20 Best Things to Do in Nerja (A Local’s Guide)

Nerja is a beautiful traditional Andalusian white town with an incredible crystal clear sea located in the province of Malaga, Southern Spain.

Being born and raised in Malaga, I’ve explored many places in Costa del Sol, but I can tell you that Nerja is one of those that makes you want to go back again and again, and there’s no doubt why it is one of the most visited towns in Costa del Sol.

Its charming people, white buildings, coastal views and fresh fish are some of the highlights of Nerja.

The most popular spot in Nerja is the famous Balcon de Europa. However, there are many more things to do in Nerja and its surroundings.

The town has become more and more visited, but at the end of the day, Costa Del Sol relies on tourism. It’s the main sector in the province.

Although it can get busy, especially during the summer holiday season – July and August, you can still enjoy Nerja if you know when to go. 

If you’re ready to discover unmissable places to visit in Nerja, keep reading this travel guide.

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The best things to do in Nerja, Spain

1. Go to Nerja Caves

Nerja Caves are one of the most popular attractions in Costa del Sol. They are located in Maro, a district of Nerja, at the top of the town, so the best way to get there is by car. 

Apparently, the caves were discovered in 1959 by a group of young people who were walking searching for bats at night. However, they had no idea of what discovery they had made.

Nowadays, Nerja Caves is considered one of the best in Spain! You’ll be amazed by rock formations, including the largest stalactite in the world, and over 500 paintings that date from the Upper Palaeolithic. 

Inside there are three different galleries, but only the public gallery is open to tourists. 

As you can imagine, they get very busy during the summer months, so booking your ticket in advance will save you queuing (just remember to select your time slot). Also, the best time to go is as they open the doors at 9:30 am.

When I visited the caves in Nerja, I thought it was quite small, but I spent approximately 1 hour there and loved it. But I advise you to take a small cardigan as it’s a bit wet and chilly.

📌 Book your skip-the-line tickets to Nerja Caves in advance

📍 Address: Carr. de Bajada a Playa de Maro, 29787, Málaga, Spain

2. Admire the sea views from Balcón de Europa

There is no visit to Nerja without seeing Balcon de Europa. This is one of the most beautiful spots in Costa del Sol and my favourite. 

Balcon de Europa is a round balcony on a cliff overlooking the transparent turquoise sea. Not only will you be amazed by the sea but also the panoramic views of other points of the Costa del Sol. 

In the past, the balcony was part of the watchtower of an Arabic fortress. However, today it is a viewpoint close to a good range of cafes, restaurants, hotels and small independent shops where you can buy many handmade accessories (leather bags, ceramics, etc.) and souvenirs.

Although it has become a tourist spot, there’s nothing better than watching the sunset from the balcony. I love the combination of clear water with the warm colours of the sunset. It’s a romantic place, and you’ll come across some brides taking pictures there, as the local church is just a two-minute walk.

If you’re after a delicious meal with breathtaking views of the Balcon de Europa, Rey Alfonso is your go-to. They offer fresh local seafood as well as traditional meals such as paella and even regional meals like pipirrana malagueña (a salad that includes tomatoes, peppers, onion and octopus or prawns).

Overall, visiting Balcon de Europa is one of the best things to do in Nerja. There is no visit to Nerja without admiring the views from this place.

📍 Address: Balcón de Europa, 29780 Nerja, Málaga, Spain

3. Relax at Playa el Salón

Playa el Salón is a dark sand beach on the right-hand side of Balcon de Europa. You can access it only on foot – walk down the steep hill, and you’ll be on this beautiful beach in no time.

I love that there aren’t many chiringuitos (beach bars) around because it’s more natural and raw. So, if you want to grab some food or drinks, you need to go all the way up to Calle Salón.

Although it’s an amazing beach, if you aren’t a big fan of crowds, it isn’t probably the best beach to visit in the summer months. The beach gets full in the early mornings until late afternoon evenings.

If you’re after local and authentic experiences, you can’t miss Fiesta Blanca, a party celebrated every 14th of August on this beach. Locals dress in white and are ready to have a good night with plenty of entertainment and concerts.

📍 Address: Playa El Salón, 29780 Nerja, Málaga, Spain

4. Wander the streets of Nerja Town Centre

One of the best free things to do in Nerja is to explore its historic centre.

Wandering around Nerja Historical Centre is truly an experience – its beautiful Andalusian whitewashed buildings, balconies decorated with bright flowers that stand out in the white walls, and its pebble streets make it a unique and picturesque place to stroll through.

The area is also home to many independent shops that sell handmade ceramic and leather products, as well as bars and restaurants where you can have some delicious tapas.

In Nerja Town Centre, you’ll also find a few monuments and attractions that are worth seeing, such as El Salvador Church and the Museum of the village of Nerja.

📍 Address: 29780 Nerja, Málaga, Spain

5. Go inside El Salvador Church 

Parroquia El Salvador is just a step away from Balcón de Europa. It’s a beautiful white church with a baroque neoclassical style.

Part of this church was built in 1697; however, the bell tower was added later in 1724. Like many old buildings, the church was last restored in 1997.

One of the main reasons this church is popular is that it’s the only church in the world that includes representations of all three archangels.

However, St Michael (San Miguel in Spanish) is the archangel that holds more significance in Nerja as it’s considered the town’s patron (el patrón del pueblo). 

From all the times I’ve been to Nerja, there were weddings or other religious events going on. Not only is it a popular church for locals to get married, but it attracts many foreign couples who end up saying “yes” in this church.

As you walk around Balcon de Europa, you can hear the chime, which happens every hour too.

📍 Address: Pl. de Cavana, 13, 29780 Nerja, Málaga, Spain

6. Soak up the sun at Playa Burriana

Playa la Calahonda is Nerja’s beach next to Balcon de Europa, and although it’s beautiful, it gets busy very quickly during the summer (especially at weekends as locals go to the beach early to get their spot and spend the day). Also, it’s very small.

Located one kilometre from the historic town, Playa Burriana is wider and considered one of Nerja’s best beaches. Its clear water and golden sand make it the go-to beach for locals and tourists. 

Near this beach, you can find Ayo, a popular restaurant that is well-known for its wood-fired paella. If you plan to go to Ayo, go there early (before 2 pm) because there are big queues to sit in.

📍 Address: Cam. de Burriana, s/n, 29780 Nerja, Málaga, Spain

7. Take a photo in Chanquete’s boat from the Verano Azul TV series

This boat is a replica of the Verano Azul Spanish TV series filmed in Nerja in 1981. The series was based on a group of children on a summer holiday in Nerja. The episodes show the adventures and fun experiences of these kids. 

The series became very popular in Spain, and therefore it was aired in other countries like Portugal, France and even Latin America.

Nowadays, this is a tourist attraction where not only Spanish tourists but international tourists stop to take a picture of La Dorada boat.

📍 Address: C. Antonio Ferrandis Chanquete, s/n, 29780 Nerja, Málaga, Spain

8. Visit Nerja Museum

If you love learning about history and culture, you must visit Nerja Museum located in Plaza de España, only a few steps from Balcon de Europa. 

The museum shows you the rich local history from prehistory to today. Not only do you discover more about the cultural heritage of Nerja and the Axarquia region, but you learn how Nerja caves were discovered, what interesting objects were found and much more.

The archaeological section is one of my favourites, as you see old ceramics and utensils in the caves. You can also look at the skeleton of a young woman who lived in the caves many years ago.

📍 Address: Plaza de España, 4, 29780 Nerja, Málaga, Spain

9. See the Eagle Aqueduct

“Acueducto del Aguila” (The Eagle Aqueduct) is a picturesque aqueduct located just 3 kilometres outside Nerja in the countryside.

The aqueduct used to be a supplier of water for a sugar factory known as Fabrica San Joaquin de Maro (San Joaquin Sugar Mill). The region of the Axarquía was popular for sugar cane plantations in the XVI century.

The factory closed a long time ago and nowadays is used for local communal irrigation.

However, it has recently become a popular spot for photographers due to its beautiful architecture. 

📍 Address: Barranco de la Coladilla, s/n, 29787 Nerja, Málaga, Spain

10. Do water activities at Playa de Maro

At only 14 minutes drive from Nerja Centre, Maro Beach is definitely the best beach in Nerja. On this hidden beach, you can do anything from scuba diving in Nerja’s crystal clear water to exploring the beautiful surroundings.

The beach is surrounded by pure nature – plenty of vegetation and rocky cliffs. However, the most beautiful thing about this beach is the clean turquoise and transparent sea.

You know it’s a must-see beach in Nerja when you get in the water, and you can see what’s under the water – coral reefs and fishes that hide between the rocks.

It’s the perfect spot to relax, but if you fancy some water adventure, you won’t be disappointed. There are two main water activities you can do in Maro: kayaking and snorkelling.

You better book these activities in advance as I have tried to book kayaking with my family and they didn’t have many dates available. Locals love this hidden beach!

🛶 Have a fun day in Nerja by going on this sea kayak tour where you’ll discover beautiful small caves, cliffs and bays.

📍 Address: Playa de Maro, 29780 Maro, Málaga, Spain

11. Go on a hike to Río Chillar

If you want a change from the coast, walking up the Rio Chillar is definitely a great day out.

One of the top activities for locals during the summer is walking up rivers – it’s adventurous and fun, and it keeps you cool from the high temperatures.

As you can imagine, it does get busy, especially during weekends (remember, most locals don’t work on Sundays). Therefore, I highly recommend visiting it early morning or during the week.

Whenever you choose to go, I’m sure you’ll enjoy it, but if you’re wondering what sort of things you should take with you, some essentials are:

• Old pair of trainers (they’ll get wet)
• Water
• Eco-friendly sun cream
• And of course snacks!

📍 Address: 29780 Nerja, Málaga, Spain

12. Spend the day at Aquavelis

22 minutes drive from Nerja, Aquavelis guarantees a fun half or full day out with friends or family. Going to a waterpark is definitely one of the best things to do in Costa del Sol during the summer season.

Aquavelis has some incredible water attractions like the Kamikaze, a slide that goes 80 meters down at a very high speed, the multi-racer in which you can compete with your family or friends, and the wave pool.

It’s definitely one of the top things to do with kids in Nerja.

📌 Tip: If you want to avoid crowds, visit the waterpark at the beginning or end of the summer season (June or September).     

📍 Address: C. Ruta del Pomelo, s/n, 29740 Vélez-Málaga, Málaga, Spain

13. Shop at Nerja Market

If you happen to be in Nerja on Tuesday and love visiting local markets, then you must go to Nerja Market, which takes place on Mirto Street every Tuesday, except on bank holidays.

It’s a big street market with over 170 stalls where you can buy anything from local vegetables and fruits to handbags, clothes and home decor.

It’s a buzzing place where vendors shout out their best offers, so you can often come across good deals and unique gifts and souvenirs.

14. Take a quad bike tour

If you’re after an adrenaline activity in Nerja, you’ll love taking a quad bike tour that takes you through the beautiful countryside.

These tours are safe and a lot of fun, and they make a great day out when you want to do something different than hitting the beach.

📌 This Nerja quad bike tour is perfect for all ages. You’ll get to see scenic landscapes, stop by El Acebuchal (a hidden gem) and have delicious food.

15. Have espeto de sardinas

When it comes to fish, Nerja has delicious fish and seafood dishes you’ll want to try.

Espetos de sardinas (sardine skewers) is a synonym for Malaga and its coastal towns, and the best place to enjoy them is at chiringuitos (beach bars), where you can see how they’re slowly cooked on a small barbeque made in a little boat – just designed for roasting sardines and other fish.

16. Attend Nerja’s Fair

If you happen to be in Nerja between the 8th and 12th of October, you can’t miss Feria de Nerja. The town celebrates its fair for 4 days, and you can expect live concerts, fireworks, attractions, and even a religious parade.

Things to do near Nerja

Although you have read how many incredible things you can do without leaving Nerja if you do have time, here are some fantastic places to visit near Nerja.

17. Go on a day trip to Málaga from Nerja

You can’t leave Costa del Sol without visiting my beautiful hometown. The capital has plenty of activities to do. However, you can see the main attractions in one day as they are in the city centre where everything is connected.

Here are some top activities you can do in a day or two in Malaga:

• Eat in the famous Bodega El Pimpi.
• Explore the amazing Alcazaba and discover Moorish influences.
• Go up to Gibralfaro for panoramic views.
• Relax at Playa de la Malagueta.
• Enjoy a cocktail in the modern Muelle Uno.

18. Go on a day trip to Frigiliana from Nerja

Frigiliana is a nearby quaint town only 6 kilometres from Nerja. It’s very well-known for its old quarter and narrow white streets decorated with beautiful ceramic mosaics, flowers, and plants.

It’s considered the prettiest village in Andalucia by the Spanish tourism board, and you’ll agree as soon as you visit the town.

Frigiliana is the perfect day trip in which you can enjoy authentic local experiences. Here are some recommendations on things to do in Frigiliana:

• Go to Casa del Apero, a beautiful building next to the tourist office, local library and archaeological museum.
• Do some shopping in the unique boutique shops that sell local crafts, delicacies and clothes.
• Wander and get lost in Frigiliana’s Old Town. Explore its beautiful whitewashed streets and enjoy the views.
• Visit Callejón del Peñón for the best panoramic view of the town.
• Eat at La Tahoma to enjoy authentic local food and a view. I love their mushroom croquettes!

If you aren’t renting a car during your time in Nerja, you can take a bus to Frigiliana from the Nerja bus station. The journey costs 1 euro each way and only takes 15 minutes.

Make sure to have cash with you because you can’t pay the bus driver by card.

19. Go on a day trip to Granada from Nerja

Outside Costa del Sol, Granada is a great city to visit, and it isn’t very far from Nerja – approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes by car.

Granada is well-known for the Alhambra, a stunning palace and fortress at the top of the city. Nowadays, it’s one of the most visited places in Spain, and it’s considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It’s divided into different sections: Generalife, Alcazaba, Charles V Palace and Nasrid Palace. All of them have something special, but one of the most photographed spots is the Palace of the Lions inside Nasrid Place, which has an impressive architecture.

You can easily spend 3 or 4 hours in Alhambra, considering you’ll likely wait to get in some of the buildings.

The Alhambra is a very famous attraction in Andalucia, and if you really want to visit it, make sure to book your tickets in advance.

Apart from the Alhambra, Granada is the best place to eat tapas in Andalucia. The city has a good variety of bars and restaurants that are ideal for foodies. 

If you’re after traditional local food, you must try habas con jamón (beans with cured ham) remojón granaino (orange salad with spring onions, hard-boiled egg, olives and codfish) and piononos (a juicy sponge cake with toasted cream on top).

📌 Tip: Don’t miss out on the opportunity to try piononos. You can find delicious piononos in Ysla. They’re the best I’ve ever tried!

➤ In addition to these fantastic things to do in Nerja, add a visit to the Cliffs of Maro-Cerro Gordo Natural to your list. This beautiful stretch of almost virgin coastline goes from the east of Nerja to La Herradura in Granada. Maro-Cerro Gordo Natural Park is home to scenic hiking routes that are ideal for sea lovers.

How to get to Nerja from Malaga

By aeroplane 

The nearest airport is Aeropuerto de Málaga (Málaga’s airport) which is about 65 kilometres from Nerja. It’s one of Spain’s biggest airports, so there’s likely a route from your country, especially if you live in Europe.

📌 Check out cheap flights to Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport here

By bus

If you’re flying to Malaga, there is an ALSA bus from Malaga Airport to Nerja. However, it isn’t very regular.

Therefore, another option is to take tren de cercanías (underground train service) to María Zambrano and then go to the coach station next to it. From the coach station, you can get a direct bus to Nerja.

By taxi

I wouldn’t recommend taking a taxi to Nerja as it can be very expensive (over 80 euros), but if you don’t mind paying for this, it’s a quick and direct option to get to Nerja.

By car

I’d say renting a car is the best option. There are many car rental places to choose from near the airport.

Having a car will definitely help you if you would love to explore other towns at your own pace. Although public transport is quite good, coach and train times aren’t always the best.

Also, you can’t access more remote places by bus/coach/train.

📌 Check out car hire in Malaga here

Where to stay in Nerja – The best hotels in Nerja

Hotel Balcón de Europa (****)

This hotel is one of the best places to stay in Nerja. For me, it’s all about location when booking accommodation, and this hotel is built into the Balcon de Europa rock face. 

They have a range of different rooms, all of which are beautifully decorated. But if you’re after a luxurious experience, staying in the Junior Suite Deluxe is your option. You have breathtaking views from a cosy balcony and a hydromassage bathtub in the bathroom. 

The views are incredible; you have direct access to Caletilla Beach as well as you’re surrounded by many restaurants and bars to choose from if you don’t want to eat in their restaurants.

In addition to this, there’s an outdoor swimming pool with sunbeds looking at the beautiful sea.

The average rate for Balcón de Europa is £135 per night.

📌 Book your stay at Hotel Balcón de Europa here

Apartamentos Balcón de Europa (***)

If you prefer to stay in a quieter area and love feeling at home, these apartments are certainly for you.

The apartments have everything you need – a full kitchen that includes a washing machine, a lovely living room with a flat-screen TV, and a modern decorated bedroom with a double bed and bathroom.

At the top of the apartments, you’ll find an outdoor swimming pool with a view of the town and sunbeds.

The average rate for Apartamentos Balcón de Europa is £94 per night.

📌 Check out availability and dates at Apartamentos Balcón de Europa here

Frequently asked questions about Nerja

Conclusion about things to do in Nerja

I hope I have inspired you to visit Nerja and other towns in Costa del Sol by reading this travel guide. As you’ve seen, there are plenty of things to do in Nerja and Costa del Sol, so if you plan to stay over a week, this Costa del Sol itinerary will help you plan and make the most of your trips.

However, if you’re staying in Malaga and considering a day trip to Nerja but have limited time, have a look at this half-day trip from Malaga to Nerja and Frigiliana.

I hope you have a great time in Nerja, and if you have any questions, drop them in the comments.

Enjoy your holidays!

Cristina xx

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Things to do before visiting Nerja

• Compare and book cheap flights to Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport here.
• Book accommodation for your Nerja holidays with Booking.com.
• Have a look at this Malaga food guide to indulge yourself in eating authentic food in the Malaga region.
• Are you planning to visit other nearby Andalusian destinations? Check out my blog on the best day trips from Malaga.
• Rent a car to travel with ease around Malaga and Costa del Sol.
• Get travel insurance; this is a must for any trip!

Other beautiful towns in Costa del Sol

• Frigiliana, Spain: The Most Charming Town in Malaga
• Best Things to Do in Torremolinos
• Incredible Things To Do In Benalmadena
• Fantastic Things to Do in Fuengirola
• 20 Best Things To Do in Mijas Pueblo
• 30+ Best Things to Do In Marbella, Spain – A Local’s Guide
• 26 Fantastic Things to Do in Estepona
• 11 Top Things to Do in Ronda in a Day

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