Easy Day Trips from Malaga: Where to Go & How to Get There

Each of these day trips from Malaga adds a unique memory to your Spanish adventure. If you're staying for more than three days, I seriously recommend trying at least one, whether it's a mountain escape, a beachside village, or a cultural deep dive.

Plan it right, and you can even kill two birds with one stone. For example, Ronda and Setenil de las Bodegas make an epic duo; they're close enough to hit both in one unforgettable day.

Don't just stay in the city, get out there and explore the magic that surrounds it. Andalucía has so much more to offer, and it's all just a short drive away.

Interactive Map of Day Trips from Malaga

Hike the Caminito del Rey: A Breathtaking Day Trip from Malaga

Once dubbed the world's most dangerous hike, Caminito del Rey has transformed into a must-do adventure just 60 km from Málaga. Suspended walkways, dramatic cliffs, and unreal views await, without the danger, but with all the thrill.

Highlights

• The Walkway: Cliff-clinging paths and jaw-dropping canyons, all 100m above the river.

• Gaitanejo Gorge: The heart-pounding, narrowest part of the trail.

• Views, Views, Views: Mountains, cliffs, and waterfalls, with nature's drama on full display.

How to Get There

Want the full breakdown, including how to get there, what to pack, insider tips, and exactly what to expect on the trail?

Walking the Caminito del Rey: Everything You Need to Know.

This one's a total bucket list classic, don't skip it.

Visit Setenil de las Bodegas: The Cliffside Village Built into Rock

Tucked away just 100 km from Málaga, Setenil de las Bodegas is one of Spain's most unique and photogenic villages, where homes, cafés, and shops are literally built into and under massive rock overhangs.

This spot is perfect for a half-day trip or as a combo visit with nearby Ronda. It's a short drive, completely walkable once you're there, and packed with charm.

Highlights

• Rock-Built Homes: Cafés, shops, and homes carved under cliffs.

• Main Streets: Cuevas del Sol and Cuevas de la Sombra.

• Combo Potential: Pairs perfectly with a guided tour that includes Ronda.

How to Get There

Want to know how to get there, where to park, and what not to miss?

Setenil de Las Bodegas: A Day Trip Guide

Top Tip: Go early in the morning or late afternoon to dodge crowds and catch the best light for photos.

NB: Parking can be a bit of a saga, do yourself (and your relationship) a favour and plan ahead to avoid the classic “holiday argument in a hot car” scenario.

Discover Ronda: Dramatic Views and Moorish History Near Malaga

Just 105 km from Málaga, Ronda is one of Andalucía's most iconic towns, famous for its jaw-dropping Puente Nuevo bridge, dramatic gorge, and historic old town packed with charm.

Plan your one-day trip to Ronda.

It's also home to the Plaza de Toros de Ronda, one of the oldest bullrings in Spain, inaugurated in 1785 and renowned for its neoclassical architecture and historical significance. Check out our guide to things to do in Ronda for more details.

Highlights

• Puente Nuevo: The legendary bridge over a dizzying gorge, Instagram gold and real-life gasp-worthy.

• Plaza de Toros: One of Spain's oldest bullrings, with a museum on the roots of the tradition.

• Old Town: Whitewashed streets, flowerpots, and hidden tapas bars galore.

• Arab Baths: Tucked away but totally worth the wander.

• Palacio de Mondragón: A peaceful palace-turned-museum with gardens overlooking the valley.

How to Get There

Top Tip: Head to the viewpoint at sunset, it’s ridiculously pretty and way less crowded than midday.

Experience Marbella: Beachside Charm and Glamour from Malaga

Just 60 km from Málaga, Marbella is the perfect blend of upscale beach vibes and historic charm. The harbours have many luxury yachts, famous boutiques, tapas by the sea, and an old town (Casco Antiguo) that's bursting with whitewashed beauty and bougainvillaea.

Plan your day trip to Marbella from Malaga or follow our one day in Marbella itinerary.

Highlights

• Casco Antiguo: The old town's charm trumps the beach clubs any day.

• Avenida del Mar: Bronze Dalí sculptures on your seaside stroll.

• Puerto Banús: Superyachts, designer stores, and people-watching perfection.

How to Get There

Want all the details, how to get there, what to see, and local tips? Read our day trip guide to Marbella from Malaga.

Top Tip: The fastest route from Málaga is via the highway (AP-7), but keep in mind it has tolls. If you're in no rush, take the scenic A-355 route through the mountains and forests, which is absolutely gorgeous and perfect for a leisurely drive.

Day Trip to Granada from Malaga: The Alhambra and Beyond

Just 125 km from Málaga, Granada is home to the Alhambra, one of the most stunning palace complexes in the world, and trust us, it lives up to the hype.

Highlights

• The Alhambra: A Moorish palace that deserves its own bucket list.

• Albaicín: A hilltop maze of white homes and Moorish charm.

• Tapas Culture: Order a drink, get a snack, no strings attached.

How to Get There

Top Tip: Book Alhambra tickets in advance, they sell out fast. And wear comfy shoes, there’s a lot of walking involved!.

Sierra Nevada: A Seasonal Escape to the Mountains from Malaga

Looking for snow-capped peaks just a couple of hours from the coast? Sierra Nevada is the ultimate year-round escape, just 130 km from Málaga and perfect for both ski season thrills and summertime hikes.

Plan your day trip to the Sierra Nevada from Malaga.

Highlights

• Winter Sports: Ski slopes and snow fun, just hours from the sand.

• Summer Hikes: Trails with views that'll steal your breath, literally and figuratively.

• Stargazing: At this altitude, the stars put on a serious show.

How to Get There

Top Tip: Dress in layers, it can be chilly up there even when it’s toasty in Málaga.

Explore Nerja: Caves, Beaches, and Coastal Beauty Near Malaga

Only 55 km east of Málaga, Nerja is the perfect blend of beach town vibes and natural beauty. With its famous Balcón de Europa overlooking the Mediterranean, crystal-clear coves, and the jaw-dropping Cuevas de Nerja, this seaside gem is a must on any Costa del Sol itinerary.

Plan your day trip to Nerja from Malaga.

Highlights

• Cuevas de Nerja: Caverns with prehistoric art and the world's largest known stalactite.

• Balcón de Europa: A cliffside promenade with sweeping sea views.

• Hidden Coves: Swim spots that feel secret, even in high season.

How to Get There

Top Tip: Take your swim gear, there are some hidden coves and clear blue water perfect for a dip. Don't miss out on the 15 meter waterfall that falls directly into the sea.

Seville in a Day: Flamenco, Architecture, and Culture from Malaga

Looking to add a splash of culture, colour, and history to your Málaga trip? Seville is a must. Just 205 km from Málaga, this spirited city is packed with iconic sights, the Seville Cathedral, Real Alcázar, flamenco in the streets, and orange trees around every corner.

Plan your perfect day in Seville.

Highlights

• Alcazar Palace: A royal residence with Game of Thrones credentials.

• Seville Cathedral: Tower climbs, Columbus' tomb, and epic scale.

• Plaza de España: One of Spain's grandest public spaces.

• Santa Cruz: Orange blossoms, patios, and maze-like streets.

How to Get There

Top Tip: Start early and take the train if you can, it’s quick, scenic, and drops you right in the centre of the action.

Frigiliana: Andalusia's Prettiest Village Just an Hour from Malaga

Just 60 km from Málaga and a short hop from Nerja, Frigiliana is often hailed as one of the most beautiful villages in all of Spain, and it lives up to the hype. Think narrow, cobbled streets, whitewashed houses dripping with flowers, and sweeping views of the Mediterranean and surrounding mountains.

Highlights

• Whitewashed Beauty: Often voted Spain's prettiest village, and it's easy to see why.

• Winding Streets: Every corner's a photo op, with cobbles, colours, and cats.

• Craft Shops: Local ceramics and sweet muscatel wine for the win.

How to Get There

Two-Day Trips in One

If you're short on time but can't resist seeing more, we get you. These are the two-in-one day trips we sometimes recommend to our braver friends and family:

• Nerja + Frigiliana: Beach first, then uphill to Frigiliana for golden hour photos and tapas with a view.

Bonus: You can even drive up to the Sierra Nevada if you really want to see the snow.

• Ronda + Setenil de las Bodegas: Do Ronda in the morning (Puente Nuevo before the crowds), then cruise to Setenil for a late lunch under the rocks. There are lots of tour operators that offer this option.

Antequera Dolmens Site and El Torcal de Antequera

Just 45 minutes from Málaga, Antequera is one of Andalusia's most overlooked gems, and that's exactly what makes it special. Set against dramatic limestone peaks, this historic town is a blend of ancient wonders, quiet plazas, and golden-hued architecture that feels straight out of a postcard.

It's perfect for day-trippers, history buffs, and anyone wanting a more authentic, less-touristy side of southern Spain. For a detailed itinerary, check out our guide to one day in Antequera and the full list of things to do in Antequera.

Highlights

• Ancient Roots: Home to UNESCO-listed dolmens older than the pyramids.

• El Torcal: A surreal, otherworldly limestone landscape just outside town.

• Baroque Beauty: Stunning churches, palaces, and views from the Alcazaba.

• Still a Secret: Less crowded than Ronda or Córdoba, but just as rich in charm.

How to Get There

How to Choose the Right Day Trip from Málaga

We're all different.

I still have a small grudge against "someone" in my family who made me spend a day at the beach on our three-day trip to New York. In the end, planning is key. Here's how to pick from the different day trips:

• For Nature Lovers: Try Caminito del Rey or Sierra Nevada.

• For History Buffs: Granada, Seville, and Ronda pack centuries of stories and flavours around every corner.

• For Families: Nerja and Frigiliana are perfect picks. There are tons to explore for the whole family.

• Without a Car? Go for Granada, Marbella, or Seville. They are all accessible by direct public transport.

Conclusion

Although Malaga is worthy of its own dedicated trip, it's hard not to have a wandering eye with so many beautiful locations just a stone's throw away.