Malaga in November: Best Things to Do, Weather and Events
Is it a good idea to visit Malaga in November? My answer is yes.
Malaga in November is perfect for sightseeing, hiking and getting a taste of what Spanish Christmas is like.
The weather is mostly sunny and mild, and although there are fewer hours of sun than in other seasons, we get plenty of sunshine compared to Northern European countries.
If you like saving money, November is also a good time to come to my hometown. Flights and accommodation are cheaper, especially at the beginning of the month.
In this guide, I’ve compiled the best activities to do in Malaga in November, including unique local events and an overview of the weather among other frequently asked questions.
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 November
Overall, November in Malaga has plenty of mild and sunny days. However, you could experience a little bit of rain during your holiday. On average, it rains between 4 and 6 days.
Here is a quick overview of the temperature:
- Maximum temperature: 20ºC (68ºF)
- Minimum temperature: 12ºC (53.6ºF)
- Average temperature: 16ºC (61ºF)
- Rainy days: 4-6 days
- Sea temperature: 18ºC (64ºF)
- Average humidity: 70%
If you’re wondering about sunlight, the sun rises at 7:41 am and sets around 6:30 pm. As the month passes, the sunrise is slightly later and the sunset is slightly earlier.
Things to do in Malaga in November
1. Explore the beauty of Malaga historic centre
Malaga Old Town is one of the most beautiful places in the city. It’s home to important historical sites, museums, restaurants and a buzzing atmosphere.
While exploring this area, I recommend taking your time, in addition to seeing the main attractions.
If you ask, “Which attraction shouldn’t I miss?” my answer as a local is the Alcazaba Fortress Palace. It’s rich in history and reflects the importance of the Moors’ influence in the city, plus the views from its walls are spectacular.
Another must-see attraction is Malaga Cathedral. Not only will you see the beautiful architecture, but you will also have the option of going to its rooftop.
If you like visiting museums, you’re spoilt for choice. The Picasso Museum is the most famous, but there are many other unique museums, like the Malaga Wine Museum, the Automobile and Fashion Museum, and the Museum of Glass and Crystal.
2. Learn about Malaga’s wines
Did you know that Malaga was once one of the most important wine regions in Spain?
It is no longer the case, but it’s worth learning about the wine culture and tasting the local wines.
I highly recommend booking a wine-tasting tour as you’ll get all the insights about Malaga wine from a local expert.
I did this wine tour and couldn’t have been happier with the guide and all the different wines we tried from a small winery.
However, you don’t necessarily need to book a wine tour. You can also visit the Malaga Wine Museum.
It’s a small but great museum to immerse yourself in the history of wine, and my friend and l loved that the entry included wine tasting.
If you aren’t into wine tours, I suggest going to Antigua Casa del Guardia. This small tavern has some of the best sweet wines in Malaga.
3. Ride a bike on the beach promenade
Renting a bike in Malaga is a fantastic way to discover the city and the beach promenade.
I’m not a huge fan of riding bikes because I’m not great at it (I wish I was), but it’s a popular choice among travellers.
Since you’ll be exploring Malaga in November, you can ride a bike any time of the day without getting a sweat. However, bike rides are even better at sunrise or sunset.
You can rent a bike in Malaga for approximately 15 euros per day.
🚲 Rent your bike in Malaga here
4. Get some chestnuts
November is the peak season for chestnuts. Compared to other European destinations, the weather in Malaga doesn’t feel that cold for chestnuts, but they’re so tasty.
You’ll find small independent stalls in Alameda Principal and the city centre.
It’s lovely to grab some chestnuts during an evening walk in the historic centre or port.
5. Attend the Fiesta del Toston
I’ve mentioned chestnuts above, and this event is all about chestnuts too. It’s the star ingredient of this month.
It’s celebrated in Ojen, an inland town located 17 minutes by car from Marbella, every year on the first Sunday of November.
Locals cook dishes made with chestnuts, so you can also taste other local products like honey and dishes like rice with fennel and chestnuts stew.
In addition to food, there are other activities going on, from traditional dances to games such as sack races.
6. Pamper yourself at the Hamman
Although we don’t have many rainy days in Malaga, there are more days of rain from November to February.
One of the best things to do when it rains in Malaga is to head to the Hamman. I’ve been with my partner a few times and have loved it.
I recommend visiting the Hammam Al Ándalus Baños Árabes opposite Los Santos Martires Ciriaco y Paula Church. The architecture blew me away, and I loved the combination of hot and cold pools.
You can book a session in the Hamman with a massage included in Get Your Guide. When I first went, I booked mine that way.
7. Indulge churros con chocolate in the evening
Is there anything better than indulging in churros con chocolate with friends for Spanish merienda?
Whether it’s a rainy afternoon or a cooler day, they go down a treat.
My go-to places for churros in Malaga city centre are Casa Aranda and Tejeringos Coffee.
“What’s the difference between these two?” I hear you ask.
Casa Aranda is more traditional and has been established for a long time whereas Tejeringos Coffee is more modern and has more food options.
What I love about Tejeringos Coffee is that if I don’t fancy the typical Spanish hot and thick chocolate to dip in the churros, I can pick one of their sauces like caramel (dulce de leche) or white chocolate.
I know very few people who don’t like churros, so if you don’t or prefer something else for a late-afternoon snack, La Teteria has fluffy and delicious cakes and tea. I also love their outdoor seating overlooking Malaga Cathedral.
8. Go to the English Cemetery
The 1st of November is El Día de Todos los Santos (All Saint’s Day) and a bank holiday.
If you’re in Malaga on this date, you’ll find that many things are closed and there’s not much movement. The reason behind this is that many locals go to the cemetery to take flowers to those who are no longer here.
I don’t suggest going to the main cemetery, but you might want to check out the English Cemetery (El Cementerio Inglés) near the city centre. It’s the oldest Protestant cemetery in mainland Spain.
Here you can find the tombs of notable figures who contributed to the growth of Malaga city and culture.
Towards the end of November, the cemetery is adorned with Christmas decorations, and they also organise Christmas performances.
9. Hike in El Bosque de Cobre
One of the best activities to do in Malaga in November is hiking. There are beautiful walking routes in the city and its surroundings.
The weather is perfect for it – not too hot or cold, and you can actually enjoy the pretty autumn foliage seen in other European countries.
My favourite area to hike in Malaga province is Serranía de Ronda. El Bosque de Cobre is the most beautiful walk without a doubt.
The yellow, orange and brown colours come to life at the beginning of November.
Next to the Cooper Forest, I also recommend doing the Enchanted Forest hike in the lovely town of Parauta.
My family and I went there last autumn and enjoyed a short walk while seeing wooden sculptures along the way. It’s a great walk for families with little kids.
However, don’t make the same rookie mistake as me. We visited it on a Sunday, and it was really busy.
If possible, head there during the week for a more peaceful experience.
10. Go to Fiesta del Conejo in Parauta
You might not want to miss this one if you’re looking for traditional events in Malaga in November.
Fiesta del Conejo takes place in the town of Parauta around the 9th of November. On this day, you can expect local dishes made with rabbit meat, the star ingredient of this region, such as paella-style rice with rabbit.
I don’t eat rabbit meat, however, it isn’t all about food. Expect verdiales, a typical dance of Malaga, a live flamenco show and a great atmosphere.
11. See the Christmas lights switch on
On the last weekend of November, Malaga Christmas lights switch on on the famous street of Calle Larios. It’s always a special moment that we, locals, love.
To be honest, Christmas is the only time I love winter, and one of the things I like the most is the switch-on because the town hall usually changes the Christmas decorations and lights every year, so everyone is talking about what type of Christmas lights we can see that year a few weeks earlier.
Malaga isn’t the type of winter Christmas holiday you find in the north of Europe, but it’s beautiful in its own way, and many Spaniards from other cities come to see the Christmas lights in Malaga.
Expect a light show every evening, people dancing to Christmas carols and a fun atmosphere.
12. Attend the International Jazz Festival
Do you like jazz? If the answer is yes, you can’t miss the International Jazz Festival in Malaga.
This year’s edition is from the 2nd of November to the 9th of November. Pat Metheny, Christian McBride and Eliane Elias among others will perform during those dates.
A short FAQ about travelling to Malaga in November
Is Malaga busy in November?
No, except during the last week of November, when the Christmas lights are on and the city gets ready for the Christmas season.
Can you swim in the sea in Malaga in November?
The sea temperature is 18ºC (64ºF). However, I wouldn’t recommend swimming in the sea in Malaga in November.
Can you sunbathe in Malaga in November?
There are some beautiful and warm days in Malaga in November, so you can sunbathe, but you won’t see many people doing so, especially us locals.
What do I wear in Malaga in November?
You’ll sometimes see many travellers, especially those from the north of Europe, wearing a T-shirt and shorts. However, if you want to dress like a local, I recommend packing some jeans, light jumpers, and trainers or boots. You won’t need a big coat.
Conclusion about visiting Malaga in November
So, is Malaga worth visiting in November?
I personally think that November is one of the best months to visit Malaga for sightseeing and being an active traveller, as there are many beautiful inland villages to discover, and the weather is beautiful most days.
You’ll also get a totally different experience compared to summer when it’s busiest and hottest.
On top of this, if you come to Malaga in late November, you’ll experience our Christmas, and you can learn a little bit about our traditions.
Enjoy your trip to my hometown!
Cristina xx
Save this guide to Malaga in November 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!
Read more about Malaga
- Is Malaga Worth Visiting? 14 Reasons Why Malaga Needs To Be On Your List
- How to Get from Malaga Airport to the City Centre
- How to Spend One Day in Malaga
- 3 Days in Malaga (Detailed Itinerary & Insider Tips)
- 22 Best Free Things to Do in Malaga
- Malaga in December: Weather, Things to Do and Local Tips
- How to Spend Christmas in Malaga
