Centro Histórico

The old town is the best all-round base for a first trip: walkable, well lit, with museums and tapas close by. Expect crowds and pickpocket attempts on busy streets, and some late-night noise on weekends.

The historic centre is the middle of Málaga and the easiest place to stay on a first visit. The Alcazaba fortress, Roman theatre, cathedral and Picasso Museum are all within a few minutes of each other, and the pedestrian streets around Calle Larios and Plaza de la Constitución stay busy until late. Lighting is good, plenty of bars and restaurants are open in the evening, and you'll see many women walking or eating alone. Pickpocketing is the main concern, on the busiest streets, in the market area and around Alameda Principal, so keep your bag zipped and your phone out of back pockets. The lanes around Plaza de la Merced and Calle Carretería are noisy late into the night, especially on weekends, so stick to the main streets when it gets very late. Most restaurant and shop staff speak at least some English.