What to Do in Just One Day in Malaga | Cruise Genie

In just one day in Malaga, you can visit the Alcazaba, Roman Theatre, Picasso Museum, and enjoy some tapas in the historic city center.

What to Do in Just One Day in Malaga

Located in the heart of Spain’s Costa del Sol, Malaga boasts a combination of culture, history, and 16 beautiful beaches. The Malaga Cruise Terminal and surrounding port are rich with culture and a great place to start your day. 

The 2800-year-old coastal city was the birthplace of Pablo Picasso and is now a hotspot for food, art, and great weather. As well as the city, the stunning coastline and lush Malaga mountains offer a range of alternative outdoor activities that can be enjoyed all year round.  

Cruise Port Malaga

The Port of Malaga, Spain, is the oldest port in continuous use in the country and one of the oldest in the Mediterranean with many visitors to the area arriving through the Malaga Cruise Ship Port. The port is thought to have been founded as early as 1000 BC and, throughout its history, has played an important role in European trade – particularly in the Roman Times. 

The Port of Malaga is now more popular with passenger traffic than import and export, with over 220 cruise ship calls and 210,000 embarking tourists passing through the port each year. The port is currently home to two modern tourist terminals (A and B) located at the Maritime Station landing stage.  

How to Get to Málaga From the Málaga Cruise Port

Malaga’s Cruise Port is located just steps from the historic city center, and around 2km from the train and bus station. To reach the stations, you can choose between a 15-minute walk, the shuttle buses (running every 15 to 20 minutes) or taking a taxi. Many visitors to the city find no need for public transport. 

What are the nearest attractions to Malaga Cruise Port?

Malaga’s Port is in the heart of the city, and most of the city’s best attractions are within walking distance of the cruise terminal. Some of the most popular is the medieval palace of Alcazaba, the Museum of Malaga, La Calle Larios, and the Jardin Botanico Historico La Concepcion.  

Cultural and Historical Tour

Malaga is almost 3000 years old and was home to one of the world’s most famous artists – making it a great place to get lost in history and culture. Despite being a large city, if you only have one day to see Malaga, there is no reason why you can’t tick off all the best of the historical and cultural attractions. 

Visit the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Castle

Located only a mile from the port, the ruins of Gibralfaro Castle overlook the fortress of Alcazaba and are both popular attractions in the city. You can buy tickets at the entrance of both locations, with tour guides available too. 

Visit Playa de la Malagueta

The Costa del Sol, of coast of sun, is known around the world for it’s great year-round weather, so for many a trip to Malaga is incomplete without at least a couple of hours soaking up the sun on the beaches. Malaga is home to 16 beaches but Playa de la Malagueta is perhaps the most impressive – and is only 6km from the port. 

Art and Food Tour

A trip to Malaga isn’t complete without sampling the local tapas dishes and exploring one of the many art galleries in the city. 

Picasso Museum

As the birthplace and childhood home of Picasso, the Picasso Museum is a must-see for many visitors to Malaga. The museum is just 1km from the Port of Malaga and an easy 10 minute stroll, even in the warmer summer months. 

FAQs

What are the must-visit places in Malaga if I only have one day?

The Picasso Museum, Playa de la Malagueta, Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Castle and the historic city center, 

Can I visit the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Castle in one day?

Yes, both can be enjoyed in a morning or afternoon, leaving you time to see other parts of Malaga too. 

What's in Malaga port?

The Cruise Terminals at the Malaga Port are extensive and modern, with a range of shops, bars, and restaurants to enjoy. 

How can I spend a few hours in Port Malaga?

Port Malaga is located in the heart of the city, so even with limited time, it’s possible to enjoy a few plates of tapas, visit a museum, or relax under the sun on the beach.