“The world today doesn’t make sense, so why should I paint pictures that do? – Pablo Picasso

For many years, I didn’t think there was anything worth seeing in Malaga. I always assumed that everyone flew into Malaga and then got the hell out of Malaga to spend their holiday in another town or village for a reason, but, as it turns out, Malaga has loads to offer. That just shows you where presumption gets you.

I recently went to visit a friend of mine who lives there, and it really surprised me. I spent 4 days in the city and I’m going to tell you what I did, there are tonnes of other things I still want to do but I’m going back so, I’ll discuss those things after my upcoming trip to the South of Spain.

Daytime activities

City centre

Just a few minutes walk from the beautiful beaches; there are two massive citadels on the hill. There is the awe-inspiring Alcazaba and the ruins of the Gibralfaro. These are spectacular remnants of the Moorish rule in the South of Spain. It only costs €2.50 to access the ruins and my goodness, you won’t regret it. Everything about them is outstanding and that’s not even mentioning the view that you’re welcomed by once you reach the top of the hill. It was really breathtaking. It happened to be 18 degrees in January the day that I walked to the top, having not expected that heat, I overdressed and ended up sitting for a half an hour at the top to have a coffee and cool down. But it was so peaceful, I would recommend anyone going to do the same, there’s a sheltered coffee shop outside that serves a mean café con leche.

Museums

You know me and a good art museum. Naturally, I went to the Pablo Picasso museum once I decided to venture down from the hill. To see the permanent collection and the exhibition at the time, it costs €10. €10 well spent. The audio guide is one of the best audio guides I’ve ever used too. Normally the audio guides go into way too much detail and you end up having to look at one painting for 10 minutes at a time, this one is interesting and to the point.

Walking

El Torcal de Antequerra was the coolest thing I did in Malaga. I didn’t know what to expect from the Nature Park Reserve that my friend had been telling me about but it was fabulous. It’s in the Province of Malaga – about a 45 minute drive from the city, but definitely worth it for a Sunday gander. It’s one of the most impressive karst landscapes in Europe apparently and not only that, it took me right back to my Junior Cert. geography class days! I also love climbing and there were loads of rocks to climb while I was there, I was so elated by it I even shouted out “I’m a goat!” at one stage… and as we all know it’s a goat’s life.

Food

Recyclo Bike Café is a wonderful restaurant that is very trendy and has the most delicious burgers and cocktails. The staff was also a dream… For those ex-pats that know what customer service is like in Spain, you’ll appreciate some efficient staff!

Across the road from Vialia Shopping Centre, there is the most delicious Chinese restaurant too. It’s one of those places that looks like nothing from the outside, you’d never suspect that it’s the best Chinese food you’ll ever try. I think a good tell-tale sign that the food was going to be good was that when we walked in, everyone eating in there was Chinese. It’s called Restaurante La Parada.

What I want to do when I go back

The Cathedral is between the Picasso museum and the Alcazaba, I walked around it and viewed the outside, but I want to go in and see the interior next time I go back. It’s a sight to behold from the exterior. I’m excited to see what’s in store.

I’m also dying to go to CAC or Malaga’s Centre of Contemporary Art.

Finally, I cannot wait to go to the Hammam Turkish Baths the next time I’m in Malaga and I have time to go. I went and bought a bikini in Primark while I was there because I was so set on going to the Turkish baths, but time didn’t allow for it, unfortunately. I loved the Hammam in Amman, Jordan so much when I was there; I am so looking forward to trying another one.

If you’re travelling to Malaga and you try any of my suggestions, I’d love to hear about it! Tag me on instagram, snap me (imperfectlyfree) or send me a tweet.

Until next time…

Winging it,

R x