Is Malaga Expensive?

Malaga Budget Guide: What to Expect and How to Save Money

Welcome to Malaga: a vibrant coastal city renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture and vibrant culture. Birthplace of world-famous artist Pablo Picasso, Malaga boasts a range of museums including the Picasso Museum to showcase his work. The city's popularity would have inevitably increased overall prices. However, those on a budget can follow our guide to keep costs low.

A Breakdown of Average Travel Costs in Malaga

How Much Do Things Cost in Malaga

Where to Stay in Malaga on a Budget

Malaga might be a popular destination but there are still budget-friendly options available:

• Hostels: Hostels are an excellent way of connecting with other travellers as well as cutting back on costs. It's a fantastic experience and you might end up meeting travelling buddies. Malaga is dotted with hostels offering dormitory-style rooms with shared facilities such as bathrooms and kitchens.
• Budget Chain Hotels: Familiar chains and local accommodations offer competitive rates for rooms that are pleasant and provide basic amenities. You'll find them in urban areas or near tourist attractions.
• Guesthouses: Locally owned accommodations in villages and smaller towns offer a more personalised and intimate experience at much more affordable rates. Guests will get a chance to gain a local experience and build a rapport with their hosts.
• Camping: Outdoor enthusiasts will be in heaven with the multiple campgrounds dotted within Malaga as well as surrounding areas. It's an adventurous and affordable option that allows you to gain a nature-rich experience, whilst still being a part of city life.

The Best Options for Finding Affordable Accommodation in Malaga

Malaga is often described as a top holiday destination, forgetting that the city is also home to over half a million residents who work, study, and have lived there for generations. Therefore, finding affordable accommodation is certainly doable and we've scouted the city to pick the best areas. The majority of them are residential areas, offering you the opportunity to live like a local and get a real taster of life in Malaga.

• La Malagueta: Situated near Malagueta Beach and the city centre, this location offers a mix of budget hotels, hostels and guesthouses.
• El Perchel: Snuggled just south of the historic city centre, this lively neighbourhood offers plenty of affordable accommodations within walking distance of the train and bus stations.
• La Trinidad: This residential neighbourhood lies northeast of the city centre offering a local vibe and slightly more peace and quiet than the touristy areas.

What to Expect from Staying in Malaga and How to Book a Cheap Room

Malaga hosts millions of visitors per year for good reason. Alongside sun, sea, and sand, visitors can expect their accommodation to offer modern, clean rooms with excellent amenities. Many offer panoramic sea views while boutiques and inns ooze traditional charm. Expect complimentary Wi-Fi and air conditioning in most places, as well as warm hospitality and delicious food.

Those searching for comfort and convenience on a budget should follow our top tips:

• Book in advance: We advise you to book at least three months in advance to get the best deals and secure availability. Leaving things to last minute is a huge risk as it can leave you with much higher prices.
• Consider location: Determine the proximity of the hotel to the attractions and areas you plan to visit, ensuring convenience during your stay. This also saves money on travel.
• Be flexible with your dates: Malaga faces a higher number of tourists during summer whilst autumn and winter face fewer crowds, cooler temperatures and better hotel deals.

How to Get Around Malaga Easily and Cheaply

Malaga is an efficient and practical city, providing tourists and residents with all necessary transport links to get around with ease.

Take a look at the following:

• Walking: Malaga is a stunning city with every corner looking like a postcard. Therefore, exploring on foot can be an exciting experience. The centre and major touristy areas are incredibly pedestrian friendly. Exploring on foot also allows you to discover hidden gems.
• Bicycle Rentals: Exploring a coastal city on a bike is a fantastic and memorable experience. Malaga offers a bike-sharing program called MalagaBici which allows you to rent bicycles for short-term use. You can pick up and drop off bikes at various stations throughout the city. There are plenty of bike-friendly routes for you to get around and spectacular scenery to soak in along the journey. It allows you to be eco-friendly as well as explore as much of Malaga as possible.
• Public Buses: Malaga hosts an extensive bus network operated by EMT that covers the city and its surrounding areas. They're an excellent cost-effective method of transportation.
• Metro: The metro system connects Malaga with the outlying areas including the airport.

How to Eat Well in Malaga Without Spending a Fortune

Tapas Bars: Enjoy small plates of local specialities at Malaga's tapas bars. This is an excellent way of reducing expenses while gaining an authentic Spanish experience.

Mercado Central de Atarazanas: Up for a culinary adventure? Then head down to Malaga's central market. Sample fresh local produce, seafood, meats and cheeses at affordable prices.

Lunch Specials: Keep your eyes peeled for restaurants offering lunch specials or set menus at reduced prices.

Picnics: Take advantage of Malaga's numerous beautiful parks, beaches and waterfront promenade. Pack a picnic and enjoy a leisurely meal outdoors without having to spend a fortune.

Our Top Picks for Free and Cheap Activities in Malaga

Malaga is brimming with fun and exciting activities, with some even being free! Check out the following:

Malaga has its fair share of museums, and most of them are free. Here are our top picks:

• Picasso Museum: Explore the art collection of world-famous artist Pablo Picasso. Admission is free on Sundays after 5 pm, and you can also enjoy free entry to some temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
• Centre Pompidou Malaga: This museum features modern and contemporary art including works by artists Frida Kahlo, Salvador Dali and Joan Miro. Free admission is offered to its permanent collection every Sunday from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
• Russian Museum Collection: Explore the collection of Russian art including paintings, icons and decorative arts spanning several centuries. Admission is free every Sunday from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Here’s what to do in Malaga for €5 or less

• Visit the Alcazaba: This historic Moorish fortress and palace complex requires a €3.50 entry ticket. It's an incredibly impressive landmark that offers stunning views of Malaga and its surroundings.
• Stroll along the Promenade: Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque waterfront promenade. Take in the charming sea views, try people-watching and soak in the city's vibrant atmosphere.
• Visit a Market: Malaga hosts a number of markets one of them being the Atarazanas Market. Explore the stalls displaying fresh produce, local specialities and artisanal products. Enjoy the hustle and bustle, connect with the locals and soak in the sights and sounds of the market.
• Take a Self-Guided Walking Tour: Delve into Malaga's historic centre with a self-guided walking tour. Visit landmarks such as the Cathedral, Roman Theatre, and Plaza de la Merced to learn about the city's rich history and culture.

How to Enjoy the Nightlife and Culture in Malaga on a Budget

Happy Hours: Many bars and clubs offer happy hour specials where you can enjoy discounted drinks. Take advantage of these specific hours to make a saving during your evenings out.

Beach Bonfires: Enjoy an evening out on the sandy beach, getting cosy by the bonfire with friends and family. Take drinks, snacks and music for the full experience.

Night Photography: Those keen on photography and exploring Malaga once the sun is down should definitely take part in this cost-free and creative activity. Set out after hours to capture Malaga city coming to life after dark.

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Tourist Board Info For Malaga