The Ultimate Guide To Malaga in January
Is Malaga good to visit in January? What is Malaga like in January? These are common questions among travellers planning a winter getaway to my hometown.
Overall, I think January is a good time to travel, which applies to Malaga and the Costa del Sol.
If you come at the beginning of the month, you can still experience Spanish Christmas, but if you come later, you’ll find good flight and accommodation deals. In addition, you don’t need to worry about the crowds.
I’ve compiled everything you need to know about visiting Malaga in January in this guide, from the best things to do to the weather and what to wear.
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.
Weather in Malaga in January
January is the coldest month in Malaga, with an average of 14 degrees, but we still have lovely sunny days.
Here is a quick overview of the temperature:
- Maximum temperature: 16ºC (60.8ºF)
- Minimum temperature: 8ºC (46.4ºF)
- Average temperature: 14ºC (57.2ºF)
- Rainy days: 6 days
- Sea temperature: 16ºC (60.8ºF)
- Average humidity: 73%
If you’re wondering about sunlight, you can enjoy almost 10 hours, which is a lot compared to other European destinations. The sun rises at 8:20 am and sets around 6:25 pm.
The best things to do in Malaga in January
1. See the Three Kings Parade
Do you plan to come to Malaga the first week of January?
Then I highly recommend checking out La Cabalgata de Los Reyes Magos, aka the Three Kings Parade.
It takes place on the evening of the 5th of January in the city centre. However, if you stay in a nearby town in Malaga, you’ll also find a three kings parade. Every Spanish city and town celebrates this.
So, what can I expect from the parade? You might ask—floating cars representing different cartoon and film characters, live music and lots of sweets.
Every floating car has a team of adults and kids who throw tons of sweets to the people attending.
This is a fun event to attend with kids, especially those who still believe in Santa and in this case the three kings.
It has always been one of my favourite events in my hometown. I’m a grown-up now, but I still love attending it with my cousins. It reminds me of when I was a kid and was so excited about this evening.
2. Splurge on the sales
January isn’t the best financial month for many people! Work dos, Christmas presents, meal after meal, Christmas markets…
However, it’s a fantastic time to buy clothes and other items for half price in many cases.
The sales start in early January, so many locals, like me, still get presents for the three kings at the sales.
However, they last almost all month. And I would recommend going after the three kings instead of earlier. Although you’ll find people shopping with the money given on the 6th of January, there is a bit less.
Malaga city centre has two main shopping centres, Larios and Vialia. Both have popular clothing shops like Zara, Stradivarius and Pull and Bear.
But my preferred shopping centre is Plaza Mayor, near the airport. There’s no way you leave this place without finding something.
You’ll find a wide variety of shops and have the McArthur Designer Outlet next to it.
I love that there’s a food area with plenty of options. So whenever I get hungry, I can grab something.
3. Taste the comfort dishes of Malaga
January is the coldest month in Malaga.
The afternoons can be mild compared to the UK or The Netherlands, but it is cooler in the evenings.
With these temperatures, there’s nothing better than warming up with food.
Soups and stews are perfect for that, and fortunately, we have some delicious recipes.
One of the most common Malaga winter dishes is gazpachuelo, a hot soup made with white fish, prawns, potatoes and mayonnaise.
However, there are many other stews, including ones without fish. I know many people don’t like the idea of fish in soup. For example, berza malagueña, which is made with chickpeas, green beans and different types of meat.
And, well, if you aren’t into soups and stews, you might enjoy plato de los montes. It’s a hearty dish that consists of marinated pork, chips, fried eggs and peppers, chorizo and black pudding.
4. Go on a hiking trail
Hiking isn’t an activity associated with Malaga. Most travellers think of beaches, but the city is surrounded by lovely mountainside towns.
We have the best of two worlds, really, the sea and mountains.
However, you don’t need to leave the city to go on a nice walk. If you stay in the city centre, walk from La Malagueta to the fishing neighbourhood of Pedregalejo.
Outside the city centre, you can walk in Guadalhorce, a natural area famous for birdwatching.
Then we have the renowned hiking trail of Caminito del Rey, a hike like no other. Scared of heights? Then you won’t want to do it. If not, you’ll love the gorge and cliff views.
There are many other routes in Malaga towns! If you’re into hiking, have a look at hikes in each town on All Trails.
5. Discover the city’s main attractions
The first week of January is crowded as it’s still Christmas in Spain, so people are out and about enjoying the holidays, buying presents, etc.
However, you’ll find it way quieter from the 6th of January, our last day of Christmas.
If you don’t like crowds, this is the perfect time to discover Malaga’s main attractions. The queues at popular museums like the Picasso Museum are shorter.
Will this be your first time in Malaga? These are the attractions in Malaga Old Town that I always recommend visiting:
- The Alcazaba Fortress Palace. For me, it’s unmissable. This historic building takes you back to the Muslim period in Andalusia. The orange scent from the trees at this time of the year, the lovely sound of fountains and city views from its walls always amaze me.
- One of Picasso’s museums. Museo Picasso Malaga is the most famous museum. It’s the one you’ll find in most travel guides. And I don’t want to say it isn’t worth visiting, but Museo Natal Picasso in Plaza de la Merced gives you more insight into Picasso’s life.
- Malaga Cathedral. This cathedral, which has Renaissance architecture, is beautiful inside and outside. You can visit it during a mass for free, but if you’re interested in the history, I recommend doing the audio guide included in the general admission. For great views, book the ticket with a rooftop visit.
Other must-see attractions you might want to add to your itinerary are Gibralfaro Castle, Carmen Thyssen Museum and the Roman Theatre next to the Alcazaba.
6. Take a day trip to one of the Pueblos Blancos
When travellers ask me if they should travel outside Malaga, my answer is yes. Malaga is much more than an airport city and a short city break. I’m very proud to be from Malaga and love the province.
If you only come to the city centre, you’re missing out. We have many beautiful towns and villages that offer something unique, from typical dishes to beautiful hiking trails and traditions.
These are some of the white-painted towns and villages not to miss out. I have sorted out from the most to least popular.
- Ronda
- Mijas Pueblo
- Frigiliana
- Casares
7. Pamper yourself at the Hamman
An activity that is often overlooked is visiting the Hamman. You can, of course, go to the Hamman any time of the year, but I think winter is ideal because it’s too cold to swim in the sea.
Whether it’s an odd rainy day or you want to wind down, you’ll definitely love spending time in the arab baths.
The one I recommend is Hammam Al Ándalus Baños Árabes. I’ve visited it several times and loved the atmosphere, architecture and variety of hot and cold pools and the sauna.
And, the best thing about it? You can finish your relaxing bath with a massage.
💆🏻♀️ Get your tickets to the Hamman here
8. Visit Sierra Nevada
Does it snow in Malaga? It snows in Sierra de la Nieve, a mountain range in the province of Malaga, but you won’t see snow in the city or coastal towns.
However, this place isn’t super snowy either. If you want a holiday with winter sun and snow. Spend time in Malaga and then go on a day trip or take a trip to Sierra Nevada for a few days.
Sierra Nevada is in Granada, but it’s only a two-hour drive.
It’s one of the best ski resorts in Spain, and January to March are the months when you’ll find more snow.
If you decide to stay in Sierra Nevada for a few days, which I recommend, El Lodge is a stunning 5-star hotel with a heated pool overlooking the snowy mountains.
9. Warm up with churros con chocolate
Churros con chocolate goes down a treat any time, but even more on chilly mornings and afternoons.
Luckily, there are many good churrerias (churros cafes) in Malaga. Casa Aranda is an institution for churros. It’s been open for over 90 years, and not only are the churros delicious, but the prices are also cheap.
Other good cafes serving churros are Churreria La Malagueña and Tejeringos Coffee (my favourite!)
What to wear in Malaga in January
January is cold, at least if you ask a local. You can experience nice mild to warm afternoons but cold evenings and early mornings.
I would take with me a coat, and then it’s all about layers. But you won’t definitely need a puffy jacket or scarves and gloves!
If you always feel warm, consider mid-sleeve shirts and a coat for the evening.
When it comes to shoes, pick something comfortable, like trainers. I know they aren’t always fashionable, but your feet will thank you, especially if the Alcazaba Fortress and Gibralfaro Castle are on your itinerary.
Another option is using short boots.
FAQ about Malaga in January
Is the end of January a good time to visit Malaga?
Yes, it’s the least busy time in the city. Also, you’ll find cheaper flights and accommodation.
Can you swim in Malaga in January?
I have to say no. It’s too cold unless you’re adventurous.
Are restaurants open in Malaga in January?
Yes. However, if you go to coastal towns in Malaga, you’ll find that some restaurants close after Christmas and February and reopen in March, when most travellers come to Malaga.
Conclusion about Malaga in January
So, is it worth visiting Malaga in winter, specifically in January?
It’s a yes from me! I love Christmas, and if you wish Christmas was longer, I suggest coming to my hometown right after New Year’s! However, if you aren’t bothered about it, you’ll find cheaper deals later in the month.
Do you have any other questions about Malaga? Leave a comment below or join my Facebook group to connect with other travellers and me!
Cristina
Save this article about January in Malaga on Pinterest for later
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!
