Gibralfaro Castle

Malaga contains such a range of tourist attractions that any visitors within the region will be spoilt for choice. However there are a few iconic sites which every holidaymaker should visit during their break away. The Gibralfaro Castle is one of these popular tourist spots as it has a rich history and is also a visually breathtaking sight that will truly enhance your trip.

The History of Gibralfaro

The Gibalfaro Castle was built in 14^th century by Yusuf I of the Kingdom of Granada. The castle was built to house those governors and officials staying within the city. In order to protect these high figures from danger, the castle is built upon a 31 metre mountain, with a fortress surrounding its parameter. The fortress and Gibralfaro Castle also acted as a look out, as from its high point people could see any foreign ships approaching the bay.

The Present Gibralfaro Castle

Gibralfaro Castle is now open to visitors, and many enjoy coming to the building in order to learn about the history of Malaga. The architecture has many exotic influences reminiscent of the foreign reign of Yusuf I. It is especially apparent in the arched doorways, pillars and rich red brickwork.

Many people also descend upon the Gibralfaro Castle to make the most of the spectacular views it offers across Malaga. Its position on a high mountain means that visitors are able to enjoy panoramic views across the city and sea.

Alcazaba

Walls of Alcazaba

While making a trip to the Gibralfaro Castle, you should also make an effort to visit the close-by Alcazaba fortress. This is the wall which surrounds Gibralfaro Castle, and was built in the 11^th century during the Moorish reign of Malaga. This was the main form of protection, even before the castle was built, as it served as a look out for foreign attacks.  The majority of the wall now stands in ruins, but there are points which have been well preserved. However viewing any point along the fortress will help you to understand the rich and interesting history of your holiday destination as well as provide you with a powerfully breathtaking sight.

Views from Alcazaba

1) Peak Months

Malaga is a very popular holiday destination and as such as can be extremely busy during the peak months. If you want to holiday here it is worth booking early. And if you’re not one for the buzz of tourists, explore the city in off peak months.

2) Car Hire

If you want to indulge in car hire, Malaga airport has some great services so that you can pick vehicles up as soon as you arrive. This is often more convenient than picking up cars later because it means you can travel to your hotel without having to haul your bags around.

3) Bar Culture

In Spain, and definitely Malaga, the concept of time is very different to other places. If you’re eating in a bar or restaurant, do not expect waiters to get your bill in a hurry, even after you’ve asked for it.

4) Siestas

The Spanish siesta is most definitely real in Malaga so plan your day accordingly. The majority of shops will be closed between 2pm and 5.30pm; the hottest part of the day. Whilst this may be problematic for late risers, it offers the perfect opportunity to shop in the morning before heading to the pool or back to sleep during the siesta.

5) Coffee

If you’re a coffee lover and need your morning cappuccino you might be disappointed. In Spain coffee tends to come in two variations, with milk (con leche) or without. Whilst you may try to order a cappuccino or latte it is unlikely that you’ll get what you wanted.

6) Tour Buses

Malaga tour buses are a great way to explore the city if you’re travelling with children, allowing you to enjoy views and locations without worrying about driving yourself.

7) Fried Food

In southern Spain you’ll find that there is a huge amount of fried food on offer, and whether you want calamari or potatoes, frying is almost a certainty.

8.) TV Entertainment

Entertainment is largely dubbed, so if you want to relax in your hotel with a film or television, don’t expect the original version.

9) Drinking

Spanish drinkers tend to drink several bottles over the course of several hours into the early morning. Downing ten shots in one hour will probably not be met with much approval.

10) Nightlife

In Malaga, nightlife starts later. Going out for dinner is not normally done until at least 9.30, and even if you arrive at the restaurant around 11pm the time isn’t deemed late. Locals and tourists alike will be enjoying food and drink into the early hours, and with the typical siesta lasting until 5.30pm, evenings take a while to get going.

For a restaurant truly catered to all Vegetarian’s needs, the El Vegetariano del Alcazabilla is the place to be. Another main attraction of the restaurant is its situation close-by to many sights such La Alcazaba and El Castillo Gibralfaro. This enables you to have a meal after enjoying a sight-seeing trip or stroll around the town in an evening and pop into the restaurant afterwards. However you may wish to take a map to find the establishment, as it is tucked away in a corner of the old city!

Despite being an all vegetarian menu, the meat eating people within your holiday group will not be disappointed. There is a massive range of flavours and tastes alongside being aesthetically pleasing on the plate and bursting with colour. The prices are also very reasonable at around 10 Euros a head meaning you can enjoy the food regularly and within large groups and families.

The decor of the restaurant is very laid back and friendly; it is a family-run business. Previous diners have written personal messages of thanks to the staff due to the excellent food and service; these can be found on walls around the building! You can also enjoy your food outside in the summer, meaning you are able to view the Spanish surroundings and enjoy the warm weather alongside your food.

This seafood restaurant prides itself on its locally caught fish; you can truly taste the difference through the bursts of flavours produced by the chefs. Alongside the fish courses, you can also enjoy the wine list which coincides and compliments the food. The food is quite well priced as the costs are usual between £4 and £9. This makes it ideal for a family or a restaurant to visit frequently on your visit.

The setting of the restaurant also draws in many of its customers. It is situated close to the sea giving you a picturesque view, you also will be able to escape the usual tourists as this restaurant is usually frequents by locals. This will enable you to truly immerse yourself into the exotic lifestyle on your trip. To get involved in the true ambience of the restaurant, be sure to visit on a weekend where you can be part of the hustle and bustle and have a friendly good time.

Whilst this restaurant may not be to everyone’s tastes, if you are on holiday with your friends or family and desire a bit of fun and excitement, this is defiantly the restaurant for you. The noise, friendly atmosphere and unique service all add up to create an invigorating experience!

El Rescoldo, which in English means The Embers, is situated close to Calle Larios so is extremely popular with locals. Here you can experience traditional cuisine, both local and regional, as well as some updated modern twists on classic dishes. As this restaurant is on a corner-house, you can enjoy both the rustic setting of the interior or seat yourselves in the tables outside where you are able to enjoy the bustling life going by.

There is a variety of seating on offer to the restaurant’s visitors. On the ground floor there are high chairs suitable for Tapas; here you surrounded by the display of barrels and cases which make the room appear like a wine cellar. On the upper floor, the rooms have an elegant decor which reflects the old traditional Malaga lifestyle. There is plenty of hardwood, large mirrors and extreme detail within the furnishings; these transport the eater back to this historic time.

This restaurant differs from many others within the area. Instead of offering a heavily loaded menu, there are lighter and more fragrant meals. These can include such snacks as toast and tasty selections of meats. There are also such exotic dishes as Tuna with Piquillo peppers and stuffed scallops. Alongside the food, it is clear that the owners of the restaurant have a passion for wine due to the extensive list for guests to peruse over.

El Recoldo is definitely worth visiting when you need a light snack whilst around the town. Alongside this the food is exquisitely made and presented alongside having a Spanish twist, making it a truly important experience on your visit to Malaga.

As well as theatre produced by the staff, the restaurant sometimes offers entertainment such as Flamenco dancing and music. However this depends on days and seasons. It is best to ask within the restaurant in order to see of any days will contain this thrilling experience.

For a couple, this restaurant will cost in the region of 70 Euros, the show put on by the chefs makes it a definite must. Some of the highlights of the food are the Prawn Tempura and the crepes which are cooked from fresh on a hotplate. Many customers state that they wish to visit the restaurant again due to the dramatic theatre of the chefs and the beautiful food they are served. Alongside this, the staff provide an excellent service and are both polite and courteous to all customers.

Despite this restaurant having a contemporary and modern feel, there is also a Spanish vibe which runs throughout the decor and food. Its situation within a late nineteenth century mansion makes both the exterior and interior of the restaurant both airy and visually stunning.

The Montana restaurant is also admired for its great hospitality to its guests. There is both parking and private parking alongside disabled access. You can also enjoy the lounges within the restaurant; there is a separate area for visitors to enjoy coffee and small snacks as well as there being a cocktail area so you are able to try some experimental drinks. If you are going to book for a party, you may which to reserve in advance. However the restaurant can provide you with reservations which go up to 60 people.

The restaurant is extremely popular for its tapas where you can taste the treats at prices ranging between 4 and 6 Euros. They have many traditional dishes such as; Potatoes, Eggs and Ham; Porre Antequera with Tuna Confit and Fried Cod Tacos with honey. There is a wide range, so you will be able to find something to suit your tastes. Alongside the food, there is also an extensive wine list to accompany your meal. There are also specific menus for children; these include the universal favourites of chicken nuggets and pizza for if your child desires home comforts. As well as Tapas, the restaurant also has 3 set menus to choose from which consist of a 5 course meal! You will truly feel satisfied upon leaving this restaurant!

This restaurant is relatively new within Malaga as it was built during 2009. It is easy to pop into on a day around the historical centre due to it being only a few yards away from the Teatro Cervantes.

The extensive menu can be summed up at being typically Spanish due to the Mediterranean dishes and ingredients used. This includes the use of locally produces meat and fish as well as a range of vegetarian options. The locally-sourced fish dishes include Grilled Swordfish with Sauteed Vegetables and Fillet of Sea Bram with Candied Carrots. Due to their locality, you can ensure that you are getting the best flavours and ingredients.

Some examples of the special dishes served are Porre Antequera with Quail eggs and Tomatoes, Cod-Stuffed Peppers in Tomato Sauce and Veal Meatballs with Tomato Salsa and Rice. All these are served in an aesthetically pleasing manner enabling you to truly enjoy your experience. Alongside the food, there is an extensive wine list on offer to compliment the meal.

The prices – which range between 11 and 16 Euros – may mean that the restaurant is to be treated as a luxury whilst on holiday. However it is still definitely worth a visit due to its exquisite and opulent exterior as well as tasty food. You may also wish to take advantage of the ‘Men’s Noon’ offer where you are able to get a Main Course, Dessert and Drink at a reduced price.

Within the restaurant there are a variety of lounges suitable to fit all guest’s needs. There are tables which can seat up to 50 people which come with your own private room; these would be perfects for any receptions or parties whilst in Malaga. Alongside this, there are individual rooms suitable for 12 or 20 people; this is great for a family get together or a party. Alongside these lounges, there are also the standard rooms where you are able to be seated amongst fellow diners.

To make your visit more special and comfortable, the Restaurante El Chinitas offers special services to all its customers. There is a large wine cellar which contains a large selection of drinks; there is also a summer terrace to enjoy dining in the warmth. Moreover, on certain evenings you can enjoy the Flamenco dancing put on by the establishment. This restaurant offers tourists a true Spanish experience through its food, interior and entertainment.

Airport parking

Airport parking is something that is easily overlooked when planning everything else and shopping around.  Many people see the advantage of shopping around on online for flights and hotels, but do you know you can save up to 60% online on airport parking.   Paying for airport parking on arrival can really put a big dent in your spending money.  If you are taking a family holiday to Malaga, driving to the airport is probably the most convenient option of getting there with your family and luggage in tow.  Flights to Malaga can be found from many of the airports including all major airports such as Heathrow, Manchester and Gatwick airport.  Each of which have many suppliers of parking space, so shop around for Manchester, Heathrow and Gatwick parking for the best deals.

Travel Insurance

Okay here is one expense many people like to scrimp and save on, travel insurance.  For some people travelling without insurance is a risk they are willing to take to save some money for extra spending money.  However even if you plan on lazing around the historical centre of Malaga or relaxing on one of the beaches you really ought to get travel insurance.  Bearing in mind that you aren’t able to predict the unforeseen and not everything is within your control you could save yourself a lot of money if things do really go wrong.

For those who do get travel insurance but choose the cheapest options you might not be covered for everything you want to do while travelling in Malaga.  If you wish to hire a car in Malaga and take excursions along the Costa del Sol you should ensure your insurance covers you for driving abroad.  You also should check if you are insured for any beach activity that you wish to participate in, as there are many things to do and see in Malaga.

Car Hire

This is one travel extra that isn’t necessary and will probably cost you the most.  It is however one extra that will provide you with access to the entire Costa del Sol.  There are many driving excursions to be had from Malaga and you can really get the most from your holiday with having your own transport.  In nearby towns you will find water parks and other fun things to do as well as escape the normal tourist traps and find some authentic cuisine that isn’t always available in the heart of Malaga.   You can also find many cheap car hire deals in Malaga online by shopping around.  The best bet is to search online using a comparison site or a car hire broker to find the cheapest deals.

Overall if you are travelling to the airport by car, shop around for airport parking and make sure you are covered with travel insurance for a variety of activities you might engage on whilst in Malaga.  Last but not least if you have the budget for car hire, you can really get more from your holiday by exploring the Costa del Sol by car.