There are many travelers looking for viewpoints in Málaga to enjoy the best sights of the city, and it’s not surprising, as the capital of Costa del Sol offers a diverse landscape that combines sea and mountains with a skyline full of memorable monuments.
However, it’s not only the capital that has popular viewpoints among travelers; the surrounding towns also have a lot to offer. Therefore, it’s recommended for visitors to rent a car without excess to search for the best views of Málaga and its surroundings.
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The Best Sights in Málaga
Visiting one of Málaga’s viewpoints is an excellent way to enjoy the scenery and see the city from a different perspective, with breathtaking panoramic views of the sea, the city, and the surrounding mountains. Here are some places where you can enjoy the best sights of Málaga for free.
Gibralfaro Viewpoint
Below the walls of the legendary Gibralfaro Castle, you’ll find one of the most impressive viewpoints in Málaga, where you can capture the most typical photograph of the city at 130 meters above sea level.
From here, you can enjoy a perfect panoramic sight of the city, including the port, the bullring, and the historic center, where you’ll find the monumental Alcazaba and the picturesque Cathedral of the Incarnation.
This viewpoint is located among trees and has an information panel about what you’re seeing and benches to sit and relax. You can reach it by walking up from the southern part of the Alcazaba, through the former neighborhood of La Coracha.
It’s a steep stone path, so it’s recommended to drive up if there are any physical limitations.
Useful Information
- Location: Gibralfaro Hill
- Access: On foot from the Alcazaba or by car via Paseo de Reding
- Best Time to Visit: Although the sights are beautiful at any time of the day, this viewpoint is a good spot for watching the sunset. Depending on the season, it’s best to visit around 5:00 PM in winter and around 9:00 PM in summer.
Monte San Antón Viewpoint
The Monte de San Antón viewpoint, located north of the El Palo neighborhood, is one of the most beautiful and natural viewpoints in Málaga. It is situated in the Montes de Málaga natural park and is known for the two peaks that form the landscape, known as Las Tetas de Málaga (The Breasts of Málaga).
From this viewpoint, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the coast, ranging from Cala del Moral to Fuengirola, including the city of Málaga, the beaches of Pedregalejo, and the Gibralfaro Hill. It’s a perfect place to relax and admire the region’s natural beauty.
You can hike up following the route we described in our post about hiking in Málaga and take a typical photo with the cross that dominates its summit.
Useful Information
- Location: San Antón Hill
- Access: You can walk from the El Palo neighborhood or drive to the southern entrance of San Antón Hill and then continue on foot along a dirt path.
- Best Time to Visit: This viewpoint is ideal to visit in the morning to enjoy the sunlight sparkling on the sea. It’s best to go between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM.
La Concepción Garden Viewpoint
One of the most magical photos from Málaga’s viewpoints is taken at the La Concepción Historical Botanical Garden viewpoint, which offers panoramic sights of the city, the mountains, and the Mediterranean Sea.
Moreover, it’s one of the largest and oldest botanical gardens in Spain, housing a collection of rare plants from around the world. This Málaga attraction is owned by the City Council and is open to the public for enjoyment and conservation.
Although the entrance fee is approximately 5 euros, you can enter for free between October and March from 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM and between April and September from 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM.
Useful Information
- Location: Málaga outskirts
- Access: It’s best to visit this viewpoint by car, as it can be reached via the Málaga ring road. There are two free parking areas nearby.
- Best Time to Visit: Since it’s ideal to combine the visit with a stroll through the botanical garden, it’s recommended to visit in the morning. However, it’s also a good idea to go in the afternoon to watch the sunset from the viewpoint.
Rooftop Terraces with sights in Málaga
In addition to natural viewpoints, the city offers numerous urban rooftop terraces from which you can capture some of the best photos of the city or the port. In the city center, you can find some of the best rooftop terraces in Málaga, which are usually located on hotel rooftops.
One of the most well-known is La Terraza del Chinitas, with spectacular views of the Cathedral. Those looking for a snapshot of the port can visit the Terraza de Valeria.
Another rooftop terrace with incredible sights of the Alcazaba can be seen from the Alcazaba Premium Hostel rooftop, while those seeking a complete panorama can find it at the terrace of the AC Málaga Palacio hotel.
Useful Information
- Location: Málaga City Center
- Access: To access these terraces, you’ll need to go through the corresponding hotel’s reception. You can enter the rooftop for free, although in some cases, it’s necessary to order a drink once you’re there.
- Best Time to Visit: These terraces offer the best sights at sunset, so it’s recommended to go for a drink and enjoy the sunset, along with a beverage and great music. However, it’s also recommended to visit around noon.
Guadalhorce Viewpoint
Further away from the city, located to the west, you’ll find the Guadalhorce Park Viewpoint, which offers panoramic views of the Guadalhorce Reservoir and the Sierra de las Nieves.
Located in a protected natural area, it’s ideal for enjoying the native flora and fauna, hiking, photography, and getting away from the city. The park features riverside forests, marshes, and cultivated areas, allowing for various outdoor activities.
Useful Information
- Location: Campanillas Hill
- Access: Visitors will need to drive there, as it’s located far from the city. Take the exit for Conjunto Cortijo Mestanza.
- Best Time to Visit: To fully enjoy the flora and fauna, it’s best to visit in the morning.
Map of Málaga’s Viewpoints
Do you already know which of the above viewpoints in Málaga you want to visit first? Check out the following map to see their locations and plan your visit better. Take as many photos as you can!
