Wondering where to stay in Málaga for your first visit or a beachy weekend on the Costa del Sol? This guide highlights the best areas, boutique hotel picks, and modern luxury stays.

You’ll find options in the historic centre, by La Malagueta Beach, and in artsy Soho. Read on to choose a central location with a fantastic rooftop terrace or a quiet street near the sea.

Quick answer: Best areas to stay in Málaga

• Historic Centre (Old Town): Best location for first-timers, historic sites, Malaga Cathedral, and lively cafes.
• Soho (Arts District): Great street art, contemporary design hotels, rooftop bars. Ideal for creatives.
• La Malagueta & La Caleta: Beach life, sea views, and resort-style hotels. Short walk to Old Town.
• El Perchel & María Zambrano: Near train station. Mid range hotels, modern amenities, good value.
• Pedregalejo & El Palo: Residential area with tapas bars and local vibe right on the beach.

If you only have a few hours, stay in Málaga city centre to be a stone’s throw from all the attractions.

Map & orientation: Málaga in a minute

Málaga city stretches from the port and Parque de Málaga to the historical centre and up to Gibralfaro. The Old Town clusters around Plaza de la Constitución and Málaga Cathedral.

La Malagueta and La Caleta Beach arc east of the port. Soho sits just west of the centre along the river, known for colourful streets and street art.

From Malaga Airport, the C1 train reaches the city center in about 12 minutes to María Zambrano, and a few minutes more to Centro Alameda. It’s easy walking distance from there to most central Malaga hotels.

External resource: Airport info at AENA (Málaga-Costa del Sol) and the C1 timetable on Renfe are helpful when you visit Málaga.

Best areas to stay in Málaga for every traveler

1) Historic Centre (Old Town): Culture, food, and the best location

The historic centre is ideal if you want a centrally located base in central Malaga. You’ll be in easy walking distance of Málaga Cathedral, the Alcazaba, the Picasso Museum, and Plaza de la Merced.

Expect lively cafes, tapas bars, and boutiques on every corner. This part of Málaga city is where the vast majority of first-time visitors stay.

• Why stay here:
  • Great location for historic sites and all the attractions.
  • Minutes walk to Plaza de la Constitución and Parque de Málaga.
  • Ideally located for restaurants, rooftop bars, and museums.
• Who it’s for:
  • First-timers, couples, culture lovers, weekenders.
• Nearby highlights:
  • Málaga Cathedral (Cathedral of the Incarnation).
  • Plaza de la Merced, where Pablo Picasso was born. Antonio Banderas also keeps a home here.
  • The Roman Theatre and Alcazaba.

Best hotels in the Historic Centre

• Only YOU Hotel Málaga (modern luxury)
  • One of Malaga’s most emblematic buildings on the port end of Calle Larios.
  • Rooftop pool, rooftop terrace bar, and even a rooftop restaurant with sea views.
  • Modern rooms with a modern aesthetic and comfortable rooms. Previous guests praise the fantastic rooftop terrace and great value for such a beautiful hotel.
  • Great for travelers seeking a central location and modern amenities in the same building as stylish dining.
• AC Hotel Málaga Palacio by Marriott (boutique-leaning, modern hotel)
  • Between the Cathedral and the port with a rooftop bar and outdoor pool.
  • Sea views and a sunny terrace. Short walk to everything in Old Town.
• Molina Lario (boutique hotel)
  • Opposite the Cathedral with a rooftop pool and rooftop terrace.
  • Stylish hotel rooms and a quiet street feel just a couple steps off the main drag.
• Room Mate Larios (boutique hotel)
  • On Calle Larios near Plaza de la Constitución. Great location for shopping and cafés.
  • Contemporary design, comfortable rooms, and a rooftop terrace.
• Vincci Selección Posada del Patio (modern luxury in a historic building)
  • Built over a section of the ancient city walls in the same building. A blend of history and modern amenities.
  • Outdoor pool, modern rooms, and easy walking distance to the historical centre highlights.

2) Soho (Arts District): Creative, cool, and walkable

Soho sits between the center and the port. It’s known for great street art, galleries, and a youthful vibe.

Cafés and tapas bars line colourful streets. You’re a short walk to the historic centre and the port.

• Why stay here:
  • Street art around every corner and contemporary design hotels.
  • Rooftop bars with city views and easy beach access.
  • Quiet streets by night, lively by day.
• Who it’s for:
  • Couples, friends, digital nomads, and art lovers.
• Nearby highlights:
  • CAC Málaga (Contemporary Art Center).
  • The port promenade and Muelle Uno.

Best hotels in Soho

• Room Mate Valeria (boutique hotel)
  • Rooftop pool with sea views over the port. Sunny terrace and rooftop bar.
  • Modern rooms and a fantastic rooftop terrace. Great location for both Old Town and beach.
• ICON Malabar (contemporary design)
  • In the heart of Soho with stylish, comfortable rooms and modern amenities.
  • Minutes walk to the center and the port.
• Mariposa Hotel Málaga (modern hotel)
  • Modern aesthetic with generous hotel rooms. Quiet street, yet centrally located.
  • Previous guests highlight the great value and central location.
• NH Málaga (mid range hotels with space)
  • Larger property with a modern aesthetic, often good rates.
  • Easy walking distance to the historic centre.

3) La Malagueta & La Caleta: Beach life beside the city

If you want beach life without sacrificing access to Old Town, stay by La Malagueta Beach and La Caleta Beach. You’ll be a stone’s throw from the sand, with sea views and chiringuito lunches.

The area feels upscale in parts, with well to do locals and a residential area vibe. Parque de Málaga and Muelle Uno are a short walk away.

• Why stay here:
  • Immediate beach access and seafront promenades.
  • Outdoor pools, resort-style services, and sea views.
  • Walking distance to the historical centre for museums and tapas bars.
• Who it’s for:
  • Beach lovers, families, and couples seeking modern luxury.
• Nearby highlights:
  • La Malagueta Beach, the Pompidou Centre cube, and La Caleta Beach.
  • The Bullring and viewpoints up Gibralfaro.

Best hotels near La Malagueta & La Caleta

• Gran Hotel Miramar GL (modern luxury in a historic building)
  • A beautiful hotel with lush gardens, outdoor pool, and stunning sea views.
  • Comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and a quiet street setting just off the beach.
• Hotel MS Maestranza (great value near the bullring)
  • Rooftop spa terrace and modern rooms. Minutes walk to La Malagueta.
  • Ideally located for beach and city.
• Hotel California (classic charm)
  • A small, characterful stay by La Caleta. Previous guests like the old-school warmth and great location.
  • A few minutes to the sand and a short walk to the centre.
• Soho Boutique Las Vegas (mid-range seafront)
  • Sunny terrace, pool, and balconies. Beach across the road.
  • Easy access to tapas bars and Old Town.
• Parador de Málaga Gibralfaro (hilltop classic)
  • Panoramic sea views over the bay. Rooftop-like terrace for sunset.
  • Not on the beach, but a special perch above it, with a peaceful residential area feel.

4) El Perchel & María Zambrano: Practical and well connected

Staying by the train station is perfect if you’re arriving late, leaving early, or planning day trips along the Costa del Sol. The area is functional with plenty of mid range hotels.

It’s a straightforward walk to the city centre and Soho. You’ll get modern amenities and often great value.

• Why stay here:
  • Next to the train station for airport and day trips.
  • Modern hotel choices at fair prices.
  • Easy walking distance to the historic centre.
• Who it’s for:
  • Business travelers, budget-savvy couples, day-trippers.

Best hotels near the train station

• Barceló Málaga (modern hotel)
  • Connected to the station with a bold contemporary design. Rooftop pool in summer months.
  • Comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and quick access to trains.
• H10 Croma Málaga (modern aesthetic, rooftop pool)
  • Striking architecture, rooftop terrace bar, and rooftop pool.
  • Centrally located between station and Old Town. Rooftop restaurant vibes on the terrace.
• Salles Hotel Málaga Centro (mid-range, good value)
  • Outdoor pool on the roof and modern rooms.
  • A short walk to the historical centre.
• Casual del Mar Málaga (family-friendly, mid range hotels)
  • Spacious hotel rooms and playful decor. Great value.
  • Minutes walk to the river and Soho.

5) Pedregalejo & El Palo: Local beach neighborhoods

East of La Caleta, Pedregalejo and El Palo are former fishing barrios turned relaxed beach strips. Expect beachfront tapas bars, laid-back cafés, and colourful streets.

It’s a residential area, so nights are calm. The city center is a bus or bike ride away.

• Why stay here:
  • Authentic beach life and seafood right on the promenade.
  • Better prices and a local vibe.
  • Long beach walks and family-friendly swimming.
• Who it’s for:
  • Families, long stays, and anyone who prefers a quieter scene.

Best hotels in Malaga by style and budget

Boutique hotels in the city centre

• Molina Lario — Boutique hotel opposite Malaga Cathedral with a rooftop terrace and small rooftop pool.
• Room Mate Valeria — Boutique by the port with design-forward rooms and a rooftop terrace bar.
• ICON Malabar — Contemporary design in Soho with comfortable rooms and a quiet street address.
• Room Mate Larios — Classic boutique overlooking Plaza de la Constitución. Great location for shopping.

Modern luxury stays

• Only YOU Hotel Málaga — Modern luxury with a fantastic rooftop terrace, rooftop pool, rooftop restaurant, and sea views. One of the most emblematic buildings in the city center.
• Gran Hotel Miramar GL — Resort-level service by La Malagueta with outdoor pool and gardens.
• Vincci Selección Posada del Patio — Five-star comforts in a historic building, blending heritage and modern amenities.

Mid range hotels with great value

• NH Málaga — Reliable, centrally located, with spacious modern rooms.
• H10 Croma Málaga — Stylish, modern aesthetic, rooftop pool. Great value for the features.
• Salles Hotel Málaga Centro — Rooftop pool, minutes walk to the historic centre.
• Casual del Mar Málaga — Family-friendly rooms and good rates near the river.

Character stays near the beach

• Hotel California — Classic charm near La Caleta Beach. A few minutes to sand and chiringuitos.
• Soho Boutique Las Vegas — Seafront with a sunny terrace and pool, walking distance to Old Town.

The best locations for specific trips

What is the best area to stay in Málaga?

• First-time visitors: Historic Centre (Old Town).
• Beach lovers: La Malagueta & La Caleta.
• Art and cafés: Soho.
• Day-trip base: El Perchel & María Zambrano (train station).
• Local vibe and long stays: Pedregalejo & El Palo.

Best for couples

• Only YOU Hotel Málaga (rooftop pool, sea views).
• Room Mate Valeria (rooftop terrace bar and sunset views).
• Gran Hotel Miramar (spa, gardens, modern luxury).

Best for families

• Vincci Selección Posada del Patio (space and outdoor pool).
• NH Málaga (larger rooms, central location).
• Casual del Mar Málaga (family rooms, great value).

Best for nightlife and tapas bars

• Historic centre around Plaza de la Constitución and Calle Larios.
• Soho side streets for cocktails and craft beer.
• La Malagueta promenade for sunset drinks.

Best for beach life

• La Malagueta Beach for easy access and services.
• La Caleta Beach for a quieter stretch with well to do locals.
• Pedregalejo boardwalk for seafood and evening strolls.

How long should you stay in Málaga?

If you’re deciding where to stay in Malaga for just a few hours on a layover, pick the city centre near the train station or Cathedral. You can see highlights in a short walk.

With 2–3 nights, base in the historic centre for museums and food. Take a day to relax at Malagueta Beach.

For 4–5 nights, split your stay: two nights in Old Town and two by La Caleta Beach for sea views and a slower pace.

In summer months, book early. Rooftop pools are popular, and the best hotels sell out fast.

Getting to your hotel from Malaga Airport

• Train: The C1 line goes from Malaga Airport to María Zambrano station in around 12 minutes and to Centro Alameda a few minutes later. It’s just a couple of easy stops if you’re heading into the core.
• Taxi/Ride-hail: 15–25 minutes to the city center depending on traffic.
• Bus: The A Express runs from the airport to central Málaga.

Tip: If your hotel is in the historic centre, many streets are pedestrianized. Ask your hotel about drop-off points in the city center.

Authority links:

• Malaga Airport (AENA): https://www.aena.es/en/malaga-costa-del-sol.html
• Renfe suburban trains (Cercanías): https://www.renfe.com

What to be near: Key landmarks and squares

• Malaga Cathedral: Stay near the Cathedral for a truly central location and beautiful architecture. Consider AC Málaga Palacio, Molina Lario, or Only YOU.
• Plaza de la Merced: A cultural hub tied to Pablo Picasso and, famously, Antonio Banderas. Great for cafés and a local buzz.
• Plaza de la Constitución: In the heart of Old Town, ideal for shopping and celebrations.
• Parque de Málaga: Leafy promenade linking Old Town and the port, perfect for evening strolls.

Sample 2–3 day itineraries by area

If you stay in the historic centre

• Day 1: Malaga Cathedral, Alcazaba, Roman Theatre. Sunset at a rooftop bar.
• Day 2: Picasso Museum, shopping on Calle Larios, tapas crawl around Plaza de la Constitución. Beach at La Malagueta for golden hour.

If you stay by La Malagueta

• Day 1: Beach morning, lunch at a chiringuito. Afternoon at the Pompidou and Muelle Uno.
• Day 2: Walk through Parque de Málaga to Old Town. Visit the Cathedral and climb Gibralfaro for sweeping sea views.

If you stay in Soho

• Day 1: Café hop, street art walk, CAC Málaga. Evening on a rooftop terrace bar.
• Day 2: Stroll to Old Town for historic sites, then sunset by the port.

Featured FAQs about where to stay in Málaga

Is the historic centre too noisy?

The historical centre can be lively, but many streets are quiet at night. Choose a boutique hotel on a quiet street or request interior-facing rooms for better sleep.

Can I walk everywhere?

Yes. Most must-see sights are in easy walking distance in central Malaga. La Malagueta Beach is a short walk from the Cathedral.

Do hotels have pools?

Many central properties have a rooftop pool or outdoor pool. Check seasonal opening times in the summer months and shoulder season.

Which area is best for a beach plus culture trip?

Stay near La Malagueta or La Caleta Beach. You’ll be a short walk to the Old Town and can enjoy both beach life and historic sites.

Authority sources to learn more

• Málaga Tourism Board: https://www.malagaturismo.com
• Museo Picasso Málaga: https://www.museopicassomalaga.org/en
• Cathedral of Malaga: https://www.catedraldmalaga.es
• Weather (AEMET): https://www.aemet.es/en/eltiempo/prediccion/municipios/malaga-id29067

Hotel booking checklist

• Location: Do you want the old town or the beach? Historic centre is best for first-timers.
• Rooftops: Prioritize a rooftop terrace, rooftop bar, or rooftop pool if views matter.
• Room type: Look for modern rooms with modern amenities and comfortable rooms.
• Access: If arriving by train, consider hotels near María Zambrano station.
• Season: In the summer months, book early. The best hotels and boutique hotel rooms go fast.

Conclusion: Choosing where to stay in Málaga

For a first visit, the historic centre offers the best location and all the attractions within a short walk. If you want beach life, base by La Malagueta or La Caleta Beach for sea views and resort comforts.

Soho suits design lovers and café-hoppers with great street art and contemporary design stays. If you’re catching trains, El Perchel is practical and great value.

Whether you stay in Malaga city center or on the sand, you’ll be minutes walk from tapas bars, colourful streets, and the warm energy of the Costa del Sol. If you were wondering where to stay in Málaga or where to stay in Málaga, use this guide to pick a centrally located base with the features you love—be it a rooftop terrace, modern amenities, or a sunny terrace by the beach.