Malaga, Spain, Cruise Port Guide
A busy and beautiful beach is located just steps from the cruise port in Malaga.
Malaga is a gorgeous beachside city in southern Spain. The town is a part of the stunning Costa del Sol community in the Andalusia region of the country.
This region and its charming communities are a haven for beach lovers, with numerous towns and villages lining the coast along the Mediterranean Sea. The city is within a short walk from the cruise pier, and aside from the beautiful beaches, attractions include museums, restaurants and offers something for everyone.
Malaga is the birthplace of Pablo Picasso. The Museo Picasso Malaga features almost 300 works donated by the family of the famous artist and pride of the city. Moorish architecture is a highlight and is featured prominently in castles and structures around the city.
Cruisers who visit Malaga can easily pack a lot of activity into their days. Maybe you want to visit gorgeous cathedrals, spend time at a beach, hit up the shops or settle into a cafe or tapas bar to savor some Spanish wine and food while enjoying the weather and people watching.
What We Enjoyed
Beach and Boardwalk
The cruise pier is about a 10-minute walk to an adjacent bustling beach area that extends for about a mile along the coast. The boardwalk and beach complex offers dozens of restaurants, bars and shops. We saw hundreds of people sprawled out and enjoying the sunshine and splashing in the water — tourists, residents and families. The boardwalk is a wide and well-developed path, ideal for jogging, walking and biking.
This area is a definite highlight because it is such a convenient location for passengers arriving on cruises to Malaga who seek a relaxing day in the sun.
Gibralfaro Castle
The Moorish fortress dates to the 14th century. This structure is an iconic landmark and one of the most-visited attraction in Malaga. It sits high on a hill, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. There are amazing views from up here. This fortress was considered the most secure on the Iberian peninsula, and it features two long walls and eight towers. You walk the entire perimter of the fortress during your visit.
Also Known For
Alcazaba
This structure was built during an era in Malaga that marked the Moorish rule of the region. Alcazaba is Arabic for citadel, and this complex is regarded as one of Malaga's most important historic sites. It's built on the hill in the center of the city and is secured by two walls. The Alcazaba is home to the Museum of Malaga.
The Cathedral
Malaga's cathedral is a stunner and easy to reach. From the Plaza de la Marina, head along Calle Molina Larios into the Old Town area. You'll see the cathedral's twin-towered facade as a beacon. The 16th-century church was constructed on the site of an earlier mosque. It's easily one of the most beautiful cathedrals in southern Spain.
Mercado Central de Atarazanas
The bustling city market is housed in a refurbished shipyard facility that features the original, centuries-old marble archway entrance and stunning stained-glass windows. Vendors sell fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood and more. This is a nice place to stop by for a snack or lunch.
More About Malaga
It’s Perfect for Beach Bums
The city is a true beach town, with 15 sandy spots located in and around Malaga. The beaches are a hot spot for fitness fanatics, too, with jogging and biking paths and “fitness stations” installed along the way. La Malagueta Beach is easily accessible for cruisers, as it is located near the city center and pier.
Bull Fights Still Happen
At the center of the city, the large bullring, Plaza de toros de la Malagueta, is designated as a cultural asset of Spain. Many around the world object to the sport, but bullfighting season at the 14,000-seat stadium is from April to September.
Thanks for reading. We hope this keps a bunch on your cruise to Malaga.
JR