Welcome, Glutendtrotters! In this itinerary, Top things to see in Malaga in 3 days, weโll guide you through the must-visit places so you can enjoy the city to the fullest โ worry-free and with plenty of delicious gluten-free dining options.
Mรกlaga, the jewel of the Costa del Sol, is a vibrant destination where history, art, and gastronomy blend with the Mediterranean breeze.
Beyond its sunny beaches, the city offers a cultural and culinary experience that leaves no one indifferent.If you have three days to explore the city, get ready to uncover its essence through renowned museums, charming alleyways, and irresistible local cuisine.
To make the most of your visit, thereโs no better way to start than with a walking tour of Malagaโthe perfect introduction to its history and most iconic spots, all guided by a local expert. Join us on this adventure!
Day 1: Art and History in the Heart of Malaga
Your Malaga adventure begins with a visit to the Picasso Museum โa must for art lovers. Located in the beautiful Buenavista Palace, the museum offers an impressive collection of works by the Malaga-born genius. As you explore, you’ll follow his artistic journey from early sketches to the groundbreaking innovations of Cubism.
n addition to its permanent collection, the museum hosts fascinating temporary exhibitions that connect Picassoโs work with other great avant-garde masters. To make the most of your visit, we recommend booking your ticket in advance or joining a guided tour.
After this artistic journey, lose yourself in Mรกlagaโs Historic Centerโa maze of cobbled streets, charming squares, and historic faรงades. Here, youโll find plenty of bars and restaurants where you can enjoy traditional Malagueรฑan cuisine gluten-free, such as the classic porra antequerana or the famous pescaรญto frito.
In the afternoon, be amazed by the imposing Malaga Cathedral, nicknamed La Manquita (The One-Armed Lady) due to its unfinished south tower.
This majestic Renaissance and Baroque-style temple is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Inside, donโt miss the Main Altar and the spectacular Choir Stalls, masterfully carved by the renowned Pedro de Mena.
To end the day soaking up the true spirit of Mรกlaga, there’s no better place than Plaza de la Merced, one of the city’s most iconic spots.
This lively square, surrounded by historic buildings and cozy terraces, is the perfect setting to enjoy Malagaโs nightlife with a relaxed drink under the stars.
In addition to its vibrant atmosphere, the square holds a special connection to Pablo Picasso, as it is home to the house where he was born and lived until 1884.
Today, the Picasso Foundation โ Birthplace Museum offers a glimpse into the artistโs early life and allows visitors to explore an important part of his legacy.
Map of Day 1
Day 2: History, art, and nature in Malaga
Your second day in Mรกlaga will take you through its historical legacy, immerse you in contemporary art, and let you relax by the sea.
Start your day by exploring the Alcazaba of Mรกlaga, one of the top things to see in Malaga. This remarkably well-preserved Muslim fortress, perched on a hill with privileged views over the city, is a true gem of Andalusian architecture.
Wander through its ancient walls and Nasrid-style courtyards, discover its defensive towers, and let yourself be captivated by the perfect blend of history and beauty.
Right at the foot of the fortress lies the Roman Theatre, an impressive relic from the imperial era that is still used today for cultural events. It’s a must-see for history lovers and offers a fascinating glimpse into Mรกlaga’s ancient past.
To make the most of your visit, consider booking a combined guided tour that includes both the Alcazaba and the Roman Theatre.
And if you’re eager to dive deeper into the cityโs heritage, donโt miss the Gibralfaro Castle, which you can reach via La Coracha โ a walled corridor that connects the two fortresses and offers scenic views along the way.
After a morning full of history, it’s time to enjoy the sea breeze. Head to the Port of Malaga, a lively space that has transformed far beyond its commercial roots into a vibrant hub for strolling, savoring delicious cuisine, and admiring open-air art installations.
The Malaga Promenade, officially known as Paseo Marรญtimo Antonio Banderas, is one of the localsโ favorite spots. This 2.5-kilometer walkway stretches along the entire Playa de la Misericordia and is perfect for walking, jogging, or simply soaking up the coastal atmosphere.
If youโd rather experience the city from the water, we recommend booking a catamaran ride along the coast of Malagaโan ideal way to admire the city from a different perspective.
This scenic route also features one of Spainโs most unique lighthouses: La Farola de Malaga. Interestingly, itโs one of only two lighthouses in the entire country with a feminine name.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in contemporary art at the Pompidou Centre, easily recognizable by its colorful glass cube. Itโs one of the top museums to visit in the city and a must for modern art lovers.
As the first international branch of the prestigious Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris, it offers a remarkable collection and temporary exhibitions. We recommend booking your tickets in advance to skip the lines.
Inside, youโll find an impressive collection of works by renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso, Joan Mirรณ, Salvador Dalรญ, and Kandinsky, along with top-tier temporary exhibitions brought directly from the Centre Pompidou in Paris.
End your day with a sunset stroll along La Malagueta Beach, where you can unwind with the sea breeze or enjoy a drink at a beachfront chiringuito. As the sun dips below the horizon, the golden tones of the sky create the perfect backdrop for a peaceful evening by the sea.
Both locals and visitors consider it a luxury to have over a kilometer of urban beach right in the city, fully equipped with everything you might needโrestaurants, sunbeds, showers, restrooms, children’s play areas, and even rental services for water sports.
Map of Day 2
Day 3: Discover culture and the sea in Soho Malaga
On your third day in Malaga, dive into the cityโs rich cultural scene as you explore its art, history, and vibrant urban atmosphere. From the elegant Carmen Thyssen Museum to the edgy and creative Soho district, this itinerary takes you through some of the most fascinating corners of the Costa del Solโs capital.
Start your day with a visit to the Carmen Thyssen Museum, one of the top things to see in Malaga. Located in the elegant 16th-century Villalรณn Palace, this cultural gem blends Renaissance architecture with modern touches, creating an inspiring space to explore Spanish art.
The museum, opened in 2011, houses an exceptional collection of 19th- and early 20th-century Spanish paintings. If youโre planning your visit during peak season, we highly recommend booking your tickets in advance to avoid long lines and make the most of your cultural morning.
Just a few steps from the museum, you’ll find the Atarazanas Market, the culinary heart of Malaga. Today, it’s a lively market where the aromas of fresh fruit, freshly caught fish, and top-quality local products blend together.
In the afternoon, set off to explore Soho Malaga, the most alternative and artistic neighborhood in the city. This area, once an overlooked industrial zone, has reinvented itself as a vibrant cultural hub filled with creativity and expression.
What makes Soho so special is its impressive collection of urban art. Walking through its streets feels like touring an open-air museum, where world-renowned artists like Obey and D*Face have left their mark on the facades of buildings. The neighborhood is a canvas of colors, messages, and bold imagery that reflects Mรกlagaโs modern and edgy side.
Soho isnโt just about street art. Youโll also find independent galleries, creative spaces, trendy cafรฉs, and unique shops that showcase the local spirit. Itโs a must for anyone looking to experience a different and authentic side of the city.
To end your trip with a flourish, make your way to Larios Street, the most emblematic shopping street in Mรกlaga. Whether you’re browsing exclusive boutiques, enjoying a drink on a lively terrace, or simply strolling beneath its elegant architecture, Larios Street offers the perfect farewell. Without a doubt, itโs one of the top things to see in Malaga.
Map of Day 3
Malaga is a city that invites you to stay, to discover it slowly, and to enjoy its authenticity in every corner. We hope this itinerary helps you make the most of every moment!
And thatโs a wrap on our three-day journey through Malaga โ a city where art, history, gastronomy, and the sea come together in every corner!
We hope this itinerary has inspired you to explore the most iconic places and enjoy the delicious gluten-free options this wonderful city has to offer.
Remember that Malaga has something for everyone โ from museums and historic landmarks to lively squares and beautiful beaches.
What are you waiting for to plan your next getaway to Malaga? Leave us a comment and tell us what else you’d love to explore in this gluten-free destination!
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- Best things to do in Malaga: 20 reasons to fall in love with the Costa del Sol
- Best places to visit in Malaga in 2 days
