Although it’s more of a summer destination, the city of Malaga opens its arms to the bewitchment of Christmas time as we approach the end of a year.  With its captivating Christmas atmosphere, Málaga is a hidden gem that will enchant you with its rich cultural heritage and active traditions.

With beautiful light displays, busy markets and wonderful festive foods, there is no better place to get into the Christmas spirit than this picturesque Andalusian city.  Come with us on a journey of Christmas plans and activities that you can enjoy during an unforgettable stay in Málaga.

Magical Light Displays for Christmas

One of the most wonderful things to see in Málaga at Christmas is its sparkling light shows that light up the streets at night.  Larios Street, the more fashionable shopping avenue, becomes a luminous corridor that ends up taking tourists from all over the world.

Another mistake you should avoid is not to approach the area of ​​the Alcazaba and the Cathedrals, where beautiful festive lights that add even more charm to this wonderful area are also displayed during Christmas.  With all the decorations, these ancient areas it seem even more mysterious and intriguing than at any other point during the year.

Bustling Christmas Markets

The Christmas markets of Malaga are colourful and full of life.  There you’ll be able to find almost anything you can imagine: hand-made gifts, Christmas decorations and traditional food are just a couple of examples.

Start with the Mercado de Navidad in the city center. Stroll through rows of stalls offering handicrafts like nativity scenes intricately carved with detail or beautiful jewelry and quirky souvenirs.

Walking through the market, as you smell roasted chestnuts and sweets, your nose might take you onto the food stalls to try some of those iconic Christmas treats.  Don’t miss the turrón, an almond, honey and sugar nougat traditionally consumed during Spanish Christmas festivities.

In addition to the markets, there are usually live performances of classic Spanish Christmas carols — which we all know can become a quite festive experience in itself.  From time to time, these markets also include concerts (a special feature) and courses where you learn how to make your own holidays decorations.  Such activities are an amazing way to learn and experience the local customs.

Drive Around to Ronda or Antequera

A nice idea to understand better what Spanish Christmas is all about, drive around neighbors cities and towns.  Two beautiful spots with breathtaking views, quaint streets and the joys of Christmas are Ronda and Antequera.

For example, Antequera is famous for its nacimientos (nativity scenes) that are exhibited all over town over the festive period.  Here you’ll be able to look at the nativity scenes with intricate details which tell the story of baby Jesus while walking around the streets.

In Ronda and Antequera there are also many restaurants with special Christmas menus, comprising traditional dishes such as baked turkey, chestnut soup or turrón.  It is also possible to take with you some delicious local wines, such as the famous sweet Malaga wine.

So, if you need to escape the pandemonium of the larger cities in Christmas, visit Ronda or Antequera for that small-town magic this holiday! It’s very easy to grab a cheap car hire Malaga and explore the surrounding area to find even more Christmas magic.

Traditional Festive Foods

You cannot refer to Málaga at Christmas without mentioning the delicious festive food.  The Andalusian cooking culture is vast and wide, with the story of Andalucía in every single dish.

Embark on your gastronomical trip by tasting “pestiños”, sweet and sticky pastries dusted with honey and sesame seeds, commonly eaten during Christmas time.  The perfect bites to satisfy your sweet tooth when you are out and about the city seeking its festive glamour.

On the other hand, locals prefer a richer noodle dish featuring fish and seafood in their cazuela de fideos for a more substantial dish.  The warming meal is ideal for a chilly winter evening and gives everyone the feel of Málaga’s maritime tradition.

And why not to conclude with “polvorones & mantecados”, those crumbly shortbread cookies that cannot be missing in any Spanish Christmas meal.  That is especially the case when they are washed down with a glass of local sweet wine from Málaga.

All in all, although it might not be as traditional for Christmas season as other European cities, we’re sure you’ll have a wonderful time exploring Málaga during wintertime.