Hmmmmm!
First Impressions of Malaga, Spain
No thanks. Don’t be offended, it’s ok that I didn’t connect with Malaga, it doesn’t make it a terrible place, it’s just not a city for me. Truth be told, it just doesn’t have the same vibe as the rest of Spain.
It has this huge ocean front promenade that was lined with massive yachts and I just felt that the typically romantic connection with history and classic architecture was completely lost by this ‘showy’ display of excess.
Everyone says that Malaga is where it’s at, brimming with flavours in soul and food and a multi-layered past, but I couldn’t find that.
It is also possible that my perspective was jaded because I started my Spanish journey in Seville, which in my opinion was my most favourite…then to Cordoba, where the history and culture is oozing in the streets…then I went to Malaga, which is just so EXTRA!
Andalucía,Spain
It’s a yes to the Beaches of Malaga
The best thing about Malaga is the beaches and the fact that it’s the city that gave us Picasso.
The best thing Malaga had going for it are the beaches. Of all the beach cities I visited in Spain, I felt that Malaga has…hands down…the best beaches. But that wasn’t why I was here.
Andalucía,Spain
Let’s talk about the sights!
There are a ton of museums in Malaga, so if that is your thing, then you are in the right city for sure. But I love the open air museums and the historical sights, so let’s talk about those.
Catedral de Málaga
Since the 16th century, taking 200 years to finish, this elaborate cathedral was also a former mosque. The architecture of course is incredible with 40 m high domed ceiling, 15 chapels, the only remaining piece of the mosque, Patio de Los Naranjos. It’s a sight to see.
Alcazaba
IF, you went to the Alhambra in Granada, I think you can skip the Alcazaba for sure. impressive in its own right, not as magnificent as the Alhambra in Granada. But fully equipped with a Roman theatre, a lush greenery lined winding path, rows and rows of orange trees, it’s a nice place to visit and relax and just meander around. This palace-fortress dates from the 11th-century Moorish period.
Paseo de España
On the way to beach we stumbled upon the Paseo de Espana, this was a very pleasant discovery because until this point, I was super disappointed in Malaga and not being about to feel a connection to the city. It looks like an itty-bitty jungle, lined in palms it’s an extension of the Alameda was created in the 1890s built on reclaimed from the sea. This garden is full of exotic tropical plants and trees. It’s a beautiful park space in the city.
Off to Granada
Time for more of Spain
Well, it’s been a slice but it’s ciao for life Malaga. I am off to see Granada and the Alhambra.
Please note that I have not received these products for free or at a discounted price in exchange for my opinion. There may be links that are affiliate links but at the time of posting this review, I have not received any monetary kickbacks.