Traveling to Southern Spain as a couple? Malaga is an excellent option, and you’ll love your time here, no matter the itinerary. In this complete guide, we’ll go through all the most romantic things to do in Malaga for couples.
We traveled to Malaga for a few days, spending time in the city and around, taking road trips to Ronda and other villages, and it’s safe to say we had the time of our lives.
I genuinely love this part of Spain, and I couldn’t be more excited to tell you about the best things to do in Malaga for a romantic getaway!
Things to Do in Malaga for Couples – Overview
First things first, the essentials. By the end of this section, you will learn the essentials of what you need to know when visiting Malaga!
I’ve been to Malaga many times, but in case that you’re first time, you don’t want to skip this part.
How to Get to Malaga?
The easiest way to get to Malaga is by plane, traveling to Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport, a major international and domestic air travel hub in Spain with flights to different destinations across Spain and abroad.
Alternatively, you can take a train to Málaga María Zambrano Station from cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and a direct bullet train offering good links across the country, and that’s convenient if you’re traveling around Spain.
Is Malaga Worth Visiting?
Malaga is worth a visit and is a travel destination that is not to be missed in Spain. It combines rich historical foundations for some important areas of Roman history, the most beautiful arts, and beautiful Mediterranean scenery.
On top of that, there is something for everyone’s tastes in Malaga, from beaches with lots of activities for couples to undertake together to an energetic art scene and delicious places to eat that you’ll love! Make sure to read until the end as I’ll share some romantic restaurants.
Best Time to Visit Malaga
Late spring and early autumn are the best times to go to Malaga, as there is warm sun in the warm and sunny weather.
You can also explore the beaches and major attractions such as Malaga Cathedral, take a day trip to Ronda, join a tour to Gibraltar or the white villages around Malaga.
If you don’t mind the crowds, then you can also visit during the summertime, but just keep in mind that Malaga get very hot, but that’s the only downside.
15 Romantic Things to Do in Malaga
You now have been given a little extra context and information about Malaga in general, but we can jump right into it and see the best things to do as a couple in Malaga.
Discover the Alcazaba of Malaga
You can learn more about Malaga’s Moorish past simply by visiting the Alcazaba complex above the Malaga city centre. Sitting above Malaga, this Alcazaba fortress from the 11th century delivers one of the most picturesque panoramas you’ll set your eyes on.
Inside the Alcazaba, you can wander around pretty gardens under batches of Islamic architecture that will seem terribly intricate; the ambiance is an even blend of peace and history, which is what you might get lost in for a moment here.
The Arch of Christ—once part of Malaga’s mosque—and the Palace of the Taifas where Moorish craft is well 4 presented. As you can imagine, the Roman theatre that is located right at the base, is a great place to take photos!
And of course, this is a great place for selfies, romantic photos, or just nice shots with great views to share with your loved one.
The Alcazaba also connects to the Gibralfaro Castle, making for a nice uphill walk if you’re up for it. Read below to learn more about the castle.
Best-Rated Tour
3-Hour Walking Tour in Malaga
- Best way to visit Malaga in 1 day
- Tickets included for convenience
- See the Cathedral and other gems
Includes
- Tour from Plaza de la Merced
- Entrance fees at 3 tourist spots
- An expert guide and lots of fun!
Take Photos at the Gibralfaro Castle
The Gibralfaro Castle stands tall in the Malaga city center, is one of the first landmarks you will see in town.
With its privileged location, at the top of Monte Gibralfaro, it offers a breathtaking view of the city, and you guessed it, it’s one of the best things to do in Malaga for couples!
This palace just oozes Moorish splendor. The Alcazaba fortress and castle are old. The original castle was built in the 14th century on the site of a previous Phoenician fort, depicting Malaga’s Moorish roots.
Yusuf I, the son of Isma’il II, fortified the castle with walls to protect the city from any assault. It was the only custom-made castle for a war in the entire province.
The castle remained an important military post until the end of the 18th century. The most significant event in its history was its role during the siege of the city by the Catholic monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella, which started in 1487 and ended up occupying Malaga the following year.
Besides the historical part, the Castle of Gibralfaro is now a nice tourist spot in Malaga for couples.
Perhaps my favorite of all simple, touristy things to do in Malaga is a visit to Gibralfaro. Spend an hour at most exploring the Moorish ruins and enjoying the views before continuing with your tour of Malaga.
Relax at Malaga’s Arab Baths
The Arab Baths of Malaga, also known as Hammam Al Ándalus, are the perfect spot for some peace and quiet in the city center
This place is very welcoming for the couples that wants a place to who wants to relax a little. Soothing ambience/ music/ scents-to soothe our senses and take us to our ultimate relaxation state and provides you the romantic feel of the city!
You can pamper yourself with a massage, a spa treatment, steam baths, cold baths, or combine all of these services. A crazy disconnect from the city and pampering as if you were kings for the day with tea.
All in all, it’s one of the best romantic things to do in Malaga, and I recommend booking early as they always sell out.
Visit Malaga Cathedral
The Cathedral of Malaga, often referred to as “La Manquita” because it was left unfinished, is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture at the heart of the city, and that is honestly one of the most beautiful cathedrals I’ve ever visited in my life.
Its imposing façade and intricate interior are just incredible, and that was one of the highlights of our trip to Malaga.
You will find a wealth of religious art inside the cathedral, and every piece of it will tell you a story of its own.
While you think that it’s not the most romantic thing to do in Malaga, a nice little break is to simply sit in the cathedral or listen to the audio guide to learn about Malaga’s religious past. The audio guide is included in the price, which is great.
There is also an area to climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views of Malaga and its rooftops as far as the sea. This is a must-do, and I highly recommend it!
While the cathedral’s beauty is undeniable, its incomplete tower adds a unique charm and story that’s interesting to explore.
Related Guide
Here’s a full guide about all
the reasons to visit Malaga.
Take a Catamaran Boat Trip
Taking a catamaran boat trip in Malaga is an amazing way to see the city from a different angle. These boat trips last about 1.5 hours and will take you along the most famous coast at Playa La Malagueta.
Music aboard is excellent for setting the mood and providing a chance to relax – This is a great part if you travel as a couple! For the men out there, this is one of the romantic things to do in Malaga and you don’t want to miss your chance to impress!
The option to add a romantic light show makes the experience even better, and you can book a trip around 6.00 PM for sunset with a glass of Cava.
Alternatively, you can take a boat cruise during the day at 11:30 or 3:30, so you still have time after sunbathing and swimming in the sea for your evening plans.
This would be a special moment with your loved one to remember, which I highly recommend as one of the most romantic things to do in town!
Enjoy a Live Flamenco Show at La Alegría
If you are looking for a spiritual night filled with every spiritual feeling, Flamenco Alegría is for you and this is where you can get feel the real Flamenco surroundings.
This place is a small venue known for the authentic form of performing the traditional dance, with heart-wrenching singing and guitar.
The show begins with a group performance, which is then followed by some guitar and live music and, last but not least – solo performances from the dancers, which is something unforgettable.
We had the chance to travel all around southern Spain and saw a Flamenco show in Granada as opposed to Malaga, but Flamenco Alegría is an excellent alternative for a romantic night out.
When you book, you can add a drink and traditional tapas, so you don’t have to go outside for a bite when feeling peckish!
This is a top-rated show, so you should make an advance reservation, because this is the most popular show in Malaga.
Go Shopping at Muelle Uno
A little shopping with a quirk that doesn’t feel like a mall!
Muelle Uno’s open-air shopping center is located near Malaga Port and offers a great opportunity for some retail therapy while enjoying a stunning sea view that you can enjoy while walking.
Starting from high-end fashion boutiques and international brands to unique crafts, Muelle Uno has something for everyone, including couples.
There are also many restaurants and cafes along the waterfront, which would be wonderful if you’re after a romantic place for your lunch or a gourmet dinner near the beach.
I recommend coming here for lunch and taking a stroll around before going on a catamaran boat cruise (which we mentioned before on this list).
Muelle Uno offers more than just shopping, you can take your lover for a stroll, take photos, and have a great time as a whole! Oh, and you’ll also find rooftop bars, which is great!
Plan a Hiking Trip to Caminito Del Rey
If you’re both hiking lovers or want to take an active trip out of Malaga, a hike to Caminito Del Rey is a must-do – We did it on our trip and I genuinely loved it.
The narrow gorge of Garganta de los Gaitanes and El Chorro used to restrict travel in the area to only climbers. But the Caminito del Rey walkway is now perfectly safe from the widest point of the gorge, and you can cross the gorge safely.
This trail goes on for about 7.7 kilometers, with some parts providing a beautiful viewpoint of hundreds of meters covering land and the river below.
It’s an excellent opportunity for couples to share an adventurous day out surrounded by some of Andalusia’s most stunning landscapes.
Truth be told, we’re not advanced hikers, and it wasn’t difficult for us, so I recommend checking it out for a day out from Malaga!
Related Guide
Here’s a full guide about taking a
trip to Caminito Del Rey from Malaga.
Join a Wine Tour from Malaga
Andalusia is home to a prominent wine culture, making wine tasting a non-negotiable experience. That’s right – a wine tour is where you will enjoy the best wine bottles and wonderful moments along it.
I personally recommend this experience, which combines great wine and delicious food – let me tell you more about it.
You’ll be visiting a warm, cozy tavern with a variety of regional wines, which you can taste in combination with freshly sliced Iberian ham, as these two are perfect together.
This experience includes four stops, all highlighting the unique flavors of this part of Spain, including artisanal sausages, cured meats, fine cheeses, and a refreshing touch of hand-made vermouth or Sherry.
You’ll get to enjoy a total of eight delicacies with an array of five wines from various regions. Local Málaga Pedro Ximénez and sumptuous dessert wines are included in the taste journey.
The tour has a small group size, and bites and sips are pretty generous- what a perfect way to enjoy a romantic day out from Malaga!
Take a Day Trip to Gibraltar
The day trips from Malaga to Gibraltar are some of the most unique you can join, and that was my favorite, along with Ronda and Mijas.
Gibraltar is a small but incredibly impressive territory recognizable by its grand Rock, which towers at the end of the peninsula. It’s a natural fortress and is actually home to the famous Barbary Macaques, which are Europe’s only wild monkeys.
After enjoying your time at the fortress, head to the Great Siege Tunnels and learn about the story of military strategy and survival there.
The combination of English pubs, traditional fish and chips joints, Spanish tapas restaurants just adds to the place’s mixed vibe.
The Main Street shopping district with duty free status means that shops are a popular lure to those looking for cheaper deals on nearly every sort of thing from electronics, to cosmetics, to designer clothes.
So, the day trip to Gibraltar offers a fusion of British and Mediterranean culture at the very southern edge of bulging Spain, and it is certainly worth checking out!
When we went there, we joined a group tour, but if you want to make it even better, consider a private tour – Check out our other guide below for more information!
Want more information?
Here’s a full guide about
the best day tours to Gibraltar.
Visit the Museums in Malaga
The Picasso Museum, located inside the restored Buenavista Palace, is where to see a sampling of Pablo Picasso’s earliest work, Pablo Picasso even being its most famous son.
It tells the story of his entire career, and there are now over 200 pieces in the collection, all these being paintings, sculptures and ceramics, and more.
The Picasso Museum Malaga displays Picasso’s art and hosts temporary habits and cultural events that make the museum a great spot no matter if you enjoy art or not.
On the other hand, the Malaga City Museum is hidden in the neoclassical Palacio de la Aduana and is home to fine arts with archaeology to tell the story of the various cultures that have shaped the city.
We really enjoyed both, and it’s free for European citizens!
The museum has an archaeological section that exhibits artifacts from the Phoenician, Roman and Moorish periods, while the fine arts collection focuses on Andalusian artists and displays work from the 19th and 20th century.
The museum perfectly depicts the importance of Malaga’s past history and its influence in today’s Andalusia culture.
Discover Malaga Botanical Gardens
Malaga’s Botanic Garden, officially known as Jardin Botanico-Historico La Concepcion, is a delightful area a little outside the city.
In the 1850s, the botanical garden was initiated by the Marquis and Marchioness of Loring, and since then, it has grown and turned into a living museum of tropical and subtropical flora from around the world.
Among them, you’ll see exotic plants, towering trees, and beautiful flowers that take you far from the urban area, which is great if you want a peaceful time with your other half.
The historical garden is an evergreen place owing to its collection of more than a hundred-year-old plants, perfectly preserved Victorian glasshouses, ancient ruins, and more.
These not only give it historical significance but also add a timeless appeal to its beauty, making it a lovely place to visit as a couple in Malaga.
Go to Ronda for the Day
Get ready for one of the most enchanting small-town trips there is near Malaga. An excursion to Ronda is a must-definitely-do, and I really and genuinely loved it. I just wished we spent more time in Ronda, but we’ll do that next time.
The town is famous for its Puente Nuevo, a bridge from the early 18th century that crosses the gulf between the newer town and the old town, and it has spectacular views of the city and surrounding countryside.
Situated 100 meters (330 ft) above the river, this bridge is absolutely stunning and is one of the best things to do in Ronda. The Tajo Gorge is not only the most photographed site in Ronda, but also the town’s most popular landmark.
Ronda offers a rich history, complete with well-preserved Arab baths, a much older bullring than the one in Seville, and a maze of narrow winding streets that will easily make you fall in love with Spain even more!
I couldn’t stress it enough: this is one of the best things to do in Malaga for couples, and I urge you to book a day trip to Ronda!
You can take a day tour to Ronda from Malaga or rent a car and drive on your own. If you choose the latter option, these are the attractions in Ronda you can’t miss:
- The New Bridge
- Mondragón Palace
- Alameda del Tajo Park
- Mirador Virgen del Rocío
- La Casa del Gigante
- Mirador de Aldehuela
Want more information?
Read this full guide with all
the reasons to visit Ronda.
Discover the White Villages Near Malaga
Visiting the White Villages near Malaga is like entering a postcard, and you simply cannot visit Andalusia and miss them.
Their unique location allowed them to become an area rich in traditions, culture, and legendary stories, as well as a tourist destination coveted by thousands of people. There are a few white villages located within reasonable distance from Malaga.
Antequera is 55 kilometers north of Málaga and is an attractive area for sightseeing with its prehistoric dolmens and stunning natural landscapes as if you turn your life’s time metaphorically back into the past.
Benalmádena Pueblo, with its flower-lined streets, is a lovely spot offering delightful views of the Mediterranean. The traditional houses of the Pueblo cling to the hillside to offer breathtaking views at every bend.
Estepona is another top destination, which has managed to keep the historic town in its best state and is adorned with vibrant murals. And for this reason, it makes the perfect trip for couples.
And last but not least, I can only highlight Mijas, which has stunning architecture and is one of the most attractive spots in southern Spain. Mijas is yet another incredible white village we loved, and I couldn’t recommend it enough.
Every village has something to offer, from ancient fortresses to botanical gardens, making it a perfect retreat for a tour of the Andalusian countryside for a few hours or a night out.
Want to know more?
Here’s a full guide about the
best white villages near Malaga.
End the Day at The TOP Rooftop Bar
Once you had enough sandy fun or exploring the pueblos near Malaga, get ready for a stylish night about town and head to The TOP Rooftop Bar at Málaga’s Hotel Molina Lario.
Located on the 8th floor, this venue is chic; it has 180-degree views taking in the whole of the historic town center and the Mediterranean beyond.
The bar has plenty of cocktails that combine fresh regional fruit, homemade syrups, great drinks, and other surprises with timeless classics.
Doesn’t it sound incredible? Of course, you will find sangria. And if you’re after a beautiful spot for a special occasion, this is definitely a safe pick!
Romantic Things to Do in Malaga – FAQ
Now that you know all the best Málaga activities for a romantic day, let’s discuss the restaurants to eat at and the hotels to stay in that will make your romantic holiday one you’ll always remember.
Is Malaga Good for Couples?
Absolutely! Málaga is the ideal and affordable adult holiday option, with plenty of activities to keep you busy and entertained. It’s the land of the Andalusian culture, known for its amazing beaches and museums.
And if you really want to get the adrenaline flowing, then you should try hiking the famous Caminito del Rey.
Málaga has a lot to offer to delight your senses. It offers you the same and something more than Barcelona or Madrid.
Tasting the local food is a must on your itinerary at this point. Talking about restaurants, here below are the best romantic places to eat in Malaga:
- El Pimpi
- Restaurante José Carlos García
- Candado Beach
- Muelle Uno
Romantic Hotels in Malaga
Last but not least for this ultimate guide, let’s discuss the most romantic hotels in Malaga to make the most of your experience in town, and I’m confident you won’t be disappointed.
Gran Hotel Miramar GL
Facing the Mediterranean Sea, this historic 5-star hotel offers luxurious rooms, a stunning outdoor pool, and several dining options. Its beautiful architecture and gardens provide a romantic backdrop.
Palacio Solecio, a Small Luxury Hotel of the World
A beautifully restored 18th-century palace in the historic center of Malaga. This boutique hotel combines traditional elegance with modern luxury, offering an intimate and romantic atmosphere.
Parador de Málaga Gibralfaro
Situated atop Mount Gibralfaro, this hotel offers spectacular views of Malaga and the coast. Its exclusive ambiance and traditional Andalusian style make it perfect for couples.
Conclusion: Going for a Romantic Trip to Malaga
This was everything you needed to know when traveling to Malaga as a couple. Truth be told, this is one of the best trips you could take with your other half, no matter the occasion, and I’m confident you’ll find the perfect romantic spots.
Thanks for reading until the end and I hope this guide helped you organize your trip! Feel free to reach out if you have any questions!
