The "capital" and main gateway airport of the Costa del Sol, with half-a-million inhabitants, a large marina, parks and a busy port. The area of most interest to tourists is the well-preserved old city on the E bank of the river mouth. This compact area contains most of the ancient buildings and the hotels. The land slopes gently towards the sea but is dominated by the high hill, surmounted by the impressive Gibralfaro Castle, rising steeply to the E of the centre. The hill continues E forming a vast area of green parkland. The remainder of the city is mainly modern urban sprawl to the N and W. Its agreeable climate attracts visitors in all seasons. A cosmopolitan, sophisticated city and the birthplace of Picasso, Malaga offers a taste of authentic Spain, despite the proximity of large, modern beach resorts. The historic centre has a high concentration of attractive centuries-old buildings, including the spectacular Renaissance cathedral, hilltop fortress and large bullring.

Suitable for a laid-back city break, perhaps combined with a visit to the nearby beach resorts. Not enough to merit a stay of more than a few days, however.

A fair spread, with several 4-star hotels; mid-range options close to centre. A large number of simple pensions, apartments and a campsite.

The city has a long seafront and promenade sections. Several linked town beaches to the W of the river mouth but a better option at Playa de las Acacias with golden sand 1½ mls to the E.

Full range of shops, mostly in the old city centre, including department stores and boutiques. Leather goods; local handicrafts and ceramics are good buys.

Daytime: exploring historic centre with its bullring, cathedral, churches. Gibralfaro fortress and its archaeological museum. Art gallery. Botanical Gardens. Beaches. Nightlife: generally restrained but with bars and discos. Cinema. Theatre. Concerts. Flamenco shows.

Mostly Spanish, with some international options, including Italian and Chinese. Not a vast amount of English food, which is more likely to be offered by large hotel restaurants. Lots of fish, ham and seafood.

Daily train service to Granada, Seville, Ronda, Madrid and Barcelona. Daily bus service to Cadiz, Granada, Jerez de la Frontera and Seville.

Tropical gardens (half day). Water park (half day). Children's theme park (half day). Daily boats to Melilla. Costa del Sol's beach resorts.

In S Spain, on the Mediterranean coast, in central part of region of Andalucia. 77 mls SW of Granada; 131 mls SE of Seville; 112 mls S of Cordoba. Malaga's international airport lies 5 mls to the SW.

On the Costa del Sol, at the mouth of the River Guadalmedina, which bisects the city.

Airport : Malaga
Airport Code: AGP
Flight time from ther U.K.: 2 hrs. 50 mins