Malaga, Spain

This lovely capital of Spain's Costa del Sol has an ancient history that goes back to Phoenician times. Presiding over the city is the majestic Moorish citadel, the Alcazaba. Visit Pablo Picasso's birthplace in the Plaza de la Merced or some of the beautiful old churches: Sagrario with its 16th century alter and Santiago with its Moorish tower. Venture to hilltop Mijas for an enchanting example of an Andalusian village.

Málaga is surrounded by mountains, lying in the southern base of the Axarquía hills, and two rivers, the Guadalmedina (on the left bank) and the Guadalhorce, flow near the city into the Mediterranean. The inner city of Málaga is just behind the harbour. The quarters of El Perchel, La Trinidad and Lagunillas surround this centre.

Apart from all the cultural attractions, Malaga is a perfect location to enjoy life. The relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere and the perfect climate attract many tourists.

The people in Malaga (Malagueños), are known for going out at night for a chat, a drink or to eat out. The town therefore has a great variation of restaurants, bars and bodegas, which are normally busy throughout the week. The Malagueños are also known for loving everything about their town and are particularly proud of their world famous citizen, the painter Pablo Picasso.

Things to See & Do

* Alcazaba fortress
* Gibralfaro Castle
* The Cathedral
* Native home museum of Picasso

General information

Cruise Season - Feb to Dec
Currency - euro (€)
Language - Spanish
Land Area - 386 sq km
Population - 558,000
Electricity - 2 pin Round pins European style
Time - GMT/UTC +1 ()
International Country Telephone Code - 34

Port Location - The Port of Malaga is situated in downtown Malaga, south of the Iberian Peninsula, on the Southern Coast of the Mediterranean.

Transport Links - There are very cheap flights to Málaga from countries in Northern Europe, particularly the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Germany. From Málaga, other cities of Andalucia, like Sevilla, Córdoba and Granada, can be reached by train, bus or car.