As a holiday destination, Malaga is one of the cheapest cities in Spain, which is surprising given it is also one of the most stunning and lively places in the Costa del Sol. If you’re planning to visit but only have a strict budget to adhere to, there are some tips to ensure you keep your costs down as much as possible. So, here are our top tips for visiting Malaga on a budget.
Eating Out
To find the best places to eat at a reasonable place, stray from the tourist track and head where the locals go. This likely won’t be far but will definitely keep your costs down and you’ll find the food is more authentic. Lots of restaurants and venues offer a discounted lunchtime menu, or menú del día, where you can enjoy a selection of starters, mains and a drink accompanied by a bread basket for as little as €8.
Treating yourself also doesn’t need to break the bank. Many restaurants offer a tasting menu or sharing platters at a fair price. For supplies and snacks, the local fresh food markets are your best bet, such as the Mercado del Carmen or Altarazanas Market.
Attractions
Ticket prices in Malaga aren’t often too expensive but every penny counts when you’re on a budget. If you’re lucky to be a student or pensioner, you’ll be able to get reduced rates for entry to the majority of museums and monuments in Malaga – be aware ID may be required.
Some of the attractions also offer discounts when buying multiple tickets at once or at specific times during the day. For those on a rock-bottom budget, some sights are free to visit at certain times of the week. For example, the Pompidou Centre, which exhibits a wide collection of cutting-edge art displays, is completely free after 5 pm on a Sunday. The historic Alcazaba Fortress and Gibraltar Castle are also free after 2 pm on Sundays.
Transport
Organising your travel to and from the airport before you arrive will to save on money, as opposed to finding transport and getting a quote on the day. There is an airport train which is relatively cheap but often very busy and challenging to manoeuvre with heavy luggage. Instead, booking your private Malaga airport transfers in advance can still be an affordable alternative whilst allowing you to reach your accommodation at a leisurely and unhurried pace.
Accommodation
Booking your accommodation in advance is crucial in order to get the best possible price, particularly if you plan to visit during the Easter holiday or summer break. Travelling out of season or mid-week will significantly reduce costs. If breakfast isn’t included during your stay, don’t bother paying an additional fee. There are plenty of nearby cafes and bars that will have breakfast deals available each morning for a more reasonable price.