Malaga on the Costa del Sol is a hugely popular summer holiday destination, attracting visitors from across the continent and especially from the UK. Its gorgeous Mediterranean weather combined with fine beaches and an excellent tourist infrastructure make it the ideal place for families and independent travellers alike.

The city is most famous perhaps for being the birthplace of celebrated artist Pablo Picasso (1881–1973), and visitors with an interest in the life of this talented character can visit his birthplace and a museum dedicated to his works. There’s also a foundation dedicated to him displaying further examples of his genius.

The city has plenty of other cultural attractions too, including a number of museums and some fascinating historical structures. The La Alcazaba fortress and the Castillo de Gibralfaro are considered must-sees for anyone interested in culture or sightseeing. If something a bit more controversial takes your fancy, then you can always visit the bullfighting museum or even attend one of the bullfighting displays that are hosted regularly by the city.

There’s plenty for family visitors to do, the beaches in particular being a major draw. Water parks and the popular Tivoli World theme park in Malaga’s neighbouring towns are also ideal place for parents to take kids for days out. For outdoor enthusiasts, the city offers pursuits such as hiking and golf on top of the wide range of water sports to be found at the beaches.

Malaga caters well to the large number of visitors it receives throughout the year with a good selection of accommodation options. You won’t find much in the way of big international chains, but there are some very reputable four-star establishments as well as numerous villas for rent in neighbouring areas.

As a popular package holiday destination, you’ll find the majority of hotel establishments are mid-range and quite affordable. Booking accommodation online in advance is the best way to secure the hotel of your choice.

The city is easily reached with its own international airport providing connections from all over Europe. Once in the city, buses are a good and cheap way of getting around, while taxis are more expensive but more comfortable. A hire car is a sensible option if you plan on doing a lot of travelling during your stay.

Malaga’s location on Spain’s south coast means its climate is influenced primarily by the Mediterranean. As a result, it enjoys pleasant weather for the greater part of the year and low levels of rainfall.

The summer season is an ideal time to visit Malaga, especially of you intend on spending some time on the beach or around the pool. The season lasts from June through September with July and August seeing the hottest temperatures (highs of 30°C and above) and the least rainfall. Low humidity and sea breezes can make the heat at the height of summer seem less extreme.

Spring and autumn are also good times to enjoy a holiday in Malaga, especially if you prefer less in the way of crowds. Daytime temperatures at this time are still pleasantly warm, while early mornings and evenings can be cool, and a sweater or light jacket is often required. Winters are mild and even warm during the day but can see temperatures drop to 13°C at night.