If you’re wondering what to do in Málaga in winter, take note because we have many plans for you. If there’s one place in Spain where winter is experienced differently, it’s Málaga.
In other European cities, cold and snow dominate the landscape, but in the capital of the Costa del Sol, you’ll enjoy pleasant weather. An invitation to stroll, explore, and experience outdoor activities without the need for heavy coats. With over 300 sunny days a year and temperatures that rarely drop below 10-15°C, Málaga is an ideal destination for those looking to escape the cold.
During the winter months, Málaga maintains its vibrant and welcoming essence, but with a big advantage: fewer crowds. Unlike summer, when the streets, beaches, and monuments are packed with tourists, winter allows you to enjoy the city in a more relaxed way.
- Beaches without crowds: Although it’s not the season for swimming, walking along the shore at La Malagueta Beach or in Pedregalejo is a unique experience.
- Spectacular sunsets: In winter, the sunset light paints the city in golden and pink tones, creating a romantic atmosphere perfect for enjoying magical views.
- A historic center without rush: Wandering through the streets of the center is much more pleasant without the scorching summer heat.
- Gastronomy without waiting: Enjoying bars and restaurants without long queues. A good plate of sardine skewers or a “Plato de los Montes” tastes even better when you can savor it calmly.
If you’re looking for a different kind of winter, full of light, sea, and culture, Málaga is the perfect destination. A place where winter isn’t synonymous with cold, but with opportunities to enjoy the city from another perspective.
What to do in Málaga in winter: Explore the historic center
One of the best things to do in Málaga in winter is to stroll through its historic center, a place where every corner breathes history and culture. And if there’s a perfect season to explore it without rush, it’s winter. With mild temperatures and without the tourist hustle of summer, wandering its cobbled streets becomes an even more special experience.
During these months, you can enjoy the main monuments and squares without long queues, or leisurely stroll through the alleys and stop at terraces for a coffee or wine without the crowds of high season.
Plaza de la Constitución: The heart of Málaga
Located in the epicenter of the historic center, Plaza de la Constitución has been the city’s nerve center since the Middle Ages. Surrounded by elegant buildings, charming cafés, and shopping streets, it’s the ideal place to start a winter stroll through the city.
Things to do at Plaza de la Constitución in winter:
- Enjoy a coffee at one of its terraces while watching daily life in the city.
- Explore the adjacent streets, full of local shops and boutiques.
- Visit the Exhibition Hall of the Sociedad Económica de Amigos del País, located in one of the historic buildings of the square.
Calle Larios: An iconic walk any time of year
Calle Larios is the main artery of the city center and one of the most elegant shopping streets in Spain. In winter, it takes on a special charm thanks to its relaxed atmosphere and, if you visit in December, its famous Christmas lights, among the most spectacular in Europe.
Things to do on Calle Larios in winter:
- Stroll leisurely, enjoying its stately architecture and decorated storefronts.
- Try a typical “pitufo” (a Málaga-style sandwich) at one of its cafés.
- If visiting in December, don’t miss the light and sound show that fills the street with magic.
Plaza de la Merced: Art, history, and Picasso
Plaza de la Merced is one of the liveliest spots in Málaga, full of terraces and rich history. It’s the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, whose statue presides over the square, and an ideal place to take a break during a stroll through the old town.
Things to do at Plaza de la Merced in winter:
- Visit the Picasso Birthplace Museum to learn more about the Málaga-born artist’s life.
- Enjoy a glass of wine at one of the square’s terraces, less crowded in winter.
- Explore the surrounding streets, home to some of the city’s most charming bars and restaurants.
Other charming spots in the historic center
Beyond the main squares and streets, Málaga’s old town hides unique corners worth discovering in winter:
- Málaga Cathedral: Known as “La Manquita,” it’s a must-visit without the long summer queues.
- Pasaje de Chinitas: A historic alley filled with small shops and charming cafés.
- Museums and galleries: From the Carmen Thyssen Museum to the Picasso Museum, winter is the best time to visit without crowds.
Strolling through Málaga’s historic center in winter allows you to experience the city from another perspective: unhurried, with more calm, and enjoying every corner with the charm that only this season can offer. If you want to discover the city like a local, nothing beats being accompanied by an accredited guide.
Our free tour Málaga gives you the opportunity to uncover all the details of the city’s history.
What to Do in Málaga in Winter: Visit the Museums
Another ideal plan to do in Málaga in winter is to immerse yourself in the world of art and culture. Málaga, known as the city of museums, offers an incredible variety of exhibition spaces for all tastes. With over 40 museums spread throughout the city, this is one of the best activities to enjoy Málaga in winter.
From classical to contemporary art, including history and Russian culture, you’ll find top-tier museums that will amaze you. Below, we recommend the must-visit museums for an unforgettable winter getaway.
Museo Picasso Málaga: The Art of the Málaga-born Genius
If there’s one museum you can’t miss in Málaga, it’s the Picasso Museum, dedicated to the city’s most famous artist. Housed in a beautiful Renaissance palace, it features a collection of over 200 works that showcase the different creative phases of the Cubist genius.
- Location: Palacio de Buenavista, Calle San Agustín
- Admission: Free on Sundays from 5:00 PM
- Extra Tip: Also visit the Picasso Birthplace Museum in Plaza de la Merced to learn more about his childhood.
Museo Carmen Thyssen: A Journey Through Spanish Painting
The Carmen Thyssen Museum is a gem for lovers of classical art. Its collection focuses on 19th-century Spanish painting, with a special emphasis on Andalusian art. In winter, strolling through its galleries without crowds allows you to appreciate works by Sorolla, Zuloaga, and Julio Romero de Torres more calmly.
- Location: Calle Compañía, next to Plaza de la Constitución
- Admission: Free on Sundays from 4:00 PM
- Extra Tip: Don’t miss its inner courtyard, a peaceful retreat in the city center.
Centre Pompidou Málaga: Modern Art at Muelle Uno
If you’re interested in contemporary art, the Centre Pompidou Málaga is a must-visit. Easily recognizable by its colorful glass cube, it houses a modern art collection featuring works by artists such as Frida Kahlo, Picasso, and Kandinsky.
- Location: Muelle Uno, Port of Málaga
- Admission: Free on Sundays from 4:00 PM
- Extra Tip: Take advantage of your visit to stroll around Muelle Uno, a perfect place to grab a drink with sea views.
Museo Ruso de Málaga: A Piece of St. Petersburg on the Costa del Sol
One of Málaga’s most surprising museums is the Russian Museum, located in a former tobacco factory. It features high-level temporary exhibitions with works from the great masters of Russian art, from Orthodox icons to Soviet avant-garde.
- Location: Avenida Sor Teresa Prat, 15 (Tabacalera)
- Admission: Free on Sundays from 4:00 PM
- Extra Tip: If you enjoy photography, also visit the Automobile and Fashion Museum, located in the same building.
Other Interesting Museums to Visit in Winter
- Málaga Museum: One of the largest collections of archaeology and art in Andalusia.
- Wine Museum: Ideal for learning about the region’s winemaking tradition and enjoying a tasting.
- Museum of Municipal Heritage (MUPAM): Perfect for understanding the city’s history through its exhibitions.
What to Do in Málaga in Winter: A Gastronomic Tour Around the City
One of the best things to do in Málaga in winter is to enjoy its delicious gastronomy, which combines tradition, fresh products, and unique Mediterranean flavors. Despite its mild climate, this season calls for more comforting dishes. The city offers a wide variety of options to savor the best of Málaga’s cuisine.
If you’re planning a winter getaway, you can’t miss some of the most representative local specialties, such as “Plato de los Montes,” sardine skewers (yes, even in winter), or the famous sweet Málaga wine. Below, we suggest a food tour to discover the city’s most authentic flavors.
Traditional Málaga Dishes You Can’t Miss in Winter
- Plato de los Montes: A hearty dish of meat (pork loin in lard, chorizo, or blood sausage) served with fried potatoes and peppers. Perfect for warming up.
- Sardine Skewers: Although more typical in summer, many beachside restaurants still prepare them in winter. A delicious treat by the sea.
- Sopa Perota: A traditional winter dish from Álora, made with bread, tomato, pepper, and garlic.
- Berza Malagueña: A hot stew with chickpeas, meat, and vegetables, ideal for cooler days.
- Ajoblanco: Although consumed year-round, this cold dish made with almonds and garlic is a classic of Málaga’s cuisine.
- Sweet Málaga Wine: Perfect to accompany desserts or simply enjoy at a historic winery.
Recommended Restaurants and Bars for a Food Tour
If you want to enjoy the best local food in winter, these restaurants and bars are must-stops on your gastronomic tour:
- Venta El Túnel – To try the authentic “Plato de los Montes”
- Location: Camino Colmenar, 85 (Just outside Málaga)
- Recommended for: Enjoying a good “Plato de los Montes” with views of the Montes de Málaga.
- Tip: Visit after a hike in the Montes de Málaga to recharge with their homemade food.
- El Pimpi – Málaga’s Most Iconic Bar
- Location: Calle Granada, 62
- Recommended for: Tasting Málaga-style tapas in a historic setting, accompanied by local sweet wine.
- Tip: Order a platter of Iberian cold cuts and pair it with a glass of Málaga’s Moscatel wine.
- Los Marinos José – The Best Sardine Skewers in Winter
- Location: Fuengirola to Benalmádena Road
- Recommended for: Enjoying sardine skewers at a top-quality beachfront restaurant.
- Tip: Many think sardine skewers are only for summer, but true seafood lovers enjoy them all year round.
- Mesón Mariano – Traditional Málaga Cuisine
- Location: Calle Granados, 2
- Recommended for: Savoring dishes such as “berza malagueña” (Málaga-style stew) or roast kid goat.
- Tip: Don’t miss their famous artichoke dishes, one of their specialties.
- Antigua Casa de Guardia – Málaga Wines and Tradition
- Location: Alameda Principal, 18
- Recommended for: Tasting authentic Málaga sweet wine in one of the city’s most historic taverns.
- Tip: Let the bartenders guide you and try different varieties of sweet wines, paired with a tapa of aged cheese or almonds.
What to Do in Málaga in Winter: A Stroll Through Muelle Uno and the Beach
If there’s something essential to see in Málaga in winter, where the sea and the city merge in perfect harmony, it’s Muelle Uno. Located in the heart of the port, this modern waterfront promenade becomes an ideal plan to enjoy winter without the summer crowds. With mild temperatures and sunny days, walking along Muelle Uno and Malagueta Beach allows you to experience the city in a more authentic way.
Muelle Uno: Modernity and Leisure by the Sea
Muelle Uno is one of the most vibrant spaces in Málaga, where contemporary design blends with the city’s maritime essence. In winter, you can take a leisurely stroll along its wide pedestrian walkway, enjoying views of the Mediterranean and the relaxed atmosphere.
What to do at Muelle Uno in winter:
- Walk at a leisurely pace while enjoying the sea breeze and the view of the boats in the port.
- Explore the Centre Pompidou Málaga, whose colorful glass cube has become a city landmark.
- Have a drink on a terrace facing the sea, soaking up the relaxed atmosphere.
- Visit the craft and local product market, which is usually set up on weekends.
- Take advantage of shopping in exclusive stores, without the summer crowds.
La Malagueta: A Walk on the Beach Without Crowds
Malagueta Beach, the most iconic in Málaga, offers a very different feel in winter. Without the summer masses, this is the perfect time to take a relaxed stroll along the sand, breathing in the fresh sea air.
Plans to enjoy Malagueta Beach in winter:
- Walk along the shoreline and feel the calm of the Mediterranean without the summer hustle.
- Exercise outdoors, whether it’s running, yoga, or simple stretching with sea views.
- Enjoy a “espeto” (grilled sardines) at a beach bar, because in Málaga, sardine skewers are not just for summer.
- Sit on the breakwater and watch the sunset, a spectacular display of colors in the Málaga sky.
- An unforgettable sunset at the port.
If there’s a special time to visit Muelle Uno and Malagueta Beach in winter, it’s at sunset. The golden sunlight reflecting on the sea creates a magical atmosphere, ideal for a romantic stroll or simply unwinding from the daily routine.
Excursion to the Montes de Málaga: Nature in Winter
If you’re looking for a different kind of experience to enjoy in winter in Málaga, a getaway to the Montes de Málaga is an ideal option. This Natural Park, just 20 minutes by car from the city center, offers a spectacular setting where nature, tranquility, and great gastronomy come together for an unforgettable day.
Winter is one of the best seasons to explore this area. The cooler temperatures make hiking and cycling much more enjoyable. Plus, it’s the perfect time to enjoy a traditional meal at a rural inn, where hearty dishes and homemade cuisine take center stage.
Montes de Málaga Natural Park: A Green Paradise in the City
Montes de Málaga Natural Park is an extensive pine forest covering more than 4,900 hectares of mountainous terrain, offering spectacular views of the city and the sea. This green lung is a refuge for native flora and fauna and a perfect destination to disconnect from urban life.
Reasons to visit the Montes de Málaga in winter:
- Milder temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities.
- Fewer tourists, allowing for a peaceful nature experience.
- The opportunity to try local cuisine in a rustic country inn.
- A perfect atmosphere for those looking to relax in a natural setting.
Hiking Trails and Outdoor Activities
Winter is the best time to explore the Montes de Málaga on foot or by bike. There are several trails suited to different difficulty levels, all offering panoramic views and surrounded by unique natural landscapes.
Recommended trails:
- Cerrado Trail: 5 km (low difficulty). Ideal for a relaxed walk among pines and streams.
- Torrijo Trail: 10 km (medium difficulty). Passes through old forest houses and viewpoints with incredible scenery.
- Mirador del Cochino: 8 km (medium difficulty). Leads to one of the best viewpoints in the park.
- Cycling Route: Several trails are prepared for cyclists, with forest paths and slopes for all levels.
- Tip: Wear comfortable clothing, suitable footwear, and bring water, as some routes lack supply points.
Gastronomic Stop at a Traditional Inn
After a hike through the Montes de Málaga, there’s no better plan than stopping at a traditional inn, the rustic restaurants of the mountains where typical Málaga cuisine is served.
Must-try dishes at a rural inn:
- Plato de los Montes: A hearty dish with pork loin in lard, chorizo, fried egg, and fried potatoes.
- Berza Malagueña: A chickpea and meat stew, ideal for cold days.
- Migas with Chorizo: Made with bread or flour, perfect for regaining energy after a hike.
- Pestiños and Sweet Wine: A sweet ending with homemade pastries and Málaga’s famous wine.
What to Do in Málaga in Winter: Sunset at Mirador de Gibralfaro
If there’s one magical winter activity in Málaga that you can’t miss, it’s saying goodbye to the day from the Gibralfaro Viewpoint. Located atop the hill of the same name, it offers spectacular panoramic views of the city, the port, and the Mediterranean Sea.
In winter, when the sky is painted in golden, pink, and orange hues, the experience becomes even more special. One of the great benefits of visiting this place in winter is that you can enjoy the sunset with fewer people.
Why watch the sunset at Gibralfaro in winter?
- Fewer tourists, allowing for a more peaceful and exclusive experience.
- Pleasant temperature, without the scorching summer heat.
- Mostly clear skies, providing unforgettable sunsets.
- Unmatched panoramic views of Málaga, the Alcazaba, and the port.
What to See from the Gibralfaro Viewpoint
From this privileged spot, you can enjoy a unique panoramic view of Málaga:
- The historic center with its rooftops and streets illuminated by the golden sunset light.
- The Alcazaba and Roman Theater, two of the city’s most emblematic monuments.
- The port and Muelle Uno, with docked boats and La Farola lighthouse standing out.
- The Malagueta Bullring, with its characteristic circular structure.
- The Mediterranean, with the sun reflecting on the sea before disappearing over the horizon.
Si buscas una experiencia completa, después de ver el atardecer desde el Mirador de Gibralfaro, puedes:
- Have a drink with a view at the Parador de Gibralfaro: This hotel features a terrace perfect for relaxing with a glass of wine or a coffee while the city lights up at night.
- Head down to the city center and dine at a charming restaurant: The return journey will take you through the historic center, where you can enjoy local gastronomy at one of its traditional restaurants.
- Take a stroll along Muelle Uno: After sunset, this waterfront promenade is an ideal spot to enjoy the sea breeze and Málaga’s relaxed winter atmosphere.