Malaga in October: Weather, Things to Do and Local Tips

Is October a good time to visit Malaga? Yes, visiting Malaga in October is especially for you if you want to avoid the summer crowds and intense heat.

October is a beautiful month in Malaga because it’s still warm during the day but not as warm as in July and August, allowing you to do more sightseeing activities and go on beautiful hiking trails if you’re into nature.

At the same time, travelling to Malaga in October is more affordable too. You have more opportunities to find good flight and accommodation fares. So it’s a winner in many ways.

October is one of my favourite months in Malaga, and in this guide, you’re going to learn all about the weather, the best things to do in Malaga in October, events you don’t want to miss out and some extra tips from a local perspective.

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Weather in Malaga in October

Some of the main questions about visiting Malaga in October are about the weather. If you wonder, “What’s the weather like in October in Malaga?” In a few words, it’s warm, sunny and dry, especially the first two weeks of the month.

The average temperature is 20ºC (68ºF), but you can expect a high of 25ºC (77ºF). Regarding the lowest, it’s about 15ºC (59ºF) early in the morning.

But does it rain in Malaga in October? On average, it rains 4 days in October, but I can say it’s rained less over the last few years. Summers have been longer, and the warmer temperatures have lasted until November. Rain normally doesn’t last very long.

Another reason to visit Malaga in October is the sunlight! The sunrise is at 8:00 am, and the sunset is at 8:00 pm, but as the month passes, the sunrise is a bit later and the sunset a bit sooner.

Also, it’s good to remember that the clock changes at the end of the month. Therefore, if you visit Malaga at the end of October, the sunrise is at 07:30 am, and the sunset is at 6:30 pm.

Best things to do in Malaga in October

1. Go on a hike to Montes de Malaga

Montes de Malaga Natural Park is a fantastic day trip from Malaga for nature lovers. The natural park is just 5 kilometres north of Malaga.

Beautiful natural features, pine forests and fauna are a few of the many things that make Montes de Malaga worth visiting.

Spend the day immersed in nature, picnic with family and friends and go on a walking route. There are incredible hiking trails for all levels and ages. And, who knows? You might spot some birds like eagles and tawny owls.

2. Hit the museums

Malaga has over 40 museums, so no matter what your interests are, you’ll find the museum for you.

There’s no wrong time to go to the museums, and some museums, like Picasso Museum Malaga, are busy most of the time.

So, why is October a good time to go to the museums? During this time of the year, it’s pretty common to find interesting exhibitions and events.

Before visiting your chosen museum, visit their website and check out the event calendar. There might be an event you’d like to attend. 

3. Try seasonal products

Summer is all about refreshing and light dishes such as ajoblanco (cold garlic soup), ensalada malagueña (Malaga-style salad). However, the menu changes as soon as autumn arrives according to the season and winter around the corner.

You don’t need to go far to try local seasonal products. One of the best places to taste autumn flavours is Mercado de Atarazanas, Malaga’s main market.

The market is vibrant and full of aromas. Here, you can try Moscatel grapes and raisins, which are products associated with autumn. You can either explore it on your own or take a guided food tour.

From October, you’ll also see street stalls selling chestnuts, another classic autumn product.

When it comes to dishes, you’ll still find delicious fish dishes, but stews and hearty dishes are making their way. Sopa perota is a classic soup of Alora, a Malaga town; if you love meat, you might want to try chivo lechal (roasted lamb).

4. Visit Alcazaba de Malaga and Gibralfaro

No matter what time of the year you visit Malaga, you can’t leave the city without visiting Alcazaba de Malaga.

This 11th-century fortress palace is an example of the Moorish influence in Andalucia, and it’s considered one of the best-preserved alcazabas in the country.

Climb up the hills to contemplate manicured gardens and beautiful patios scented with jasmine flowers, admire Moorish architecture and walk on the walls to enjoy panoramic views of Malaga.

You can also combine your visit to Alcazaba with Gibralfaro Castle, but if I had to choose one, go for Alcazaba. It’s the best historic building in the city, and I can guarantee you won’t be disappointed!

5. Day trip to pueblos blancos

Malaga is home to many pueblos blancos (white towns and villages) worth exploring. They offer a different experience from the city.

Despite being small, many of these towns have many things to do, even activities you wouldn’t be able to do in Malaga.

One of my favourite whitewashed towns in Malaga is Frigiliana, which has been recognized as one of the prettiest towns in Spain.

Exploring the old town of Frigiliana is an experience – Its cobblestone streets with whitewashed houses and beautiful turquoise doors, friendly cats wandering the streets, breathtaking views of the mountains and sea and atmosphere are a few reasons that will make you fall in love with this town.

However, other whitewashed towns that you might also want to add to your list are:

• Nerja
• Mijas Pueblo
• Ronda
• Casares

6. Do Caminito del Rey trail

Autumn in Malaga is a good time to go for a hike, but Caminito del Rey isn’t just another hiking trail; it’s unique.

This almost 8 8-kilometre route used to be one of the most dangerous in the world. However, it was adapted to the public and is now the most spectacular hiking trail in Andalucia. 

Due to its breathtaking rock formations and cliffs, fauna and flora, it’s a popular destination, so you must book your tickets in advance.

🎟️ Book your tickets for Caminito del Rey

7. Enjoy the sunshine at the beach

One of the best things about going to the beach in autumn is that you won’t experience crowds like in the summer.

In summer, especially on weekends, the locals set up their umbrellas and towels early to “reserve” their spot on the beach and spend the full day with family and friends.

In autumn, you can simply lay your towel wherever you want and enjoy the sound of the sea and sunshine.

Although I wouldn’t swim in the sea in October (just like many locals wouldn’t), you might feel like going in the water. The sea temperature is about 19 degrees Celsius (66.2 ºF).

8. Take a wine tour

Did you know Malaga produces a great variety of wines?

The most famous wine in Malaga is Pedro Ximénez wine, an intense sweet fortified wine, but you’ll be amazed by the wide range of wines – from floral and fruity wines to dry red wine. 

Malaga is home to important main wine areas like Montes de Málaga, la Axarquía and Ronda. 

Most of the organised wine tours take place in Ronda. You can visit beautiful wineries and immerse yourself in the world of wine. 

However, you can try local wines in Malaga city too. I recommend the Wine Museum, Antigua Casa de Guardia and El Pimpi.

🍷 Check out this highly-rated wine and tapas tour in Malaga

Events in Malaga in October

Whilst summer is the prime time for festivals and traditional events in Malaga, if you visit Malaga at the beginning of the month, you can still experience many incredible events.

Día de las Sopas Perotas (Álora) – 1st Saturday of October

If you’re a foodie, you must attend this event in Alora, a small town in the mountainside located 40 minutes drive from Malaga.

This food festival is celebrated every year on the first Saturday of October. During this day, expect lots of street vendors selling local products such as olives and ceramic objects, live music, and of course, delicious food in Plaza Baja (the town’s square).

More than 5000 dishes of sopa perota are given away for free, so you can try the traditional dish of Alora, which is the main reason for this event.

Sopa perota consists of a soup made with bread, potatoes, onions, peppers, tomatoes and garlic. It is a packed flavour soup which was a peasant dish.

Nikki Beach Marbella Red Party – First weekend of October

Do you love a party? Nikki Beach is one of the most luxurious beach clubs in Costa del Sol.

If you happen to be in Malaga in the first week of October, you might not want to miss this amazing event that celebrates the end of the season at Nikki Beach Marbella.

The dress code is red, so make sure to get your best red outfit! It usually starts at 2 pm and lasts until early morning.

DJs, dancers, plenty of delicious finger food and an incredible atmosphere.

Halloween

Is Halloween a thing in Malaga? Yes, it is, of course. It can’t be compared to the US, where every house decorates and you can find pumpkin patches, but we’ve got a bit better at celebrating this spooky day.

There are a few events that take place in Malaga city centre, like in Muelle Uno, but you can also look for Halloween activities across the Costa del Sol.

I have this detailed article about Halloween in Malaga and its surroundings.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Malaga in October

October in Malaga isn’t for you if…

You want a summer holiday. Although it’s fairly warm during the day, many summer attractions, like waterparks and beach clubs, have already closed for the season.

Malaga temperature in October is ideal for sightseeing, hiking and soaking up the sun. However, it’s cooler to swim in the sea. Early mornings and evenings tend to be colder and get even more towards the end of the month, so you’ll need a light jacket.

Conclusion on visiting Malaga in October

October is a good month to visit Malaga for many reasons: mild and sunny days, more opportunities to do outdoor activities and sightseeing without crowds, cheaper flights and accommodation, and amazing traditional and not-so-traditional events.

If you have questions about visiting Malaga, you can always leave them in the comments. For further advice from a local or help planning your trip, check out my personalised itinerary services.

Enjoy your time in Malaga!

Cristina x

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Top things to do before visiting Malaga

• Compare and book flights to Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) with Skyscanner.
• Check out my Malaga hotel guide to help you choose the best accommodation.
• Discover great activities to do in Malaga with Get Your Guide.
• Book a free walking tour with GuruWalk.
• Rent a car with Discover Cars to travel around Malaga.
• Book travel insurance for your trip; this is a must for any trip! SafetyWing offers flexible travel and health insurance.

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• How To Spend Christmas In Malaga Like a Local
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