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Malaga, Spain

The best free and affordable things to do in Malaga

Thinking of heading to the Costa del Sol for a sun-drenched holiday? There's a reason why Malaga is so popular; with its numerous beaches and a wide range of things to do, it's one of those destinations that can cater for just about any type of holiday.

And we've got you covered if you're trying to keep costs down in Malaga (so that you can save some cash for nightlife or shopping, naturally!). Here are some of our all-time favourite free or affordable things to do during a Malaga holiday.

Published by
Kasha·11/10/2024
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The second-largest city in Andalusia, Malaga has become a staple holiday destination for those who want to spend time along Spain's Costa del Sol. While many holidaymakers flock here for the sunshine and beaches, there's a surprising amount of things to do in Malaga and its surrounds - for all ages.

And not all of these are expensive; in fact, there are many activities and places that are either free or very affordable. Check out our recommendations for a budget-friendly Malaga trip below.

1. Visit a museum on a Sunday

Malaga is home to over 30 museums and galleries, covering a wide array of topics and focus areas. While many of these normally charge an admission fee, this isn't the case on a Sunday.

Every Sunday in some cases (or the first or last Sunday of the month for others), you'll find that admission is free either throughout the entire day or for a few hours. The popular Picasso Museum, for example, is free on a Sunday during its last two opening hours. The modern art gallery of Centre Pompidou is free during the late afternoon/early evening hours on a Sunday.

It's always best to check with the individual museum to see when you can visit them for free on a Sunday and whether you'll need to book tickets in advance.

2. Enjoy a free visit to Alcazaba of Malaga and Gibralfaro Castle

Undoubtedly two of Malaga's most renowned historical structures, you'd normally have to pay admission to see either of these sites. In fact, these heavily fortified sites are considered to be the heart of Malaga thanks to their rich heritage and level of preservation.

Free or not, we'd classify these spots as absolute must-visits. Thankfully, you can do it for free! Every Sunday, you can visit both of these amazing places for free after 2PM.

3. Hit the beach

Malaga is home to around 160km of coastline within the city and its surrounds, so why not make the most of this fact and spend a day or three lazing on a beach?

The beaches are, naturally, free to enjoy but you may have to spend some money if you want to hire loungers or beach umbrellas. The beaches closest to Malaga city centre are La Malagueta, Huelin, Pedregalejo and El Palo, but you may need to catch public transport to any that are further afield.

With weather that's hot or mild throughout the year, a beach day in Malaga is always a good idea (and it's kind to your wallet too).

4. Grab a bite at Mercado Central de Atarazanas

Choosing to eat at a food market will almost always work out cheaper than a sit-down restaurant meal. Not only that, but heading to the market will give you the opportunity to try out a number of different Spanish delicacies - and all for an affordable price.

Mercado Central de Atarazanas is Malaga's central market. This historic covered market is where locals pick up fresh produce and other groceries, but you can also find tapas bars and stalls selling ready-to-go food here. Seafood is especially popular in Malaga, so try out the grilled sardines or anchovies while at the market.

5. Stroll along the Paseo Maritimo

Another activity that's entirely free, the Paseo Maritimo is Malaga's seaside promenade, taking you past La Malagueta beach as well as the harbour. While admiring the views, you'll be walking past bars, shops and restaurants.

One of the best aspects of Malaga's Paseo Maritimo is that some of it is shaded and some parts even spray fine mists of cool water - perfect for cooling down during a sweltering day in the city!

It's the best place to end off an idyllic day in Malaga.

6. Go window shopping at Calle Larios

Known as one of Malaga's liveliest thoroughfares, Calle Larios is the place to go for some (window) shopping and people watching. In fact, it's a favourite spot with locals and holidaymakers alike, since it's here that you can most strongly sense the vibrant feel of everyday life in Malaga and Andalusia.

You'll find a real mix of clothing stores here, from affordable to high end. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops and cafes. We'd highly recommend grabbing a coffee al fresco at one of the latter, as it's the best way to watch the world go by in this busy spot.

Don't miss Calle Larios during the Christmas period, when it's decorated with glowing light displays.

7. Get some fresh air at Jardin Botanico Historico de la Concepcion

Jardin Botanico Historico de la Concepcion is an incredible spot to get some fresh air and to have a picnic. Dating back to 1855, this botanic garden is home to thousands of plants from numerous continents, and you'll find plenty of shady spots under the trees.

The best bit is that there are timeslots when you can visit the garden for free. These so-called 'free hours' are always on a Sunday; between 1 October and 31 March, these hours are from 2PM to 5:30PM, while you can visit from 4:30PM to 8:30PM between 1 April and 30 September.

Even if you don't make it during the free hours, admission is incredibly cheap at 5.20 euros per adult.

8. Admire street art in Soho and Lagunillas

You can see street art all over Malaga, but you'll find the best art done by the best street artists in the Soho and Lagunillas neighbourhoods. Since the artworks can be found all over the neighbourhoods, it's a free activity as you're simply required to walk to find the street art.

If this is something you're really interested in and are willing to splash out for a more curated experience, then consider booking a Soho and Lagunillas guided street art walking tour.

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