Malaga is the main travel hub for destinations in Southern Spain, and one of the most popular resort towns on Costa del Sol.
Blessed with over 300 sunny days per year, it’s a year round destination attracting crowds from Europe but also from Spain. That’s definitely one of the reasons why Malaga is worth visiting!
Whether you’re heading to Malaga in the middle of the summer, or for some winter sun in December, you’re in for a treat – there is a wide variety of hotels available in Malaga, that will suit any budget.
In this article, I have prepared some top picks for hotels in Malaga, in three different price categories. Before you jump to the hotel picks, below is a short guide on the different districts and neighborhoods you should consider before choosing your hotels in Malaga.
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Table of Contents
Best Areas to Stay in Malaga
La Merced
Popular with tourists and locals alike, the La Merced neighborhood is located north of Malaga’s Old Town. It also has some of the best hotels in Malaga. The neighborhood’s main draw is its Plaza de la Merced- on any given day, you can enjoy a drink at one of the cafes surrounding the square and watch Malaga pass you by.
The area is also home to the Mercado de la Merced, which is a great place to buy both fresh ingredients and local snacks. The rest of the neighborhood is filled with bars and restaurants- be sure to stop for tapas!
Old Town (Centro)
Tree lined streets in the old town have some of the best hotels in Malaga.
Centrally located, Malaga’s historic district, puts you within walking distance of both the beach and some of the city’s must-see sites. Also known as Old Town, the neighborhood boasts music venues, nightlife, and a variety of museums. It’s also home to the Malaga Cathedral, one of the city’s historic and architectural treasures.
Nearby museums include the Picasso Museum, and the Carmen Thyssen Museum, which is set in a breathtaking Renaissance-era palace. You can’t go wrong with a stay in Malaga Old Town– the beating heart of Malaga, the neighborhood is within easy reach of the city’s best attractions. It is also one of the spots where some of the best hotels in Malaga are.
La Malagueta
Overlooking the sea, La Malagueta is one of the high-end neighborhoods- you can easily tell by the high-rises tower over the area. It also has some of the cool hotels in Malaga. Malagueta Beach beckons visitors from all over the city, and staying in the area puts you within steps of the Mediterranean.
When you’re not soaking in the sun or catching waves, walk the oceanfront promenade, enjoy dinner and drinks overlooking the water, or visit the famous Malagueta bullring. Prices will be higher here than in other parts of Malaga, but if you’re visiting for a beach getaway, La Malagueta promises surf, sand, and much more.
El Palo
For a slightly less mainstream choice, consider staying in Malaga’s quaint El Palo neighborhood. Located a short bus ride from the city center, El Palo overlooks the sea on Malaga’s east side. El Palo Beach is just as inviting as La Malagueta’s, but slightly removed from the crowds and constant bustle.
The atmosphere is more relaxed and family-friendly, meaning you’ll truly be able to sit back and enjoy the Mediterranean. The beach includes a promenade, and the mostly residential neighborhood is dotted with restaurants, bars, and cafes.
El Palo offers a great way to explore an authentic seaside community while remaining close to Malaga’s activity. The best part is that it also is home to some of the best hotels in Malaga.
Best Hotels In Malaga For Any Budget
Malaga’s hoteliers are experts at merging elegance with the city’s naturally laid-back atmosphere. No matter what your budget is, there are multiple options for you to choose from when it comes to hotels in Malaga to stay in.
Luxury Hotels In Malaga
If you’re looking for a luxurious getaway, the following suggestions will make sure you’re pampered during your time in Malaga.
1. Hotel Castillo de Santa Catalina
⭐️ Rating: 9.2/10 (1,452 Reviews) Price: $200 per night 📍Location: Ramos Carrión, 38, Este, Málaga Details: Read more on booking.com now!
Located just north of La Caleta beach, the Hotel Castillo de Santa Catalina is a true retreat, inviting guests to step away from Malaga’s ultra-popular city center. The hotel is located 20 minutes away from Old Town by public transportation.
Occupying an original 1930’s building in the El Limonar district, the Hotel Castillo is filled with lush outdoor space, from gardens to terraces.
Guests have 24 luxury rooms to choose from, including sea view suites.
“The staff and hotel were exceptional! It was the perfect place to end our vacation. It was a wonderful experience staying in a historical monument and one we’d love to come back to.”
Nisa (read more reviews now!)
An onsite gourmet restaurant and a pool offering views of the sea complete the picture. This is a great five-star option for travelers looking for privacy, elegance, and a different side of Malaga.
2. Palacio Solecio
Croissants and coffee on a table served up as breakfast at Palacio Solecio which is one of the best luxury hotels in Malaga
⭐️ Rating: 9.1/10 (1,778 Reviews) Price: $287 per night 📍Location: 61 Calle Granada, Malaga Centro, Málaga Details: Read more on booking.com now!
If you’re looking for a classic, centrally located Old Town stay with a touch of luxury, consider making Palacio Solecio your home away from home.
The hotel is located steps from Malaga’s Picasso Museum, and walking distance from the historic city center’s main attractions. La Malagueta Beach is a 15-minute walk away.
The hotel occupies an 18th century palace, bringing you a regal experience in the heart of the city. Accommodations include deluxe rooms and family suites.
“We had an amazing stay. We booked for three days and the staff helped us to have a very good stay in Mallaga. They asked us to call us 10 minutes prior our arrival and a staff member was standing outside to drive our car to the carpark.
The hotel is in the middle of the city so perfect for visiting it all. Also the building is an amazing beautiful Palacio. So we had a great stay and felt welcomed.”
Ramses (read more reviews now!)
If you don’t feel like venturing out to sample the tastes of Old Town, the Coctel Bar and Balausta Restaurant are onsite.
3. Gran Hotel Miramar
⭐️ Rating: 9.1/10 (3,786 Reviews) Price: $468 per night 📍Location: Paseo de Reding, 22, Malaga Centro, Málaga Details: Read more on booking.com now!
Located in La Malagueta, Gran Hotel’s ornate interior matches its seaside neighborhood perfectly. Dating back to the 1920’s, the hotel overlooks the Mediterranean.
“Delightful hotel with super helpful and friendly staff. The property is in a great location so close to the beach in a short walk in to Malaga town.”
Maggie (read more reviews now!)
Spacious accommodations are tastefully decorated, drawing on the hotel’s long history of hospitality. The hotel also houses two lauded restaurants, pools, and a spa inspired by the area’s Moorish heritage.
Mid-Range Hotels In Malaga
Many hotels in Malaga, meaning you can book a beautiful hotel room without breaking the bank. Consider the following mid-range recommendations.
4. Ilunion Malaga
A glimpse of the harbor that is super close to Hotel Ilunion.
⭐️ Rating: 8.5/10 (8,224 Reviews) Price: $192 per night 📍Location: Paseo Marítimo Antonio Machado, 10, Malaga Centro, Málaga Details: Read more on booking.com now!
Located in the Perchel Sur neighborhood, the Hotel Ilunion is slightly removed from Malaga’s rush, but still conveniently close to its major attractions.
The hotel’s room selection offers nearly 180 options, many featuring harbor views.
“Room was spacious, bed comfortable and all areas clean. Underground parking ideal. Situated between local beaches, city centre , port and harbour attractions. Staff all very welcoming.”
Michaela (read more reviews now!)
The kitchen serves fresh breakfast, and lunch and dinner are offered at the hotel bar-cafeteria. If you’re visiting in a cooler season, La Ilunion’s heated swimming pool invites you to take a dip. Refined with a casual, harbor feel, the Ilunion is a sound option for a mid-range Malaga hotel.
5. Ibis Malaga Centro Ciudad
⭐️ Rating: 8.1/10 (6,627 Reviews) Price: $155 per night 📍Location: Cerrojo, 1, Malaga Centro, Málaga Details: Read more on booking.com now!
Sitting on the left bank of Malaga’s Guadalmedina River, the Ibis Malaga Centro Ciudad offers easy access to the city center without being directly in the middle of the action. This cozy, well-ranked hotel is a short walk from Old Town’s major attractions, including countless restaurants, and bars.
“Walking distance from center! 3rd time we stayed here. We like coming here. Good location, parking garage. 20 minutes from airport.”
William (read more reviews now!)
Rooms are contemporary and filled with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay that surpasses expectations. The Ibis Malaga is a reliable, no-frills option offering a prime location for exploring on foot or by public transportation. This makes it one of the popular hotels in Malaga
6. Hotel Don Curro
⭐️ Rating: 8.3/10 (5,738 Reviews) Price: $110 per night 📍Location: Sancha de Lara, 9, Malaga Centro, Málaga Details: Read more on booking.com now!
Hotel Don Curro is another affordable option placing you equally close to the beach as to Malaga’s historic center.
Modern rooms with curated accents offer a comfortable stay, and an onsite restaurant offers fresh meals.
“A great hotel in the heart of Malaga that offered comfort, value for money and a very warm welcome.”
Chantelle (read more reviews now!)
Don Curro’s technologically advanced Bingo Room makes a quirky, fun addition to the hotel- and invites guests to try something new on a free evening.
Budget-Friendly Malaga Hotels
As a city that sees many backpackers, students, and travelers trying to stick to a budget, Malaga offers plenty of budget-friendly accommodation. With a bit of research, you’re bound to find a cozy option that fits your price range. Consider the following suggestion when choosing an affordable hotel.
7. Hotel Boutique Teatro Romano
The view from some of the rooms in the Hotel Botique Teatro Roman which is one of the cool hotels in Malaga
⭐️ Rating: 8.8/10 (1,670 Reviews) Price: $117 per night 📍Location: Alcazabilla, 7, Malaga Centro, Málaga Details: Read more on booking.com now!
Housed in a stately corner building in Malaga’s Old Town, the Hotel Boutique Teatro Romano is named for its views of the neighboring Roman Theater.
“Great stay in a nice clean hotel in a very central location.”
Franco (read more reviews now!)
The hotel’s location puts you steps from this ancient attraction, which is currently a museum. Guests have all that Old Town offers within easy reach.
Rooms are cozy and sophisticated, with a few careful touches to make you feel at home. If location is your priority, this hotel is a great find, especially for travelers on a budget.
Top Tips For Exploring Malaga
Malaga is full of charm, treasures, and surprises- keep the following tips in mind when exploring all the city has to offer.
Walking Tour
There’s no better way to experience a place than by meandering through it. Consider signing up for a walking tour of Malaga instead of sticking strictly to the sights on your itinerary. Options include food-themed and historic tours.
Catamaran Tour
In the same vein, if you’re tired of wandering the usual way, hop on a catamaran tour to gain a fresh perspective. Malaga’s tour companies offer a variety of catamaran outings of different lengths. Enjoying Malaga from the gentle push and pull of the Mediterranean offers an entirely new form of sightseeing.
Don’t Miss the Day Trips
While in Malaga, it’s easy to forget that the rest of the Costa del Sol is also waiting. Malaga makes a great headquarters for day trips up and down the coast.
Popular destinations include the communities of Marbella and Nerja (where you can explore the Nerja beaches and the famous Nerja caves), and the Montes de Malaga National Park. Many places across the Costa del Sol offer bus service to and from Malaga, so you can still plan a memorable day trip or two without a vehicle.
About The Author
Lucia is a travel blogger living in Southern Spain, sharing her discoveries of beautiful locations, hidden gems and stunning historic sights on her travel blog Viva La Vita.
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