It’s clear to see why Malaga is a European vacation hot spot – there is so much to do downtown and at national parks nearby, and the shopping and entertainment, while geared to the docked cruise chicos, has something for everyone.

Making the coastline more bicycle friendly would be my only suggestion to the 80-year-old, third-term Mayor. of Malaga, Francisco de Torre (but he’s not asking me).

Malaga has much to offer, aside from the cruise ship crowds:

the Alcazaba of Malaga and Castle of Gibralfaro that we enjoyed leading up to a sunset hike to the top on Dec. 12 (photos below).

the Christmas lights and thrice nightly (6:30, 8 and 10 p.m.) music & light show fills the pedestrian promenade (more than 2.2 million LED lights shine on 500 streets across town);

the town was hosting a marathon (Dec. 10) while we were there (registration is already open for Dec. 12, 2024 here);

it has a network of year-round public markets – we prefer the Mercado de Artarazanas Centro – geared to locals and foodies alike with festive atmosphere, indoor stand-up, and outdoor seating;

there is a well known Film Festival each spring (Festiva de Malaga March 1-10, 2024) and Feria each August (although I would personally pass on the crowds); and

Malaga has so many restaurants that it’s important to be selective (for example Pampa Grill); and

Malaga seems to offer a Vegas-like get-away for groups of friends with something for everyone.