Perfect Day Trips from Marbella
Marbella: the perfect spot for a lazy, sun-soaked break in southern Spain. But what is there to do should the pull of the pool begin to wear thin? From beautiful beaches and natural parks to…
It’s said that, once upon a time, Malaga boasted more bars per capita than anywhere else in Europe. Whether or not that’s the case, it’s certainly true that scruffy, spit ‘n’ sawdust neighbourhood joints out-numbered decent restaurants and tapas bars in the city until relatively recently.
How things have changed. From newly opened gastro markets in the Old Town centre to sophisticated beach-side terraces and full to bursting gourmet tapas bars down narrow alleyways, there are more great places to eat in Malaga than a city of its size has any reasonable right to.
If you want to get a taste of what it’s like to live like a local in a city where the people are very serious about their food and drink, then hit Malaga, basically. And while it’s been tricky to narrow them down, here are a few of the Luxury Villa Collection’s pick of best Malaga restaurants.
Best for Gourmet
Jose Carlos Garcia
The only Michelin-starred restaurant in Malaga is at the port, just next to the lighthouse at Muelle Uno. It’s the culinary base of Jose Carlos Garcia who is one of the most famous names in food in the city. The chef himself will be in the kitchen while you dine in this pleasant, spacious dining room which extends onto the terrace outside when the sun shines.
The dining room is one of our favourites in the city: its hard-edged industrial chic is offset by a comfy softness – think a sharp glass box with classic Eames chairs in grey, and thick pile rugs to soften the pressed concrete. (LOVE it.) Food-wise, it’s the finest of fine dining with plate after delightfully crafted plate descending on your table over the course of a meal.
Address: Puerto de Malaga, Plaza de la Capilla, 1, 29016 Malaga. Telephone: 952 00 35 88. Restaurantejcg.com.
Best for Art Lovers
Óleo Restaurante
All that talented creativity going on at the Contemporary Art Centre (CAC) next door flows right on through to the menu at Óleo Restaurante where taste buds go into overtime. A sleek, but informal venue with a great riverside terrace – an oh-so-perfect spot for a sundowner G&T – this restaurant never fails to provide a great dining experience.
At the helm is Sergio del Rio whose culinary creations combine Mediterranean dishes with a touch of nouvelle cuisine, but not so much that you don’t recognise what’s on your plate. So, good-old patatas bravas get an extra shot of heat via a spicy foam, traditional red tuna is joined by half-dried tomatoes from nearby Alora and the up-and-coming Malaga kid goat becomes the main ingredient in the Vietnamese rolls. You get the idea.
Taking the oriental connection that bit further is Rui Junior whose sushi ranks as the best in town. Prepare to be spoilt for choice. This is casual dining and all plates are suitable for sharing. And the best of all? The bill at the end – mains range from €7 to €22.
Address: Edificio CAC Malaga, Calle Alemania s/n, 29001 Malaga. Telephone: 952 21 90 62. Oleorestaurante.es.
Best for a Post-shopping Lunch
Restaurante La Deriva
On a corner in Soho, just before you reach the river, is the stylish La Deriva. Ticking all the boxes for a relaxed vibe, good service and good food – and within easy strolling distance from Calle Larios – it’s ideal for a refuelling stop after a morning’s shopping with friends.
The food is excellent overall, but there are standout dishes like the mouth-wateringly tender grilled octopus, oysters and saffron risotto served with jamón and sundried tomatoes. Other things not to miss include a superior cheese board and a wide selection of Vermouths.
Address: Alameda Colon, 7, 29001 Malaga. Telephone: 951 28 69 21.
Best for Traditional Tapas
Uvedoble Taberna
Sitting between the Alcazaba and the Cathedral, Uvedoble is well placed for lunch on a day jampacked with sightseeing. This small unassuming restaurant has bar, table and terrace seating. It’s nothing really to write home about environment-wise, but you’re not here to look at the décor, you’re here to eat local Spanish food and wine.
Most dishes come in half or full plates and are ideal for sharing. The ceviche of swordfish with avocado from the Axarquia is melt in the mouth; sauteed artichokes with cuttlefish from Malaga are a favourite; the giant meatball in almond sauce is a crowd-pleaser, and Cannelloni stuffed with kid goes down well with a glass of Ribera del Duero. If you want to eat local Malagueno dishes prepared with flair with an emphasis on farm to fork produce, then you’ll be hard pushed to do better than Uvedoble.
Address: Calle Cister, 15, 29015 Malaga. Telephone: 951 24 84 78. Uvedobletaberna.com.
Best for Kids
As for family-focused, child-friendly eateries in Malaga there… really aren’t any. However, the southern Spanish are very accommodating when it comes to children, so smaller plates for smaller people will be produced if requested.
Vino Mio
The situation of this restaurant is great for parents with especially energetic broods: right on a square next to the Teatro Cervantes, they can run themselves ragged within eyeshot while you sit back with a chilled glass of wine.
On the food front, we’re talking international, so the menu is varied and more likely to be familiar to smaller, non-Spanish mouths. The portions are incredibly generous, so it’s important to remember to leave room for their delectable double chocolate Guinness cake. If you’re a fan of flamenco, they hold a show at 8pm every evening. Check the website below for more information.
Address: Plaza de Jeronimo Cuervo, 2, 29012 Malaga. Telephone: 952 60 90 93. Restaurantevinomio.es.
Best for Sharing & Pairing
Alexso
Slightly off the beaten track but still just a few steps from the centre, Alexso has quickly established a name for itself on the Malaga foodie scene.
The venue comes small on space but huge on taste, with Chef José Antonio Moyano taking local recipes, giving them a whole new look and then throwing in some surprises for good measure. So that invisible fried egg really does taste like the real thing. And who’d have thought of putting Malaga salchichón (cold sausage) into an éclair? But it works and works well.
Dishes make ideal sharing plates – an option we’re always keen on because you get to work your way through lots of different items on the menu. Pairing is something else Alexso excels at, and the waiters are more than happy to step in and recommend the perfect wine for a dish.
The restaurant also has two set tasting menus: Alexso Route (allow an hour and a half for the seven dishes) and Cooking Up Sensations (just over two hours for ten dishes).
Children are made to feel very welcome at Alexso, with friendly waiters, colouring books and pens.
Address: Calle Mariblanca 10, 29012 Malaga. Telephone: 951 91 35 85. Restaurantealexso.es.
Best for an Informal Bite
La Luz de Candela
La Luz de Candela is very much a family affair: French chef Charlie heads things up in the kitchen, while his daughter Candela runs front of house with great energy and charm.
The food ethos of the restaurant is simple but appealing, revolving around slow cooked local, seasonal ingredients – Mediterranean cuisine as it should always be cooked and presented, basically. The dining room has a home from home feel with little more than 10 tables, and where possible dishes are served in half plates as well as full plates, making it ideal for a relaxed evening with friends.
It doesn’t have much curb appeal – but there are no seats outside so, frankly, who cares? It’s really all about the quality of food and relaxed atmosphere. On LVC’s last visit we were particularly taken by the scallops and the desserts (yes, plural – we did try all the desserts on the menu).
Address: Calle Dos Aceras, 18-20, 29012 Malaga. Telephone: 648 85 32 53. La-luz-de-candela.com.
Best for Vegetarians & Vegans
Siete Semillas
Vegans, on the whole, don’t fare too well when it comes to dining options in Spain, but in Malaga, Siete Semillas comes to the rescue. Not only do vegan dishes always feature on the menu, other dietary restrictions and food intolerances are simply no problem at all. How’s that for a breath of fresh air?
The funky venue – we love the industrial loft-look with super high ceilings and upside-down spider plants – sits on Atarazanas Market’s doorstep so you know you’re in good company. But it gets even better because everything, and that’s absolutely everything, is organic. And your non-vegan fellow diners get a look in too because the daily menu (€14) includes vegetable as well as meat options. The taboulehs and soups (hot and cold) are particularly good as are the organic juices and smoothies. And if it isn’t time for lunch, grab a coffee and a slice of one of the homemade, organic cakes. Delicious and virtuous. Not a bad combo.
Address: Plaza Arriola 1, 29005 Malaga. Telephone: 645 93 57 96.
Vegetariano El Calafate
Always full to bursting, El Calafate is the best vegetarian restaurant in Malaga. They have a €9.50 set lunchtime menu which changes daily (it’s slightly more expensive on the weekends). It offers the usual things you’d expect from any self-respecting veggie restaurant with thick soups, curries, stir-fries, Moroccan-inspired dishes and one or two vegan options. The candlelit dining room can accommodate a largish group (of up to around 14 people) but you have to book it in advance.
Address: Calle Andres Perez, 6, 29008 Malaga. Telephone: 952 22 93 44.
Best for Living like a Local
Refectorium Catedral
Ordinarily we would never recommend eating in the same square – or even the same vicinity – of a city’s cathedral. However, the Refectorium is a rare exception to the rule. There’s great service (some of the best in the city) in this busy, modern, light and airy restaurant, while the food is a mix of time-honoured classics cooked to perfection and the sort of wonderfully simple, let-the-produce-speak-for-itself dishes that are what Spanish cooking is all about. Everyone raves about its Russian salad – and with good reason, too: this pretty bland and basic Spanish staple is transformed into a mouth-watering morsel.
Although the restaurant welcomes children, the well-heeled clientele are less welcoming to small children. It’s an adult’s establishment, in other words; a place to enjoy the food, service and atmosphere.
Address: C/ Postigo De Los Abades, 4, 29015 Malaga. Telephone: 952 60 23 89.
La Antxoeta
You could never call chef Pablo Ramon Caballero Larios’ dining room a restful place; rather it’s brilliantly bustling and busy. The restaurant can be found in Soho just before the port. It’s Malaga city proper, and it harks back to an older, slightly less polished Malaga where there was always something a little hectic and chaotic going on.
The menu is short – but more than sufficient – and the wine list is likely to please most tastes. The chef himself is in the open kitchen, creating playful dishes which are a delight to look at as well as to eat. On our visit, we worked our way through the squid tartare with tigernut milk (horchata), saffron risotto with truffles and beetroot, pig’s trotters with king prawns and chocolate and tiramisu. And if the squid and the tiramisu were the genuine standouts, suffice to say it was all really rather splendid.
Address: Calle Barroso 7, 29001 Malaga. Telephone: 659255532.
Open for lunch and dinner. Closed Sundays and Mondays.
Best for a Smart Pre-Night Out Dinner
Restaurante Montana
Housed within a small palace to the far north of the old town, Restaurante Montana is definitely something of a looker. Opening out from a plant-filled central courtyard, the grand 19th-century premises dovetail beautifully with stylish, modern interiors, and the lighting inside and out is just right.
It’s far from a case of style over content, though, as it offers fine dining without the foodie fashion whims. We love to sit in the sunny courtyard and order a plate of melt-in-the-mouth Jamón Iberico as an after-shopping treat. In the evenings, its excellent international wine list, cocktails and comfortable seating area make it the perfect place to kick back after dinner and plan out the next steps of a night out.
It’s convenient, too: highly unusually for a restaurant in Malaga city centre, it also has its own parking.
Address: Calle Compas de la Victoria, 5, 29012 Malaga. Telephone: 952 65 12 44. Restaurantemontana.com.
Best for a Big Group
Bodega El Pimpi
This place has seemingly been around since time began. What started as a traditional tapas bar where everyone from the ages of 19 to 90 went to have Jamon Serrano washed down with Malaga wine (made from sweet Moscatel grapes – don’t knock it until you’ve tried it) is now a Malaga institution and must-visit.
The setting is outstanding and typically southern Spanish: inside, it’s all tinkling fountains, tumbling plants, huge wine barrels from floor to ceiling and photos of famous people who had visited over the years. It’s cavernous, too, with two floors and several different sized rooms that can be easily taken over by large groups.
Taking the décor and atmosphere out of the equation, the food is only so-so to be completely honest. But it’s well worth a visit, even if it’s just for a pre- or post-dinner drink inside or out on the terrace looking over the Roman amphitheatre.
Address: Calle Granada, 62, 29015 Malaga. Telephone: 952 22 54 03. Elpimpi.com.
Best for Views
Restaurante Especia Parador de Málaga Gibralfaro
If you like a vista with your vino, it doesn’t get much better than at the Parador up next to the Gibralfaro Castle. Treat your taste buds to some delicious local cuisine while you feast your eyes on the bright lights of Malaga and the Mediterranean below your feet. Views are pretty good from inside the restaurant, but nothing short of exceptional on the outside terrace and certainly the best at any table in Malaga.
With chef Bartolomé Rodrigo at the helm, the menu puts the accent on local produce harvested from the nearby Axarquía mountains, Guadalhorce Valley and of course, the Med (all part of your table view).
Dishes change with the seasons; on the menu this summer are refreshingly cool soups – try the almond and garlic with fig bread or the thick tomato porra malagueña with Iberian ham – and fresh salads as well as fish and meat dishes. There are also some Malaga classics such as fried fish and battered aubergines with honey. The dessert menu falls a little short, but you’ll be too sweet on the views to notice. And if you want to make that vino with a vista that bit extra special, time your dinner to coincide with sunset.
Address: Castillo de Gibralfaro s/n, 29016 Malaga. Telephone: 952 221 902 Parador-de-malaga-gibralfaro/gastronomy
Best for Beachside
Gutiérrez Playa
Malaga excels at chiringuitos, beach bars that specialise in locally-caught fish and seafood, and it’s difficult to go wrong for a lunchtime bite. One of the best sits on the western side of Malaga Bay near the Russian and Car Museums. Gutiérrez Playa has been around for a while and this experience, plus the fact that the family runs one of the busiest fishmongers in the nearby Huelin market, means they know what they’re cooking. Staples on the menu include deep-fried fish – think anchovies, baby sole and whitebait – delicately flavoured salt-baked fish and that Malaga classic, chargrilled sardines on an espeto cane.
If you like your fish cooked gently over an olive wood fire, try the other espeto specials – langoustine, bream, squid or octopus. Book your table on the sand where you’ll dine just yards from the Mediterranean and stunning views of the Bay.
Address: Paseo Marítimo Antonio Banderas 2, 29004 Malaga. Telephone: 952 118 908
If you have a bit of a group (or even just the two of you!) and fancy having a local expert show you around Malaga, then why not book a Malaga tapas tour with our partners Toma & Coe?
Like the sound of our pick of best restaurants in Malaga, but staying a little further up the coast? Check out our selection of top places to eat in Marbella.
Author
Array
(
[0] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 37138
[post_author] => 5
[post_date] => 2019-03-12 12:50:30
[post_date_gmt] => 2019-03-12 12:50:30
[post_content] => Marbella: the perfect spot for a lazy, sun-soaked break in southern Spain. But what is there to do should the pull of the pool begin to wear thin?
From beautiful beaches and natural parks to dazzling white villages and grand, historic cities, there are plenty of great day trips from Marbella to keep you busy.
1. Caminito del Rey
This incredible gorge-clinging walk offers some light exercise, incredible views and is a great day out for the whole family. Tickets need to be bought beforehand - book here.
Distance from Marbella by car: 1 hour 15 minutes
2. Ronda
Head inland to the north west of Marbella and you come to a beautiful town perched on a gorge. This is Ronda. See the oldest bull ring, Moorish baths, a lovely old palace or two and, if you have time, whip round a quick wine tour.
Distance from Marbella by car: 1 hour 5 minutes
3. Gibraltar
Crossing the border from Spain to the UK at Gibraltar is certainly a novelty. This slice of Britain in Spain is interesting enough, but scratch a little deeper and there's a fascinating history to uncover, too.
Don't miss the caves or the wild apes while you're on what locals fondly call 'The Rock'.
Distance from Marbella by car: 1 hour 5 minutes
4. Antequera
Known as the 'Town of Churches', Antequera has more places of worship than any other town in Andalucia. The fortress at the top of the town (pictured) and cathedral are the highlights, but don’t miss the ancient dolmens on the edge of town, either. Eat at Arte de Cozina (Artedecozina.com) and you'll have a thoroughly Andalucian day out.
Distance from Marbella by car: 1 hour 10 minutes
5. Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park
With a mix of jaw-dropping 2000-metre peaks and labyrinths of caves, this natural park near Ronda is truly spectacular. There are plenty of opportunities to go trekking, caving, 4x4 touring, mountaineering, mountain biking or horse riding. Nearby villages El Burgo, Istán, Monda, Parauta, Tolox and Yunquera are all worth a visit, too.
Distance from Marbella by car: 1 hour 15 minutes
6. Los Alcornocales Natural Park
Spanning Cadiz and Malaga provinces, Los Alcornocales is very different to the Sierra de las Nieves. Famed for its cork oak trees and humid conditions, it’s actually the rainiest place in southern Spain and so has a large network of rivers and streams. Organise a hike through this park with lunch in one of the area's pretty, remote villages.
Distance from Marbella by car: 1 hour 25 minutes
7. Tangier
Yes, Africa is a realistic day out from Marbella! You can charter a boat and travel to Tangier in Morocco for a day. On top of the fantastic boat ride across the Mediterranean, it's wonderful for lunch and a spot of souk shopping. (Or see our trusted partner Toma & Coe's Tangier trip, here.)
Distance from Marbella by car and boat: 3 hours
8. Rio Guadalmina
If you like a bit of adventure, walk the Guadalmina river and jump into rock pools, shower under waterfalls and hike through the gorgeous countryside. A guide can be arranged.
Distance from Marbella by car: 25 minutes
9. Casares
This picture-perfect whitewashed village makes for a lovely day out. Stroll about, take in the views and have a spot of traditional villagers’ lunch. A great contrast to the more sophisticated and cosmopolitan Marbella.
Distance from Marbella by car: 40 minutes
10. Setenil de las bodegas
A trip to Andalucia is as much about hanging out in small towns and villages as ticking off the big historic sights in cities. Setenil de las Bodegas has an incredible street where the houses are built into and under an overhanging rock face (pictured above). An utterly unique place.
Distance from Marbella by car: 1 hour 20 minutes
nearby cities
Five of Andalucia's finest cities are within easy reach of Marbella. Each has their own allure...
11. Malaga
Malaga is a city with A LOT going on. With plenty of great restaurants, historic sights and art galleries to pop in and out of, there's more than enough to keep you busy all day long. (For more information on Malaga, see our guide.)
Distance from Marbella by car: 55 minutes
12. Granada
If there's one thing you have to see above and beyond all others in Andalucia, it's the Alhambra Palace.
A breathtakingly romantic 12th-century Moorish palace, it’s beautiful whether you're inside, outside or looking onto it from the pretty Albayzin area of town (pictured). Make sure you buy tickets before you go. (See our guide to Granada here.)
Distance from Marbella by car: 2 hours
13. Jerez de la Frontera
A great day trip from Marbella is Jerez de la Frontera. A relativity small city, it's perfect for strolling old streets lined with handsome palaces or lingering in lovely, historic squares. Don’t miss the Spanish Riding School (Realescuela.org) or one of the Sherry bodegas for a tour and a tasting.
Distance from Marbella by car: 1 hour 50 minutes
14. Cadiz
Southern Spain's longest continually inhabited city, Cadiz has great beaches and a lively but laidback vibe. Visit the cathedral, eat in the market and see the city from above via the 'Camera Oscura' (Torretavira.com).
Distance from Marbella by car: 2 hours
15. Cordoba
As the Alhambra is to Granada, so the Mezquita is to Cordoba. A cathedral inside a mosque, it's a mesmerising building. There’s also a Roman Bridge, a beautiful 17th-century main square, the Plaza de la Corredera, and a network of narrow old streets to explore, too.
Distance from Marbella by car: 2 hours 10 minutes
So, that's our pick of the best day trips from Marbella. You can plan your day yourself or get in touch with us and we can organise it all for you. One way or the other, though - happy exploring!
Alternatively, if you're looking for a beautiful villa in Marbella to rent, check out our selection.
[post_title] => Perfect Day Trips from Marbella
[post_excerpt] =>
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => open
[ping_status] => open
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => marbella-day-trips
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2019-03-19 04:48:03
[post_modified_gmt] => 2019-03-19 04:48:03
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => http://theluxuryvillacollection.com/?p=37138
[menu_order] => 0
[post_type] => post
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[1] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 30086
[post_author] => 5
[post_date] => 2019-02-07 11:33:54
[post_date_gmt] => 2019-02-07 11:33:54
[post_content] => Spring, summer, autumn or winter - there’s always a school holiday just around the corner.
If you’re determined to spend it in a sun-soaked holiday hurrah then there’s nowhere better than the southern Spanish coast. It's simply got the the whole package of great weather, gorgeous food and plenty of things with which to keep the whole brood occupied.
So if you’re looking for a stylish getaway that’s also fun for all the family, check out our guide to the best things to do in and around Marbella with kids…
1.Adventura Amazonia
With rope bridges, zipwires, tree climbing and swing bridges this treetop rope adventure circuit challenge is not for you if you're a vertigo-sufferer. (The highest safety standards are adhered to, though, with harnesses and introductory training.)
There’s a mini kids' course for 4 -7 year-olds and from 7 years, and up there are 83 challenges in the trees and 20 ziplines in total. You can challenge your family for up to 3 hours in Adventura Amazonia.
Address: C/ Valeriano Rodríguez, 2, 29604, Marbella; Aventura-amazonia.com.
2. Mundo Mania
Having indoor and outdoor play areas, catering for all ages and holding workshops, too, Mundo Mania is straight up kiddie nirvana. The outdoor facilities have a water park area, trampolines, multi-sports pitches, while indoors there are pool tables and the small matter of the biggest soft play area on the Costa del Sol.
There’s a restaurant and bar for children’s snacks and adult meals. With plenty of events planned for all ages it’s always worth checking out their website for specific dates. Mundo Mania is located within walking distance of some of our Los Flamingos villas, so for a family fun getaway please do ask us for availability!
Address: Camino de Brijan, 53-75, 29688 Estepona, Malaga; Mundo-mania.com.
3. Wakeboarding in Parque de Las Medranas
This park and lake in San Pedro Alcantara is the place to take the teens to hang out and hit the water for a wakeboarding lesson or two. It’s a cable pully lap system so it’s great for continuous riding and there are plenty of obstacles.
In Summer there’s also live music, DJ sets, a swimming pool and snack bar and it’s open 6 days a week (closed on Mondays).
Address: Parque de Las Medranas s/n, 29670, San Pedro de Alcantara, Marbella; Cableskimarbella.es.
4. Marbella Buggys
Feel the need for speed? If you've got an adrenaline junkie in your family then a buggy tour will be right up their street.
Head for the mountains just outside Marbella and hit the dirt tracks on a tour with a pro tour buggy leader. Anyone with a valid driving licence can get behind the wheel, while children can be co-pilots. You can choose from a 2 hour, 3 hour or day tour (which includes lunch).
Address: Camino de Montesol S/N, Rio Padron, 29680 Estepona; Marbellabuggys.com.
5. Hire a Catamaran
Hire a catamaran for the day and head out onto the Mediterranean to experience the coast from the sea. While the kids are looking out for dolphins or enjoying the thrills and spills of a banana boat ride, you can lie back on the nets and soak up the sun. Ask our Concierge for details.
Address: Puerto Deportivo de Marbella, C/ Duque de Ahumado s/n, 29600, Marbella.
6. Children's Playground – Bulevar, San Pedro Alcantara
There are plenty of playgrounds dotted around Marbella but we think this is the best. There’s a 3km well-marked rollerblading, skating or bicycle track around the park as well as several great play areas and an amphitheatre where you can enjoy live music and shows during the summer, Feria week and school holidays.
Address: Av. Luis Braille, 29670 San Pedro Alcantara, Malaga.
7. Kid’s Spa
This is a beauty, modelling and craft hub for children where you can pre-book experiences at the spa or in your villa. Whether it’s a t-shirt design workshop, kid’s cinema or mother and daughter manicures, there are loads of opportunities for family fun.
They can organise birthday parties and events in their salon or in your own villa, so check out their website for what’s happening when you’re on holiday.
More information: Calle Arturo Rubinstein, 3, 29602 Marbella, Málaga. Kidspamilkandroses.com.
8. Food Room Marbella
Nurture your mini-foodies with a kid-friendly live cookery experience at the Food Room. They run regular cookery classes and school holiday clubs in English and Spanish for children ages 6 years and over, or can organise a private class just for you.
Discover the secrets of great Spanish cooking during your stay in Marbella and take home much more than just the photos!
More information: Urb. Guadalmina Alta, San Pedro de Alcantara, 29670 Marbella, Málaga. Foodroom.es
9. Beach – Dunas de Artola at Cabopino
Why this particular stretch of sand over the other beaches in Marbella? Well, the maze of sand dunes and historic tower, the Torre de los Ladrones, make it just that bit more fun for children. It’s also next to Cabopino port with its small marina and family-friendly restaurants.
Address: Cabopino Beach, 29604 Marbella, Málaga.
10. Segway Tour
Hire a Segway and go for a ride along the coast or have a guided tour around Marbella. With special Segways just for children, even the littlest members of the clan can hit the road.
Address: Avenida de las Naciones Unidas, CC Cristamar, Local 2, 29660, Marbella; Marbellasegwaytours.com.
11. Marbella Historic Centre
Marbella has a charming old quarter with cascading plant-filled streets, cobbled squares, shops and restaurants that's great for a day when the appeal of the pool (eventually...) starts to tire. Have a meander around with an ice cream and visit the very beautiful Museum of Contemporary Spanish Engravings (Museo del Grabado Espanol Contemporaneo).
More information: Calle Hospital Bazán, s/n, 29601 Marbella; MGEC.es.
Things To Do with the family Around Marbella
12. Kartfun
In Estepona there’s 1.9km of outdoor track where you can race go-karts to your heart's delight. Children from 6 years old can drive, while younger children can be a passenger with a parent.
Address: Salida 155 A-7. Junto a gasolinera GALP. 29680, Estepona; Kartfun.es.
13. Horse Riding
Some say the best way to see a country is on horseback. At Los Caireles, you can take a ride into the countryside around Marbella no matter what your level.
Address: Urbanización Hacienda Cortes, C/ El Almendral S/N, 29603, Marbella; Loscaireles.es.
Theme Parks & Water Parks NEAr marbella
Given its popularity as a family holiday destination, the Costa del Sol inevitably has more than its fair share of amusement parks. And while they can be busy places, they also guarantee a fun day out for the family, particularly in shoulder season when queues are shorter.
14. Bioparc
This zoo in Fuengirola has gorillas, crocodiles, lemurs, giant tortoises, hippopotamus, tigers and much more. The park is divided into territories: the island of Madagascar, Equatorial Africa, Southeast Asia and islands of the Indo Pacific.
Great care has gone into the rain forest feel of the park. The path leads you through the different territories under tunnels, over bridges and around enclosures. There’s quite a lot of shade and it’s very friendly to small children.
Opening times: Open every day from 10 – 18hrs, July and August 10 – 23hrs
More information: Calle Camilo José Cela, 6, 29640 Fuengirola, Málaga. Bioparcfuengirola.es
15. Selwo
This safari park is much bigger than Bioparc. It also offers more than animals, too, it has a huge zipwire, 65 metres of hanging bridges, archery and trampolines.
Animal-wise there are white rhinoceros, elephants, cheetahs, giraffes, pythons, waterbucks, lions, wallabies and more.
The Central Village - where the big African animals are - is the show-stopper. Be sure to book the Serengeti Safari where you get taken inside the enclosures in a customised jeep.
Opening times: 14th Feb – Oct 10 – 18hrs, Jul and Aug 10 – 20hrs, Nov – Feb varied opening times, please check the website.
Address: Selwo Adventura, Avenue Parque Selwo s/n, A7 highway km 162,5, 29680, Estepona; Selwo.es.
16. Tivoli World
Tivoli World in Benalmadena is a compact theme park, but with its many attractions and regular live shows it's undoubtedly one of the best things to do on the Costa del Sol with kids. For the smallest members of the family, ‘Tivoliandia’ offers rides better suited for little ones.
To make your trip even more fun, take a ride on the Cable Car which runs from right outside Tivoli and takes you up the mountain to enjoy spectacular views of the coast. At the top you can enjoy a Birds of Prey display and grab a snack at the restaurant.
More information: Av. del Tivoli, 29631 Benalmádena, Málaga. Tivoli.es or Cable Car 'Teleferico' Benalmadena
17. Sea Life
Still in Benalmadena, this small aquarium in the award-winning Puerto Marina has sharks, stingrays, jellyfish and more. Be sure to be around for feeding times.
Opening times: Open daily from Monday to Sunday from 10 – 17:30hrs
More information: Puerto deportivo, s/n, 29630 Benalmadena Costa, Málaga. Visitsealife.com
18. Aqualand
The biggest water park near Marbella is Aqualand in Torremolinos. It has 18 slides and attractions including the dare-devil Kamikaze, Rapids, Boomerang, speed racers and Black Hole among others. It’s a great day out for all the family and has an area dedicated to toddlers and non-swimmers.
Opening times: 20th May 2019
Address: C/ Cuba, 10, Torremolinos, 29620; Aqualand.es.
19. Costa Water Park
Costa Water Park can be found in various locations along the coast – Benalmadena, Fuengirola, Mijas Costa, Elviria, Marbella and Sotogrande. An inflatable assault course in the sea, it's a lot of fun and one of the absolute best things to do with kids when the mercury starts to rise.
Life jackets are given out as part of the ticket so there's peace of mind. Open during the summer months only.
More information: Costawaterpark.com.
Inland family Adventures from Marbella
20. Lobopark
This is a guided wolf tour - which is exactly as cool as it sounds. The wolves in Lobopark aren’t domesticated, so you get the unique experience of watching these amazing creatures 'in the wild'.
For families with older children there are Wolf Howl Nights tours, where on full moons the park does special tours to see (and hear) the wolves when they're at their most active.
More information: Ctra. Antequera-Álora, km 16, 29200 Antequera, Málaga. Lobopark.com
21. El Torcal Natural Reserve
At the prehistoric El Torcal Natural Reserve kids go wild for the bizarre rock formations and the possibility – however small – of actually discovering a dinosaur fossil.
There are three routes that you can follow – red, yellow or green – though the red route is restricted in order to protect flora and fauna. The green route is the easiest but the yellow, which is only slightly steeper/rockier, is more dramatic.
More information: El Torcal, Ctra. A-7075, 29200 Antequera, Málaga. Torcaldeantequera.com
22. el Caminito del Rey
There aren’t many walks in the world quite like the gravity-defying - and incredibly beautiful - Caminito del Rey in El Chorro. With a large part of the route clinging to the cliff edge above a gorge, it's a spectacular way to spend a morning or afternoon... for those who aren’t afraid of heights, that is.
Tickets must be booked in advance, please contact us for more information.
More information: 29550 Ardales, Málaga. Caminitodelrey.info.
Malaga city with kids
Malaga city has it all, beach, museums, shopping, art and great restaurants. If you’re planning some time in Malaga city while on holiday there are lots of things to do with children that are both educational and fun.
23. The Pompidou Centre
While most of Malaga's art galleries hold fun classes on the weekends for over 5 year olds, the Pompidou Centre in particular is very good at catering for children. Not only is it generally very child-friendly with a cafe, shop, toilet and changing facilities, but it has a room dedicated to pre-teens with all sorts of interactive activities built around learning about artists.
The Pompidou Centre is on the pedestrianised Muello Uno which is perfect for families with its electric car rental, bikes, play areas and boat trips as well as shops, markets, restaurants and bars.
More information: Pasaje Doctor Carrillo Casaux, s/n, 29016 Málaga. Centrepompidou-malaga.eu.
24. Ferris Wheel
Just a short, enjoyable walk from the Pompidou Centre is the giant Ferris Wheel on Malaga’s port. If you’d like to see Malaga, the coast and, if you’re lucky, Morocco, from an air-conditioned pod 70 metres in the air then this is a good way to spend just under an hour. It opens at 11am and closes at midnight.
More information: Puerto de Málaga, Muelle de Heredia, s/n, 29001 Málaga. Noriamiradorprincess.com.
25. Castle & Fort
If you’d like to be outside, then the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro are a fun attraction for the family. Not far from the Wheel, situated in the centre of Malaga, this 10th-century fort-palace complex allows for imaginations to run wild and little legs to get tired.
Opening times: 9.00 hrs – 20.00 hrs in the summer and 9.00 hrs – 18.00 hrs in the winter.
More information: Calle Alcazabilla, 2, 29012 Málaga.
26. Interactive Music Museum – MIMA
Ideal for budding rock stars, visitors are taken through the history of musical instruments with plenty of opportunities to try them out, too. Look out for activities for children during the school holidays and weekends.
More information: Av. de José Ortega y Gasset, 201, 29006 Málaga. Musicaenaccion.com.
27. Automobile Museum
In an old tobacco factory, this museum has a large collection of vintage and unusual cars, as well as fashion and art. Great for all ages, it's a good option to please the whole family and break up the day. It's not very big and can be visited easily in a couple of hours.
Opening times: Monday to Sunday from 10.00 – 19.00hrs
Address: Museo Automóvil Malaga, Edificio de La Tabacalera, Avenida Sor Teresa Prat 15, Malaga; Museoautomovilmalaga.com.
Like our pick of things to do in Marbella with kids and thinking of a special family break? Check out our selection of Marbella villas.
[post_title] => Things to Do in Marbella with Kids
[post_excerpt] =>
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => open
[ping_status] => open
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => things-to-do-with-kids-in-marbella
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2019-03-10 21:25:23
[post_modified_gmt] => 2019-03-10 21:25:23
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => http://theluxuryvillacollection.com/?p=30086
[menu_order] => 0
[post_type] => post
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
)
1
You might also like
Things to Do in Marbella with Kids
Spring, summer, autumn or winter - there’s always a school holiday just around the corner. If you’re determined to spend it in a sun-soaked holiday hurrah then there’s nowhere better than…