18 Incredible Hidden Gems in Malaga

Malaga, my hometown, has become a popular destination for travellers around the world. 

Its sunny days almost all year round, beautiful beaches, numerous museums and incredible day trips make it ideal for anyone looking for a city break or a one-week summer holiday.

Although I recommend that you see and experience the must-see attractions, if you’re looking for an alternative guide to Malaga, this is exactly what you’ll find here. 

I’ve compiled a list of the fantastic hidden gems in Malaga below, including food spots and local tips. 

This post contains affiliate links, and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you click through and purchase something, I receive a small commission on the price at no extra cost to you. This helps me keep the content up to date and make other improvements to the blog.

Hidden gems in Malaga 

1. Jardín Histórico La Concepción

Located on the outskirts of Malaga, La Concepcion Botanical Garden is one of the best hidden gems for nature lovers.

This garden is huge, so I highly recommend scheduling a few good hours to walk along the different areas, see the wide variety of plants from around the world and soak in the tranquil atmosphere: 

My favourite parts are the dome overlooking stunning city views and the cactus garden. 

The botanical garden also has toilets and a cafe. I really enjoyed a cup of tea in their outdoor seating on my last visit. 

Another piece of advice is to check out the Botanical Garden calendar. They have fun events on Halloween and Christmas, perfect for families. 

2. Museo del vino

The Wine Museum is definitely underrated. It wasn’t long ago when I went with my friend, and both of us were quite impressed.

The museum has two floors with stamps, newspapers, posters and other wine-related things so you can learn about Malaga’s wine history and how it’s produced. 

In the end, you can have a complimentary wine tasting and buy local wines in the shop.

3. Pedregalejo neighbourhood

The historic centre is definitely worth exploring, but it’s the most visited area, so if you want to experience somewhere different but rich in local culture, I recommend visiting Pedregalejo.

This neighbourhood is famous for its traditional fishing past. I especially love coming here for the chiringuitos (beach restaurants), where you can try the local sardine skewers. I recommend eating at Los Cuñaos. It’s my favourite. 

Another less famous neighbourhood that is not often mentioned in guides is El Palo. I prefer Pedregalejo for the location, as it’s closer to the city centre and better maintained, but you can also have good fish at El Palo.

4. La Pechá tapas bar 

Tucked away in the neighbourhood of SoHo, next to the historic centre, is La Pechá.

This tapa bar is cosy and authentic. It’s one of those places I return whenever I want to eat quick, cheap, tasty food.

Try their delicious spongy omelette, small sandwiches, and Russian salad, which is one of the best I’ve ever tried. 

5. Pasaje de Chinitas

On your way to Plaza de la Constitución (Constitucion Square), you’ll find the Pasaje de Chinitas, a narrow street that leads to a courtyard. It’s next to La Canasta Bakery.

This place used to be a monastery, but only the marble doorway was preserved. 

It was a famous spot in the late 18th and early 19th century, as there was a coffee shop (El Café de Chinitas) visited by important artists and poets like Federico García Lorca.

It’s a photo spot for those who know this fact, but you can also see a few restaurants and accommodations on the patio and connecting streets.

6. Dreams Boutique Hostel Rooftop Cafe

There are plenty of rooftop terraces in Malaga, like the one at the AC Hotel by Marriott Malaga Palacio and Room Mate Collection Valeria. These two are famous rooftops in the city. 

However, if you’re looking for quiet and not-so-popular rooftop terraces to enjoy coffee or tea, I recommend the one at Dreams Boutique Hotel.

You don’t need to stay at the hostel to visit the rooftop terrace. 

I love their chai latte and the views of Los Santos Mártires Ciriaco y Paula Church. The downside of this rooftop is that there’s no service upstairs. You’ll need to order from the cafe and take it upstairs.

7. Jardines de la Catedral

Malaga Cathedral is an emblematic building in the historic centre, and everyone knows about it. If you have the time, I always recommend visiting its interior and rooftop to enjoy a city view, but many people pass by it and don’t see the garden outside the cathedral.

It isn’t big, but sitting on a bench listening to the sound of water running down the fountains and birds is lovely.

It’s also a great spot to take a photo with a different angle of the cathedral. 

8. Cementerio inglés

The English Cemetery is one of the most unusual places to visit in Malaga. 

It might sound odd to have an English cemetery in the city, but it’s linked to the influence of British settlers in the past.

Here, you’ll find the graves of important British artists and sometimes special events like Halloween and Christmas.

9. Calle Císter

Calle Císter is one of the most transited streets in the centre of Malaga, but many people walk this street without knowing the ghost stories behind the number 9 building.

One of the most famous legends is that a woman who worked at Malaga Cathedral went to have a coffee at Bar Eurogallo in Calle Cister. However, the Plaza & Janés office caught her attention since it seemed close, but there was a lot of noise coming from it. 

Then she heard screams. The workers from the printing office turned up and were astonished by the state of the office. Everything was all over the place as if an earthquake had occurred.

10. La Tetería San Agustín

If you’re looking for a place where you can enjoy something sweet, I love La Teteria. Tucked in Calle San Agustin, this tea house is worth visiting. 

I love Moroccan mint tea, so it’s my go-to drink when I go there. They also have mouth-watering cakes. My recommendation is the carrot cake. It’s spongy and packed with flavours. 

11. Museo del Automóvil y la Moda

I’ve mentioned many times that there is a museum in Malaga for everything, and this museum reflects that. The Automobile and Fashion Museum is a quirky and unique place for those who love classic cars and vintage clothes.

This museum is less popular among travellers since it isn’t in the city centre but is near the Huelin neighbourhood.

You can also visit the Russian Museum next to it.

12. Parque del Oeste

Parque del Oeste brings good childhood memories. I used to go there since I was a toddler. It has changed a lot, but it keeps its essence, and, of course, it’s better now than before.

This 74,000 m² park is home to gardens, artificial lakes, playgrounds, sports areas and more. You can spend a good few hours having a picnic, walking in the park, and relaxing. 

The park has several entrances, although the biggest and most famous is the one next to La Paz neighbourhood. If you walk from there to the other side of the park, you’ll end up at La Misericordia Beach.

13. Restaurante Mexicano Tulum

Whenever you get tired of eating Spanish food, which happens to me, and, yes, I’m a Spaniard, and you fancy something different, why not have Mexican?

You’ve got me at a bit of spice, soft and warm tortillas and freshly made guacamole. I came across this restaurant by chance. I often research “best places to eat Mexican/Italian/etc.” in my hometown and everywhere I travel, but I was walking with my partner when we saw it.

It looked small but cosy, and we were hungry, so we gave it a shot. We’ve been so happy since then.

We’ve visited several times since then and love their tacos!

14. Mercado de Huelin

While Mercado de Atarazanas is the most attractive market, it’s the most touristy. 

If you prefer to visit a market where locals actually buy their food, you can go to Huelin Market. This one isn’t very far from the city centre either, but you won’t find the crowds and prices of Atarazanas. 

15. Museo del Vidrio

Despite being located in the city centre of Malaga, Museo del Vidrio is one of those museums that many travellers and even locals are unaware of. 

The Glass Museum is housed in a historic 18th-century building and is home to over 3,000 glass items from different centuries. 

All the visits to the museum are guided in Spanish and English.

If you’re definitely interested in unique museums, add this one to your list.

16. Heladeria Inma

Malaga has many good ice cream shops, and picking the best isn’t easy. 

However, one of the most popular options among us locals is Heladería Inma in Las Delicias neighbourhood.  

This ice cream shop has been open for many years and is as strong as ever. 

No matter when you are there, you’ll find it busy.

Strawberry, mango and other classical flavours like pistachio. The piñones ice cream is my favourite. 

17. Guadalhorce bird-watching point 

Did you know there’s a fantastic bird-watching spot on the outskirts of Malaga?

The mouth of the Guadalhorce River is home to many birds that travel from different parts of the world to this area of Malaga. 

Depending on the month, you’ll see eagles, seagulls, nightingales and more. 

It’s also a popular place among bikers. 

18. Bar Meson Paco

While fish dishes are the star of Malaga cuisine, we also have some delicious sandwiches. 

They’re not just simple ham and cheese sandwiches; they are packed with flavours and are quite filling.

One of the best places to enjoy yummy sandwiches is Bar Paco in the Las Pirámides area. 

I discovered this small traditional bar a long time ago, thanks to my parents. It’s always been popular among us locals, but it’s become more famous due to social media. 

Every time I go, there are big queues!

Their traditional sandwich, which is made with pork loin, Spanish tortilla, and aioli, is amazing.

Things to do before visiting Málaga, Southern Spain

• Book cheap flights to Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport with Skyscanner.
• Are you looking for the best hotels in Malaga? Take a look at this guide.
• Check out tours and activities in Malaga with Get Your Guide.
• Book a free walking tour in Malaga with GuruWalk.
• Travelling around Costa del Sol? Check and compare car rentals with Discover Cars.
• Buy travel insurance for your trip. This is a must for any trip!

Read more about Malaga

• How to Get from Malaga Airport to the City Centre
• The Ultimate Guide To Driving in Malaga
• Is Malaga Worth Visiting? Reasons Why Malaga Needs To Be on Your List
• Where To Stay in Malaga
• Top Tips for Travelling to Malaga
• Best Free Things to Do in Malaga
• Unique Gifts and Souvenirs from Malaga
• Incredible Day Trips from Malaga