Andalusia is a region in southern Spain full of contrasts: sun-drenched beaches, quiet white villages, bustling cities and beautiful nature. Málaga is both a city and a province, and for many travellers it is the heart of their holiday.
From your holiday home with a pool in the Málaga region you can head in any direction: soak up culture, hike, relax or be active. This guide helps you on your way with the finest places and best activities.
Málaga city: culture, coast and character
In the heart of Andalusia, on the Costa del Sol, lies Málaga. The airport is easily accessible and the perfect base for beaches, mountain villages and nature reserves. But Málaga is far more than an arrival point: a lively city with a perfect mix of history, art and modern city life, right by the sea.
Visit the Picasso Museum, stroll the historic centre past the cathedral, the Roman theatre and the Alcazaba, wander along the Muelle Uno and lunch at the Mercado de Atarazanas. End your day with a panoramic view from the Castillo de Gibralfaro.
The magic of the white villages
As soon as you drive inland, you enter a completely different world. The famous pueblos blancos are scattered across the hills and exude peace and authenticity.
- Frigiliana – one of the most beautiful villages in Spain, with cobbled streets and white houses full of flowers.
- Mijas Pueblo – clinging to the mountain, with sea views and charming squares.
- Cómpeta, Sayalonga and Canillas de Aceituno – quiet, atmospheric villages with local restaurants and nearby hiking trails.
The finest beaches on the Costa del Sol
Fancy a beach day? From wide sandy beaches to small coves, you have plenty of choice:
- Playa de Burriana (Nerja) – large and lively, with beach bars and water sports.
- Playa de Maro – more intimate, surrounded by cliffs; ideal for snorkelling.
- Playa de la Malagueta (Málaga) – a city beach with all amenities.
- Playa del Cañuelo – a beautiful natural beach between the cliffs.
- Torre del Mar – a long beach with a promenade, popular with families.
Nature & hiking
For nature lovers, the region around Málaga is a true paradise, with spectacular landscapes and impressive viewpoints.
- Caminito del Rey – an exciting route along a gorge, with wooden paths and bridges.
- El Torcal de Antequera – a bizarre karst landscape, ideal for a short or long walk.
- Sierra Almijara and Sierra de Tejeda – mountain areas with pine forests and paths for every level.
- Río Chíllar – an adventurous route where you walk through the river; refreshing in summer.
Local markets and village life
Visiting a local market is a perfect way to experience the real Andalusia, with fresh fruit, local cheeses, olives and crafts.
- Vélez-Málaga (Saturday) – the largest market in the Axarquía.
- Cómpeta (Monday) – small-scale, with many local products.
- Caleta de Vélez (Sunday) – partly by the harbour, with a lively atmosphere.
- Frigiliana, Torrox and Algarrobo – weekly markets with regional products and craftwork.
Authentic places for a day trip
- Ronda – a spectacularly located city with bridges, palaces and a deep gorge.
- Granada – home to the Alhambra, a must for culture lovers.
- Antequera – lesser known, but with impressive dolmens and viewpoints.
Discover more with a rental car
A rental car gives you the freedom to experience Andalusia like the locals: embrace the relaxed Spanish pace, respect the siesta, visit the weekly markets and ask residents for their favourite spots. That’s how you reach the hidden gems, and cities like Seville, Granada and Córdoba come within reach, as do the Costa del Sol and the wilder Costa de la Luz with the surf spot of Tarifa.
Gastronomy and wine routes
Andalusia is a culinary pilgrimage: hop from tapas bar to tapas bar, discover the sweet Málaga wines (D.O. Málaga) and the world-famous sherry around Jerez de la Frontera, and soak up the atmosphere of the colourful mercados.
Stay close to what you love most
Whatever activities or places appeal to you, in the Málaga region you’ll find holiday homes that suit them perfectly. Close to the beach, in the middle of nature, or on the edge of a white village.