Where to stay in Malaga: best areas and neighborhoods
Open IndexMalaga is the capital of the Costa del Sol, a beautiful stretch of coast in southern Spain. This Andalusian city is full of attractions and things to do, all concentrated mainly in the Old Town and along the coast, without a doubt the best places to stay! Here are all our tips on where to sleep in Malaga!
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In a hurry? Here's our recommended accommodation
| Category | Accommodation |
|---|---|
| 👑 5 star / luxury | Vincci Selección Posada del Patio |
| 🛎️ B&B & mid-range | Hotel Thyssen by Coverlin |
| 🎒 Hostel and low-cost | B&B Málaga Centro |
| 🏡 Vacation rental / apartments | Apartamento Acogedor y Tranquilo Centro Histórico |
Useful tips: the best places to stay in Malaga
| Target | Area | Rates from |
|---|---|---|
| Stay on a budget | Pedregalejo | €60,00 |
| El Perchel | €60,00 | |
| Families | Centro Histórico | €90,00 |
| Pedregalejo | €60,00 | |
| El Perchel | €60,00 | |
| Young | La Malagueta | €70,00 |
| Soho | €70,00 |
The best neighbourhood to stay is definitely Centro Historico. Here you will find yourself within walking distance of the main attractions and La Malagueta beach.
If you are looking for nightlife and entertainment, in addition to Centro Historico, consider Soho and La Malagueta. The latter, especially in summer, is very lively at any time of the day or night! Soho, on the other hand, is a trendy neighbourhood with a bohemian atmosphere, full of clubs.
If you want to save money, opt for El Perchel or Pedregalejo. The first district is located between the historic centre and Málaga-María Zambrano station, ideal if you plan to do some excursions in the surrounding area. Pedregalejo, on the other hand, is a district far from the centre, which overlooks the coast and the beach of the same name, ideal for those looking for sea and tranquillity at affordable prices.
Best accommodation: we have selected the best hotels, B&Bs and hostels in Malaga. Check out our recommendations and make your reservation on Booking
Not recommended areas: the districts that are too peripheral, especially inland, like the whole district of Palma-Palmilla, north of the historic centre. These are areas without any tourist attractions, and they are not always safe, especially in the evening.
Centro Histórico (Central district), best for first-timers
- Pros: You're steps away from major attractions, a huge variety of restaurants and bars
- Cons: Can be noisy, especially at night, and accommodation can be pricier. Parking is difficult if you're driving.
- Main attractions: Malaga Cathedral, Alcazaba, Roman Theatre, Picasso Museum, Carmen Thyssen Museum, Calle Larios (main shopping street).
- Average prices: From €90,00 per night - compare the best accommodation on booking
Recommended accommodation
If you are only staying for a few days or it is your first time visiting Malaga, the historic centre is the best area to sleep in. The main attractions are here, such as the Alcazaba, the Catedral de la Encarnación de Málaga and the Picasso Museum, while within walking distance you will find Gibralfaro Castle and La Malagueta Beach.
It is a neighbourhood suitable for all types of travellers, but bear in mind that the historic centre is also one of the most expensive areas of the city. If you are looking for nightlife, look for accommodation near Calle Larios, the most important area in the centre, and the main squares. If, on the other hand, you are looking for a quieter place to stay with your family, orient yourself in the easternmost part of the area, between Alcazaba and Gibralfaro, an exclusive and luxury neighbourhood.
Finally, staying here will allow you to move easily on foot, both in the centre and in the surrounding area, Soho and Malagueta beach are only a short walk away.
Average prices in the neighbourhood start from about €90,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Soho (Central District), best for art lovers
Foto di Flickr user Leo Hidalgo.
- Pros: Trendy and artistic atmosphere, great for nightlife and unique dining experiences
- Cons: Still developing in some areas, might feel a little less "traditionally Spanish" than the old town.
- Main attractions: Street art murals, Centre Pompidou Malaga, CAC (Contemporary Art Centre), Muelle Uno (port area with shops and restaurants).
- Average prices: From €70,00 per night - compare the best accommodation on booking
Recommended accommodation
Between Centro Historico and the port of Malaga is the wonderful neighbourhood of Soho, an alternative area with a bohemian soul, full of bars and cafes, with modern accommodation at competitive prices. Today, after a redevelopment project, this area has become a real cultural and artistic centre, and the CAC Málaga, or contemporary art museum, is located here.
Above all, it is a neighbourhood recommended for young people and those looking for a bit of nightlife. Soho has a bubbly soul; it is very lively during the day and in the evening. This is the trendiest area in all of Malaga and is ideal for spending long summer evenings outdoors!
Finally, staying here will allow you to move easily on foot: to reach the historic centre you only have to cross the Alemada Principal, to reach Malagueta beach you can walk along the Parque de Málaga and in 15 minutes you will be on the beach.
Average prices in the neighbourhood start from about €70,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
La Malagueta (Central District), best for beach-lovers
- Pros: Direct beach access, lovely promenade for walks and cycling
- Cons: Can be very busy during peak season, accommodation here can be in higher demand.
- Main attractions: Malagueta Beach, Palmeral de las Sorpresas, Muelle Uno.
- Average prices: From €70,00 per night - compare the best accommodation on booking
Recommended accommodation
If you visit Malaga in the summer, you should definitely also consider staying in the La Malagueta neighbourhood. This is the area directly overlooking the sea, with the famous Malagueta beach. In addition to the beach, the Malaga lighthouse and the Centre Pompidou Malaga, an important art Centre are here.
It is a neighbourhood recommended for those who want to have a beach holiday and those looking for fun. Especially in summer, this area is very lively at any time of day or night, thanks to the many clubs that are located on the seafront and the numerous chiringuito on the beach. If you are travelling in high season make sure you book as soon as possible to find offers!
Staying here will allow you to get around on foot: in 15 minutes you can reach the Soho district to spend the evening, and the centre and its attractions, such as the Cathedral and the Alcazaba is also only 15 minutes away.
Average prices in the neighbourhood start from about €70,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
El Perchel (Central district), best for budget travellers
- Pros: More residential and local feel, excellent value for money
- Cons: Not as picturesque as the Historic Center, fewer tourist-specific amenities.
- Main attractions: Mercado de Atarazanas (central market), San Rafael Cemetery (historic site), close proximity to train and bus stations.
- Average prices: From €60,00 per night - compare the best accommodation on booking
Recommended accommodation
The El Perchel neighbourhood is also located in the Centro district, on the opposite bank of the Río Guadalmedina from Centro Historico. This neighbourhood has a truly strategic position: it develops between the historic centre and the main railway stations of the city, namely Málaga Centro-Alameda and Málaga María Zambrano.
It is an ideal neighbourhood for those on a budget: accommodation here is cheaper and has more competitive prices than the historic centre, Soho and La Malagueta. Convenience yes, but without giving up amenities and an excellent location, especially if you plan to make several excursions in the surrounding area.
Finally, staying here makes it easy to get around on foot: to get to the historic centre, just cross one of the bridges over the Guadalmedina.
Average prices in the neighbourhood start from about €60,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Pedregalejo (Este District), best for families
- Pros: Fantastic for fresh seafood chiringuitos (beachfront restaurants)
- Cons: A short bus ride from the city center (around 15-20 minutes), less hustle and bustle than downtown.
- Main attractions: Pedregalejo Beach, countless chiringuitos, local charm, beautiful sunsets.
- Average prices: From €60,00 per night - compare the best accommodation on booking
Recommended accommodation
Finally, if you want to enjoy the beach without spending too much, the best solution is Pedregalejo located in the Este district. Here we are further away from the centre, but the beach of the same name is one of the busiest and most popular in the city, offering a beautiful view of Malaga!
This area is recommended for those who want to enjoy the sea and tranquillity without being in the centre of the nightlife (like you would be if you stayed in the La Malagueta neighbourhood). It is therefore also an excellent area for families who, in addition to Pedregalejo, can also look for accommodation in nearby neighbourhoods, such as El Palo.
Staying here means being quite far from the centre: to reach the main attractions you will have to use the bus. The fastest solutions are bus lines 3, 11 and 34, which stop near the Parque de Málaga (20 min).
Average prices in the neighbourhood start from about €60,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Places to stay near Malaga
Foto di wheresleep. Staying in Malaga is certainly the best solution, especially if you have little time to dedicate to the city. As we have seen there are several neighbourhoods that have a lot to offer visitors. Staying in the city also means not wasting time travelling.
But if you are traveling by car, and therefore not reliant on public transport, and you want to enjoy the landscapes of Andalusia and its coast, then you can consider staying in some places not too far from Malaga. We advise you to opt for seaside resorts located along the wonderful Costa del Sol, which are also connected by bus. Here are some options:
- Marbella (60 km / 50 min): wonderful seaside resort along the coast, with 27 km of sandy beaches, villas, hotels and golf courses. Ideal for those who mainly want to enjoy the sea. Connected to Malaga by direct bus (1 h) - compare accommodation on booking
- Torremolinos (18 km / 26 min): coastal location, especially ideal if you are travelling with children. Aqualand Torremolinos, the Tivoli World amusement park, the Selwo Marina zoological park and the Sea Life Benalmádena aquarium are here. Connected to Malaga by direct bus (45 min) - compare accommodation on booking
- Nerja (58 km / 46 min): wonderful seaside resort on the Costa del Sol, with a promenade overlooking a headland from which you can admire an incredible view. Ideal for those who want to relax. Connected to Malaga by direct bus (1 h 15 min) - compare accommodation on booking
Travel Tips for Malaga
- Public Transport: Malaga has an efficient public transport system consisting of buses, a metro, and local trains (Cercanías). A single bus ticket costs around €1.40. You can also get a multi-trip card (like a Bonobus) for better value, which can be shared by multiple people. The metro is handy for getting to specific areas, and the Cercanías train connects the city center to the airport and other coastal towns. Taxis are readily available, but for short trips, public transport or walking is often sufficient and cheaper.
- Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit Malaga are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). The weather is pleasantly warm, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities, and the crowds are generally smaller than in summer. Summers (June-August) are very hot and busy, while winters (December-February) are mild with fewer tourists, though some attractions might have reduced hours.
- Local Currency: The official currency in Malaga, and Spain, is the Euro (€). ATMs are widely available, and credit/debit cards are accepted in most shops, restaurants, and hotels. It's always a good idea to have some cash for smaller purchases, local markets, and tips. When paying by card or withdrawing cash, always choose to be charged in EUR to get a better exchange rate from your bank.
- Local Vibe/Culture: Malaga has a relaxed, vibrant Andalusian vibe. People tend to eat dinner late (often after 9 PM) and enjoy long, social meals. Siestas are less common in the busy city center but still part of the culture. Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated for good service; typically, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is customary in restaurants and cafes. Malagueños are generally friendly and welcoming.
Malaga accommodation price map
Guide to the areas of Malaga
Malaga, also known as the capital of the Costa del Sol, in wonderful Andalusia, extends for 395 square kilometres and has about half a million inhabitants. Getting acquainted with the city is very easy and the main attractions are all located in Centro Historico.
The city is divided into districts called distritos. The central district is Centro, which is also the oldest. To the east is the Este area, where we find some districts directly overlooking the coast, such as the Pedregalejo district.
In addition to these two districts, there are a series of areas that develop all around but which are not recommended to stay, as they are far from the centre or with little or no tourist attractions: to the west are the districts of Carretera de Cádiz (the most populous, to be taken into consideration if you make a two-day stopover and want to stay close to the airport), Cruz de Humilladero, Bailén-Miraflores, Puerto de la Torre, Campanillas and the village of Churriana. Finally, to the north are the districts of Ciudad Jardìn and Palma-Palmilla.
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