Costa del Sol Holidays 2024/2025

• One of the more well-known and well-liked beaches on the Costa del Sol is Playa de Burriana.
• Beige, the sand is soft, delicate, and swept by a calm blue sea.
• If you wish to explore the local bays, you may rent a lot of sun loungers, jet skis and sea kayaks.
• Along with volleyball courts, showers, and restrooms, the beach and the area behind it are full of dining options.
• The main drawback of this beach is that it is located at the base of a slope known as "Cardiac Hill" since it is difficult to climb back up in flip-flops.
• Although some parking spots are available near the beach, the most convenient option is to take a taxi.

• Marbella Old Town is described as having winding, narrow alleyways lined with crooked, white-washed houses, each with a terracotta-tiled roof and a balcony with wrought-iron railings and plants.
• The oldest church in Marbella, the town hall, and a plethora of vibrant cafés and eateries are all located on the Plaza de los Naranjos (Orange Square), which is permeated with the lovely perfume of orange blossom.
• Old Town is a well-liked destination both during the day and at night because it has a wide variety of stores and bars.

• The Alcazaba is a castle palace that dates to Spain's time under Moorish domination.
• It is a stunning and well-preserved illustration of the building style at the time.
• It is simple to picture an enjoyable life of luxury here when listening to an audio guide while strolling among the lush foliage and scented trees of the gardens and patios or admiring the Islamic pottery in the cool rooms.
• A Roman amphitheatre's ruins may be found beneath the palace, while Gibralfaro Castle dominates the slope above the Alcazaba.
• There are also numerous other historical structures and museums close by.

• A collection of enormous limestone caves known as The Caves of Nerja is home to stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
• The caverns are ancient; bronze-age human bones and even cave art have been found there.
• The complex's purpose-built walkways and knowledgeable guides make it simple to tour, but it is advised to wear strong shoes because the paths can get slick after a rain.
• If you go during the summer, keep an eye out for music festivals conducted inside the caverns, which enhance performances of classical opera, ballet, and flamenco using their exceptional acoustics.

• On a hilltop above Malaga, Gibralfaro Castle (Castillo de Gibralfaro) is a spectacular stronghold.
• Around the 10th century, it was first constructed on top of Phoenician walls, and in the 14th century, it was reinforced and expanded.
• The primary purpose of the castle was to shelter troops and guard the Alcazaba.
• You may walk around the remains along the old ramparts while taking in the breathtaking views of Málaga.
• Additionally, you can go to the nearby military museum to learn more about the location's history.
• The castle can be reached through many routes.
• You may drive up the Camino de Gibralfaro, take bus 35 from Avenida de Cervantes, or walk along Paseo Don Juan de Temboury, which links with a meandering road leading to the castle.

• Christopher Colombus' life and expeditions are honoured at the Colomares Monument in Benalmadena, also referred to as Castillo de Colomares.
• Between 1987 and 1994, a doctor fascinated by Christopher Columbus and two bricklayer pals constructed the castle.
• It has lovely, fanciful architecture influenced by Gothic, Mudejar, Byzantine, and Romanesque styles and a 1,500-metre square footprint.
• A big book detailing Columbus' journeys, three statues depicting the three ships he used to reach America, and a small church may all be found on the property.
• The 1.96 square metre chapel is the world's smallest, according to Guinness World Records.

• The cathedral in Malaga is a recognisable landmark and one of the city's most significant and beautiful structures.
• Its construction, which started in the 16th century and took more than 250 years to complete, was done on the site of the previous Aljama mosque.
• Two towers were initially intended, but only one was built due to a shortage of funding.
• The cathedral's interior and façade are decorated in a fusion of Spanish Renaissance and Baroque styles.
• The inside stalls are decorated with various wood carvings, and the main altar has a retable from the 16th century.
• A short wooden stairway in the cathedral shop at the end of the main cathedral leads to a small museum, and some gardens are free to see.
• There is also the opportunity to go to the rooftop, which provides views over Malaga.

• This castle dates back to the 10th century and offers a variety of activities.
• There is also the castle itself, which is open to visitors and has imposing towers and walls from which to view the Mediterranean coastline.
• The beach below it, essentially named after it, is also adjacent to a multipurpose space where open-air concerts are frequently held.
• Before the picturesque suspended bridge that connects the promenades between Playa de Castillo and Santa Amalia, there is a riverside recreation area with swan duck pedal boats between this hilltop castle and the beach.

• Picasso Museum Malaga (Museo de Picasso), which was established to honour the creations of Malaga's well-known son, is a must-see attraction in any condition.
• Picasso's brilliant artistic career is documented by a collection of more than 200 pieces of art.
• There are still a few gaps, particularly during the blue and rose eras, but overall it provides a thorough analysis of his output.
• But there's more to this museum than just the creations of amazing artists.
• It is situated against the Alcazaba Fortress in the city's centre and Palacio de Buenavista.
• You can reach Cata Natal, where Picasso was born in the Plaza de la Merced, in just a few minutes by walking from the museum.

• The best view of the Costa del Sol is arguably from the cable car that ascends Monte Calamorro.
• On a clear day, you can view the Mediterranean Sea and the coast of Africa by taking the 15-minute ride in the glass-walled vehicles up to 769 metres above sea level.
• Nearly 3 km of walkways encircle the rocky summit, one of which leads to the Valley of the Eagles, where a daily fun bird of prey shows featuring eagles, falcons, vultures, and owls are held at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.

• The bustling Atarazanas Market is where folks get their daily necessities in Malaga.
• It is also a very well-liked destination to visit when on the Costa del Sol, partly because of the fantastic deals on regional food and produce and the eye-catching building.
• A colourful stained-glass window pays homage to this maritime past, and the main entrance is from a Moorish shipyard that once stood on location in the 14th century.
• Unsurprisingly, the fish is very remarkable in this area.

• Enjoy the finest Spanish food, Andalusian specialities, tapas, and fortified wines of the area at these fantastic Costa del Sol restaurants.
• From hamlet to village along the coast, this list of the best restaurants showcases regional specialities.
• Rich olives, jamón Iberico (Iberian ham), and roasted artichokes can all be found along the shore.
• Large fried seafood platters and Paella are available for those who want to sate an enormous appetite.
• Or, while strolling along the beach, pick up one of the many tempting sandwiches stuffed with cured meats.
• Continue reading to discover more about the best places to eat along the Costa del Sol and sample cuisine from Manilva to Málaga!

Venta Restaurante La Butibamba

• At the centre of the Costa del Sol, in La Cala de Mijas, lies a casual restaurant called Venta Restaurante La Butibamba.
• It has a patio and offers a variety of bocadillo sandwiches in addition to regional cuisine.
• You should stop here for lunch when travelling between Málaga and Marbella.
• Take a seat on the terrace and select a sandwich from a long list that includes chorizo, salami, ham, ham pork, or chicken cutlets.
• There are also vegetarian options available.
• Try their local fried fish and octopus platter for a heartier lunch.
• Take a short stroll after dinner to the beach in Butibamba for a beachfront nap.

• On Torremolinos' seafront promenade, tapas and wine are served at El Gato Lounge, a restaurant and patio by the water.
• It provides a respite from the busy streets of Malaga and the tourist hubs of other coastal towns.
• Come here for authentic Spanish leisure, complete with a drink of the region's sherry and a ham, cheese, and olives platter.
• There is a substantial selection of cold tapas, but there are also hot seafood specialities and fusion tapas.
• Discover regional specialities like the cured fish, prawns, and anchovies made by the boquerones.
• Alternatively, choose a burger, chicken curry, salmon tartar, or another dish you are accustomed to.
• Whatever you decide, it's difficult to resist having a drink and a snack when you're close to the water.

• In Fuengirola, Restaurante Bodega Charolais is a casual fine-dining establishment serving modernised regional cuisine.
• Each meal is Instagram-worthy because of the white tables and lovely presentation.
• Dinners for birthdays and date nights are frequently held here. Don't jump directly into the mains.
• Start with some homemade paté and local cheese.
• They are the ideal food to go with a glass of wine (the wine list here is extensive).
• Then, under mains, select seafood or meat; the steaks and lamb shoulder will melt on your tongue.
• With seafood dishes like prawns in coconut sauce and fish prepared in the Cuban way, the chef offers a distinctive perspective on the local catch.

• Fish is served grilled and fried at El Cordobes, a traditional Spanish cantina in Marbella.
• Here, you can eat fish the way the locals do: whole, grilled on a stake, garnished with a wedge of lime or lemon.
• Additionally, fried seafood platters, croquettes, salads, and desserts are on the menu.
• An ice-cold beer or a glass of sangria goes well with freshly fried fish.
• You have an excuse to leave the beach for a short while to explore an Andalusian village if you take a trip to El Cordobes.
• The eatery is close to Marbella's lovely Represa Park and the historic city walls.

• The Mediterranean beckons to many holidayers, who must get outside to paddle, windsurf, and dive to their heart's content. 
• Every resort on the Costa del Sol has a water sports facility adjacent to the beach. 
• They'll teach you everything from jet skiing to parasailing and provide you with all the necessary equipment. 
• Tourist ports are also scattered throughout the coast, serving as the starting point for thrilling powerboat rides and breathtaking whale- and dolphin-spotting tours. 
• With PADI-certified centres in Torremolinos and Marbella, divers are also not forgotten.

• With more than 70 golf courses, the Costa del Sol has earned the moniker "Costa del Golf." More golf courses are located here per square mile than anywhere else in continental Europe.
• These clubs are almost all located along the shore, giving members views of the coastal mountains to the north and the azure Mediterranean to the south.
• Today's courses are also quite environmentally friendly, employing native plant and tree species whenever possible and using water carefully when necessary.
• There are 13 pitches and putts where you can practise your approach play; these are also accessible to newcomers taking their first swings.

• Some people contend that until you've tried this regional speciality, you haven't truly experienced life on the Costa del Sol. 
• The majority of the beaches in the area include chiringuitos, unique beach bars that serve traditional Andalusian fried seafood meals. 
• The pits on the beach outside, however, will be a significant attraction. Sardines are impaled on canes and cooked to perfection over roaring wood fires. 
• They pair perfectly with a small squeeze of Ronda white wine and a hint of lemon. 
• Espetos, the most well-known dish in the province of Malaga, are a significant source of local pride.

• About 20 minutes south of Malaga, you can catch this cable car adjacent to the Tivoli World theme park.
• You may reach the top of Mount Calahorro after a 15-minute ascent.
• A magnificent lookout pointing out what you can see is located at the summit of the road, which offers some of the most inspiring views of the Costa del Sol.
• On clear days, one can see Gibraltar, the Sierra Nevada mountains, and the African coast.
• A falconry presentation is also included with the admission fee, and on summer nights, stargazing is permitted at this lofty location.
• When purchasing your ticket, you can purchase a one-way pass and descend the mountain via footpaths on your own.

• Surprisingly, few people find their way to this enchanted setting in the mountains north of Malaga.
• Karst scenery can be seen in El Torcal, unparalleled in Spain for its ethereal beauty.
• You can choose one of three trails—the longest of which winds for three hours through the mountain landscape—after parking at the visitor centre.
• The stone spires and columns, the valleys resembling large stadiums, and the enormous terraces of ridged limestone that Iberian ibexes can quickly scale will leave you in awe.
• There is a lot of hardwood vegetation at this altitude, 1200 metres, including four varieties of oak trees.

• Many weekly outdoor markets, including Mercadillo Marbella, provide excellent prices and discounts on various unusual goods so that everyone may find something they like.
• There are hundreds of stalls here selling anything from leather products, shoes, apparel, furniture, carpets, jewellery, presents, and souvenirs to home furnishings and household supplies.
• A fantastic farmers market area with fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices is also accessible.
• About 30 minutes to the east of the centre of the Costa del Sol is where this market is located in Marbella.
• It's a great, romantic, and family-friendly place to spend some time on a Monday and learn about the local way of life.

• Over 230 stalls selling food, ceramics, apparel, and accessories can be found at the San Pedro Thursday Outdoor Market, which is a sizable market.
• This market is known for its high-quality products and fresh produce.
• Everything from handcrafted jewellery, apparel, and pottery to high-quality, previously owned items are available.
• To prepare your fresh farm-to-table meals, you can also purchase lovely freshly cut flowers and delectable fruits and veggies from nearby farms.
• The San Pedro Thursday Outdoor Market's proximity to the Costa del Sol is one of its outstanding features.
• Only 20 minutes separate it from the city centre in the south.

• Every Wednesday, just outside Paloma Park, the Rastro de Benalmádena offers a traditional flea market experience with merchants selling straight from their car boots.
• Everything from secondhand household items to handcrafted jewellery and fresh food directly from regional farmers may be found in this lively, entertaining environment.
• The relaxed and enjoyable ambience of this location and the fantastic savings on gently used goods make a visit here worthwhile.
• It's also a great location to experience the authentic local culture.
• To receive the finest deals, you'll want to begin going as soon as possible.
• East of Costa del Sol's city centre is around 55 minutes away.

• Every Monday, more than 350 stalls of vendors offering plants, flowers, shoes, clothes, and other items can be found at the Marbella Street Market, located close to the main fairground.
• This town hosts many weekly markets, and the closest one is roughly 30 minutes east of Costa del Sol's centre.
• Handmade apparel, arts and crafts, vibrant pottery, Spanish linens, souvenirs, presents for loved ones, and housewares and home decor are all available.
• You can return to this market multiple times and discover fresh finds each time because the stalls and goods are continuously changing.
• It can be very crowded in this market because it is one of the more well-liked ones in the Costa del Sol area.
• Taking public transportation is advised because parking can be challenging.

• One of the numerous markets hosted in Marbella, around 30 minutes east of Costa del Sol, is the Puerto Banus Saturday Market, which features many fantastic deals and local culture.
• Because it serves as a gathering place for the community, you'll experience Costa del Sol colour up close as you browse the many stalls selling homemade goods, including arts and crafts, clothing, fresh fruits and veggies, accessories, and antiques.
• For a quick snack and a cool drink, the market is also lined with a strip of cafes and bars.
• There are many excellent discounts on this market.
• As haggling is encouraged, it's also an excellent place to practise.