For a first visit to Málaga, stay in the Centro Histórico. The cathedral, the Alcazaba, the Picasso Museum and Calle Larios are all a short walk away. Choose La Malagueta to combine the centre with the beach, Soho for street art and bars, Pedregalejo for a quieter seaside stay and El Perchel if you arrive by high-speed train.
Information was checked on 18 October 2026.
Málaga’s areas at a glance
| Area | Best for | Transport | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Centro Histórico | First visit, sights, restaurants | Metro Atarazanas, Guadalmedina; train Centro-Alameda | Crowds, noise at night |
| Soho | Street art, bars, budget | Airport bus A, train Centro-Alameda | Building works and nightlife |
| La Malagueta | Beach plus centre, families | Buses; walk to the centre | Busy beach in summer |
| Pedregalejo and El Palo | Quiet, seaside, fish restaurants | Buses only | Far from the centre |
| El Perchel | Train arrivals, budget | Metro El Perchel; María Zambrano station | Less atmosphere |
Centro Histórico
The old town centres on Plaza de la Constitución and the pedestrian Calle Larios. The cathedral, the Alcazaba fortress, the Roman theatre and the Picasso Museum are all within a few minutes of each other.
It is the obvious choice for a short city break. The pedestrian streets are lively until late, especially at weekends, so a room facing a quiet side street helps.
See places to stay in the old townSoho
Málaga’s tourism office presents Soho, also called the Barrio de las Artes, as the street-art district, with galleries, craft breweries and flamenco, ending at the CAC Málaga contemporary art centre. The port and Muelle Uno are next door.
It is a good budget base close to the old town, and the airport bus stops on the nearby Alameda Principal.
See places to stay in SohoLa Malagueta
The city’s tourism routes describe La Malagueta as elegant and close to the port. Its beach is the nearest to the centre, with the Palmeral de las Sorpresas and Muelle Uno along the seafront.
It suits families and anyone who wants the beach without leaving the city. The old town is a walk of 10 to 15 minutes. There is no metro, but buses run along the seafront.
See places to stay in La MalaguetaPedregalejo and El Palo
These former fishermen’s districts east of the centre are known for beach bars (chiringuitos) grilling espetos, sardines on skewers over an open fire, with boats pulled up on the sand.
They suit a quiet seaside stay. The centre is a bus ride away, so this is a base for relaxing rather than sightseeing.
See places to stay in PedregalejoEl Perchel
El Perchel is a historic district across the Guadalmedina river from the old town, home to many Holy Week brotherhoods. It sits next to María Zambrano station, where high-speed trains arrive, and has a metro stop.
It is practical for train travellers and often cheaper than the old town, with less atmosphere in the evening.
See places to stay in El PerchelFrom the airport to your area
| Option | To | Time | Fare (official) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cercanías train C1 | Málaga María Zambrano, Centro-Alameda | about 12 min to Centro-Alameda | zone fare; pay by bank card at the gate |
| Express bus A | María Zambrano, Alameda Principal, Paseo del Parque | about 15–25 min | €4, luggage included |
Renfe gives a 40% discount from your fifth trip in a month when you pay with the same bank card. The metro does not go to the airport.
Tourist tax in Málaga
As of October 2026, Málaga has no tourist tax. In December 2025 the city council asked the Andalusian government to let cities charge a voluntary overnight tax, but the regional government has not given cities that power. See our tourist tax guide for cities that charge one.
Tourist apartments
According to the city council, new tourist apartments have been suspended across Málaga since 22 August 2025, for up to three years. Since 25 July 2026, new hotel, hostel and tourist apartment uses are also blocked in residential areas for up to three years. Existing licensed places keep operating, so you can still book them. To search the whole city, compare places to stay in Málaga.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best area to stay in Málaga?
For a first visit, the Centro Histórico. The cathedral, the Alcazaba, the Picasso Museum and Calle Larios are all within a few minutes' walk. If you want the beach as well, La Malagueta is next to the centre and has the closest beach.
Is it better to stay in Málaga city or on the Costa del Sol?
Stay in the city if you want museums, restaurants and good train links. The beach resorts west of the city suit a pure beach holiday. The C1 commuter train links the airport, the city centre and the coast towards Fuengirola.
Does Málaga have a tourist tax?
Not as of October 2026. The city council asked the Andalusian government in December 2025 to allow a voluntary tax, but the regional government has not given cities that power.
How do I get from Málaga Airport to the city centre?
The C1 commuter train reaches Málaga Centro-Alameda in about 12 minutes, and you can pay by bank card at the gate. The express bus A goes to Paseo del Parque for €4, with luggage included.
Can I still book a holiday apartment in Málaga?
Yes, existing licensed apartments still operate. But new tourist apartments have been suspended across the city since August 2025, and from July 2026 new hotel uses are also blocked in residential areas for up to three years.
Sources
Last updated: