Originally published June 27th 2024.

All images are courtesy of the Spain Less Traveled team, unless otherwise stated.

More and more the city of Málaga Spain is becoming a popular base destination for all types of travelers. Many spend multiple weeks in Málaga, exploring both the vibrant city and taking day trips out of town to smaller towns, cities, and natural areas.

The city has a wide network of public transportation options that can take you to nearby places. And for those who will have access to a car, there are even more possibilities.

Here are some of the Spain Less Traveled team’s favorite day trips from Málaga city.

(Note: most of these day trips can be taken from other parts of Málaga province, but please understand that Málaga city is the central hub for the region’s public transportation. Therefore not all of these places are easily accessible by public transportation from other parts of the province)

And of course, we would love to help plan your dream trip to Spain!

Our top picks for day trips from Málaga City

Nerja

If you are looking for a quintessential beach town, Nerja is it. The beaches here are more beautiful than Málaga’s urban beaches and offer a plethora of activities such as sea kayaking. Playa de Burriana is our top pick for beaches in Nerja.

The town itself is charming enough, with whitewashed houses and small streets. Nerja’s main attraction are the caves of Nerja, which can easily be visited. Don’t miss the sweeping views from Balcón de Europa. The popular Spanish television series Verano Azul was filmed in Nerja, and you can visit the protagonist’s, “Chanquete”, (boat) in a park named after the series.

Nerja is a great “beach day” escape if the urban beaches in Málaga city aren’t your thing. But please note it gets crowded during high-season. You can rent a beach chair and umbrella at a number of the chringuitos (beach side restaurants serving (mostly) fresh seafood) in Nerja.

How to get from Málaga city to Nerja

Regular bus service connects Málaga and Nerja in about an hour.

Driving time from Málaga to Nerja is just under an hour. But watch your speed! This is a road notorious for lower than expected speed limits (and speed limits that change quickly) and is dotted with speed cameras.

Frigiliana

Just above Nerja, in the Sierra de Almijara mountains is the whitewashed village of Frigiliana.

Frigiliana is on the official list of Pueblos Más Bonitos de España (the most beautiful villages in Spain) and you will see exactly why once you visit.

The town's history is deeply intertwined with its Muslim past, evident in the narrow, winding streets of the old town, known as the "Barribarto." You can check out the remnants of the 16th-century castle, Castillo de Lizar, which offers panoramic views of Frigiliana and its gorgeous surroundings.

If you are interested in the history of the area, be sure to stop by Iglesia de San Antonio, a 16th-century church built on the site of a former mosque, showcasing the blend of cultural influences that have shaped Frigiliana and Andalucía.

One of the most beautiful of the pueblos blancos, Frigiliana may no longer be off the beaten path, but it is worth a visit.

How to get from Málaga city to Frigiliana?

There are no direct buses between Málaga city and Frigiliana. From Nerja, you can take a local bus to Frigiliana (note: it does not run on Sundays) or take a taxi up for about 15-20€ each way.

Driving time from Málaga to Frigiliana is about an hour and 15 minutes. Just like the drive to Nerja, be super aware of the changing speed limits on the freeway. This is a road notorious for lower than expected speed limits and speed cameras.

Nerja and Frigiliana can be combined as a day trip from Málaga city.

Ronda

Within the past 5-10 years, Ronda has grown in popularity with international travelers. It can be a day trip from both Málaga and Seville, so it can get crowded.

But that shouldn’t deter you. The jaw-dropping bridge (Puente Nuevo) over a gorge with spectacular views is worth it for a day trip alone.

The “new” bridge, Puente Nuevo was constructed in the 1700s. Not so new at all! But in a town with so much history, it is one of the newer monuments. For the best views of the bridge itself, follow the path down from the mirador (viewpoint) at Plaza de Maria Auxiliadora. Along the way are several points for stunning photos.

Ronda has several other attractions too including well-preserved Moorish baths. And those interested in Moorish Spain will want to check out the ruins of the old Alcazaba, a large chunk of which is being restored. The Casa del Rey Moro has beautiful gardens from the Moorish period, showcasing how they built irrigation systems. You can even enter the old water mine. The views from the Cuenca Gardens (Jardines De Cuenca) are beautiful as well, and the gardens are lovely.

Ronda also has a beautiful Plaza de Toros and an attached bullfighting museum. You can actually walk on the sand in the arena. Although we totally oppose bullfighting, the Plaza de Toros is a beautiful landmark, and the museum is a good place to understand the context of the practice without attending a fight.

Hemingway also spent some time in Ronda which helps attract visitors from all over the world.

How to get from Málaga city to Ronda?

The easiest way is honestly to drive. If you do not have access to your own car, you can rent a car for the day or even hire a car and driver. The drive takes about an hour and a half, mostly on two-lane roads. Organized day tours can be arranged from Málaga to Ronda for those who prefer not to drive or hire a car and driver.

There are buses from Málaga to Ronda and back, but they can take up to two or three hours each way, due to stopping and change of bus. You can also take a train, but will need to change trains in Antequera-Santa Ana.

Mijas Pueblo

white-houses-hilltop-mijas-daytime — Mijas Pueblo

Mijas Pueblo is another whitewashed village in the hills above the Costa del Sol. It has always been popular with tourists and expatriates, but it is a charming town.

There aren’t many “sights” in Mijas Pueblo. Instead it is a charming village to take a stroll, have a meal (they offer a variety of Spanish and international foods), and do some shopping. Plaza de la Constitución is the plaza in the heart of the village and Calle San Sebastián is perhaps Mijas’ most beautiful street.

La Muralla, the old fortress, is basically in ruins, but along the pathway is Mijas Pueblo’s gorgeous botanical gardens, with nice views of Costa del Sol.

And speaking of views, Mijas Pueblo has several miradores (view points). Mirador del Compás has beautiful views of the Costa del Sol. And for those who want to climb all the way up to the top of the village, Mirador Juan Antonio Gómez Alarcón has views of Gibraltar and the Moroccan coast on a clear day!

Please do not take a donkey taxi in Mijas. Just like bullfighting, Spain Less Traveled takes a strong stance against these as the donkeys are severely mistreated. (You can read more about our ethos in responsible and sustainable travel)

How to get from Málaga city to Mijas Pueblo?

There are a few ways to reach Mijas Pueblo from Málaga. There are a few direct buses per day, but generally you will need to change buses in Fuengirola. You can also take the Cercanías commuter train to Fuengirola and take a local bus to Mijas Pueblo from there (or a taxi).

If you have your own wheels, the driving time from Málaga to Mijas Pueblo is about 35-45 minutes depending on traffic.

Álora

alora-aerial-view-white-houses-daytime — Álora

Álora is a white-washed village (pueblo blanco) cascading from craggy cliffs.

Perched high above Álora is a castle that tells stories of the town’s past. The origins are Phoenician, then it was fortified by the Romans, the Visigoths used it as well. Then the Vandals came and destroyed it, but the Muslims ultimately rebuilt it. Talk about a place everyone left their footprint! On the castle grounds is a church that was built on top of the old mosque. Very typical of Andalucía. Be sure to check out the views from the castle too!

Right beneath the castle is the old Moorish neighborhood, small, but pleasant for a stroll.

Álora’s small municipal museum has some interesting artifacts from the town, from the prehistoric periods to the Moorish times. And directly next to it is Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación, which is the largest Catholic parish in Málaga province besides the cathedra in Málaga city.

There is also a small wine-making region nearby.

How to get from Málaga city to Álora?

The commuter train (Cercanías) connects Málaga and Álora. But please note that Álora is on the C2 line and train times aren’t super regular. From the train station, it is a steep walk up to Álora town.

If you drive, it’s a quick 15-20 minutes to get to Álora from Málaga.

Cómpeta

moorish-building-exterior-competa — Moorish-inspired architecture in Cómpeta

Cómpeta is the perfect escape to a whitewashed village in the mountains. Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra de Almijara, in Málaga’s Axarquía zone, this picturesque town is renowned for its white-washed buildings and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

One of the must-see sites is the Church of La Asunción, a beautiful 16th-century church known for its distinctive Mudéjar architecture and intricate wooden ceiling. The main square, Plaza Almijara, is another historical gem, lined with traditional cafes and restaurants, perfect for enjoying local delicacies while soaking in the atmosphere. The square is also home to the 19th-century Casa de la Cultura, which hosts various cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year, offering a glimpse into the vibrant local arts scene.

For those interested in the rich history and cultural heritage of Cómpeta, a visit to the Museo de Artes y Costumbres is essential. This museum showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the traditional crafts, customs, and everyday life of the region’s past inhabitants.

The town's cobblestone streets and narrow alleyways invite leisurely strolls, where visitors can discover charming artisan shops and galleries. Additionally, Cómpeta is famous for its wine, particularly the sweet Muscatel, and visitors can tour local bodegas to learn about the winemaking process and sample some of the finest offerings. The annual Noche del Vino festival, held every August, celebrates this heritage with flamenco performances, wine tastings, and local gastronomy, providing a perfect blend of cultural immersion and festive enjoyment.

If you go on Saturday, that is the town’s market day. It will be a busier day, but the market is a lot of fun to check out!

How to get from Málaga city to Cómpeta?

There are a few buses from Málaga to Cómpeta daily.

If you have a car, driving is the best option. The drive is a little over an hour, but please note that you will be driving on winding mountain roads.

Antequera

Antequera is one of those Andaluz cities that should be on your radar but perhaps isn’t.

Rich in southern Spanish culture, Antequera is the perfect day trip from Málaga for those who want to experience Andalucía without the crowds.

One of the most important cities historically, and pretty much in the dead center of Andalucía, Antequera was actually slated to be the region’s capital, but Seville took that title.

In the city you will find a lot of significant architecture. The Alcazaba of Antequera is one of the best preserved Moorish castle walls in all of Spain. The 360 views from the top of whitewashed Antequera and the beautiful countryside surrounding it are well worth the price of admission (and the climb!).

Just below are Antequera’s old Moorish quarters which are charming and much less crowded than Granada’s Albaizyn. Don’t miss Iglesia del Carmen, with its elaborate interior decoration. Make sure to look up at the ceiling.

Antequera’s municipal museum is worth a stop if just to see the stunning Andaluz-style patio. But admission is free and there are some interesting exhibitions about the city’s history.

Antequera is the perfect place to simply go for a stroll and get lost in its maze of small streets. Be sure to try the polvorones, sweets that are a favorite of Spaniards all over the country around the holiday season.

And finally, if that isn’t enough, Antequera has its own UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Dólmenes, which are ancient monolithic burial sites, can be found in Antequera (two are in the city limits itself and one is on the outskirts of the city). These are some of the best-preserved sites from the Bronze age in the world and are truly one-of-a-kind. A recently opened museum was added to the Dólmenes site, which shows how the burial sites were built to be in line with the sun, stars, and nearby mountains.

How to get from Málaga city to Antequera?

Regular trains and buses connect the two cities. Just be sure not to take a train to Antequera-Santa Ana station as the station is far out of town and does not have reliable transportation into the center.

If you choose to drive, the journey is usually under an hour.

Archidona

The town of Archidona, north of Málaga city, is said to date back to prehistoric times. You can find evidence of Roman, Visigoth, and Muslim civilizations in this small village.

The castle, at the top of the town, is a must see. The most primitive remains of these walls date back to 4th or 5th century BC, but it wasn't until the Moorish period that the walls and (then) castle really began to take shape. Most of the actual castle is gone, but there are still a few doors and gates that line the old walls. To get to the walls and to the miradores (vistapoints) it is many steps, so it's not for everyone and is not recommended to go during the heat of the day during Andalucía's hotter months.

Down in the heart of Archidona is the peculiar La Plaza Ochavada, an 18th-century octagonal square. There aren’t many octagon-shaped plazas in Spain, so this is a true rarity. And the Ermita de la Virgen de Gracia, built on the remains of a former mosque, is another historical site that showcases the blend of cultures that have shaped Archidona today.

If you want to go caving, you can visit Cueva de las Grajas near Archidona. This prehistoric landmark has some amazing archaeological findings, offering a glimpse into the early human settlements in Archidona.

How to get from Málaga city to Archidona?

There are a few buses that connect Archidona with Málaga city (it takes about an hour and a half). But if you have access to your own car, the drive is just under an hour. Archidona makes a good stop for those driving between Málaga and Granada.

El Torcal

Nature lovers will want to take a day trip from Málaga to El Torcal.

Visiting the El Torcal Natural Area from Málaga offers an escape into one of Spain’s most interesting landscapes. Located about an hour north of Málaga, El Torcal is renowned for its unique karst limestone formations, which have been sculpted by natural forces over millions of years.

El Torcal offers several well-marked hiking trails that cater to different levels of fitness and experience. The most popular routes are the Green Route, a relatively easy 1.5-kilometer trail perfect for families and casual hikers, and the Yellow Route, a moderate 3-kilometer loop that takes about two hours to complete. For more adventurous hikers, the longer and more challenging Orange Route stretches approximately 4.5 kilometers and provides deeper insights into the park’s geological wonders.

Each trail offers stunning vistas. And if you are lucky, you can spot local wildlife, such as Iberian ibex, griffon vultures, and various bird species.

How to get from Málaga city to El Torcal?

There are no direct trains or buses to El Torcal from Málaga city. The trains or busses will only get you as far as Antequera and from there your only option is taxi.

With your own car, it is much easier to access El Torcal. Driving time is about one hour.

Caminito del Rey

Perhaps one of the most beautiful walks in all of Spain is the Caminito del Rey. In fact, this is one of the spots most popular with nature lovers in Spain.

The Caminito del Rey is a terrifying way to take in the scenery along a narrow gorge following a narrow walkway.

This walkway was rebuilt in 2015 after being named the “world’s most dangerous walkway”, following visitor deaths in 1999 and 2000. Totally safe these days, the walkway is 1 meter (3 ft) in width and rises over 100 meters (330 ft) above the river below.

The views from the 8 kilometer (5 miles) route are stunning. The area is home to a lot of flora and fauna including vultures and foxes. Keep an eye out and try to spot them!

How to get from Málaga city to the Caminito del Rey?

There are now trains that take visitors between Málaga and the Caminito del Rey (El Chorro Station). Due to logistics, many choose to do an organized day trip.

If you want to drive to the start of the Caminito del Rey from Málaga you are looking at about an hour in the car.

Make sure to note that the Caminito del Rey is a one-way route. You will take a shuttle bus back to the beginning after the walk. Also, it is important to understand that the actual trail begins about 1.5 kilometers from the entrance.

Torremolinos

The next town (suburb) west of Málaga city is Torremolinos.

Torremolinos has nearly eight kilometers of beaches with bike lanes, paseos (walkways), chringuitos (beach front restaurants), cafes, and shops.

The history of Torremolinos dates back to the prehistoric ages. There are caves within the municipality, but they are not open to visitors. There is also evidence that the Romans were there as well as the Muslims. Unfortunately, unlike other parts of the province, not much of this history is visible these days.

Torremolinos’ also has a history of defying the norms. During the dictatorship, discos and bars began to pop up at a rate that was unstoppable. So much that the town became a bastion of tolerance during Franco’s regime.

Torremolinos is also historically one of the oldest LGBTI+ resorts in Spain. Here you will find rainbow flags and beach clubs, such as the Eden Beach Club, catering to a mostly LGBTI+ clientele.

How to get from Málaga city to Torremolinos?

The easiest way to get to Torremolinos is by Cercanías commuter train (line C1). Trains generally run from the center of Málaga to Torremolinos every 20 minutes. There are also buses that connect Torremolinos to Málaga.

Driving time is anywhere from 15-30 minutes depending on traffic, but parking can be difficult. We recommend taking public transportation.

Marbella

Marbella is a coastal city about 50 kilometers west of Málaga city. It has the reputation for being the most luxurious part of Costa del Sol. The honest truth is that our team at Spain Less Traveled thinks you can easily give Marbella a miss. But our clients and members of our Travel Spain! community often ask about it, so we are including it here.

The area of “Marbella” is actually quite spread out. The Old Town, or "Casco Antiguo," is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets lined with whitewashed buildings, balconies (with flowers), and a few plazas. The centerpiece of this historic area is the Plaza de los Naranjos, or Orange Square, surrounded the Ayuntamiento (city hall) and the small church, the Ermita de Santiago, dating back to the 16th century. Visitors can also explore the remains of the 10th-century Moorish castle, Castillo Sohail, which offers panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.

For beach lovers, Marbella boasts some of the most famous beaches in Andalucía. Playa de la Fontanilla, located near the city center, is a favorite for its golden sands, clear waters, and promenade lined with cafes and restaurants. The exclusive Nikki Beach offers a more upscale experience with its beach club atmosphere, complete with loungers, DJ music, and gourmet cuisine, attracting celebrities and jet-setters from around the world.

A must-do in Marbella is taking the ferry to Puerto Banús, the city's luxurious marina. The ferry ride itself is a delightful experience, providing stunning views of the coastline and the mountains. Upon arrival in Puerto Banús, visitors are greeted by a spectacle of opulence with its array of high-end luxury brands, gourmet restaurants, and super yachts. The marina is also known for its nightlife.

How to get from Málaga city to Marbella?

There are semi-regular buses that connect Málaga and Marbella in a little over an hour. Driving is another option. There are two roads from Málaga to Marbella, the slower A-7 and the faster AP-7 toll road. Drive time depends on traffic and the road taken and can be as little as 45 minutes to an hour and a half.

Regardless of if you take the bus or drive, summer traffic can be horrible, so transport times can be longer.

Ojén

ojen-aerial-view-houses-daytime — Ojén mirador

Just above Marbella in the foothills of the Sierra de las Nieves mountains is the beautiful pueblo blanco of Ojén. Ojén is the perfect day trip from Málaga for those who want to combine nature with history. Like many pueblos blancos, Ojén is known for its whitewashed houses, narrow cobblestone streets, and beautiful views of the mountains and Mediterranean.

The town’s major architectural showpiece is the Parroquia Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación. During the Muslim times, this was the great mosque of the village, but these days, like many former mosques, it’s a church. Ojén’s main plaza is Plaza de Andalucía. Nearby is the small Museo del Molino, that showcases the area’s olive oil production.

Nature lovers will be enchanted by the surrounding Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park. There are trailheads just a short drive from Ojén. And you can visit the walk on the pathway of the caves and cliffs that the town is nestled in (Cueva de las Columnas).

How to get from Málaga city to Ojén

There is no public transportation directly from Málaga to Ojén. It is possible to take a bus, but you will need to change in Marbella.

Drive time from Málaga to Ojén is just under an hour. You can take the coastal highway or the beautiful smaller road that passes through the mountains.

And you can combine a day trip to Ojén with Marbella.

Osuna

Osuna is actually in Seville province. But it can technically be a day trip from Málaga.

This small city/large town is perfect for Game of Thrones fans as scenes from the series were filmed here. There is even a Game of Thrones museum!

But Osuna is so much more than Game of Thrones. If you love Baroque architecture, Osuna is the destination for you! Osuna is known for this architectural style.

One of the highlights is the Collegiate Church of Santa María de la Asunción, a stunning 16th-century Renaissance building. The church boasts a remarkable collection of art, including works by José de Ribera, and an impressive Baroque sacristy. Nearby, the Monastery of La Encarnación houses an intriguing museum with religious artifacts and artworks. The town is also home to the University of Osuna, established in the 16th century, which features a beautiful cloister and is a testament to the town's long-standing educational heritage.

Osuna also has some Roman Ruins including a necropolis, forum, and theater.

And there are plenty of other historical sites including churches, convents, and palaces. Be sure to wander through Osuna’s historic center, specifically down Calle San Pedro, which is known to be one of the most beautiful streets in all of Spain!

How to get from Málaga city to Osuna?

Really the best way to get between the cities is with a car (about 1.5 hours driving). There are trains and buses, but schedules are infrequent and they often require a number of changes.

La Herradura and Salobreña

castle-on-rock-salobrena-daytime — Castillo de Salobreña

East of Nerja and all the way in Granada province is the Costa Tropical. The beaches and towns on the Costa Tropical have a completely different feeling than those in Málaga province.

For this area, our two top picks for day trips from Málaga are La Herradura and Salobreña.

La Herradura is a great “beach day” from Málaga. While there is not much in the way of historical sites, the beaches there are beautiful (some are rocky though) and the town has a cool beach town vibe. This is where local Granadinos (people from Granada) go to escape to the beach.

Further down the coast is the town of Salobreña. While it does have beaches, Salobreña is more known for its town. On the top of a hill with whitewashed buildings, you will find a castle, Castillo de Salobreña. On a clear day you can see all the way up to the Sierra Nevada Mountains from the old fortress walls. And of course, there are sweeping sea views. Despite being coastal, Salobreña has a much more local flavor than many other coastal towns.

How to get from Málaga city to La Herradura and Salobreña?

If you have access to a car, this is the best way to get from Málaga to both La Herradura and Salobreña. Driving time to La Herradura is just under an hour. And to Salobreña, just over an hour.

There are also buses to both, but they do not run regularly. So be sure to check schedules if you are relying on the bus.

But what about Córdoba, Seville, and Granada?

Here at Spain Less Traveled, we believe that the three main historic cities of Andalucía: Córdoba, Granada, and Seville deserve much more than one day. And you get less time with a day trip when you factor in transportation.

Therefore we did not include these three cities on our list of our top day trips from Málaga city. In fact, in our opinion doing these cities as day trips (from anywhere) is one of the most common Spain travel mistakes. We love all three of these cities, but we recommend visiting when you have more time, at least a few nights in each.

Inspired by these day trips from Málaga city?

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Top day trips from Málaga City