Complete Guide to Muelle Uno, Malaga Port (By A Local)
Muelle Uno, Pier One, is one of the places that needs to be included in any Malaga itinerary.
It’s more than a simple harbour; it has entertainment, shops, restaurants, and an art gallery, among other things.
It’s a fantastic place to walk and watch the sunset leisurely. I think the sunsets here are underrated.
In this guide, I’ve covered all the things you can do in Muelle Uno, as well as my honest opinion on where to eat and other tips as a local.
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About Muelle Uno
While Malaga has always had a port, it didn’t look like this until November 2011.
Malaga has always been a strategic point for ships from all over the world. The first sign of the port dates back to the 1st of January 1588, when they laid the first stone and construction began. However, it’s known that the port was such an important part of the city for the Romans and other civilisations.
In the 18th century, things changed again for good. King Carlos III proposed building a port that would bring locals together with the sea. This is when La Capilla building was constructed.
In 1817, the famous lighthouse was completed, and since then, it has undergone further changes and attracts locals and many tourists, including those on cruises.
Things to do in Muelle Uno
1. Go on a boat trip
One of the most popular things to do in Muelle Uno is going on a boat trip; after all, you’re in the port. There are different companies and types of boat trips catering for couples, partygoers and families.
This is an activity I had always wanted to do in my hometown, but somehow I never found the opportunity until one of my friends from the UK came to visit Malaga. She had been to the city before, but wanted to do something different, so the suggestion of going on a boat trip really attracted her.
We took this one-hour catamaran cruise with Mundo Marino. It was lovely to see my city from a different perspective with good company. We sat in the net area, but I’d skip it next time, as I got soaked and it wasn’t super comfortable. I only recommend it for anyone who wants to lie down and loves sunbathing.
As with any tour, especially at sunset, I recommend getting a jacket as it can get chilly.
I didn’t see any dolphins, but some travellers are lucky enough to spot bottlenose dolphins!
2. Visit the Centre Pompidou Málaga
Centre Pompidou Malaga is the only art gallery right on Muelle Uno. There’s no way to miss it, as the building stands out for being a giant cube with yellow, red, blue, and green square glasses.
It’s the only Pompidou branch outside France, and you can see displays and exhibitions showcasing contemporary art. One of my favourite sections of the art gallery is the room with the typewriters. The shop also has some unique gifts to take home.
If you aren’t into museums, it’s still worth checking out its exterior. It’s one of the most photographed buildings in the city, so you don’t want to miss the opportunity to take a photo.
3. Buy unique gifts from the markets
Whilst the port has many stores, I usually find the most unique gifts for birthdays, Christmas and other special occasions at the stalls in Muelle Uno street market on Sundays or the seasonal markets like the autumn and Christmas markets.
These stalls support local independent businesses and sell unique items you won’t find in high-street shops.
You can buy anything from pretty ceramic houses with LED lights and Picasso-inspired jars and plates to local goat cheese and clothing. Overall, it has a wide range of unique souvenirs from Malaga.
4. Enjoy the sunset with a cocktail
Gibralfaro viewpoint offers the best panoramic views of Malaga, and it’s the best place to watch the sunset, but it’s often crowded.
You won’t get the same views as Gibralfaro, but the sunsets at Muelle Uno are beautiful and magical, too.
Another bonus of watching the sunset here is that you can do so with a cocktail or your drink of choice. Nusa is cosy, offers great views, and is well-known for its top-notch cocktails.
Cobalto 15 is another popular cocktail bar also located in the top area of Muelle Uno.
5. Take a bike tour
Bike tours don’t start in the port, but they usually go through the port and the beach promenade. I personally think that the port is one of the best areas to ride a bike. Some parts of the city aren’t yet bike-friendly, but going with a guide does help.
Check out some of the best bike rentals and bike tours in Malaga:
6. See the monument to the immigrants
A stone’s throw from the Pompidou Museum, you’ll come across the monument to the immigrants created in 2013. It consists of a sculpture by artist Andres Montesano. It commemorates the migrations that coexist in Malaga.
7. Windowshop
I’ve already mentioned that I prefer buying from local markets, but you might also want to check out high-end national and international stores. Here is a list of the ones you can find in Muelle Uno:
- Miniso. A store that many kids will love.
- Bailly. It has lots of lovely dresses and women’s accessories.
- Kiko. The go-to store for make-up.
- Lacoste. Famous for its polo shirts and unisex clothing.
- Zappas and Oteros. Two sporting shoe shops.
- La Maison du Savon. I love their sop products and have bought a few things there.
- ALE-HOP. Who hasn’t seen one of these? They’re all over Spain, and what makes it memorable is the huge cow at the entrance of the store.
8. Play at the arcades
Galaxy Park Bowling hasn’t been open for long, but it’s a great place to visit with friends or children. Besides bowling, you can spend some time playing games, from basketball and air hockey to dancing. As you play, you’ll get tickets that can be redeemed in their Galaxy shop.
Bowling costs 6 euros Monday to Thursday and 8 euros Friday to Sunday (including bank holidays).
9. Take a photo at La Farola de Malaga
At the end of Pier One, you’ll find La Farola de Malaga, an emblematic landmark in Malaga. The lighthouse was built in the early 19th century and has guided ships and cruise ships into the port for many years.
Besides its history, it’s become one of the most popular photo spots in Malaga!
✨Local tip: Check out the calendar before heading to the port. You might come across even a livelier atmosphere at one of its many free events. Generally, you’ll find plenty of things going on during Halloween, Christmas, Easter and Noche en Blanco.
Where to eat in Muelle Uno
I must admit, I don’t usually eat at Muelle Uno, and you’ll find many locals don’t either. One of the main reasons is that it isn’t the most budget-friendly option, and it’s seen as a touristy area where you may end up paying more than you expect.
I wouldn’t recommend Muelle Uno for an authentic meal if I’m completely honest.
Nevertheless, there are some good options within Muelle Uno. This is a list of popular restaurants and cafes, including some I’ve tried:
- Hard Rock Cafe Malaga (American)
- Restaurante La Tagliatella (Italian)
- José Carlos García Restaurante (Spanish). I haven’t tried it yet, but I’ve heard great things about this fine dining restaurant.
- 100 Montaditos (Spanish). It’s a bar mainly serving mini-sandwiches at very low prices. It’s okay, but don’t have high expectations. It’s cheap for a reason!
- Saloniki (Greek). I don’t know many Greek restaurants in Malaga, but I actually enjoyed a meal here with my partner.
- Trocadero Casa de Botes. The aesthetics are gorgeous, but I can’t comment on the food yet.
Attractions to visit near Muelle Uno
La Malagueta Beach
A short walk from the pier, you have the most visited beach in Malaga, the Malagueta Beach. One of the main reasons it is so popular is, of course, its location. It’s very close to the historic centre where most travellers stay.
In the summer months, you can expect it to be quite busy, with locals and travellers taking a dip in the sea, sunbathing, or enjoying local fried fish at one of the chiringuitos. It’s very lively.
During the off-season, you can still see some travellers sunbathing, especially in late spring and early autumn; however, my favourite thing to do is walk the beach promenade at sunrise.
Alcazaba de Malaga and Roman Theatre
If there’s one attraction you shouldn’t miss when spending a day in Malaga, it’s the Alcazaba fortress palace. It takes you back to Moorish times in southern Spain, with its history and architecture. I’ve visited it countless times, but if you’re into history, I highly recommend this tour I once took. I thought I knew quite a bit, but I was wrong.
Next to the Alcazaba, check out the Roman Theatre too. I find it fascinating to see two completely different buildings, built by different civilisations, next to each other.
Castillo de Gibralfaro
Another must-see sight in Malaga is its castle, located at the top of the city, in Gibralfaro. While it has quite a bit of history, what makes it special for me is the views. It’s the highest point to take panoramic photos of Malaga.
Malaga Cathedral
Last but not least on the list of the top sights in Malaga is the Cathedral. Explore its gardens, see its impressive interior with exquisite architecture and go to its rooftop to take in beautiful views of Malaga.
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FAQ about Muelle Uno
Are there public toilets in Muelle Uno?
Yes, there are a few public toilets in the port.
Where can I park in the port?
Muelle Uno has its own underground car park. I highly recommend leaving the car here if there are spaces available. It’s very difficult to find free parking in this area. If it’s full, another nearby paid parking is Parking Cervantes next to the bullring.
In conclusion, Muelle Uno might seem a touristy spot, but we, locals, love it too. Nothing can beat an early morning walk or watching the sunset in the port.
If you’d like personalised help to plan your trip to Malaga or anywhere else in Andalucia, check out my one-to-one calls and itineraries here.
Enjoy your time in my hometown!
Cristina x
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