Marina Square (Plaza de la Marina)

The basics

Discover the Plaza de la Marina, a bustling hub that serves as the starting point for city tours that cover nearby highlights such as the Alcazaba and La Calle Larios. Home to the city’s main Visitor Information Center, it’s the perfect place to begin your exploration of Malaga. Home to an impressive fountain, the plaza is surrounded by remarkable mid-20th-century buildings boasting sleek modern designs. It’s undergone several renovations since it was established in the 19th century but still blends parts of the original and new plaza.

Things to know before you go

• The Plaza de la Marina buzzes with life in Málaga’s waterfront area. Close to the Port of Málaga and within steps of the Parque de Málaga, it’s the perfect place to people-watch.

• There’s a spacious underground parking area at the square.

• What was once a major trading point for spices during Silk Road times, the square has swapped merchants for a modern meeting place, where you can savor a coffee or drink as you watch the world go by.

• Old meets new, with architecture from the 1800s mixing with contemporary styles. Arrive at sunset to enjoy the atmosphere when the day turns to night.

How to get there

Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport serves visitors by plane to the city. The park is right by the station Atarazanas on the Line 1 metro. Several public buses serve the area, in the center of the city, the closest stop is Alameda Sur. The park is accessible by car, taxi, or on foot.

When to get there

Summer is the high season in Malaga, when temperatures are warmest, often soaring into the high 80s Fahrenheit (or around 26.6 Celsius). For a more pleasant experience, visit in autumn and spring when the weather is mild but still warm, the crowds are fewer, and prices are lower. Even in winter, when it’s low season in Malaga, the weather can be nice although a little rainy, and you’ll have the square almost to yourself.

See where classic and contemporary collide

The Plaza is part of the history of the city. Built when the old Moorish walls of the city were torn down in the 19th century, it later united the three main avenues of Málaga in 1848: Larios Street, Alameda Principal, and Paseo del Parque. Today it is a focal point where old meets new. A stunning fountain jets water while beneath, remnants of the old wall can be viewed.