Malaga is located in the southern part of Spain on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, known as Costa del Sol (the Sunny Coast).It is easy to understand why Malaga City is dubbed the Capital of the Costa del Sol. Whereas it was once considered to be the poor cousin of Andalusia’s capital city, Seville, it now competes successfully for attention. Since the opening of the already well acclaimed Picasso Museum in 2003, cultural tourists have been flocking to this and the now beautifully refurbished birthplace of the great artist, all in the heart of the historic centre of the city.
Malaga is one of the eight regional capitals of Andalusia and the biggest coastal city in the south with approximately 600,000 inhabitants. The town is located near Sevilla and Granada and the strategically good position in the Mediterranean Sea makes it easy accessible from the Sea.
Climate
The climate, with more than 300 days of sun and a year around average temperature of 23ºC (73ºF), makes Malaga a perfect location to visit. Sea breezes from the Mediterranean coastline regulates the summer heat to a more comfortable levels than the inland Andalusian towns and the Malaga Mountains form the perfect barrier to protect the city from the colder weather in winter. Some much needed rainfall is to be expected in the colder months, but with an average of less than 40 rainey days a year, it does not usually last for long.
History
The town of Malaga is a very fascinating town with a rich and unique history, which gives visitors a great variety of interesting things to do and see. As well as homage to the great Picasso, other great historic monuments include the imposing Baroque Cathedral, popularly known as ‘La Manquita’ (One Armed Woman), referring to its rather lopsided appearance due to the missing east bell tower.
Although there was much destruction in Malaga, especially during the time of the Spanish Civil War, there is still plenty of proof of the Moorish occupation. Today you can visit the Moorish Alcazaba fortress, dating back to 1065, which also now features a very interesting archaeological museum. There are also many churches in and around the centre, of great architectural and historic interest well worth visiting.
Shopping
Malaga centre is not only the perfect place to explore the many historical monuments, atmospheric little streets and squares with delightful café culture, but it is also a wonderful shopping centre. The main street to head for runs perpendicular to the stunning tree lined avenue, the Alameda, and starts at the Plaza Marina, near the port - Calle Marqués de Larios. Pedestrianised in 2002, it has many boutiques, designer shops and classy cafes, all surrounded by beautifully restored buildings.
There are also several indoor commercial shopping malls, one just behind the landmark building of the huge quality department store, El Corte Ingles. El Corte Ingles and many of the shops in Calle Larios stay open all day, to meet the demand of the resident or tourist who enjoys the freedom of longer shopping hours.
Restaurants
In Malaga there is no shortage of places to eat and drink. From top notch, Michelin rated restaurants to the most humble tapas bar, there is everything in between. If you find yourself in a Malaga chiringuito (beach bar) then the traditional ‘espeto’ sardines cooked outside on a skewer is not only delicious, but also an integral part of the healthy Mediterranean diet. There are many other delicious fresh fish dishes to choose from on most menus and generally at a very reasonable price.
Airport
Pablo Ruiz Picasso Málaga International Airport is one of the busiest airports in Spain, with up to a staggering 16 million passengers annually. It serves much of Andalusia and especially the ever popular area all along the Costa del Sol.