Location & Transportation
The Malaga cruise terminal is brand new and very modern. There are two main terminals:
- The Eastern dock (Pier 1) is used by the larger cruise ships. From here, it’s about a 15-minute walk (roughly 2km) to the city center around Plaza de la Constitucion and Calle Puerta de Mar. If you prefer not to walk, the Port Authority of Malaga runs a shuttle bus to Plaza de la Marina in the center. Buses come every 15–20 minutes for about €5 per person.
- A new 900-square-metre terminal (Pier 2) is designed for smaller cruise ships (up to 200 meters long) and features a mobile passenger loading bridge. This terminal is right in town along a pretty boulevard.
Inside the terminal, you’ll find plenty of conveniences such as a shopping mall with duty-free and souvenir shops, a tourist information center, public phones, wheelchair assistance, and elevators. When the weather is warm, I recommend taking a taxi—just remember to negotiate the fare beforehand.
If you’re eager for some sun and sand, you can take a short 200-meter walk from the dock to the local lighthouse and relax on a lovely sandy beach.
Sightseeing
Malaga is full of history and charm. I love exploring the lovely gardens surrounding the Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress that offers both ancient ruins and a modern lift for those steep climbs. From the Alcazaba, you can enjoy spectacular views across the city and even catch a hop-on, hop-off bus tour if you’d rather not walk all the way up.
A short stroll from the Cathedral on Calle San Augustín will bring you to the magnificent Buenavista Palace, home to the Museo Picasso. This museum, opened in 2003, houses one of the most valuable collections of Picasso’s work.
Don’t miss these must-see spots:
- Alcazaba & its Gardens
- Moorish Fortress Ruins
- Malaga Cathedral and the adjacent Historical Quarter
If you have extra time, consider venturing a little further to discover nearby gems:
- Ronda, Mijas, and Marbella: All easily reached by bus, these towns offer unique charm and scenic vistas.
- Granada: Even if your ship is only in port for the day, you might squeeze in a visit to the Alhambra, one of Spain’s most iconic sites.
Tours & Excursions
Malaga’s public transport is both plentiful and inexpensive, making it perfect for day excursions. Here are a few ideas:
- Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: Tickets valid for 24 hours take you to 13 of the most important sights. The bus picks up right at the terminal, so it’s super convenient.
- Bike Rentals: Rent a bike to explore the city at your own pace. It’s a great way to see Malaga’s streets and breezy waterfront.
- Day Trip to Granada and the Alhambra: If you’re docked for a long day, consider visiting the stunning Alhambra. First, take a taxi to Malaga’s central bus station (about €4), then catch a Supra bus to Granada (around €27 return). The buses are comfortable and even include a bottle of water and a snack. Be sure to book your tickets in advance—especially for the Nasrid Palaces, the highlight of the Alhambra.
- Nearby Town Excursions: Buses to Ronda, Mijas, and Marbella are frequent and offer a quick way to experience more of the Costa del Sol.
Shopping
The Historical Quarter of Malaga is a delight for shoppers. Here are some highlights:
- Stroll along Calle Larios and the surrounding pedestrian streets, where over a thousand shops line the semi-circular commercial area.
- Browse through charming boutiques, souvenir stores, and specialty shops that offer local crafts and Spanish delicacies.
- Whether you’re looking for high-end brands or unique local gifts, you’ll find it all in this vibrant shopping district.
Dining
One of the best parts about visiting Malaga is its food scene. Tapas are everywhere, and each restaurant has its own special twist on traditional flavors. Whether you want to stick with classic dishes or try something innovative, follow your nose and your instinct—it’s all part of the fun here. Enjoy a relaxed meal, sip on a glass of fino (sherry), and savor the local culinary delights.
Culture & Local Events
- Local Events: The annual Malaga fair in August is a week-long street party full of flamenco, music, and plenty of 'fino' (local sherry). This lively celebration commemorates the re-conquest of the city by Isabella and Ferdinand in 1487, typically running from Saturday to Saturday during the third week in August.
- Culture & Lifestyle Insights:
- Currency: The local currency is the Euro.
- Language: Spanish is the official language. In tourist spots, many people also speak English, and sometimes French or German.
- Operating Hours:
- Most shops are open Monday through Saturday from 9:30 to 13:30 and then from 16:30 to 20:00.
- Larger shopping centers open from about 10:00 until 21:00 or 22:00—often even on Sundays, particularly in the high season.
- Pharmacies generally follow similar hours, with some offering 24-hour service on a rotating schedule.
- Safety & Awareness:
- In an emergency, dial 112.
- Tourist areas tend to be busy, so keep an eye on your belongings and enjoy the bustling atmosphere responsibly.
Feel free to ask locals for tips—they’re always happy to share hidden gems and must-visit spots in their amazing city.