More about Malaga
Why go to Malaga?
Malaga rarely gets cold -- a perk that pairs well with its alfresco dining scene and plentiful beaches
History buffs might be disappointed there isn't much in the way of notable landmarks
The city is modern and trendy, yet keeps its culture and natural beauty well-preserved
Malaga Cruise Port Facilities?
The terminal at Quay 1 is home to numerous restaurants, bars and about 70 shops, boutiques and market stalls. This is where to find the Michelin-starred restaurant Jose Carlos Garcia. The quay also has a marina for luxury yachts. Quay 2 has a beautiful waterfront promenade called "The Palm Garden of Surprises" lined with trees and tropical plants, great for families with children. There are gardens, playgrounds, water features, mini-golf and other activities. You'll also find shops a cultural museum and a cycle rental stand.
Boat trips around the harbor are available, and some operators use glass bottomed boats. You might be lucky enough to spot a pod of dolphins!
Good to Know?
As in any city, it pays to be aware of your surroundings and don't flash your cash around. Leave valuables on the ship.
Getting Around?
On Foot: Walking is one of the best ways to explore Malaga. Go to one of the tourist information centers to pick up leaflets offering suggested routes. (Calle Granada 70; 952 21 33 29 or Plaza de la Marina 11; 951 92 60 20; open 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Friday and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekends and holidays April 1 to October 31, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekends and holidays November 1 to March 31)
By Bike: If you are feeling energetic, you can rent a bicycle. Check at tourist information centers. Prices vary, and some bike rental companies offer guided tours.
Try a Trixi. Passengers sit in a small covered carriage, which is towed along behind a bicycle. Your driver acts as a personal tour guide, so all you have to do is sit back and enjoy the scenery.
By Bus:Bus services connect you to areas in and around the city center. The main bus station is located on Paseo de los Tilos just to the west of the center of town, next to the railway station. There is also a bus station near the port entrance on Avenida Heredia. Single bus tickets cost around 1.30 euros. A day trip card can be purchased from the kiosk in the center of the Alameda and at most estancos (tobacconists). Most bus stops give clear route information.
A "hop-on, hop-off" red, double-decker sightseeing bus takes visitors round the city. Your ticket is valid for 24 hours. The 12 stops start at the main bus station. The second stop is by the main Post Office (opposite El Corte Ingles department store). Tours start at 9 a.m. and leave every half-hour until 8 p.m. They offer multilingual commentary through headphones. Adult tickets are 18 euros and give free entrance to the Botanical Gardens on the north side of the city. (Gardens closed Mondays)
Currency & Best Way to Get Money?
The national currency in Spain is the euro. Currency exchange can be made in most banks, post offices and train stations. For the best exchange rate, use ATMs found at the port and around town. For currency-conversion rates, visit www.xe.com or www.oanda.com.
Language?
Spanish is spoken in Malaga, but most people understand and speak at least a little English. Residents appreciate it if you make the effort to speak a few basic words in their language. If you speak some Spanish, be aware that the local accent can be strong and difficult to understand.
Where You're Docked?
The port has 10 quays in use for cruise ships, ferries, cargo ships and recreational boats. Around 700,000 passengers pass through the port each year on 220 cruise ships.
Quays 1 and 2 are used for passenger cruise ships, and a modern cruise terminal building was opened at Quay 2 in 2012. Both quays are close to the historic center of Malaga, about a 10-minute walk. Some lines run a shuttle bus service into the town center. Taxis also are plentiful at the port.
