Malaga city center is only a 20-minute drive along the MA-21 from the city’s airport. When leaving the airport, exit onto the MA-20 that forms part of the A-7 highway (Autopista del Mediterráneo), running along Spain’s Mediterranean coast. If you’re driving westbound, you’ll want to follow signs for Cadiz. If you’re heading east towards the city, then follow signs for Malaga. If you’ve arrived from elsewhere, we also have a handy branch at the city’s railway station.

Driving in and around Malaga means you can enjoy the very best of Andalucía’s incredible scenery with ease. Before you set off, remember that they also drive on the right side of the road in Spain, and many of their highways have a toll charge - look out for ‘péage’ signs and have your euros at the ready.

Spain’s speed limit is 120 km/h (74 mph) on freeways and dual carriageways. On one-lane roads, it drops to 100 km/h (62 mph), and on side streets in the inner city and suburban areas, it's traditionally 90 km/h (56 mph). In Spanish law, those under the age of 12 and kids under 135cm tall will need to be sat in a child seat while in the car.

It’s worth planning out where to park when driving in Malaga. if you park in in the blue zone (zona azul), you will only be allowed to stay for a maximum of two hours. Parking in Malaga generally costs around €1 for the first hour, and €1.60 if you decide to stay for two.

Car rental in Malaga also allows you to get out and explore the beautiful surrounding area and sun-kissed coastline. You’ll be within touching distance of the splendid Andalusian towns of Granada, Cordoba, Cadiz, and Seville. 

With over 300 days of sunshine every year, Malaga is the perfect place for a summer vacation all year round, and while many come to the city to soak up the rays on the Costa Del Sol, the city has an astonishing range of attractions all of its own. Here are Roman ruins and telltale signs of the city’s Moorish past, while the dining scene has a swagger all of its own.

The old heart of Malaga

You’ll find the majority of the main historical sites, such as the imposing but actually never finished 16th century cathedral, located in the city center. Start off at the stunning Plaza de la Constitución, which has been the city’s focal point since the Middle Ages. From here you can wander through the winding cobbled streets, where tantalizing local bars and restaurants compete for your attention.

Take a stroll up Calle Marqués de Larios, Malaga’s central shopping area, then veer off into the adjacent lanes to sample some delicious tapas, such as pescito frito (fried fish), pan con tomate (tomato on bread with a hint of garlic).

Rome through time

Let yourself fall back in time to the emergence of the cubist movement and its most important forefather when you visit the Picasso Museum, a lovingly curated tribute to the life of one of art’s most important figures in the city of his birth. The museum displays paintings from the private family collection and paints the story of his life, from his early years to his radical politics. 

Malaga is one of the oldest cities in Spain, and there are ancient reminders of this long past to uncover at every turn. Marvel at the majestic Roman amphitheater on the south side of Malaga, built way back in the first century A.D. under the dominion of Augustus. The amphitheater complements the nearby Moorish Alcazaba, which was erected centuries later in the early 11th century. It’s one of the best-preserved Moorish palaces in Spain and a must-see on any trip here.

Sand seekers

Pedregalejo is a sandy beach close to Malaga’s central promenade, almost a mile in length. If you’re bathing near the shore, watch out for the ‘Melillero Wave’ which can often provide a surprise splash. If you want to go swimming, then make sure to check out El Duque beach in the Costa Adeje area. With guaranteed sun for most of the year, you can enjoy all the benefits of the city center with sandy beaches only minutes away, the perfect blend.

Moor in store
Malaga also serves as a fantastic launch pad for further Andalusian discovery. Set off and explore the Moorish trinity of Seville, Granada and Cordoba or immerse yourself in the Sierra Nevada mountains.

The ninth-century UNESCO Alhambra palace is the main attraction of Granada. It’s worth booking ahead, as this Moorish palace is one of Spain’s biggest attractions. Its splendor is not to be missed.

Discover the nearby golden beach resort of Marbella just 37 miles west along the coast, or if you’re feeling adventurous, drive to Gibraltar, the famous rock which is an 85-mile drive from the city.

Famous for its olive and cork groves, the Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park, which you can find along the MA-20 southbound and AP-7 dual carriageway, is another must-see destination. There are precious few people here, a largely unspoiled area where mountain goats wander. It’s a superb place to camp, explore caves and revel in Spain’s natural beauty.