Where to Stay in Malaga: 7 Best Neighborhoods & Hotels (2026)

Wondering where to stay in Málaga?

I know the feeling. Even though the city is compact, each neighbourhood has its own character, and picking the right one can completely change your trip.

As someone who actually lives here, I've spent years exploring Málaga's neighbourhoods and hearing from friends which hotels they loved, and hated. I've seen which areas work best for first-time visitors, where families feel at home, and which corners are better left to the locals.

The truth is, Malaga isn't just one thing.

It's a historic city wrapped around a Mediterranean port, with beaches stretching east, nightlife buzzing in the north, and quiet residential areas tucked away in leafy streets. Curious about daily life here? Check out our guide on what Malaga is really like. Choosing where you stay shapes whether you wake up to church bells in the Old Town, a sea breeze in La Malagueta, or the smell of grilled sardines in Pedregalejo.

In this guide, I'll walk you through the best neighbourhoods and my top hotel picks so you can find the spot that fits your style and make the most of your time in my hometown.

And if I had just one night in Malaga? I'd stay in the Old Town. Nothing beats stepping out the door and straight into history, tapas, and some incredible things to do in the centre.

Overview of Malaga City

Málaga is larger than most visitors expect.

On paper, it covers nearly 400 square kilometres (152 square miles), which is more than three times the size of San Francisco.

But a big chunk of that is taken up by the Montes de Málaga Natural Park, a mountainous green reserve that doesn't form part of the urban core.

For travellers, the city itself is far more compact. The Guadalmedina River cuts Málaga into two halves:

• East of the river is where you'll find almost everything a visitor comes for: the Old Town, museums, port, and beaches. As you move further east, the neighbourhoods gradually become more residential, with seaside barrios like La Malagueta, La Caleta, and Pedregalejo that locals and visitors both love.

• West of the river is more local, with working and middle-class neighbourhoods that aren't traditionally touristy. That said, areas like El Perchel, Mármoles, and La Trinidad(although part of our avoid list) now offer budget-friendly hotels and Airbnb apartments within walking distance of the centre.

In short, if you want to be close to the main attractions, base yourself east of the Guadalmedina.

The west side is perfectly safe and pleasant, but it's mostly residential, dotted with high-rises and quieter local streets. It's better suited for travellers looking for lower prices or quick access to the train and bus stations.

The Best Areas to Stay in Malaga

Old Town (Centro Historico) - Best for First-Time Visitors

If it's your first trip to Málaga, the Old Town is where you'll want to be.

Think cobblestone streets, café-lined plazas, and history at every turn. Within a five-minute walk, you can visit the Alcazaba, Roman Theatre, the Cathedral, and the Picasso Museum, not to mention endless tapas bars.

That said, this is not the quietest corner of Málaga.

In summer especially, the buzz of nightlife and festivals spills into the streets. If you're looking for tranquillity, this probably isn't your match, but if you want to step out the door and straight into the city, you can't beat it.

Best hotels in Málaga Old Town:

• Luxury: Palacio Solecio - a beautifully restored 18th-century palace with Andalusian flair.

• Upscale: Vincci Selección Posada del Patio - a 5-star hotel with a rooftop pool and a slice of Málaga's Roman wall inside the lobby.

• Mid-range: Molina Lario - stylish and central, with a rooftop pool overlooking the Cathedral.

• Boutique: Hotel Teatro Romano - chic rooms facing the Roman Theatre itself.

• Budget: Urban Jungle Hostel - eco-friendly and social, with a rooftop terrace.

Soho - Best for Art & Cool Vibes

Just a short stroll from the Old Town, Soho has reinvented itself from a scruffy portside barrio into Málaga's arts district.

Expect bold street art, quirky cafés, and boutique hotels with personality. It's ideal if you want a central location but a slightly less touristy atmosphere.

The neighbourhood is compact and easy to walk in, plus you're close to both the train station and the port.

Best hotels in Soho:

• Luxury: Only YOU Hotel Málaga - glamorous Art Deco style with a rooftop infinity pool.

• Boutique: ICON Malabar - chic colonial-inspired design with a hip vibe.

• Mid-range: Room Mate Valeria - colourful and stylish, with one of the best rooftop bars in town.

• Budget: Feel Hostels Soho - a backpacker-friendly spot in the heart of the action.

La Malagueta - Best for Beach & City Combined

La Malagueta is the sweet spot for travellers who want both beach access and proximity to the Old Town. This upscale neighbourhood sits between the port and Pedregalejo, with a wide sandy beach, palm-lined promenades, and easy walking distance to the city centre (10-15 minutes).

The area attracts a mix of locals and visitors, especially families during summer. The beach has good facilities, including showers, sun loungers, and chiringuitos serving fresh fish.

Best hotels in La Malagueta:

• Luxury: Gran Hotel Miramar GL - Malaga's most prestigious hotel, a restored palace with sea views, spa, and gardens.

• Upscale: Hotel MS Maestranza - modern beachfront hotel with balconies overlooking the Mediterranean.

• Mid-range: Hotel California - solid choice with rooftop terrace, close to Muelle Uno and the beach.

Pedregalejo & El Palo - Best for Families & Beach Lovers

For a laid-back, toes-in-the-sand stay, head east to Pedregalejo and El Palo. These former fishing villages feel like a small seaside town within the city, where locals and tourists alike gather at beachfront chiringuitos for espetos (grilled sardines) and families splash in calm, protected bays.

It's not as central, you'll need about 20-30 minutes by bus to reach the Old Town, but if you want to wake up by the sea and enjoy a more relaxed vibe, it's perfect.

Best hotels in Pedregalejo & El Palo:

• Luxury: Castillo de Santa Catalina - a hilltop palace hotel with sweeping sea views.

• Boutique: Hotel La Chancla - cosy, beachfront, and family-friendly.

• Budget: La Moraga Hostal - simple rooms just steps from the water.

• Apartments: Apartamentos El Cenachero - great for self-catering stays, close to the beach.

La Merced / La Victoria / Lagunillas - Best for Nightlife

Just north of the Old Town, these three small neighbourhoods blend into one another, offering a mix of history, nightlife, and an authentic Malaga feel.

Plaza de la Merced is the heart of the action. Picasso was born here, and you'll spot murals and tributes to him around the square.

A few steps further up, Calle Victoria takes you toward the Basilica de la Victoria, lined with restaurants, bars, and everyday shops.

Meanwhile, Lagunillas retains its working-class, artistic edge. Think colourful street art and a bohemian vibe.

It's a fantastic area if you want to be close to the centre without paying Old Town prices. But fair warning: nights can get noisy, and parts of Lagunillas are a bit "gritty."

Best hotels in La Merced / La Victoria / Lagunillas:

• Luxury with views: Parador de Málaga Gibralfaro - perched above the city with stunning views and a pool.

• Boutique: Anahita Boutique Hotel - elegant, housed in a restored 19th-century palace, with a great restaurant.

• Modern mid-range: Hotel Brö - adults-only, clean lines, rooftop pool, and close to Plaza de la Merced.

• Charming boutique: Palacete de Álamos - stylish rooms in a restored mansion with original features.

Tip: If nightlife is your priority, stay near Plaza de la Merced. For a quieter (but still central) option, choose La Victoria.

Huelin / Western Seafront - Best for a Local Beach Vibe

If you want to escape the tourist buzz of the Old Town and experience Málaga like a local, Huelin is a solid choice. Just west of the port and train station, this neighbourhood blends residential life with a long stretch of beach at La Misericordia, perfect for morning walks, jogs, or sunset views.

You're also close to some of Málaga's more unusual cultural spots, like the Automobile and Fashion Museum and the Russian Museum, both housed in old industrial buildings.

The trade-off? It's not the most glamorous part of the city, and you'll need to hop on the metro or a quick bus to get into the historic centre (about 15 minutes). But if you're looking for affordable stays with easy beach access, Huelin is worth considering.

Best hotels in Huelin / Western Seafront:

• Mid-range: Hotel Catalonia Málaga - modern, right on La Misericordia beach, with pool and seafront views.

• Business-friendly: Hilton Garden Inn Málaga - close to the airport and metro, with a pool and fitness centre.

• Apartments: Huelin Suites - great for families or longer stays, offering spacious self-catering units near the beach.

Tip: Stay here if you want a beach on your doorstep at half the price of La Malagueta. Just be prepared to use public transport to reach the city's historic attractions.

The Best Hotels In Malaga City Centre

5-Star Luxury | Only YOU Hotel Málaga

Review: 9.2/10 | View on Booking.com

Located right on Calle Larios and overlooking the port, this hotel combines prime location with a modern, stylish design.

Rooms are spacious, with comfortable beds, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and sleek bathrooms. Some even come with balconies offering panoramic views of the city and harbour.

The highlight? The rooftop infinity pool and bar is one of the best in Málaga. It's the perfect spot for a cocktail at sunset, with views over the Cathedral and the Mediterranean. On site, you'll also find a Mediterranean restaurant and chic lounge.

Check Only YOU dates and latest prices →

4-Star Mid-Range | Hotel Molina Lario

Review: 9/10 | View on Booking.com

This boutique-style hotel sits opposite the Cathedral, giving you stunning views of its iconic tower from some rooms and the rooftop terrace. The hotel is spread across two renovated 19th-century buildings, blending old-world charm with modern comfort.

Rooms are spacious and stylishly decorated, and the rooftop pool with a bar is a major draw, perfect for cooling off after sightseeing. The onsite restaurant, Matiz, is well-reviewed for its Andalusian-inspired cuisine.

Check Molina Lario dates and latest prices →

Budget-Friendly | The Urban Jungle Hostel

Review: 8.5/10 | View on Booking.com

For budget-conscious travellers who still want a stylish stay, this eco-friendly hostel in the Old Town is a gem. It has a youthful, boho vibe with dorms and private rooms, all clean and thoughtfully designed.

The star feature is the rooftop terrace, which hosts social events and is perfect for relaxing with a drink. There's also a shared kitchen and lounge, making it ideal for solo travellers or groups looking for a social atmosphere.

Check Urban Jungle Hostel dates and latest prices →

Verdict: If you want pure luxury, go for Only YOU. For a stylish mid-range choice with history and charm, Molina Lario is unbeatable. And if you're on a budget but still want character and a rooftop terrace, Urban Jungle Hostel is your spot.

The Best Hotels in Malaga on the Beach

If you dream of waking up to the sound of waves, Málaga has several beachfront stays where the sea is just steps away. The city's main urban beaches, La Malagueta, La Caleta, and Pedregalejo, offer everything from luxury resorts to cosy boutique hotels and budget-friendly hostels.

Here are three of the best hotels by the beach in Málaga, each suited to a different type of traveller.

5-Star Luxury | Gran Hotel Miramar GL

Review: 9.1/10 | View on Booking.com

The most luxurious hotel in Málaga, this historic palace sits right on La Malagueta Beach. With 190 elegant rooms, landscaped gardens, and panoramic sea views, it feels like a resort in the heart of the city.

Facilities include a spa, multiple restaurants, two pools (adults + kids), and a rooftop terrace with breathtaking views.

Celebrities and football stars have stayed here, and it's not hard to see why. This is Málaga at its most glamorous.

Check Gran Hotel Miramar dates and latest prices →

3-Star Budget-Friendly | Hotel La Chancla (Pedregalejo)

Review: 8.9/10 | View on Booking.com

This cosy, family-run hotel is right on the sand in Pedregalejo, one of Málaga's most authentic seaside neighbourhoods. Rooms are simple but stylish, many with terraces overlooking the Mediterranean.

The highlight? A rooftop hot tub with sea views and a laid-back beachfront restaurant serving fresh fish and espetos (grilled sardines). Pedregalejo has a lively promenade with tapas bars, but it's quieter than La Malagueta.

Check Hotel La Chancla dates and latest prices →

Verdict: If you want five-star grandeur, Gran Miramar is unbeatable. For a laid-back, local beach vibe, La Chancla is the best choice in Málaga.

Málaga María Zambrano station is not just the hub for AVE high-speed trains to Madrid, Seville, and beyond.

It's also right next to the bus station and a short ride from the airport. Staying here is ideal if you've got an early train, a short layover, or simply prefer convenience.

Here are three of the best hotels near Málaga train station, ranging from luxury to budget-friendly.

The Best Hotels Near the Train Station

4-Star Modern Comfort | Barceló Málaga

Review: 8.5/10 | View on Booking.com

Attached directly to María Zambrano Station, this is a sleek and modern hotel that boasts a rooftop pool and bar. Its bold, futuristic design (yes, it has a giant stainless-steel slide in the lobby!) makes it one of Málaga's most unique hotels.

The spacious rooms feature modern décor, smart TVs, and excellent soundproofing. Facilities include a rooftop pool, fitness centre, and gastro-restaurant serving contemporary Andalusian cuisine.

• 📍 Perfect for: Business travellers, couples catching early trains, and modern design fans.

• 🚶‍♂️ Walk to: Train station (inside the building), Old Town (15 min).

• ⚠️ Keep in mind: Not as charming as staying in the historic centre.

📌 Check Barceló Málaga dates and latest prices →

4-Star Mid-Range | Eurostars Málaga

Review: 8.4/10 | View on Booking.com

Just a 5-minute walk from the station, Eurostars Málaga is bright, modern, and known for its excellent breakfast buffet. Rooms are spacious, with comfortable beds, work desks, and city views.

The hotel also offers a fitness room, stylish bar, and Mediterranean restaurant. It's a reliable choice for both families and professionals who want to be close to transport links.

• 📍 Perfect for: Families or professionals looking for convenience + comfort.

• 🚶‍♂️ Walk to: Train station (5 min), Old Town (15-20 min).

• 💡 Insider tip: Higher floors have better city and port views.

📌 Check Eurostars Málaga dates and latest prices →

3-Star Budget-Friendly | Hotel Don Paco

Review: 8.1/10 | View on Booking.com

A no-frills but solid option, Hotel Don Paco is just around the corner from María Zambrano station. Rooms are simple but come with everything you need: air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms.

It's excellent value for short stays, especially if you're catching an early train or flying out. There's also an on-site bar if you don't feel like heading out in the evening.

• 📍 Perfect for: Budget travellers, short layovers, early departures.

• 🚶‍♂️ Walk to: Train station (2 min), Old Town (15-20 min).

• ⚠️ Keep in mind: Basic facilities, not ideal for a long holiday.

📌 Check Hotel Don Paco dates and latest prices →

Verdict: If you want style and top facilities right at the station, go for Barceló Málaga. For modern comfort at a slightly lower price, Eurostars Málaga is the best pick. And if you're on a budget or only need a bed before catching a train, Don Paco gets the job done.

The Newest Hotels in Málaga

Málaga's hotel scene keeps evolving, with exciting new openings that bring fresh energy to the city. If you want to be among the first to experience the latest properties, here are the newest additions worth considering.

5-Star Luxury | ME Málaga

Review: 9.0/10 | View on Booking.com

The ME brand has finally arrived in Málaga, bringing its signature blend of design-forward style and social energy. Located in a prime spot near the port, ME Málaga features sleek, contemporary rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, premium bedding, and that unmistakable ME aesthetic.

The rooftop is the showstopper: a stunning terrace with panoramic views of the port, Cathedral, and Gibralfaro Castle.

Expect DJ sessions, creative cocktails, and a scene-y atmosphere. The hotel also features a ground-floor restaurant and bar that spills onto the street.

• 📍 Perfect for: Design lovers, couples, and those who want a social, stylish atmosphere.

• 🚶‍♂️ Walk to: Port (2 min), Old Town (5 min), Muelle Uno (3 min).

• 💡 Insider tip: Book a room with port views and arrive early for the best rooftop spots at sunset.

📌 Check ME Málaga dates and latest prices →

4-Star Boutique | Well & Come Hotel Málaga

Review: 8.8/10 | View on Booking.com

Well & Come brings a fresh, wellness-focused concept to Málaga's hotel scene. This boutique property combines thoughtful design with a focus on guest wellbeing, from the calming interiors to healthy breakfast options and in-room amenities designed to help you rest and recharge.

Rooms are bright and airy with natural materials, quality linens, and a minimalist aesthetic that feels both modern and welcoming. The location is excellent, putting you within easy reach of the Old Town's attractions while offering a quieter, more relaxed base.

• 📍 Perfect for: Wellness-minded travellers, solo visitors, and anyone seeking a calm, thoughtful stay.

• 🚶‍♂️ Walk to: Old Town (5 min), Alcazaba (10 min), Port (8 min).

• 💡 Insider tip: Ask about their wellness packages and healthy breakfast options.

📌 Check Well & Come dates and latest prices →

Verdict: ME Málaga is perfect if you want a design-led, social experience with one of the best rooftops in the city. Well & Come suits those who prefer a quieter, wellness-focused stay without sacrificing style or location.

Areas to Avoid Staying in Malaga

If you're booking accommodation in Málaga, there are a few areas we usually suggest avoiding unless you know what you're getting into:

• Palma-Palmilla

• El Perchel

• La Trinidad

I want to stress that Malaga is a very safe city, but I recommend avoiding these areas just to be extra cautious.

Video Tour of Malaga's Neighbourhoods

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aziPyqF1vQ8

I wish this were my video, but credit to The Getaway Lounge UK for covering all of the neighbourhoods we just covered.

Common Questions About Where to Stay in Malaga

Wrapping Up Where to Stay in Malaga

If you're visiting for the first time, the Old Town is unbeatable for history and convenience, and it's what I always recommend.

But no matter your style of travel, Malaga has the right neighbourhood and the perfect hotel waiting for you. I hope this guide helps you plan your trip with confidence and fall in love with my hometown, just as I have.

Safe travels, and bienvenidos a Malaga!