24 Hours in Malaga, an Insider's Guide: Food, Views & Hidden Spots
Sun, Sights, and Delicious Bites: A Malaga Adventure
Hey everyone, Chris here! I'm taking you to Malaga, a beautiful city in Spain by the sea. This trip is extra special because my girlfriend Zoe practically lived here for two summers with a local family. That means she knows all the hidden gems and local favourites that you won't find in your typical tourist guides.
Get ready for a whirlwind 24-hour adventure as Zoe shows me her favourite spots in Malaga! From the best breakfast pastries to breathtaking viewpoints and mouthwatering tapas, we're packing it all in. Are you ready to join us?
Hey everyone, Zoe here! This beautiful city by the sea holds a special place in my heart. I spent two summers living with a local family, and now I'm back with my boyfriend Chris to show him my favourite spots.
Want to join us on a whirlwind 24-hour Malaga adventure? ️
Pastry Paradise: Ana La Fantástica
Chris has a serious sweet tooth, so the first stop on our Malaga adventure had to be a bakery. Ana La Fantástica, nestled in the heart of the city, looked like something out of a foodie dream.
The display case was overflowing with pastries that were both beautiful and intimidating. We somehow managed to narrow it down to pistachio and almond croissants (pro tip: the pistachio is life-changing) and some strong coffee.
Let's just say breakfast was delicious, and maybe a little unforgettable (in the best way possible!).
Unexpected Detour & Breathtaking Views
Our original plan included the Pompidou Centre, a modern art gallery (closed on Tuesdays, FYI!), but a quick change of plans turned into a happy accident.
We embarked on a mini hike to a viewpoint overlooking the city. The climb was a bit challenging at times, but the panoramic view was totally worth it!
Tip: The path starts near the Roman Theatre and winds up the hill alongside the Gibralfaro Castle. Bring water and sunscreen! From the top, you can see the entire city – the port, the bullring, the cathedral, and more!
This hike is free, but if you're feeling adventurous, you can pay a small entrance fee to explore the castle grounds. We opted in and enjoyed the walk along the walls, the gorgeous views, and the free audio guide.
Lunchtime at El Pimpi: Worth the Hype?
El Pimpi, a Malaga institution with a reputation for lively crowds and delicious food, was our next stop. Sure enough, there was a bit of a wait for a table, but the atmosphere was electric!
The friendly staff kept things moving, and soon we were seated, soaking up the buzz.
We opted for an Americano Spritz (a must-try for Chris, the Campari lover) and a glass of white wine for me. To share, we ordered an avocado salad, patatas bravas (seriously the best we've had in Malaga!), and a plate of grandma's mixed meat croquettes – a local specialty that did not disappoint.
Secret Rooftop Gem & Sunset Sips at Chinitas
Now, for my two hidden gems! Tucked away near Plaza de la Constitucion, Chinitas Terrace boasts a rooftop bar with the most incredible cathedral views. It's not widely known, so finding a seat is usually easy. The drinks are affordable, and the view is simply unbeatable! Just a heads-up, Google might say it opens at 4 PM, but aim for closer to 4:30 PM to be safe.
Finally, we ended our day with some people-watching and sunset views at the Hard Rock Cafe on the port. While not our usual scene, the location is fantastic and it’s worth it for the view of the port.
The Picasso Art Gallery is a Must-See!
I can't recommend the Picasso Museum enough, especially for art lovers. Picasso was born in Malaga, and the museum houses a vast collection of his original works. Make sure you book your tickets in advance and don't miss the charming courtyard cafe!
Malaga's Magic: A City That Steals Your Heart
Malaga is a vibrant city with stunning architecture, amazing food, beautiful beaches, and a rich culture. We stayed in El Limonar, a lovely suburb with a beach just a 5-minute walk from the city centre. Spending time by the sea is a must in Malaga – swimming, sunbathing, or simply listening to the waves is pure bliss.
This city has truly stolen my heart, and I hope it steals yours a little too!
Chris' Final Thoughts:
I completely agree with Zoe. Malaga is a beautiful place with delicious food, charming architecture, and a relaxed atmosphere. There's so much to see and do, and we can't wait to explore more!
Let us know in the comments below what your favourite things to do in Malaga are!
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P.S. This is our first travel video, so any feedback is greatly appreciated! Thanks for joining us!