The beauty of Malaga is its history and tradition.  This elegant and thriving city continues to attract visitors from all over the world, and with an international airport on the doorstep, it is largely regarded as the capital of Andalucia.

The famous Picasso museum and the imposing cathedral always draw big crowds to the city, but there is much more to Malaga than meets the eye.  Massive improvements to the centre of Malaga in 2002 have resulted in a stylish area being created with designer shops, chic little cafés and some of the best tapas bars you will find in Spain.

At the top of Calle Marques de Larios, is the city´s main square, Plaza de la Constitución, where cultural, traditional and religious events are celebrated throughout the year.  Malaga Feria is not to be missed.  The city comes alive with colour, music, dance and some of the most incredible and loud celebrations you will find in this part of the world.  Processions wind through the streets, culminating in the fairground where the mayhem continues until early the next morning.

The Easter processions, although much more solemn, are equally stunning.  Hundreds of local men carry the effigy of Christ through the streets to the sound of a lone drum beat.  Such is the passion and emotion of these processions that many onlookers are reduced to tears.

Fast becoming one of the most classy cities in Andalucia, Malaga also boasts some fabulous beaches. Divided into three sections, the beach areas are aptly named after local fish, and include the Anchovy, the Sardine and the Squid.  The most popular beaches in the Eastern part of the city are Peñón del Cuervo, La Cueva, Torre de las Palmas, La Araña and El Hornillo, which boast many hidden coves and cliffs, and attract swimmers and scuba divers.

Holiday accommodation in the city is plentiful.  The hotels can be expensive compared to other resorts along the coast, but they are generally worth it.  Self catering apartment accommodation is also widely available to suit all budgets and requirements.

No visit to Malaga is complete without a trip to the Gibralfaro Castle and the Alhambra.
Perched high above the city is the magnificent castle, which was once the main defensive focal point of the city during the times of Moorish occupation. This impressive 14th century fortress maintains much of its original structure, and gives visitors an insight into the Arab lifestyle in Andalucia, and boasts stunning views of the harbour below.

Dating back to the 11th century, Malaga´s impressive Alcazaba, is one of the city´s most famous landmarks, and this Moorish palace was one of the city´s most important buildings during the times of Arab rule.

Protected by strong, fortified defence walls, and situated on a hill overlooking Malaga, this impressive monument was built during the time of the Emirate of Granada, when the city flourished under Moorish rule. Following the re-conquest of southern Spain by the Christian monarchs, Isabel and Fernando, the entrance to the tower was used as a Christian chapel, and the famous Torre del Cristo still attracts visitors from all over Europe.

Malaga is a slick and stylish city.  The port area retains its original character while offering visitors the best facilities and amenities, including excellent restaurants, hotels and entertainment venues. Something I found incredible on my last visit to the city was the newly refurbished/renovated Maria Zambrano Train Station.  We booked tickets on the AVE to go to Madrid, and the service was superb.  Having arrived early at the station, we strolled around the adjacent shopping centre, stopping for breakfast and coffee in one of the comfortable cafés overlooking the station platforms.  Having booked tickets on the internet, all we had to do to pick them up was tap in the booking number at one of the several well-placed ticket machines around the entrance.

Our trip was smooth and fast, and we arrived in Madrid feeling relaxed and ready to explore this marvelous capital city.  Next time we drive to Malaga from Marbella where we live, we will stay at one of the quaint and quirky hostals situated close to the imposing cathedral, and make a night of it.

Malaga has retained its original Andalucian charm while evolving into one of the Costa del Sol´s most cosmopolitan cities.  You will find everything you desire in Malaga – great bars, great beaches, amazing architecture and one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Southern Spain.  Malaga is a vibrant city whose people are passionate and proud of their surroundings.