Malaga guide: top things to see and do
After exploring this guide, you'll have many ideas for your Malaga trip. This vibrant city of the Costa del Sol is a hotspot for experiencing Andalusian culture. There's a lot to see and do, and you might not have time for everything! So why not come back to your place of your own?
Planning a trip to Spain from the US? With so many attractions, fitting everything into your schedule is challenging. Malaga, a gem on Andalusia's coast, is one place you simply can't miss.
Andalusia is best known for its food, wine, and flamenco shows. Being on the Mediterranean’s Costa del Sol is an experience that reveals the Spanish way of life.
Continue reading for Malaga's top things to see and do.
You’ll fall in love with the city, and we’ll even throw a handy investment tip using Homevest. This digital platform can streamline the process of securing property financing from abroad.
Where is Malaga?
Malaga is located in Andalusia, southern Spain, on the Mediterranean coast.
How to get to Malaga
You have several options to get to Malaga from the US, though most will involve at least one layover, as direct flights are less common.
Major US cities such as New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Boston, and Chicago often have flights to Malaga, especially during the tourist season.
From New York, direct flights, if available, take about 7-9 hours, while journeys with layovers can extend to 10-14 hours.
Top things to see and do in Malaga
What should be at the top of your must-see list when visiting Malaga?
While the weather and relaxed vibe in southern Spain are enjoyable, Malaga has more to offer beyond just soaking up the Mediterranean sun.
Visit Malaga Cathedral
Malaga Cathedral, one of the best examples of Andalusian Renaissance architecture, was built in the 15th century on an old mosque site, marking it as a key city monument.
Locals call it La Manquita, meaning The One-Armed Lady, because it has one unfinished tower. The cathedral mixes different design styles, mainly Renaissance and some Baroque.
Eat tapas in the historical center
In Spain, food is about sharing and enjoying good conversations.
The historical center immerses you in Andalusian flavors, from grilled fish to churros in chocolate, making Malaga a haven for delightful culinary experiences.
Experience a Flamenco Show
Flamenco, an integral part of Andalusian culture, is a highlight of Malaga's vibrant scene.
This art form, blending dancing, music, and singing, offers an unforgettable experience that you won't want to miss during your visit.
Explore the Roman Theater
Malaga is a melting pot of cultures, and the Roman Theater stands as proof.
As a standout Roman architectural site in Malaga, the venue hosts concerts, plays, and cultural events, letting visitors experience the space as it was used in ancient times.
Celebrate artwork at the Picasso Museum
The Picasso Museum in Malaga, Picasso’s birthplace, highlights his profound legacy with over 200 artworks donated by his family, offering an insightful exploration of his artistic influence.
From visitor to investor: buying property in Malaga
After exploring Malaga's historic streets and vibrant culture, the idea of a permanent place in the Spanish sun might be appealing.
With tourism booming, Malaga offers rental opportunities, particularly near the beaches and city center, where demand for rentals is rising.
So why not consider property investment here? It offers financial returns and a lifestyle known for its leisurely pace, rich history, and exquisite cuisine. Continue reading to understand what you can expect in terms of the cost of living in the most popular Spanish cities.
How easy is it to buy a property in Malaga as a US citizen
Buying property in Spain as a US citizen involves several steps, but with proper guidance and an understanding of local regulations, it is manageable, as Spain welcomes foreign investors.
The key step is obtaining an NIE (Foreigner Identification Number) from a Spanish consulate or via a power of attorney.
How much does it cost to buy a property in Malaga?
Property prices in Malaga, like much of Spain, are generally lower than in many US cities.
As of March 2024, the average property price in Malaga reached €2,841 per square meter, reflecting a 17.98% increase from February 2023.
The Centro area featured the highest prices, at €3,590 per square meter, whereas the San José area offered the most affordable options, with an average price of €1,816 per square meter.
A mortgage: a solution to increase your property budget
Interested in making Malaga your own? A mortgage can extend your purchasing power and make property investment more accessible.
Applying for a mortgage in Spain from the US might seem daunting.
Luckily, a solution like Homevest streamlines and speeds up the process, easing your transition from visitor to property owner.
Homevest simplifies accessing a mortgage from the US
Homevest is a digital platform that centralizes your mortgage documents, allowing easy and quick access for banks to assess your profile. With the self-service platform, you can request a mortgage simulation to understand your financial options better.
You can also access a mortgage broker to guide you through the process and secure the best terms for your mortgage. Homevest collaborates with top Spanish banks for non-resident mortgages, including Sabadell, Santander, Caixabank, Cajasur, and Bankinter, lenders that accept USD income.
Why is it worth buying a property in Malaga?
- Malaga’s landscape is ideal for a warmer and laid-back lifestyle
- It’s well connected by two international airports (Malaga and Gibraltar) that accommodate low-cost and transcontinental flights
- With over 300 days of sunshine per year, stunning beaches, and a wide range of leisure activities, Malaga boosts endorphin levels
- Companies like Google, Vodafone, and Siemens, have recognized Malaga’s potential for growth and innovation
- As a touristic hub that draws visitors worldwide, Malaga is a smart choice for rental investment
There's a lot to see and do, and you might not have time for everything!
So why not come back to your place of your own? Remember that support like Homevest can accelerate buying a house in Spain directly from the United States.
Sources used for this article:
We recommend obtaining professional or specialist advice before taking or refraining from any action based on the content in this article. The information in this article does not constitute legal, tax, or other professional advice from Homevest Limited. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. We make no representations, warranties, or guarantees, whether express or implied, that the content in this article is accurate, complete, or up to date.
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