Image courtesy of Only YOU Hotel Málaga
The best hotels in Málaga range from seaside retreats to boutique properties in the city’s historic downtown. Málaga’s pairing of history and culture with gorgeous beachside fun makes it one of the best places to visit in Spain for first-timers (or anyone).
“Málaga is more than just a beach town — it’s a historic, cultural, and culinary hotspot with a laid-back Mediterranean vibe,” Fora Advisor Patricia Caruso said.
There are three areas where you’ll find the city’s best hotels: Centro, the beaches along Este and the shoreline along Málaga the region. The latter stretches as far west as Punta Chullera, a scenic Mediterranean vista point, and as far east as the town of Nerja — roughly encompassing a distance of 100 miles — and hosts the occasional beach resort.
Below, we break down the top hotels in Málaga, the town, with insights from Fora travel advisors.
Málaga’s best hotels by neighborhood: Centro and Este
Most of Málaga’s best hotels are found in or near Centro. This area encompasses Málaga’s historic downtown — much of which is built under the shadow of the Alcazaba, a medieval Moorish fortress — as well as more contemporary areas like Soho, where you’ll find indie boutiques, art galleries, hip coffee shops and vibey nightlife venues. Immediately east of Centro, you’ll find the neighborhood of Este (“east” in Spanish), a mostly residential area best known for its beach access.
Palacio Solecio (Centro Histórico, Centro)
Image courtesy of Palacio Solecio
Palacio Solecio is as much a landmark as its surroundings in Málaga’s historical center. The structure the hotel now inhabits was built in 1776. It was the official residence of a Spanish noble. Today, the hotel has taken great care to restore the property’s original architecture and style. The hotel offers 68 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, each reflecting the palace's Neoclassical origins. The smallest rooms still offer enough space for two adults, and there are larger suites that comfortably sleep up to four.
Fora Advisor Tyler Chow noted loves Palacio Solecio’s location in the heart of the city, and highlighted both its proximity to the Picasso Museum and its Andalusian restaurant, Balausta.
“Don't miss out on the weekday lunch special menu at the onsite restaurant for an upscale meal in the hotel atrium,” he said.
Patricia added that Palacio Solecio is perfect for culture lovers who want a boutique luxury experience with a central location.
Fora’s SLH withIN partner perks include a $50 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Gran Hotel Miramar GL (La Malagueta, Este)
Image courtesy of Gran Hotel Miramar GL
Gran Hotel Miramar GL is arguably the best hotel in Málaga for high-touch service and access to both the historic center — 10 minutes away — and the beach, just across the street. This luxury hotel’s common areas have a grandiose style, with massive chandeliers, ornate archways and marble floors. Dining options range from a posh rooftop lounge with sea views to a formal restaurant serving elevated Spanish cuisine and international wines. Its rooms, however, are slightly laid back, opting for a chic-meets-stately style.
The hotel’s history is just as transformative. It was originally commissioned by the Spanish monarchy in the 1920s before it served as a field hospital during the Spanish Civil War. Afterwards, it returned to its hotel roots until it became Málaga’s Palace of Justice in 1987. After decades of public service, the “Palace” once again returned to its role as one of Málaga’s most luxurious hotels.
Fora Perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Only YOU Hotel Málaga (Soho, Centro)
Image courtesy of Only YOU Hotel Málaga
Only YOU Hotel Málaga embodies the creative spirit of its Soho home. It’s hip, lively and sophisticated. Both La Malagueta Beach and the historic center are within walking distance, as are Soho’s trendy boutiques and eateries. Adults will feel more at home at this property, but children are welcome, too.
“Only YOU Hotel Málaga is perfect for trendy travelers, city explorers and those who love a modern, social atmosphere with top-notch design,” Patricia said.
The hotel’s rooftop pool and bar is the place to be at night, and the panoramic views are among the best in the city. If you’re also visiting Spain’s capital, Only YOU has an excellent boutique hotel in Madrid.
Fora’s Preferred Platinum partner perks include a $100 hotel credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Soho Boutique Castillo Santa Catalina (El Limonar, Este)
Image courtesy of Soho Boutique Castillo Santa Catalina
Soho Boutique Castillo Santa Catalina is a historic property tucked away in a quiet corner of Este (it gets its name from its hotel group, not the neighborhood of Soho). The hotel sits on a cliff overlooking the Bay of Málaga and is sectioned off from the rest of El Limonar by a stone wall and lush Mediterranean forest. The hotel’s architecture emulates the Moorish castles that dot Andalusia, but its interior is more contemporary and stylish.
“Soho Boutique Castillo de Santa Catalina is connected to the Málaga fortress, and you can really feel that Old World charm throughout the property,” Fora Advisor Nancy McLaughlin said. “The architecture, the details — it all makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a piece of Andalusian history, but with all the modern comforts.”
Nancy also highlighted the hotel’s surrounding gardens, which create a feeling of exclusivity and privacy. Consider Soho Boutique Castillo Santa Catalina one of the best hotels in Málaga for a romantic getaway.
“The service was also top-notch — personalized and thoughtful, which made my stay feel extra special,” Nancy said.
Hotel Molina Lario (Centro Histórico, Centro)
Image courtesy of Hotel Molina Lario
Hotel Molina Lario is a great alternative to Only YOU Hotel Málaga if you prefer a more laid-back vibe. The two properties are less than a block apart; the former technically within the city center. Despite its historic location, the design of Hotel Molina Lario is contemporary and refined. A rooftop pool bar hosts live music on weekends while the hotel’s signature restaurant, Matiz, serves elevated Mediterranean cuisine with an Andalusian flair and extensive selection of Spanish wine. There’s a tasting menu for couples that features dishes like a dry-aged steak with black truffle caviar and smoked sea bass loin.
Bonus: Puente Romano Beach Resort (Marbella)
Image courtesy of Puente Romano Beach Resort
Puente Romano is in Marbella, an electric nightlife hub within the greater Málaga region. This luxurious beach retreat features a mix of traditional hotel suites and larger, private villas with dedicated amenities (private service, pool and gardens). There’s also a quiet pool area, immediate beach access and a wealth of on- and off-site activities, ranging from sailing in the bay to a state-of-the-art spa with a Mediterranean-inspired menu. Golf, tennis and a fitness center are also available. Children and teens are welcome, and will enjoy age-appropriate clubs and lounges featuring games and activities like paddleboarding and tennis.
The property is gorgeous. An exotic garden connects different parts of the resort and features hundreds of species from all over the world. One section has whitewashed buildings that contrast with lush potted greenery and deep-blue accents, much like the famous villages of Santorini. And even the entry-tier rooms are posh and thoughtfully designed. Consider Puente Romano one of the best hotels in Marbella or Málaga for a sophisticated, hideaway to unwind and enjoy seaside adventure.
Fora Perks include a $100 food and beverage credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Bonus: Kempinski Hotel Bahía (Estepona)
Image courtesy of Kempinski Hotel Bahía
Kempinski Hotel Bahía is another luxe beach resort in the greater Málaga area, this time near the tiny resort town of Estepona. Relaxation is front and center here, with breezy, open-air spaces for lounging and enjoying light bites by the sea. There’s a high-end spa, a small boutique market and four restaurants, all with casual international menus.
Fora’s Kempinski Club 1897 partner perks include a $50 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Advisors’ tips for traveling to Málaga
Fora Advisors shared a few tips for exploring Málaga alongside their hotel recommendations.
Málaga is best known for its beautiful beaches, like La Malagueta and Playas del Palo
Málaga’s beaches are among the best in Andalusia, with gold sands, calm waves, clear waters and comfortable temperatures through most of the year. Patricia noted that La Malagueta is convenient to reach, but touristy compared to Málaga’s other beaches. If you prefer a quieter, more local vibe, she recommended Playa de la Misericordia, Playas del Palo or Playa de Maro — all to the east of Málaga’s Centro neighborhood.
But there’s more to the city than beaches. The city’s historic center is filled with Moorish and Neoclassical architecture, including landmarks like the Alcazaba. You’ll also find excellent restaurants, pubs and boutiques throughout Centro.
March to June and September to November are the best months to visit Málaga
Image courtesy of Palacio Solecio
Spring to early summer, and late summer through mid-fall represent the best times to visit Málaga. Both periods have pleasant weather, comfortable water temperatures and fewer crowds. If you don’t mind the heat and crowds, July and August are the city’s liveliest and hottest months; it’s normal for daily temperatures to reach 95℉. Alternatively, winter sees relatively few travelers and comfortable weather, but the water is typically too cold for swimming. Patricia highlighted that Málaga’s famous Semana Santa (Holy Week) in April is a spectacular time to visit.
Walk as much as you can
Like many cities in Spain, Málaga’s central neighborhoods are highly walkable. The city is also bike friendly, and you’ll find rentals available all over.
Take in Málaga’s tapas culture
Spain’s tapas culture is legendary, and the local scene in Málaga is no exception. Seafood tapas are especially common, given the city’s history as a fishing port. Patricia said that many bars will serve a free tapa with drinks and highlighted a few favorites: espeto de sardinas are grilled sardines on skewers, gambas al pil pil are garlic shrimp served in a sizzling olive oil and porra antequerana is a “thicker, richer version of gazpacho.” She also suggested trying moscatel wine, a sweet wine local to the region.
Relax in a Spanish hammam
Spanish hammams — steam bathhouses — are a lasting legacy of Moorish influence on the Iberian Peninsula. They’re popular in Málaga and usually include time in a thermal pool and / or steam room before a traditional massage. Nancy recommended Hammam Al Ándalus Málaga in Centro: “The dim lighting, intricate tilework and soothing atmosphere make it a perfect place to unwind after exploring Málaga.”
Budget 2 to 3 days to enjoy the city
Image courtesy of Palacio Solecio
Málaga’s highlights can be enjoyed in two to three days. Explore the city’s historic downtown, take in the tapas culture, visit major sites like the Picasso Museum and, of course, savor a beach day or two.
Pair Málaga with other cities in Andalusia
Andalusia offers one of the best European trips for families, and many of Spain’s best places to go are found throughout the Mediterranean region. These include Seville, the birthplace of flamenco; Granada, where you’ll find the imposing Alhambra palace; the coastal city of Cadiz and more. Our articles on where to stay in Seville and where to stay in Granada, Spain offer more details on those cities, respectively — but highlights include medieval castles and architecture, incredible Spanish gastronomy (authentic paellas, wine, fresh seafood) and gorgeous landscapes like the Sierra Nevada mountains.
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