Best Day Trips from Malaga
The sunny city of Malaga, located in southern Spain, has a lot going for it. Beautiful beaches, fascinating culture, and incredible food keep people coming back here in the millions every year — and that's to say nothing of the nightlife. Truthfully, whatever you like to do, chances are good you'll find it in Malaga, from the best museums in the city to lively tapas bars, live music, and great shopping.
But Malaga is also the gateway to Spain's legendary Costa del Sol. And in the region around Malaga, you'll find a wealth of gorgeous towns and villages in the surrounding countryside, not to mention pristine beaches and cultural attractions. The best day trips from Malaga can show you what makes this part of Spain so special as you venture into the Costa del Sol and beyond.
Drop off your bags at a Bounce luggage storage in Malaga, and you'll be ready to enjoy some spectacular day trips. No matter what you're interested in, the best day trips from Malaga will give you a memorable experience of Spain's gorgeous South.
How to get out of Malaga
Getting around Malaga isn't too difficult, as you'll see from our guide on how to get around the city. The same applies to taking a day trip. Malaga isn't a place you want to drive a car if you can possibly avoid it, and usually, you can. Spain's train network is efficient and affordable and can get you to most places you want to go. And if there is no train line to your favorite day trip destination, Malaga bus station may well have a bus line that can get you there instead.
However, there are some places that are better seen with a car. Some of the more remote day trips from Malaga will be a lot easier if you have your own wheels. A road trip along the Costa del Sol is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience, so don't neglect this option when it comes to planning your day trips.
From Malaga to Ronda
Ronda is one of the most popular day trips from Malaga, and it's not hard to see why. This stunning town, located in the mountains about an hour and a half drive from Malaga, is home to some of Spain's most breathtaking scenery.
Perched atop the deep El Tajo gorge, Ronda is bisected by a beautiful stone bridge that was built in the 18th century. The views from this bridge are simply incredible, making Ronda one of the best places in Spain for photography lovers.
In addition to its natural beauty, Ronda is also rich in history and culture. The town was founded by the Celts and later occupied by the Romans before being taken over by the Moors in the 8th century. Don't miss the Plaza de Toros, the 18th-century bullring, or the Mondragon Palace, dating back to the 14th century. Exploring the narrow streets and Old Town of this famous attraction is easily one of the best day trips from Malaga and a perfect way to explore more of southern Spain, and it's one of the easiest Malaga day trips to go on.
How to get to Ronda
You can drive to Ronda from Malaga in around an hour and a half. Alternatively, you can take a couple of buses by way of Marbella, a journey that will take around two and a half hours.
From Malaga to Caminito del Rey
The Caminito del Rey is a unique and popular day trip from Malaga that takes you on a hike along a narrow walkway that was once used by workers to get to the hydroelectric power plant located in the El Chorro gorge.
This incredible trail, which is now open to the public, is about three kilometers long and has been built into the sheer cliff face. It's not for the faint of heart, but if you're up for the challenge, it's one of the most rewarding day trips from Malaga. The views from the Caminito del Rey are simply stunning, and this is an experience you won't soon forget.
How to get to the Caminito del Rey
This is one you'll probably want to drive to. It's about an hour by car from Malaga, and while the Caminito is accessible by transit, it could take two hours or more to get there from the Malaga bus station.
From Malaga to Setenil de las Bodegas
Setenil de las Bodegas is a small town located about an hour and a half drive from Malaga. This quaint town is set in a stunning gorge, and its houses are built right into the cliffs.
Setenil de las Bodegas is a great place to explore on foot, as there are plenty of hidden corners to discover. The views from the top of the gorge are also breathtaking, so make sure to take some time to enjoy them. This unique day trip from Malaga is perfect for anyone who wants to get off the beaten path and explore a lesser-known side of Spain.
How to get to Setenil de las Bodegas
This is another day trip you'll want a car for. It's about an hour and a half drive from Malaga, but there's no public transit in the area, so a car is the only way to get here.
From Malaga to Granada
Just over two hours from Malaga by car, Granada is another must-see day trip destination. This beautiful city is home to some of Spain's most iconic landmarks, including the stunning Alhambra palace.
The Alhambra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in all of Spain. Dating back to the 13th century, this former palace complex is an absolute masterpiece of Moorish architecture. Even if you're not particularly interested in history or architecture, the Alhambra is worth a visit for its sheer beauty.
In addition to the Alhambra, Granada is also home to the world-famous Generalife Gardens. These gorgeous gardens, located just outside the palace complex, are the perfect place to relax and enjoy the incredible views of the city.
Granada is a large city with plenty to see, so be sure to give yourself enough time to explore all that it has to offer. If you can, try to stay for a night or two so that you can really experience all that there is to do.
How to get to Granada
You can drive from Malaga to Granada in around an hour and a half. You can also take a train which is a little quicker, and then you won't have to worry about parking in the city.
From Malaga to Córdoba
Córdoba, located about two hours from Malaga by car, is another worthy day trip in southern Spain. This beautiful city is home to one of Spain's most iconic landmarks, the Mezquita.
The Mezquita is a former mosque that was converted into a cathedral in the 13th century. This unique building is a fascinating blend of Muslim and Christian architecture, and it's one of the most popular tourist attractions in all of Spain.
In addition to the Mezquita, Córdoba is also home to the Alcazar de Los Reyes Cristianos, a beautiful palace complex that was once the home of Spanish royalty. Córdoba also has a well-preserved Old Town with plenty of narrow streets and traditional Spanish architecture.
This is another destination that warrants spending the night if you can. If not, a day trip will definitely do.
How to get to Córdoba
The train from Malaga to Córdoba takes around an hour. Driving is far slower, requiring almost 2 hours, so you're better off taking the train if possible.
From Malaga to Seville
Seville, located about two and a half hours from Malaga by car, is the capital of Andalusia. Some of the attractions that make Seville a popular day trip from Malaga are its iconic landmarks, including the Alcazar palace complex and the Giralda Tower. The city itself is also very beautiful.
The Alcazar is a stunning palace complex that dates back to the 14th century. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most popular tourist attractions in all of Spain. The Giralda Tower, which is attached to the cathedral, is another must-see landmark in Seville. This tower was once the tallest building in the Christian world, and it offers incredible views of the city from its top. And don't forget to check out the Plaza de España, a beautiful square that was built for the 1929 World Expo.
How to get to Seville
Two and a half hours by car, or just under two hours by train, will bring you to this fascinating city.
From Malaga to Castillo de San Luis
The Castillo de San Luis is a beautiful castle located just outside of Seville. This imposing fortress was built in the 13th century and served as a royal palace for many years. The castle is now open to the public and offers stunning views of the city.
If you're looking for a unique day trip from Malaga, the Castillo de San Luis is a great option. You'll get to see the ruins of a Moorish watchtower as well as a Roman mausoleum (what's left of it, anyway). Although much of the castle has been lost over time, the site still offers a glimpse into the area's history and a scenic seaside location.
How to get to Castillo de San Luis
The train to the castle will take around two hours from Malaga, and driving will take about an hour and half.
From Malaga to Gibraltar
Gibraltar, located about three hours from Malaga by car, is a British Overseas Territory located on the southern tip of Spain. This unique destination is home to some of Europe's most iconic landmarks, including the Rock of Gibraltar and St. Michael's Cave.
The Rock of Gibraltar is a towering limestone outcropping that offers incredible views of the surrounding area. This landmark is also home to a large colony of Barbary macaques, the only wild monkeys in Europe.
St. Michael's Cave is another must-see landmark in Gibraltar. This massive cave system has been used as a place of worship for centuries and features beautiful stalactite and stalagmite formations.
If you're looking for a truly unique day trip from Malaga, Gibraltar is a great option and easily one of the best day trips from Malaga. This British Overseas Territory offers a mix of Spanish and British culture and has great food, breathtaking views, and pretty much else you might want.
How to get to Gibraltar
Interestingly, Spanish public transport does not cross the border into Gibraltar. You can get the number five bus which will bring you right to the border with Gibraltar, and then walk over, with the whole journey taking around two and half hours. Driving, on the other hand, takes about two hours.
From Malaga to Tangier
Okay, this might be a little far for a day trip from Malaga. But Tangier is only a five-hour ferry ride away from Malaga and given everything it has to offer, we couldn't leave it off this list.
Tangier is a city located in northern Morocco. This beautiful city is home to a mix of Arabic, French, and Spanish cultures. Tangier is also one of the best places in Africa to experience traditional Moroccan food.
The Medina of Tangier is a must-see when visiting this city. This ancient walled city is full of narrow streets and traditional Moroccan architecture. The souks, or markets, are also not to be missed.
If you're looking for an adventure, Tangier is the perfect day trip destination from Malaga. This Moroccan city offers a unique blend of cultures and is home to some of the best food in all of Africa. But, stay a night or two if you can!
How to get to Tangier
It's a five-hour ferry ride from Malaga to Tangier. For that reason, you'll want to book a room for at least a night or two in this fascinating North African city.
Conclusion
The best day trips from Malaga offer you everything from vibrant modern cities to fascinating castles to gorgeous scenery. Drop off your bags at a Bounce luggage storage in Malaga, and you'll be ready to enjoy everything this exciting region has to offer.