Where to Stay in Malaga [Best Places to Stay for 2024]

The city of Malaga is surrounded by mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, which ensures warm weather all year round.

It has become one of Spain’s most important tourist destinations, it is known as the birthplace of flamenco music and has many historical buildings, beaches, and a vibrant culture making it a great place to visit on vacation.

Wondering where is the best place to stay in Malaga? We will cover off all types of Malaga accommodation options from Hostels to luxury Malaga hotels as well as how to decide where to stay in Malaga 2024.

This guide shows the best Malaga hotels, best places in Malaga to visit, the best places to stay in Malaga, hotels near Malaga attractions, Malaga neighborhood guide and many more.

Located on Spain’s southern coast, Malaga Spain was founded in 770 BC by Phoenicians and is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and is the second largest city in Andalusia.

It is also where Pablo Picasso was born. There are 10 municipal districts, which are then subdivided. If you are looking for the best places to stay in Malaga, some of the main areas are listed below.

Downtown Malaga – Where to stay in Malaga for First Time Visitors

Downtown Malaga (District 1) is a great place to stay. If you are wondering where to stay in Malaga for first timers, then this is the place to be. It is in the heart of the city, with plenty of attractions and things to do.

Also known as El Centro or the Malaga Old Town, Malaga city centre is close to the train station, the fantastic Playa la Malagueta beach, and plenty of bars, restaurants, nightclubs, wineries, and microbreweries.

The historic center is an excellent area for walking. Plaza de la Constitution is a public square in the heart of this section, surrounded by bars and cafés. Similarly, both Plazas de la Judería and Plaza de la Merced are worth a visit.

If you are interested in historic buildings, the magnificent Malaga Cathedral (one of the tallest cathedrals in Andalucia) and Alcazaba Fortress are well worth visiting as is Gibralfaro Castle. The ancient Roman theatre here is also impressive. This is located at the bottom of Alcazaba.

There are many museums in Malaga, including the Picasso Museum, the Carmen Thyssen Museum, the Museo de Malaga and more.

You can also visit galleries where you will find art from local artists and plenty of cultures. Finally, if you are wondering where to stay in Malaga for nightlife with lots of fun activities—this is the place to go!

Best places to stay in Downtown Malaga

Cheapest Backpacking Hostels in Downtown Malaga
TOC Hostel Malaga
Feel Hostels City Center
COEO Pod Hostel – Part of COEO Experience
The Urban Jungle Hostel

Budget Hotels in Downtown Malaga
Maria Magdalena – Room 7
Residencia Universitaria Málaga Centro
AyZ FRAILES
La Casa Mata Central

Mid range Hotels in Downtown Malaga
Hotel Palacete de Alamos
Málaga Premium Hotel
Room Mate Larios
Soho Boutique Equitativa

Family Friendly Hotels in Downtown Malaga
Petit Palace Plaza Málaga
Madeinterranea Suites
AC Hotel Málaga Palacio
Room Mate Valeria

Affordable Luxury Hotels in Downtown Malaga
Vincci Selección Posada del Patio
Only YOU Hotel Málaga
Palacio Solecio
Gran Hotel Miramar GL

Self Contained Apartments in Downtown Malaga
Apartment 1
Apartment 2
Apartment 3

Calle Larios – Where to stay in Malaga for Foodies

Marqués de Larios (named after the Marquis), or Calle Larios, is a historic pedestrian street located in Malaga’s city centre.

This is where visitors have the best dining options and will find most of Malaga’s shops. On both sides of this bustling avenue are everything from clothing boutiques, and shoe stores to antique stores, making this a shopper’s paradise.

You will also find the Atarazanas Market, located in an amazing 19th-century building with stained glass windows, you will find fresh produce, cured meats and cheese. If you like Tapas, you will find tapas bars near the entrance to the market.

Best places to stay in Calle Larios

Cheapest Backpacking Hostels in Calle Larios
Chinitas Urban Hostel
Hostal Vidamia
The Lights Hostel
Feel Hostels City Center

Budget Hotels in Calle Larios
Hotel Don Curro
H-A Hotel Trebol
Ibis Malaga Centro Ciudad
Castilla Guerrero

Mid range Hotels in Calle Larios
Room Mate Valeria
Soho Boutique Malaga
Exe Málaga Museos
Atarazanas Málaga Boutique Hotel

Family Friendly Hotels in Calle Larios
H10 Croma Málaga
Mariposa Hotel Malaga
Molina Lario
Alameda

Affordable Luxury Hotels in Calle Larios
Only YOU Hotel Málaga
Vincci Selección Posada del Patio
Vincci Larios Diez
ICON Malabar

Self Contained Apartments in Calle Larios
Apartment 1
Apartment 2
Apartment 3

Maria Zambrano – Where to stay in Malaga on a Budget

The María Zambrano station in Malaga is a busy transportation hub named after the famed philosopher María Zambrano. If you are looking for a place close to the airport and prefer that your accommodation be busy, this is an excellent location.

If, however, you are seeking quiet surroundings during your visit—this would not be it. It is also an easy trip into town or down to the beach and there are lots of restaurants and bars nearby as well as shopping opportunities. The Vialia shopping centre is in the train station complex.

Maria Zambrano is a delightful neighbourhood in which to spend time if you want to get the most out of your trip to Malaga. It is small and it is close, not only to the beach but also to the Maria Zambrano train station, so exploring other parts of this beautiful city is easy.

The area has many restaurants and affordable shops which are open late into the night, so there is plenty on offer in this neighbourhood.

This neighbourhood is the oldest outside the historic centre, but it is not a typical tourist destination on vacation. It is worth visiting if you want to see either Church of El Carmen or San Pedro. If you like churros, then a stop at Los Valle, it is a must to try some ‘tejeringos’ (traditional Malaga-style churros).

If you are after where to stay in Malaga on a budget, then this area is a good place to stay, as the accommodation prices are cheaper than in the centre. An underground station (El Perchel) located in Perchel Sur (south) is great for transport links.

Best places to stay in Maria Zambrano

Cheapest Backpacking Hostels in Maria Zambrano
The Lights Hostel
Hostal Vidamia
Malaga Stop Hostel AB
Feel Hostels Soho Malaga

Budget Hotels in Maria Zambrano
Hotel Las Américas
Casual del Mar Málaga
Hotel Zeus
Hotel Don Paco

Mid range Hotels in Maria Zambrano
Barceló Malaga
limehome Málaga Calle Ancha del Carmen
Eurostars Málaga
Ilunion Málaga

Family Friendly Hotels in Maria Zambrano
Hotel Málaga Alameda Centro Affiliated by Meliá
Soho Boutique Colón
Hotel Guadalmedina

Self Contained Apartments in Maria Zambrano
Apartment 1
Apartment 2
Apartment 3

Soho – Where to stay in Malaga for Young People

One of the best areas to stay in Malaga is Soho. Soho is the cool place to be in Malaga and combines bohemian, arty (there are lots of murals everywhere), and touristy elements.

You can get to the train station quickly from here and there are tons of restaurants and bars nearby. This area is very lively, with lots of young people and you will find some nice boutique hotels located here as well. If you are into arts, you will certainly enjoy everything Soho has to offer.

Best places to stay in Soho Malaga

Cheapest Backpacking Hostels in Soho Malaga
Feel Hostels Soho Malaga

Budget Hotels in Soho Malaga
Colours of Soho
Del Parque Flat Soho Barroso
Home Art Apartments Soho
Solaga – San Lorenzo

Mid range Hotels in Soho Malaga
Soho Boutique Bahía Málaga
Mariposa Hotel Malaga
Soho Boutique Colón
Soho Boutique Urban

Family Friendly Hotels in Soho Malaga
Apartamento Soho Malaga
Tandem Soho Suites
Eurostars Astoria
Xpce Malaga SOHO

Affordable Luxury Hotels in Soho Malaga
ICON Malabar
Only YOU Hotel Málaga

Self Contained Apartments in Soho Malaga
Apartment 1
Apartment 2
Apartment 3

La Malagueta – Best area to stay in Malaga near beach

La Malagueta has one of the famous urban beaches (blue flag) in this neighbourhood. Close to the Port of Malaga, this area is bustling and lively, with proximity to shops, restaurants, and bars.

As you are so close to the historic centre, you can easily access all the museums nearby (Museum of the Heritage of Malaga) and the nearby bullfighting ring (although controversial) where you can learn the history of Spanish bullfighting.

Best places to stay in La Malagueta

Budget Hotels in La Malagueta
Malagueta Playa 11
La Brisa Malagueta
Alborán Beach Terrace
Letmalaga Harbour One

Mid range Hotels in La Malagueta
Malagueta Beach Studio
Hotel MS Maestranza Málaga
Futurotel Malagueta Beach
Beach Studio Apartment Playa Malagueta

Family Friendly Hotels in La Malagueta
La Bella Malagueta
Fantásticos Lofts Malagueta
Beach & Center Premiun

Self Contained Apartments in La Malagueta
Apartment 1
Apartment 2
Apartment 3

Ciudad Jardin – Where to stay in Malaga for Nature Lovers

Ciudad Jardin, (District 3), or “Garden City,” is the most northern region in Malaga and further away from the centre. This more mountainous region is suited to those who like to stay in a quieter, more remote location. You will need a car if you wish to explore the area around here.

The area surrounding this city is home to the Jardin Botanico Historico-La Conception (one of Spain’s largest tropical gardens), and Montes De Malaga National Park – a great place for walking, picnicking or renting mountain bikes.

There are plenty of hiking and biking trails in this area through pine forests, so ideal for those who like to get out into nature and enjoy the scenery. There are fewer options available for accommodation and they can be a bit more expensive, so booking in advance is advised.

Best places to stay in Ciudad Jardin

Budget Hotels in Ciudad Jardin
Las Tres Macetas
Villa Patricia

Mid range Hotels in Ciudad Jardin
The lovely loft 1
Letmalaga Economy Ciudad Jardin

Family Friendly Hotels in Ciudad Jardin
Casa Juan Breva
Málaga Oloroso

Self Contained Apartments in Ciudad Jardin
Apartment 1

Pedregalejo – Where to stay in Malaga for Families

This fishing village offers some of the best access to Malaga’s urban core while offering a peaceful environment close enough for visitors not to feel too far removed from the city.

The Pedregalejo neighbourhood, runs along the coastline and offers excellent dining opportunities for visitors looking for an authentic experience, especially regarding seafood restaurants and is among the most desirable places to stay because it is away from the noise yet close enough to enjoy all that this vibrant city has to offer.

If you are looking for where to stay in Malaga with family then this seaside area, which is located less than five kilometres from the centre of Malaga, boasts a large and beautiful beach too. There are little bays in this area with shallow waters, so good for families with small children.

Best places to stay in Pedregalejo

Cheapest Backpacking Hostels in Pedregalejo
La Moraga de Poniente Malaga Hostel

Budget Hotels in Pedregalejo
AyZ Elcano
Loft B frente Playa Pedregalejo
Livemalaga Pedregalejo
Hotel Domus

Mid range Hotels in Pedregalejo
Apartamentos Pedregalejo
Casita 10 Málaga
Elcano
House on walking distance beach Pedregalejo Malaga

Family Friendly Hotels in Pedregalejo
Pedregalejo, Estropada 1
Loft C frente Playa Pedregalejo
Bolivia 167
Villa Leomar

Affordable Luxury Hotels in Pedregalejo
Luxury pool villa at Malaga’s best beach!

Self Contained Apartments in Pedregalejo
Apartment 1
Apartment 2

El Palo – Where to stay in Malaga for Couples

El Palo is a quieter residential beach neighbourhood that lies east of Malaga’s historic centre, next to the Pedregalejo district.

El Palo is a good option if you want to be near the sea but also enjoy bars, seafood restaurants, and other attractions. It has a small-town feel.

The beach is great for families and you can rent hammocks at beachside bars. A lot of the accommodation provided here are aparthotels. This area is well connected with good bus links to the city centre.

Best places to stay in El Palo

Budget Hotels in El Palo
Rooms in Seafront Villa
Playa 45, First Line Beach House

Mid range Hotels in El Palo
Malaga stylish beach apartments
Ocean Pearl A

Family Friendly Hotels in El Palo
Morderne woning in visserswijk El Palo nabij het strand!
Apartamento El Palo Beach
Apto Playa Virginia 5

Affordable Luxury Hotels in El Palo
Genteel Home Elcano Terrace

La Merced – Where to stay in Malaga for nightlife

La Merced is a lively, bustling area close to all the city’s entertainment. Malaga’s most famous son, Pablo Ruiz Picasso, was born in a house located on the northwest corner of the Plaza de la Merced, where he lived for the first 10 years with his family.

This house has since been converted into the Picasso Birthplace Museum (Casa Natal) since 1983, where you can visit and see more about Picasso. There is a statue of Picasso in the square and an obelisk in tribute to General Torrijos.

Plaza de la Merced is in the heart of Malaga city. It is one of the best squares to visit and it is surrounded by great restaurants, pavement cafes, and bars as well as plenty of museums.

This area is often frequented for drinks on sunny afternoons or before heading out to one of the nightclubs, of which there is plenty in this area, so ideal for those who want to explore the city and be close to all that is going on.

You are close to shops on Calle Cervantes and the Teatro Cervantes if you need anything or wish to catch a performance and the Playa la Malagueta beach is a 13-minute walk from here. This area is great if you are looking for the best nightlife.

Best places to stay in La Merced

Cheapest Backpacking Hostels in La Merced
Continental Space
Picnic Dreams Boutique Hostel
COEO Pod Hostel – Part of COEO Experience
The Urban Jungle Hostel

Budget Hotels in La Merced
AyZ FRAILES
Maria Magdalena – Room 7
Apartamentos Marques De La Merced
Alcazaba Premium Hotel

Mid range Hotels in La Merced
Picasso 2
Apartamentos Líbere Málaga la Merced
Hotel Brö-Adults Only
Teatro Romano 4 & 5

Family Friendly Hotels in La Merced
Picasso Premium
Huerto del Conde – Plaza de la Merced
LAB 36 Apartaments
Hotel Boutique Teatro Romano

Affordable Luxury Hotels in La Merced
Palacio Solecio

Self Contained Apartments in La Merced
Apartment 1
Apartment 2
Apartment 3

Campanillas – Where to stay in Malaga Great Scenery

Campanillas (District 9) is a neighbourhood in the northwestern region of Malaga. It offers a similar vibe to Ciudad Jardin and, if you like quieter areas that are less built-up than other parts of the city, this area would be great for you!

The area is great for people who enjoy picturesque scenery, hiking and biking trails, or want to explore places like ‘Castillo de Cartama,’ a lovely old castle (albeit in ruins).

As with Ciudad Jardinm, there are fewer options for accommodation here, which tend to be more expensive.

Best places to stay in Campanillas

Budget Hotels in Campanillas
Hostal Doña Manuela
Posadas de España Malaga

Cruz De Humilladero – Where to stay in Malaga near the City

Cruz De Humilladero (District 6) means ‘Shrine’s Cross’ in Spanish and this area is located on the western border of the city centre.

This area has great transport links, including the Maria Zambrano main train station, so getting around is easy. You are not directly in the hustle and bustle of the city but close enough with easy access.

Best places to stay in Cruz De Humilladero

Budget Hotels in Cruz De Humilladero
Albergue Inturjoven Malaga
Apartamento artístico en Málaga
Habitación en Piso compartido en Malaga Capital
Hostal La Casa de Enfrente

Mid range Hotels in Cruz De Humilladero
Hotel Goartín
Pavone Apartments Málaga
Calle Betsaida, estación maría Zambrano

Family Friendly Hotels in Cruz De Humilladero
Livensa Living Studios Malaga Feria – SK
Málaga Breeze
Marbella apartamento en Malaga

Self Contained Apartments in Cruz De Humilladero
Apartment 1
Apartment 2
Apartment 3

Carretera De Cadiz – Where to stay in Malaga as a Local

Carretera De Cadiz (District 7) is located southwest of the city centre and is less visited by tourists, so it is an excellent choice if you want to experience a more local vibe.

This area has plenty of restaurants and bars, as well as good transport options into the city centre.

Accommodation in this region can tend to be a little more varied in price because it is not too far from the city, but affordable options are still widely available.

During February or March, the Malaga carnival is celebrated here, so this is a great area to stay during these months.

Best places to stay in Carretera De Cadiz

Budget Hotels in Carretera De Cadiz
Casa Manuel y Maribel
Apartamento Carmen
Sweet Home
Ibis Budget Málaga Aeropuerto Avenida de Velazquez

Mid range Hotels in Carretera De Cadiz
Ático Chill Out la Biznaga
CASITA PLAYA
Playa Huelin Apartamento
Hilton Garden Inn Málaga

Family Friendly Hotels in Carretera De Cadiz
Apt Saint Joseph
Living4Malaga Pacific Terrace Apartment
Pacificio Beachfront
Vivendos Centro y Playa Estación de tren

Affordable Luxury Hotels in Carretera De Cadiz
Vincci Málaga
Luxury Home Poseidon

Self Contained Apartments in Carretera De Cadiz
Apartment 1
Apartment 2
Apartment 3

Churriana – Where to stay in Malaga near the Beach

Churriana (District 8) is located in the southwestern area, next to Guadalhorce valley, Malaga airport, and the Sierra de Churriana hills.

The ‘La Consula mansion’ and the botanical ‘Jardin del Retiro’ are in this area, along with ‘Casa de Gerald Brenan’ – a museum and research centre, which was once the home of Gerald Brenan.

This is a great place to stay if you want easy access to the beach, the city centre, and the train station. This area has a good selection of restaurants and bars, which means you do not have to go far for a nice meal or drink, along with some good shops nearby.

If you are looking for where to stay in Malaga near the beach, then this is a good area for a relaxing beach holiday, with good transport links. Accommodation is priced from budget hostels to lavish golf resorts.

Best places to stay in Churriana

Budget Hotels in Churriana
Blonski Guadalmar

Mid range Hotels in Churriana
Hotel Malaga Picasso
Parador de Málaga Golf

Family Friendly Hotels in Churriana
Holiday Inn Express Málaga Airport, an IHG Hotel
Sol Guadalmar

Affordable Luxury Hotels in Churriana
Villa grande piscine 5 min de la mer
Luxury Sunny Villa

Self Contained Apartments in Churriana
Apartment 1
Apartment 2
Apartment 3

Areas to avoid in Malaga

Malaga is generally considered to be a safe city and has become popular with tourists because of that. However, as with any big city, there are some areas to avoid in Malaga if you are unfamiliar.

Some of the more northern neighbourhoods of the city may not be where a tourist would go, as all attractions are in the centre but you should perhaps avoid the ‘La Palmilla’ neighbourhood as a visitor.

Whether you are planning to visit Malaga for a few nights or staying on a longer vacation, there are plenty of things to do. From interesting museums and historical sites to famous art galleries, relaxing urban beaches, and hiking in national parks.

There are many things to do that will appeal to both couples and families. Malaga is a beautiful city with many attractions. It has become one of the most popular destinations in Spain and is visited by millions each year.

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