La Terraza de Larios is open until late and often has a DJ. Address: Centre, Calle Marqués de Larios, 2, Malaga. Telephone: +34 952 222 200 Website: www.hotellariosmalaga.es

Clubs in Málaga

• Bambu Drinks & Music

This upscale, dimly-lit bar with lush interiors is the place to go to for a cocktail or shisha pipe. There’s dancing later on, but the genre depends on the DJ of the night. VIP seating is available. Address: Calle Santa Lucia 11, Malaga. Telephone: +34 653 209 243 Website: www.discotecasenmalaga.es

• Discoteca Anden

Resident DJs, four bars, VIP sections and two dance areas, this popular club on lively Plaza e Uncibay is a popular after-hours spot. With both DJs and live music, it plays everything from Latin to dance tunes and is a draw for local Malaguenos as well as visitors. It’s also not a bad place for a decent cocktail either. Address: Centre, Plaza de Uncibay, 8, Malaga. Telephone: +34 650 101 388 Website: www.discotecaanden.com

• Sala Wenge

For fans of house music, Sala Wenge is one of Malaga’s top clubs. Open Tuesday to Saturday from 2200 until 0700, it’s a popular spot for drinkers and dancers alike. A trendy haunt with a casual ambience, it’s renowned for its DJs and more-than-decent drinks menu. It gets particularly busy at weekends when it’s advisable to arrive before midnight. Address: Centre, Calle Santa Lucía, 11, Malaga. Telephone: +34 616 935 162 Website: www.discotecasenmalaga.es

Live music in Málaga

• Sala Gold

From Latin nights with dance lessons beforehand to club nights with live music and playing music from the 70s, 80s and 90s, Sala Gold is one of those clubs which caters to a wide variety of people. They’ve even got an Irish Sports Bar where beers, tapas and sport are on the cards. The baroque decor inside also gives the club an extra-special vibe. Address: Centre, Calle Luis de Velázquez, 5, Malaga. Telephone: +34 639 441 441 Website: www.discotecasenmalaga.es

• Taberna Flamenco Amargo

Andalucia is famous for its flamenco but it’s not always easy to find authentic places in Malaga to watch the dance itself. This traditional flamenco bar, which steers clear of exorbitant tourist prices, is your best bet thanks to its great atmosphere, authentic musicians and high-quality dancers. Address: C. Ramón Franquelo, 1, Distrito Centro, Málaga. Telephone: +34 652 93 92 22 Website: www.guiademalaga.net

• ZZ Pub

A fantastic live music haunt, Pub is open from 2230 every night with concerts starting at witching hour through the week. You’ll get everything through the doors from soul bands to rock outfits and funk supremos to jazz cats, plus with a 0600 curfew on Fridays and Saturdays, it’s one of Malaga’s best spots for live music and late night drinks. Address: C. Tejón y Rodríguez, 6, Distrito Centro, Málaga. Telephone: +34 952 226 922 Website: www.zzpub.es

Málaga Food And Drink

Food in Málaga

• Porra antequerana

Like all soups, there can be variations on the recipe. The word ‘Antequerana’ derives from the town of Antequera. Porra is a type of club or truncheon and the use of the word in the dish’s name likely refers to its traditional preparation with mortar and pestle.

• Ajoblanco of Málaga

Ajoblanco (cold garlic soup)Deeply rooted in the gastronomy of Málaga, this dish is made from an exquisite base of ground almonds. The chef masterfully combines garlic, pre-soaked white breadcrumbs, a generous splash of extra virgin olive oil, and a delicate touch of vinegar.

• Plato de los Montes Málaga

It is a combination dish that will surely not leave you hungry. Generally, it usually carries pork loin, chorizo and migas, all accompanied with fried potatoes, egg and green peppers. Perfect to regain strength after a good hike.

• Gazpacho malagueño

Gazpachuelo is one of Málaga’s most traditional recipes originating from the region’s fishermen. They used to make a fish broth and added potatoes, along with garlic mayonnaise to give it flavour. You can find many versions of this recipe, like all popular dishes. This dish is very light but filling.

• Ensaladilla Malagueña

When people in Spain talk about potato salad, they usually think of ensalada rusa (Russian salad), which is similar to what we make in the US. However, in Malaga, we have a different kind of potato salad with salt cod, olives, and oranges added to the mix.It might sound a bit odd to make a salad with fish, oranges and potatoes, but the result is delicious and a perfect choice when the weather is warming up.

• Pipirrana malagueña

The ingredients it carries: chopped onion, cucumber, bell pepper and tomato; all seasoned with the point of salt you consider, olive oil and sherry vinegar. Super easy to find, so if you happen to try it and love it, you can write down the recipe to make it at home.

• Espetos de sardinas

It is a very popular dish on the coast of Malaga and Granada. The espetos de sardinas is a dish consisting of about 5 or 6 sardines cooked on the grill and it is a very healthy dish because it only contains salt and a little oil so they do not dry.

• El pescaíto frito

Anchovies, calamari, dogfish or fried fish delight. Whatever it is, it always should be crisp, juicy on the inside and not oily. Málaga rivals with Cádiz for the perfect fried fish.

Drink In Málaga

• Malaga

Sweet fortified wine originating in the Spanish city of Málaga made from Pedro Ximénez and Moscatel grapes. The center of Malaga production is Sierra de Almijara, along with Antequera, Archidona, San Pedro Alcantara, Velez Malaga and Competa, in the Spanish wine region of Málaga DOP.

• Coffee

Different types of coffee in Malaga · Café solo · Café largo · Café sombra · Café corto · Café nube · Café mitad · Café solo corto · Semilargo.

• Rioja

The high tannins will not make red Rioja taste slightly sweet, but rather the combination of ripe grapes and new oak flavors of vanilla and coconut as well as higher levels of alcohol or small amounts of residual sugar in some cases.

• Sangria

Sangria is an alcoholic beverage originating in Spain and Portugal. A punch, sangria traditionally consists of red wine and chopped fruit, often with other ingredients or spirits.

• Granizado

Made with crushed ice and fresh fruit juice or syrup, there’s nothing better than a granizado on a hot summer’s day.