Torremolinos

Torremolinos is a charming town located in the province of Malaga, in the south of Spain. This small municipality is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the Costa del Sol and is historically known for its stunning beaches, vibrant atmosphere and warm Mediterranean climate.

If you are looking for a holiday destination full of fun, atmosphere and sun, then Torremolinos is an excellent choice. The town is known for its excellent international atmosphere, especially during the summer, when tourists and locals mingle in the streets, bars and restaurants.

History of Torremolinos

The first settlers in the Torremolinos area date back to prehistoric times, remains of whom have been found in the coastal caves in the area known as Punta de Torremolinos. Various bones have been found, as well as vessels and other elements typical of the period, which indicate a human presence more than 150,000 years ago.

The origins of the village as such date back to Roman times, where this widespread civilisation used the same site as the prehistoric people to found a settlement. The nearby thermal baths are an indication of this. However, the greatest exponent is a road from approximately 2,000 years ago that ran between Cadiz (Gades) and Malaga (Malaca).

The name Torremolinos is derived from the Arabic word for “tower” and “mills”, due to the defensive towers that were built here during medieval times. In the Middle Ages, especially during Moorish rule, the town was an important centre for the production of water mills, which were used to grind wheat and other agricultural products.

During the 19th century, Torremolinos became a popular tourist destination for Europe’s rich and famous, including writers such as Federico García Lorca, Grace Kelly, Elton John, Frank Sinatra and Orson Wells. In the 1950s, tourism in Torremolinos skyrocketed, making it one of the top holiday destinations in Spain.

What to see and do in Torremolinos

Stroll through the town centre

Strolling through the cosy and atmospheric streets of Torremolinos is a truly pleasurable experience. Let yourself be carried away by the lively rhythm of this international and cosmopolitan town. With a multitude of cultures mixed together in the same traditional Andalusian town, the main attraction of Torremolinos is the atmosphere of coexistence between cultures.

However, amidst all the hustle and bustle you can’t miss a visit to the 14th century Torre de los Molinos, which gives the town its name. You can also stroll up to the Calvario neighbourhood, where a street market is regularly held in its narrow streets.

Finally, La Batería park is an excellent place to relax and enjoy nature, as it has large gardens and green areas. It also has a lake where you can rent boats, and from its viewpoint you can enjoy magnificent views of the coast.

Shopping

If you are in the centre, in Calle San Miguel you can visit the various shops in and around this traditional street. You can also enjoy some of the best tapas places in Torremolinos in the vicinity of the area afterwards.

Amusement Parks

Next to the area of Los Pinos you will find two parks to visit. If it’s summer you should definitely spend a day at Aqualand, an amusement park with water, plenty of pools and refreshing roller coasters.

If you’re a fan of amphibians, next to this park you’ll find Crocodile Park, a conservation area for crocodiles and alligators of different species, which you can see in habitats very similar to their original habitat.

Spend a full day at the beach

Are you a fan of going to the beach in the morning and taking advantage of the afternoon to visit other places? Or are you one of those who like to spend the whole day at the beach without worrying about anything other than putting on sun cream? Whatever your case, we have plans for both.

In Torremolinos you will find a selection of beaches to suit all tastes. Those in the centre, which are very busy, are popular with both those who come to enjoy a few hours of sun and those who spend the whole day.

The beaches on the outskirts of Torremolinos, such as Los Alamos beach, are more popular with people who come to spend the morning or afternoon in a much more relaxed atmosphere than the crowded central beaches on the promenade in the centre of town. They also have one of the best parking areas in Torremolinos.

It is also common to see people who decide to spend the day between the beach and one of the “chiringuitos” (beach bars), which offer sunbeds, food and refreshing drinks. In addition, at night this area is a hive of young people who come to the beach clubs of Los Alamos looking to party.

Barbecue at Los Pinos

To the north of the village there is a large pine forest with barbecue areas with wooden tables and chairs. It is common to see the neighbours of the village and the surrounding area come to this area at weekends to spend a good day with friends in the greenery. If the gathering exceeds 25 people, it is necessary to ask for permission from the Town Hall.

Remember that it is forbidden to light fires in green spaces that are not next to the beach between 1 June and 15 October.

You can bring prepared food, buy pizzas in one of the Italian restaurants in the village or have a barbecue. For the latter you will only need a grill, which you can buy in any shopping centre in Torremolinos, as there are barbecues ready to use.

Popular festivals and gastronomy

One of the most popular fiestas in Torremolinos is the Feria de San Miguel, which is held in September. This festival includes a pilgrimage through the town, and a market where you can buy local produce and handicrafts. There are also activities for children and adults, including live music and flamenco shows.

However, this is not the only fiesta to enjoy in Torremolinos. In this post we tell you about all the festivals and popular fairs that are held in this town throughout the year.

As for gastronomy, Torremolinos is known for its delicious Mediterranean food. You will find in the town many restaurants offering quality paellas. You can also try “pescaíto frito”, which are small pieces of fish fried in olive oil and usually served with lemon. It is common to taste them in one of the restaurants in Torremolinos facing the sea.

How to get to Torremolinos

How to get there by public transport

Due to its proximity and the number of people who travel daily to this nearby town, Torremolinos is the town with the best public transport connections to Malaga.

How to get there by bus

There are several options by bus from Malaga, depending on the number of stops and the departure point, although the price is the same for all of them (1,70€).

How to get there by train

Either from Malaga central station or the many existing stops (Centro, Victoria Kent, Airport, etc…) you can take the C-1 line that leaves every 30min towards Torremolinos, with different stops along the way to Fuengirola.

How to get there by car

Renting an all-inclusive car at Malaga airport is a popular option for tourists, as it allows you to get around the area more easily, as well as having the convenience of an all-inclusive rental.

The A-7 motorway will take you directly to Torremolinos from Malaga airport and other towns along the coast. If you are coming from Malaga, this is the first town you will come to and the road to Torremolinos is very well signposted.

Map of Torremolinos

Below is a map of Torremolinos to help you plan your visit and discover all the tourist attractions this charming town has to offer. On the map you will find beaches, places to visit or city parks, among others. We hope you enjoy your visit to this beautiful town on the Costa del Sol.

Relevant information

Best time of year to visit: Summer

Not to miss: The atmosphere of the promenade and its nightlife, both in the centre and in the neighbourhoods closer to the coast.

Places to eat nearby: In this post you will find some of the best places to eat in Torremolinos for all tastes.

I hope you have found this information useful and that you are encouraged to visit Torremolinos. For more information about the city you can consult the Torremolinos Town Hall website: https://www.torremolinos.es/