Our cruise has a 1 day stop in Malaga. I have distant memories of Malaga being very Miami like, so maybe that has changed and its worth exploring the city. If so, what are the highlights? If not, what is an easy but interesting excursion from Malaga. We are in port for about 9 hours (9a-5p).
Posted by
Denver, CO USA
417 posts
Jump ship and spend a week getting to know the city.
Posted by
Massachusetts, USA
1625 posts
Malaga is wonderful! Yes, Malaga has changed. The historic center has been tastefully restored: pedestrianized with marble streets, beautiful architecture, narrow lanes, nice stores and restaurants.
Some highlights:
the gothic style Malaga cathedral
the Alcazaba - the entrance is next to the Roman amphitheater; a beautiful meandering path with lush greenery, exotic flowers, that brings you to the 11th century Moorish fortress, with stunning views of the city, the port, and the Mediterranean.
Numerous art museums, including the Picasso Musuem
Castillo de Gibralfaro
Mercado Atarazanas where you can browse, shop, eat and drink
Seaside promenade where you can have drinks while watching the sunset
We love Malaga! It's an under-rated city. You will love it!
Posted by
Bristol, UK
1031 posts
Definitely stay in Malaga. It’s a lovely city. I haven’t been to Miami but can’t imagine there are many similarities beyond the beach setting. Malaga is a very old city.
Posted by
Washington DC
27198 posts
The glass museum (Museo del Vidrio y Cristal) showcases a good private collection. It's definitely worth seeing if you have an interest in glass.
Do not confuse the Picasso Museum (worthwhile) with the Picasso Birthplace Museum. The latter is totally skippable, and that's being kind.
Posted by
Portsmouth
5286 posts
Having been to both Miami and Malaga and it's hard to wonder how Malaga has ever been like Miami. I'd be interested to hear how the OP drew that comparison.
Posted by
Massachusetts, USA
378 posts
I too have been to both and do not know how this comparison could be drawn. Been to Malaga once - loved it and hope to get back. Been to Miami twice and hope never to go back.
Posted by
Los Angeles
957 posts
Can we do a day trip to Malaga from Sevilla? Or is too far? We will not have a car.
Posted by
Washington DC
27198 posts
It's at least 2 hours by train each way from Seville to Malaga and longer by bus, so I'd say "No" unless you have a very long stay in Seville. Seville itself has a lot of sights.
The top-priority day trip from Seville would be Cordoba--if you aren't planning to spend one or more nights there already. You'd make the trip by express train and might save considerable money by buying the ticket early. But only do that if you're sure you'll make the trip.
The large town of Carmona is also a convenient option. Buses are scheduled to take about 75 minutes each way.
Note that Seville has two bus stations, so if you plan any bus side-trips, be sure you head to the correct bus station.