Part 1 of 3
For our 2022 Spring Break adventure, we packed our bags and headed to Spain, kicking off an unforgettable journey that took us to three incredible cities: Malaga, Marbella, and Madrid. In this first post of our series, I’m diving into the magic of Malaga and sharing how we made our way there.
Traveling to Malaga
Our journey began with a flight from Atlanta to Madrid, a long haul flight overnight. The Salinas kids call this “airplane camping”. Princess Eleanor made herself particularly comfy on her mom and dad’s employee benefits.
Once we touched down in Madrid, we hopped aboard the Renfe train for a smooth and scenic ride south to Malaga. It was the perfect way to ease into our trip and take in the gorgeous Spanish countryside. We were able to find a direct train and the journey took just over 3 hours. We did have to use a station that was outside of the airport, but Madrid is a fairly easy city to navigate via public transport.
Discovering Malaga
We stayed in the city center of Malaga in a boutique hotel called Malaga Premium Hotel. From our hotel we could explore most of Malaga on foot.
The Alcazaba
No trip to Malaga is complete without visiting the Alcazaba, an impressive Moorish fortress overlooking the city. The history, architecture, and panoramic views left us in awe—it was like stepping back in time.
Picasso Museum
Art lovers rejoice! Malaga is Picasso’s birthplace, and the Picasso Museum is a must-see. We spent a few hours exploring the artist’s work and learning more about his legacy in the city that shaped him.
The Harbor
Malaga’s harbor is lively and picturesque, a great spot to stroll, grab a bite, and enjoy the Mediterranean vibes. We loved spending the evening here, watching the boats come and go.
Malaga Park
For a break from the urban buzz, Malaga Park is a beautiful green oasis. We took a leisurely walk through its gardens, marveling at the palm trees, fountains, and lush greenery—it felt like a little slice of paradise.
Eating in Malaga
Throughout my travels, both with and without the kids, I have come to believe that there’s no greater way to experience culture than through food. Eating the most authentic fare you can find when exploring a new destination will instantly immerse you in the culture. Here are five great restaurant recommendations in Málaga because we do it all for the food (ahen, I mean culture):
- El Pimpi – A Málaga institution located in a beautiful 18th-century house. This spot offers stunning views of the Roman Amphitheater and Alcazaba. Make sure to try the ajoblanco (chilled almond and garlic soup)
- Mesón Ibérico – Known for its delicious Mediterranean and Spanish cuisine, this restaurant serves traditional tapas with fresh local ingredients. It’s a cozy place perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
- Casa Aranda – A must-visit for dessert lovers. Open since 1932, it’s famous for its churros con chocolate, making it the perfect spot for an afternoon treat(
- Tragatá – Run by a Michelin-starred chef, this modern eatery puts a fresh twist on traditional Andalusian dishes, such as the fried squid sandwich with brava sauce(
- Maricuchi – Located on Pedregalejo beach, this fun and casual beach bar serves fresh seafood right by the sea. It’s a favorite among locals for its relaxed atmosphere and tasty dishes
These options offer a range of traditional Spanish and international flavors that will appeal to various tastes.
Stay tuned for the next post in the series, where I’ll take you through the sunny streets of Marbella! Have you been to Malaga? Let me know in the comments what you loved about this city, or what you’re looking forward to if it’s on your travel list.
Are you ready to start planning your Spanish getaway? Let me help you plan your perfect Spanish adventure! As a travel agent, I’m here to make sure your next trip is memorable, stress-free, and filled with the best recommendations and bookings tailored just for you.
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