Málaga and the Costa del Sol offer a refreshingly modern take on a classic European escape. While the allure of sun and sand remains, this region has transformed into a sophisticated destination with a thriving cultural scene and an evolving culinary landscape. I’ve been researching this area for family trips, and it truly surprises with its blend of tradition and contemporary appeal. It’s a place that rewards a deeper look, extending far beyond the immediate coastline.
Málaga city: Exploring beyond the airport
Málaga has shed its reputation as merely a transit point. Over the past decade, it has blossomed into a world-class destination in its own right. You’ll find a more cosmopolitan atmosphere now, with key improvements that make it a wonderful base. The addition of several museums and art galleries adds a cultural richness, while the revamped port area offers a modern waterfront experience. Wandering through the old centre, much of which is now pedestrianised, feels like stepping back in time, yet with all the modern amenities you’d expect. If you’re looking for a city break that combines sunshine with a vibrant, cosmopolitan setting, Málaga is a fantastic choice.
Museums and Art in Málaga
For art lovers, Málaga is a treat. The city boasts a growing number of museums and galleries that cater to diverse tastes. This cultural expansion means you can easily fill your days with enriching experiences, moving from historical sites to contemporary exhibitions.
Revitalised Port and Old Town
The port area has been completely reimagined, offering a sleek, modern space for leisure and dining. Simultaneously, the charming old town has undergone significant rejuvenation. Its transformation, with many areas now dedicated to pedestrians, makes it a joy to explore on foot. You can discover hidden plazas, historic churches, and independent boutiques at your own pace.
Exploring the Wine Regions
The wine scene here is undergoing its own renaissance. While the traditional, naturally sweet raisin wines from historic estates still hold their place, a new generation of producers is making waves. These vintners are breathing new life into old vines and introducing exciting new grape varieties to the region. It’s a fascinating evolution that I’ve been following closely, especially as it impacts pairing with local food. The wine landscape is divided into five geographical sub-areas, which overlap within the DO Málaga and DO Sierras de Málaga designations: Axarquía, Montes de Málaga, Costa Occidental-Manilva, Norte, and Serranía de Ronda. Many of these wineries are conveniently located within an hour’s drive of Málaga city, making day trips accessible for wine enthusiasts.
Bodega La Capuchina
Located north of Antequera, this estate has been in the García Segura family since the early 1980s. The winery itself was completed in 2004. It was once a monastery for Capuchin friars but remains a dedicated family operation. They show great respect for the land and local traditions. The estate features beautiful courtyards and gardens, typical of Andalusian haciendas. The main buildings house the winery, family living spaces, and event rooms. In the 1990s, the old vineyards were replanted. They now grow traditional white varieties like Pedro Ximénez, Doradillo, and Moscatel de Alejandría. Newer additions include Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. You can visit this bodega between 8am and 3pm.
Bodegas Bentomiz
In the Axarquía region, above the small white village of Sayalonga, Clara Verjeih and André Both established Bodegas Bentomiz in 2003. What started as a personal winemaking project evolved into a full-fledged passion for Clara, while André designed and built the striking slate building that now houses the bodega and restaurant. Their wines, known as the Ariyanas range, include both dry and naturally sweet options. They are crafted primarily from Moscatel de Alejandría and Romé grapes. A visit here offers a tour of the property followed by a tasting in the restaurant. You can also choose to stay for a market-fresh set lunch menu, designed daily to complement the wines. This bodega is open Wednesday to Sunday from 12:30pm to 6pm. For more details on the region, you can check out our Costa del Sol travel guide.
Bodega Descalzos Viejos
Deep in the Serranía de Ronda subzone of DO Sierras de Málaga, architects Flavio Salesi and Paco Retamero took over an abandoned 16th-century monastery in 1998. Working with local winemaker Vicente Inat, they have created a truly unique winery. The monastery was once home to the order of Trinitarios Descalzos. Many of the original architectural and artistic features have been lovingly restored, including ancient frescos above the main altar. These frescoes miraculously survived years of plaster cover. From the bodega, you can enjoy breathtaking views over the 16 hectares of vineyards below. The single-vineyard selections are sampled here. Flavio conducts visits himself, speaking either Spanish or English. This special place is open by appointment only, located at Partido de los Molinos, 29400 Ronda.
Bodega F Schatz
Friedrich Schatz comes from a winemaking family in Württemberg with roots dating back to 1641. He arrived in Spain in 1982 at age 18. His vineyard, Finca Sanguijela, is an old Roman site about 10km from Ronda. Schatz is a pioneer in the area and a strong advocate for natural balance. His was the first winery in Andalusia to receive organic certification. The Schatz range includes six biodynamic wines: a Chardonnay, a rosé, and four reds. The signature wine, Acinipo, is named after a nearby Roman amphitheatre. Tastings begin with a walk around the grounds, offering views of the Serranía de Ronda, before moving inside the beautifully restored bodega. It’s located at Finca Sanguijela, Ctra Ronda – La Vieja, km0.5, Ronda, and is open by appointment only.
Bodegas Dimobe
Set in the charming white mountain village of Moclinejo, Bodegas Dimobe is situated below the family home of Juan Muñoz Anaya. His grandfather founded the bodega in 1927. The winery also houses Viñedos Verticales, a separate boutique project run by Muñoz Anaya with winemaker Vicente Inat. The vineyards in this area are typically small plots scattered throughout the Axarquía region. They often face steep 60-70° slate slopes, looking inland or towards the Mediterranean. The primary grapes grown are Moscatel de Alejandría, Pedro Ximénez, and Romé. More recent plantings include Syrah and Petit Verdot. You can find them at San Bartolomé 5, 29738 Moclinejo, and visits are by appointment only.
Gastronomy: A Taste of the Costa del Sol
When you’re back in Málaga, you’ll find an abundance of local culinary delights. From simple pleasures like barbecued sardines right on the beach to the refined elegance of haute cuisine in the city centre, there’s something for every palate. I always recommend taking a food tour when you first arrive; it’s a great way to get acquainted with the local flavours and find your bearings. The old city centre and its surrounding areas offer a remarkable range of dining experiences.
Eating in Málaga City
Andrés Maricuchi: Located in the former fishing village of Pedregalejo on the eastern edge of Málaga, this is an easy trip from the city centre. You can enjoy superb fish and seafood, cooked traditionally on beachside boat barbecues. The restaurant offers great wines, a lovely sea view, and friendly service from this family-run spot. They are open Tuesday to Sunday from 12pm to midnight at Paseo Marítimo el Pedregal, 14, Málaga 29016.
Anyway Wine Bar: This is a delightful little bar with an impressive selection of regional wines. I appreciate places that pair excellent charcuterie with inventive tapas. The owner, David Camino, is a sommelier and a professional jamón cutter. He regularly hosts wine tastings and can also arrange personalised tasting experiences in Spanish or English. Find it at Paseo Reding n15, 29016 Málaga, open Monday to Saturday from 7pm to 11:45pm.
Araboka: Owners Antonio Fernández and chef Pachu Barrera focus on a ‘heritage kitchen’ menu, aiming to revive and update traditional family recipes. Their tartare of Málaga sausage is a signature dish not to be missed. Antonio curates the wine list, which is a pleasure to explore. This restaurant is located at Calle de Pedro de Toledo, 4, 29015 Málaga, and serves from Wednesday to Monday between 1pm-5pm and 8pm-midnight.
El Refectorium Catedral: This spot offers a minimalist chic interior paired with excellent traditional tapas. You can enjoy larger plates, known as ‘raciones’, at the tables. The slow-grilled octopus here is particularly sensational. It’s situated at Calle Postigo de los Abades, 4, 29015 Málaga, open Tuesday to Saturday from 1:30pm-5pm and 8:30pm-midnight, and Sunday from 1:30pm-5pm.
La Deriva: Boasting one of the city’s most extensive wine lists, with over 200 selections, and an impressive cheese table featuring more than 50 varieties, La Deriva is a highlight. They offer a market-based traditional menu with dishes that incorporate creative contemporary touches. It’s open daily from 12pm to midnight at Alameda de Colón n° 7, 29001 Málaga.
Mesón Mariano: This is an unpretentious and friendly spot run by Mariano and his family. They are renowned for their expertly prepared artichokes and baby goat, offered in several ways. Their fried green tomatoes are also a must-try. It’s a place that encourages sharing, so bring a good appetite and some friends. You’ll find it at Calle Granados 2, 29008 Málaga, open Tuesday to Saturday from 1pm-4:30pm and 8pm-midnight, and Monday from 1pm-4:30pm.
Taberna Uvedoble: Chef Willie Orellana serves modern tapas at this minimalist taberna, located right in the heart of Málaga, near the cathedral. Recommended dishes include the swordfish collar in Iberian pork fat and toasted fideo noodles with tiny calamari and alioli. You can visit Monday to Saturday from 12:30pm-4pm and 8:30pm-midnight, and Sunday from 12:30pm-4pm at Calle Císter 15, 29015 Málaga.
Eating Outside Málaga
Los Marinos José: Located in Fuengirola, just a short drive or train ride from Málaga, this is a seafood favourite for locals and visitors alike. Enjoying fresh seafood on their beachfront terrace, with views of the Mediterranean, is a truly special experience. They are open Tuesday to Saturday from 1pm-4pm and 7:30pm-11pm (closed for holidays December-January) at Paseo Marítimo Rey de España, 161 Carvajal, Fuengirola.
Arte de Cozina: In Antequera, Chef Charo Carmona brings Antequera’s history to life through flavour. She revives ancient, often forgotten recipes, some dating back to medieval times. The restaurant and tapas bar are housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century townhouse. There’s also a small guesthouse if you wish to stay longer. It is open daily from 1pm to 11pm at C/Calzada 27, Antequera, 29200 Málaga.
Planning Your Costa del Sol Visit in 2026
When I plan trips for my own family, I always think about the balance of activities. For the Costa del Sol, that means considering the mix of culture, relaxation, and, of course, food and wine. The region offers so much more than just beaches. For instance, exploring the historic white villages or visiting some of the less-known bodegas makes for a truly enriching experience. I find that looking at these types of details helps make the travel planning process smoother, especially when considering a 2026 adventure. You can discover more about accommodations, dining, and practical tips on our Costa del Sol travel guide.
It’s been a pleasure to share these insights into Málaga and the surrounding Costa del Sol. I hope this detailed look inspires your next memorable journey.
