Best Viewpoints in Malaga: Panoramic City Views & Photo Spots (2026)

Málaga can get really busy, especially in summer, and one of my biggest pet peeves is climbing to a rooftop bar only to find it packed with people blocking my favourite Malaga viewpoint.

You start off excited, usually with friends, but an hour later, you're sweaty, maybe smelly, and just ready to leave.

After a few years, we've gotten the hang of timing things right. Sometimes we head to the rooftop bars; other times, it's better to grab a bottle of cava and head for the hills.

These are our favourite places to do both.

P.S. If you're looking for more ideas, check out our Malaga Old Town Guide for more ideas!

Best Viewpoints in Malaga City

Mirador de Gibralfaro

The most famous (and busiest) Málaga viewpoint, and still totally worth it.

This is our go-to spot when we feel we've been too long without some exercise. If you want more ways to explore the city on foot, check out our guide to things to do in Malaga.

From this 130-metre-high panoramic view, you can see the bullring, Paseo del Parque, Málaga's bustling port, and the Mediterranean stretching to the horizon.

It's a favourite spot for sunset (best time: 30 minutes before sunset), and while you can take a bus or taxi, the 25-minute uphill walk is definitely worth the effort.

• Access: Free | 25-min walk from city center or bus #35
• Best for: Sunset photography, 360° city views
• Tip: Wear sturdy shoes; the terrain isn't exactly flip-flop friendly!

Castillo de Gibralfaro

If you climb even higher from the Mirador de Gibralfaro, you'll reach Castillo de Gibralfaro, a 14th-century fortress that once protected the city.

This is the highest viewpoint in Málaga, offering the best panoramic view of the entire city, the coast, and on clear days, the Strait of Gibraltar.

Walking along its ancient walls at night is particularly stunning with all the city lights twinkling below.

• Access: €3.55 entry (free on Sundays after 2pm) | Open daily 9am-8pm (winter 9am-6pm)
• Best for: Photographers, history lovers, highest vantage point
• Tip: Combine with a visit to the Mirador for the ultimate viewpoint experience

Málaga Cathedral Rooftop

Stairs, lots of stairs, but the Málaga city view from up here is worth it.

For €10 (combined cathedral and rooftop ticket), you climb over 200 steps to reach 50 metres elevation. The close-up view of the cathedral's domes and panoramic view of the old town is stunning.

This is one of the best photo spots in Málaga. If you visit at night, the experience is completely different and equally breathtaking.

• Access: €10 combined ticket | Open Mon-Sat 10am-6:30pm
• Best for: Unique photo angles, architectural views, old town panoramas
• Tip: Not wheelchair accessible due to stairs

The Alcazaba Viewpoint

This 11th-century Moorish fortress is one of Málaga's most iconic landmarks. Part of the experience is soaking in the spectacular panoramic views from its walls.

Overlooking the Roman Theatre, the cathedral silhouette, the port, and the city below, it's the perfect spot to enjoy both history and scenery.

If you're not keen on going inside, you can still get a fantastic view from the nearby Pasarela-Mirador de la Alcazaba, an elevated walkway with free access.

• Access: €3.55 entry (free on Sundays after 2pm) | Open Tue-Sun 9am-8pm
• Best for: History + views combo, Roman Theatre overlook
• Tip: The free Pasarela walkway gives you great views without the entry fee

Victoria Hill (Monte Victoria)

For a quieter, more local experience, Victoria Hill is one of our favourites.

You can hike up from the El Limonar neighbourhood (about 40 minutes from city center). Once you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with one of the best views of Málaga, especially at sunset.

This is where locals come for picnics and to escape the tourist crowds.

• Access: Free | 40-min walk from city center via El Limonar
• Best for: Sunset views, nature lovers, avoiding crowds, picnics
• Tip: Perfect for a romantic sunset with far fewer people than Gibralfaro

Best Rooftop Bars with Views in Málaga

AC Hotel Malaga Palacio Rooftop

One of the most well-known rooftop bars in Malaga, the AC Hotel Malaga Palacio, has the best views of the city of all the rooftop bars.

It's one of our favourites, although we rarely go because it's always full.

Book in advance!

La Terazza Molina Larios

Our backup plan whenever we head to the AC and can't get in? La Terazza Molina, right next door. It's not as high, but the views are still amazing.

Some nights, especially Fridays, there's live music. If you're lucky, you might even catch one of the light shows against the Cathedral that occasionally happens.

Hotel Alcazaba Premium's Chill-Out Terrace

Hands down, our favourite!

The view at night of the fortress, lit up, is incredible. And if you arrive early, you might score one of the premium lounge spots and settle in for the night.

It's usually busy but never overcrowded, and we've never had trouble finding a table. If you absolutely need one of those premium loungers, call ahead; they can be reserved.

Chinitas Urban Hostel Terrace

Chinitas has a more relaxed vibe, but it's still a great spot.

It's a bit lower, but you still get a view of the inner city, with the option to choose from two levels.

The drinks are also a little cheaper here since it's a hostel compared to the other rooftop bars.

Highest Viewpoints Near Málaga

If you're willing to venture a little further out, there are even more incredible viewpoints just outside the city limits.

Mount San Antón

About 250 metres above sea level, Mount San Antón is one of the highest viewpoints near Málaga.

It's a favourite among hikers and offers unparalleled views of the city and coastline.

Mirador del Jardín Botánico Histórico de la Concepción

We hiked from Málaga city centre all the way here the other day.

Entry to the gardens is €5.20, and it's definitely worth taking the time to explore.

Located just outside the city, the botanical gardens offer an amazing viewpoint at the top of the path.

From here, you get a panoramic view of the Alcazaba, the cathedral, and the port all in one stunning sweep.

Benalmádena Cable Car (Teleférico Benalmádena)

A short trip from Málaga, the Benalmádena cable car takes you to the top of Mount Calamorro, where you'll be treated to spectacular views of the Costa del Sol.

On a clear day, you can even spot Gibraltar and the coast of Africa!

It's not for the faint-hearted, especially on a windy day.

Balcony of Europe (Balcón de Europa, Nerja)

This one's a bit further out, but it's famous enough to make the list. It makes a great day trip from Malaga.

Located in Nerja, about an hour's drive from Málaga, the Balcony of Europe offers stunning views over the Mediterranean.

It's one of the most iconic spots on the Costa del Sol and is definitely worth the trip.

Best Times to Visit Málaga Viewpoints

Free vs Paid Viewpoints in Málaga

Free viewpoints:

• Mirador de Gibralfaro (best free panoramic view)
• Victoria Hill (locals' favorite)
• Mount San Antón
• Pasarela-Mirador de la Alcazaba
• Botanical Gardens viewpoint (€5.20 garden entry)

Paid viewpoints:

• Castillo de Gibralfaro (€3.55, free Sundays after 2pm)
• Alcazaba (€3.55, free Sundays after 2pm)
• Cathedral rooftop (€10)
• Rooftop bars (cost of drinks/food)

Have you visited any of these viewpoints? Let us know your favourite in the comments below!

Looking for somewhere to stay near these views? Check out where to stay in Malaga. And if you're wondering what Malaga is really like, we've written about that too.