Top 5 Things to Do When Studying in Malaga

It is easy to see why too, this city is beautiful, very relaxed and has a year round warm climate.

If you are going to be studying in Malaga then you will be at an advantage compared to the average tourist as you will get to spend more time here and there are so many incredible things you can do in your spare time.

Options for Studying in Malaga

If you haven't already, first you will need to arrange this experience and there are several opportunities for foreigners. Malaga is one of the most popular destinations to study abroad in Spain and there are lots of options for subjects and courses.

You could learn Spanish in Malaga - this is a popular option as there are classes available to book all year round. Malaga is a very cheap places to study Spanish in Spain compared to other cities like Madrid and Barcelona which is an added benefit.

If you would be keen to teach English in Spain then Malaga is a one of the best places to take a TEFL course in Spain.

Malaga's Top Attractions

Check out my list of essential places to see in Malaga.

1. Ancient Ruins

If you are from North America and going to study abroad you will love seeing the ancient ruins in Spain, this is so different to what you will see back home.

Malaga has lots of historic attractions including the old centre with Moorish remains, the Alcazaba - a Muslim Fort, and the castle on Mount Gibralfaro. You really need to visit the ancient ruins like the Roman amphitheater, Alcazaba and Gibralfaro.

The entrance to the Alcazaba is right by the Roman theater, so check that out first. The theater dates back to the eleventh century. The Alcazaba is a fort from the Islamic oppression.

You can climb the ruins and wander through Moorish arches. If you continue walking up the hillside you will reach the Gibralfaro or a castle. The view of Malaga and the Mediterranean are incomparable at the top of the Gibralfaro overlook. This is a must for the best view of the city.

2. Manquita Cathedral

Take some time to explore the cathedral located in the center of the city. It is nicknamed la Manquita, “The one armed lady” because only one of the two towers was completed.

There is an entry fee to get inside, but it is worth it; if you don’t want to pay the entrance fee go on a Sunday for mass and stay after to explore the inside.

3. Explore Picasso's Malaga

Head to the Picasso Museum and the house where he was born. Malaga is home to one of Spain’s most famous painters. The main Picasso museum might be located in Barcelona, but that doesn’t mean you need to skip the museum in Picasso’s hometown.

The museum is home to 155 painting donated by his family. After spending some time in the Picasso Museum, head to Plaza Merced to the house where he was born and lived the first ten years of his life. The house has now been converted into a museum.

4. Visit El Pimpi for Tapas & Sweet Wine

El Pimpi is a known spot for locals and tourists. Huge wine casts and pictures are signed by stars, even Antonio Banderas, another Malaga local. Old bull fighting posters line the walls.

Before leaving don’t forget to order the famous Malaga sweet wine, vino dulce. You can find El Pimpi in the center of the city on Calle Granada, 62.

5. Beach

Malaga is located on the coast; so going to the beach is a must!

Public beaches stretch up and down the Costa del Sol, so you have your pick. La Malagueta is the best choice and closest to the city center.

In the summer months, especially after school lets out in June the beach can get crowded. If you are looking for less crowded beaches travel north an hour to Nerja.

When studying abroad in Europe you will struggle to see better beaches.

By Kristen Etzel