Our Wandering Chapter

Our Andalusia and Barcelona trip in December began in Malaga, our first stop in southern Spain. This journey felt even more special as our sister joined our wanderings too.

What followed was a rainy but memorable first day in Malaga, from the quiet Huelin seafront and local tapas to sunset views from Castillo de Gibralfaro and the magical Christmas lights of Calle Marqués de Larios.

Arriving in Malaga

From the airport, we headed straight to the Aeropuerto train station. While waiting in line to buy tickets, a helpful Renfe staff member told us that if we had bank cards, we could simply tap and travel. A small tip that made things instantly easier after an early flight.

We took the Cercanías C1 train from Aeropuerto to Málaga María Zambrano, heading towards the Huelin area, where we would be staying. The journey was quick, smooth, and incredibly convenient, showing just how easy it is to explore Málaga using public transport.

Our check-in was slightly later, so instead of waiting around we decided to make the most of the day. We stored our light luggage near Málaga María Zambrano station, where several baggage storage options are available.

Stow Your Bags turned out to be a convenient and reliable choice. The process was quick, secure, and hassle-free. With hands free and umbrellas up, it was finally time to begin our first exploration of Malaga.

A Rainy Walk Along the Huelin Seafront

Despite the continuous drizzle, we set off towards the nearby coastline. Thankfully, we were prepared. Umbrellas in hand and comfortable waterproof shoes on our feet made all the difference.

Along the Huelin seafront, past Playa de San Andrés and Playa de Huelin, the sound of waves and muted sea colours guided our walk. The beaches were calm and empty in the rain, and the grey skies added a quiet, reflective mood to the coastline.

Finding Lunch in Malaga

With no set plan, we drifted into one of the nearby streets lined with small eateries. Travel days like these, unstructured, slightly damp, and driven by instinct often lead to the most memorable meals.

That’s how we ended up at La Caverna Málaga.

Walking in with no clear idea of what to order, we relied on the helpful servers for recommendations. The atmosphere felt instantly welcoming. Friendly and patient, the staff guided us through the menu and suggested a few local favourites, turning an unplanned stop into one of the most enjoyable meals of the day.

What arrived at our table was everything we needed on a rainy afternoon in southern Spain: croquetas, crisp on the outside and creamy within; patatas bravas, comforting and full of flavour; and fried aubergines with honey, perfectly balancing sweet and savoury.

Simple local food and exactly the kind of meal that makes you feel like your trip has truly begun.

With full hearts and warm plates in front of us, it was almost time to check in.

Evening in Málaga: Views from Castillo de Gibralfaro

After checking in and getting a little rest, we headed out again. The rain had finally paused, and we were determined to make the most of the brief dry spell.

Our plan for the evening was simple: head up to Castillo de Gibralfaro, walk around the viewpoints, and watch the city slowly transition into evening.

A local bus ride brought us to Paseo del Parque – Plaza del General Torrijos, where our walk began. Crossing the Jardines de Pedro Luis Alonso, we passed rows of orange-laden trees, their bright fruit glowing softly against the rain-washed greenery.

From there we began the gradual climb towards the castle.

The stony path was still slippery from the earlier rain, requiring careful steps along the wet stones as we made our way uphill. Malaga gradually unfolded itself below us with each turn.

The city stretched towards the Mediterranean, framed by distant hills and the sweeping coastline. Down by the harbour, lights began to flicker on along the promenade as evening approached. From above we could also spot the colourful, Rubik’s cube-like structure of the Centre Pompidou, the historic Plaza de Toros (bullring), and the gentle curve of the seafront.

Standing there, watching the city gradually glow under the soft evening light, felt quietly magical.

Wandering Through Málaga’s Centro Histórico

After lingering at the viewpoints, we slowly began our walk downhill towards Málaga’s historic centre. The winding path led us gently back toward the city, where centuries of history awaited in the streets below.

Along the way we passed the impressive Alcazaba of Málaga and the nearby Roman Theatre, two remarkable reminders of the city’s long and layered history.

Since we were visiting around Christmas, Málaga was filled with festive displays of the nativity scene, locally known as Belén. One particularly beautiful installation near the Alcazaba caught our attention, and we paused to admire the intricate details before continuing our walk through the Old Town.

Soon we reached one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, the magnificent Santa Iglesia Catedral Basílica de la Encarnación de Málaga. Even in the evening light, the cathedral’s architectural grandeur was striking, its towering structure dominating the surrounding streets.

But the evening’s real spectacle awaited just a little further ahead.

Christmas Magic In Malaga’s Festive Streets

A few streets later, Calle Marqués de Larios, Málaga’s most famous shopping street, came into view. Above us stretched a spectacular canopy of Christmas lights, arching across the entire length of the avenue in shimmering patterns. Such a breathtaking display! Thousands of lights illuminating the street and transforming it into something almost theatrical.

The street was incredibly crowded, but that only added to the energy of the moment. Beneath the glowing arches, locals and travellers moved slowly through the lights. It felt magical. Shopfronts sparkled under the lights, festive music filled the air, families wandered slowly through the avenue, and visitors paused every few steps to capture the scene in photographs.

It was one of those wonderful travel moments when you simply pause, look around, and quietly take in the atmosphere.

Instead of rushing anywhere, we spent some time wandering through the beautifully decorated alleys and side streets around the historic centre.

Sometimes the best way to experience a city is simply to get a little lost. Turn a corner. Discover a quiet square. Let the evening unfold naturally.

Malaga felt lively and welcoming, festive yet relaxed.

A Cozy End to the Day

The evening eventually led us to Spago’s, a small, cozy restaurant serving fresh artisanal pasta.

After a long travel day filled with rain, viewpoints, history, and Christmas lights, a comforting plate of freshly made pasta felt just right. And to end the meal on a sweet note, we treated ourselves to a generous serving of tiramisu.

It was the perfect way to end our first day in Málaga and a wonderful beginning to our time in Andalusia.

The next morning, we set off on a day trip to Ronda, one of the most dramatic and picturesque towns in southern Spain.