Malaga serves up, in that stunning southern Spanish way, a delectable mixture of cultural interest and escapist holiday fun. Beaches, architecture, bars, art – Malaga is everything a hipster needs for their summer getaway. But what are the coolest things to do, and where are the trendiest places to be seen? What are the hidden gems that allow the most authentic, quixotic experience of the Andalucian city?
Malaga Neighbourhoods
Bustling La Merced is the hippest corner of town, and one of the busiest. Picture the scene: live entertainment, quality bars, fresh market food, Mediterranean terraces, laughter, vibrancy, youth – that is the essence of Plaza de la Merced. The north-east of town is stuffed with excitement and revelry, with an array of watering holes waiting to be discovered.
Away from the noise and bluster is El Perchel, ideal for those seeking the lesser-known delights of Malaga. If you’ve seen Before Sunrise, this is the barrio for you: walking weightlessly down charming roads, past churches concealed around overhanging buildings, through sun-drenched, authentic Malaga – this is the part of town in which to get hopelessly lost.
If it’s spontaneous explosions of creativity and street art that tickles the fancy though, try the old barrio of Soho. An area that had previously fallen from grace and crumbled into disrepair, has been reinvigorated in recent years by a brilliant initiative called Malaga Arte Urbano Soho (MAUS). Graffiti artists from around the globe have been drafted in to turn flaking old concrete into masterpieces of design and ingenuity. There are maps available online but it’s much more fun to explore the streets without guidance.
Entertainment in Malaga
Malaga is a popular tourist destination. For that reason it’s more exciting to seek out the less touristy parts, to find out where the locals go to while away their time in this beautiful city. It’s in places like el Microteatro, the micro-theatre, in which the boldest memories are made. The idea there is delightfully simple: 15-minute plays in 15 square metres for 15 people.
La Casa Invisible is the bohemian hangout spot of choice. It’s a public space home to yoga, dance classes, music and a chill bar to sip down that Andalusian red. This is a place of freedom. And what about La Termica, an artisanal space for artists, cooperatives and creative workshops?
Malaga Bars and Cafes
Charming La Madriguera is the home of craft beer in Malaga – and live music too sometimes. Meanwhile Drunk-o-Rama combines clothes exchanges and poetry readings with vermouth and paella – what could be better!
For coffee/hot drink enthusiasts Recyclo Bike Cafe is the bohemian rose. Decorated with wood and old vintage bicycles, this is a great spot to chill out with a book or for a relaxed chat with friends.
How to Get to Malaga
Malaga’s international airport is well served by a range of airlines every day. Book an airport transfer ahead of time to avoid stress with local taxis. From Malaga airport to the centre of town is around 25 minutes, leaving more time for exploring and less time travelling.
Martin Wynn
Priya
