The historic city of Malaga is a thriving arts mecca which is home to a constellation of Michelin starred restaurants which light up the city's culinary scene. In addition to the extensive Roman ruins, Moorish palaces sit atop the mountains and pretty cobbled alleyways conceal a variety of intriguing museums.
It is easy to organise flights and hotels in Malaga from the UK. Direct flights from Cork to Malaga depart regularly, along with flights from Dublin to Malaga. The currency is the Euro. Spanish is the national language, but English speakers are widely understood in the city. Malaga is just one hour ahead of the UK (GMT+1) so it couldn't be easier to arrive and and enjoy the delights of city breaks in Malaga.
Thanks to Malaga's location in the Mediterranean, the city enjoys a pleasant climate year round. Between May and October there is little rainfall in the city, which basks in the warmth of the sun. Naturally this is also the high season and many establishments raise their prices as visitors flood into the city. For this reason spring and autumn are the perfect times to see the city in its cloak of near-perpetual sunshine.
Crowning a hill draped with bougainvillea, scented jasmine and orange trees is the thousand year old Alcazaba. This 11th century Moorish marvel is one of Malaga's most memorable attractions. Wander through its courtyards past flowing fountains and be transported back to the city's heyday. The Alhambra hovers in the back of the mind as you explore the sublime gardens, patios and exhibition of Islamic pottery.
Stroll through the Botanical Gardens, which is home to Europe's largest collection of subtropical plants. Waterfalls gush beside feathery palm trees. There is even a Doric temple to discover among the greenery, which once housed the archaeology collection of the gardens' former patrons, the Loring-Heredia family.
Malaga's museums exert a magnetic pull on even the least curious visitor to the city. Here are some of the the highlights:
Malaga's culinary scene is as happening as its cultural one. Fresh fish garnished with a squeeze of lemon is a staple in the city. Prawns and squid arrive still sizzling from the grill. Flavoured with paprika, garlic and white wine, Gambas al Pil-Pil is another classic you should be sure not to miss. Naturally Paella is on the menu as well. For an alternative to seafood try the moreish meatballs known as Albondigas. Wash it all down with a refreshing glass of Victoria, the city's favourite beer.
Famed for its sweet wines, the region produces a number of superb reds and whites which make excellent mementos of a weekend in Malaga. They are best enjoyed together with some Manchego cheese and quince jelly. Fragrant extra virgin olive oil is both delicious and great for the skin. Alternatively, bright Andalusian ceramics make a cheerful souvenir from your time in the city. Hand painted pots, bowls and other decorative items are sure to bring a smile to your face every time you use them.