Christmas in Malaga is a true spectacle that you can’t miss if you visit the city during the festive season. With its famous lighting on Calle Larios, the sound of carols in every corner, and the smell of roasted chestnuts, the capital of the Costa del Sol transforms into a Christmas paradise.
To enjoy all these activities and explore the surroundings of Malaga without worrying about the crowds of public transport, we recommend hiring an all-inclusive car at Malaga airport. This will allow you to move freely and comfortably during your visit to the city.
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What to see in Malaga at Christmas
One of the most anticipated moments of the year is the lighting of the Christmas lights on Calle Larios, which usually features a different design each year.
This show attracts thousands of tourists and locals, but it’s not the only one. In addition to enjoying the incredible light display, you can visit the Christmas markets, go ice skating, or enjoy the traditional Nativity Scene at the Town Hall.
Next, we tell you everything you can do during the Christmas season in Malaga so you don’t miss a thing.
Christmas Lights
In recent years, the city of Malaga has been recognized for its impressive light display, being one of the most admired illuminations in the world and standing out for its ability to constantly innovate in its designs.
Christmas Lights on Calle Larios
The Christmas lighting on Calle Larios is not just a visual spectacle, but also an incredible technical display.
The light design changes every few years, and in each edition, more than 2 million LED bulbs are used, ensuring an amazing and environmentally friendly illumination.
The lights will be on from 6:30 PM to 12:00 AM from Monday to Wednesday and on Sundays. On Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and the eves of public holidays, the schedule extends until 2:00 AM, while on December 24 and 31, they will remain lit until 6:00 AM.
These thousands of points of light are not only part of the decorative structures but also sync with Christmas music to offer a light and sound show that attracts both tourists and locals.
Arrive early if you want to grab a good spot, as the lighting ceremony attracts hundreds of people daily. And if you can, enjoy a nice snack at one of the nearby cafes to make the wait even more pleasant.
Christmas Markets
Christmas in Malaga not only shines with its spectacular lighting but also with its traditional markets, which are a must-stop for those looking for unique Christmas gifts.
Each market has its own charm and is located in different areas of the city, making it a great opportunity to explore Malaga and enjoy everything it has to offer during this special time.
Christmas Market at Plaza de la Marina
Located in the heart of Malaga, this market is one of the busiest in the city. From early December until the Day of Kings, Plaza de la Marina fills with small stalls where you can find everything from Christmas decorations and artisanal products to typical sweets of the season like nougat, polvorones, or mantecados.
Interesting Facts:
- Hours: From 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
- Dates: From early December to January 6.
- Location: Plaza de la Marina, Malaga.
Christmas Market at Muelle Uno
The Christmas market at Muelle Uno is one of the most modern and attractive in the city.
Located by the port, this market offers a unique experience as it combines the most traditional Christmas atmosphere with sea views.
Interesting Facts:
- Hours: From 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
- Dates: From early December to early January.
- Location: Muelle Uno, Malaga.
Christmas Market at El Parque de Malaga
This market is one of the oldest in the city. Located in El Parque de Malaga, it becomes a walk surrounded by lights, Christmas music, and atmosphere where you can find everything from handcrafted toys to figurines for the Nativity Scene.
Interesting Facts:
- Hours: From 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
- Dates: From December 1 to January 6.
- Location: Parque de Malaga, Malaga.
Christmas Market at El Corte Inglés in Malaga
Located around the famous shopping center El Corte Inglés on Avenida de Andalucía, this market is characterized by offering a wide range of Christmas products.
Additionally, the market often features attractions and activities for the little ones, making it a perfect space for family enjoyment.
Interesting Facts:
- Hours: From 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM (though it may vary).
- Dates: From December 1 to January 6.
- Location: Avenida de Andalucía, Malaga, next to El Corte Inglés.
Christmas Market in Torremolinos
This market is one of the most awaited in the municipality of Torremolinos, where you can enjoy a Christmas atmosphere filled with stalls offering a wide variety of products.
Interesting Facts:
- Hours: From 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
- Dates: From December 1 to January 6.
- Location: Avenida Palma de Mallorca, Torremolinos, Malaga.
Christmas Market in Ronda
The Christmas market in Ronda is held in a unique setting like the Plaza de Toros de Ronda, one of the most iconic places in the city.
In addition to buying typical Christmas products, visitors can soak up the festive atmosphere while strolling through the historic streets of Ronda, which are decorated with lights and Christmas ornaments.
Interesting Facts:
- Hours: From 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
- Dates: From December 6 to January 6.
- Location: Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza de Caballería de Ronda.
Botanical Garden of Malaga at Christmas
The La Concepción Historical Botanical Garden of Malaga is a place full of history dating back to 1855, when it was created by the Marquises of Casa Loring as a Romantic-style garden.
For over a century, the garden has been a space dedicated to the conservation of tropical and subtropical plants, with an impressive variety of species from around the world.
At Christmas, the Botanical Garden comes to life with a spectacular display of lights that illuminate its paths, fountains, and vegetation, turning it into a dreamlike walk. In addition to the lighting, cultural activities and special events are often organized, making the visit an even more magical experience.
English Cemetery of Malaga at Christmas
The English Cemetery of Malaga is one of the most emblematic and unique places in the city and, as could be expected, during the Christmas season, it dons an even more special atmosphere.
Founded in 1831, this cemetery is the oldest in Spain dedicated to Protestants and is known for its impressive architecture and tranquil atmosphere just minutes from downtown Malaga.
Throughout Christmas, guided tours are often organized to learn more about its history and the cultural legacy it holds, especially related to the people who rest there.
These tours usually include details about the historical figures buried in the cemetery, such as writers, artists, and influential personalities in the history of Malaga.
Christmas Map in Malaga
In this map, you will find marked all the points of interest, markets, and activities we mentioned in this post so you can make the most of your visit to Malaga during Christmas 2024.
