Take An Amazing Autumn Holiday In Malaga

These longer nights and cooler days are a sure sign of the long cold winter looming on the horizon. As the perfect antidote, why not take a last-minute holiday in Malaga for a well-deserved dose of warm sunshine?
With good weather in Malaga practically guaranteed there are no worries of anything being rained off, but whether you’re indoors or out there’s plenty to do and see. The handy travel guide The 5 Best of Everything in Malaga includes over 210 listings and is a great way of planning your visit to perfection. As a taster, here are some of the best things to do in Malaga.

Make soaking up some warm rays your priority before you hit the city centre so head for one of the beaches in Malaga. Both city beaches are sandy with blue-flag status and sun loungers for more comfortable sun worshipping. Take a dip to cool off – it’s usually warm enough to swim until at least November – and try one of the beach bars including the funky Kaluna and Amitabha at the west end.
But don’t let the warm sands keep you away from the attractions in Malaga for too long. To get an idea of the city, pop on and off the tour bus or for something more energetic, take a bike tour round the city. For a bird’s eye view ride the new ferris wheel near the port.
Once you’ve got your bearings, it’s time to see the sights. If history’s your thing don’t miss the Alcazaba Fortress whose walls and palaces dominate the old quarter. Get a real feel for Moorish life at the luxury Hammam spa that takes you back to 14th century Malaga.

Next up should be a spot of art. Whether you’re a fan of the Old Masters, Picasso, Bacon or D*Face, there’s something on canvas for you. Visit one of the art museums or take a stroll (in the sunshine) around the Soho District and admire the murals lining the maze of streets.
And then you can shop till you drop in Malaga, home to all the international brands such as Zara and Massimo Dutti, high-end boutiques like COS and & Other Stories plus a great selection of little shops. For vintage and quirky gifts, make your way round the narrow streets behind the Carmen Thyssen Art Museum. If you’re after bargains the Sunday morning flea market has them all.
Of course the perfect autumn break wouldn’t be complete with lots of eating and drinking, and Malaga has a long list of great venues to suit all tastes and pockets. For a great lunchtime snack, sit outside at one of the market bars or for more sophisticated tapas, head for Calle Strachan street near the cathedral. Both Alumbre and Gorki are good. And to finish your day, take a lift up to a cocktail while you admire Malaga at night – Hotel Molina Larios and Hotel AC Palacio both have terraces with amazing vistas. Take a light jacket just in case it’s a little cool.

Joanna Styles is a writer based in Malaga and specialising in Spain. She has created the new travel guide to Malaga available on www.guidetomalaga.com