
10 Of Our Favorite Things To Do In Malaga, Spain
SpainA sun-kissed city in the stunning Costa del Sol, Malaga is one of the most beautiful places in Andalusia….
This Spain travel guide will help you plan your next vacation.
You will likely fly into either Madrid or Barcelona, both of which are great setting off points to explore the rest of Spain. Both cities have excellent rail connections to the surrounding provinces, as well as nationally to other parts of the country.
Start by planning out where you would like to visit and then search for accommodation in those areas. Spanish cities are well connected with public transport so you are unlikely to get stuck in a remote place, unless that is what you want to do! We use Booking.com for all our hotel stays, many hotels have pay later offers and you can build up your Genius level to get discounts on your stays.
Spain has an excellent transportation network that makes exploring the country very convenient and enjoyable. For long-distance travel between major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Valencia, high-speed trains (AVE) operated by Renfe, Spain’s national rail company, are fast, reliable, and comfortable. In recent years, budget-friendly competitors like Avlo, Ouigo, and Iryo have entered the market, offering more options and competitive prices on popular routes.
Regional trains and buses connect smaller towns, but if you’re heading off the beaten path, like to remote villages, national parks, or lesser-known beaches, a rental car is your best bet. Spain’s highways are well maintained and often these are scenic drives making road tripping a great way to experience the country’s diverse landscapes. Just keep in mind that rural areas may have limited public transit, so having your own wheels offers the most flexibility.
These are the best
Spanish food is infamous, and each region has its own style and specialty. Most foods you can find all over the country, but if you are in a specific region, make sure you try its specialty to get the best and most authentic version!
Paella – Valencia: Spain’s most famous rice dish, traditionally made with rabbit, chicken, and sometimes snails. Seafood versions are also popular.
Pintxos (Pinchos) – Basque Country: Small snacks typically served on bread and spiked with a toothpick. Found in bars across San Sebastián and Bilbao. Also very common in other major cities around the country.
Jamón Ibérico – Andalusia & Extremadura: Cured ham from free-range, acorn-fed Iberian pigs. Best enjoyed sliced thin with a glass of red wine.
Pan con Tomate – Catalonia: Rustic bread rubbed with ripe tomato, garlic, and olive oil. A simple but flavorful tapa.
Gambas al Ajillo – Madrid / Andalusia: Sizzling garlic shrimp served in hot oil. A staple in tapas bars.
Patatas Bravas – Madrid: Fried potato cubes topped with spicy tomato sauce or aioli. A beloved tapa found nationwide.
Pulpo a la Gallega – Galicia: Tender octopus sprinkled with paprika, sea salt, and olive oil, served over boiled potatoes.
Tortilla Española – All of Spain (origin disputed): Spanish omelette with potatoes and onions. Eaten hot or cold, as a tapa or main.
Queso Manchego – Castile-La Mancha: Try this sheep’s milk cheese with a firm texture and nutty flavor. A perfect classic to pair with wine.