The 10 nicest villages and cities on the Costa del Sol
by admin on September 14, 2023The 10 nicest villages and towns on the Costa del Sol
Do you dream of a place where the sun almost always shines, the sea sparkles and the streets welcome you with their charm? Welcome to the Costa del Sol! Located in the south of the holiday destination Spain, this stretch of coast is home to some of the most beautiful towns and villages in Europe. Whether you’re strolling the historic streets of Málaga, enjoying the caves in Nerja, relaxing on the beaches of Benalmádena or dancing in the nightclubs of Torremolinos – there’s something for everyone here. In this blog from Reischeck.nl you will find the top 10 nicest cities and villages on the Costa del Sol that you should not miss!
Malaga
Malaga is much more than just a gateway to the sunny Costa del Sol. It is a historic and vibrant city with winding streets, colorful tapas bars and beautiful monuments. Malaga is located in a privileged position on the coast and overlooks the azure blue Mediterranean Sea. As gentle waves caress the city’s vast beaches, visitors can delve into its rich history. Think of the imposing Alcazaba fortress or the Picasso Museum, where you can discover the work and life of the city’s most famous son. After a day of experiencing culture, there is nothing better than enjoying fresh fish dishes on a terrace overlooking the marina.
Nerja
If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the larger cities, Nerja is the perfect destination. Located on the eastern tip of the Costa del Sol, Nerja offers a mix of unspoilt beaches and historic charm. The city is best known for the ‘Cueva de Nerja’, an impressive cave where prehistoric paintings can be found. Outside the cave you can walk to the ‘Balcon de Europa’, an iconic viewpoint that offers panoramic views over the sea and is often home to buskers and artists who liven up the atmosphere.
Torremolinos
This place has undergone a true transformation. It has grown from a sleepy fishing village into a lively holiday destination. Torremolinos is known for its extensive beaches and vibrant nightlife that attracts visitors from all over Europe. However, the city also has quieter corners, such as the botanical garden ‘Molino de Inca’, an oasis of peace in the middle of the city. And for those who love water parks, Aqualand is a fantastic destination.
Benalmádena
Located between Malaga and Torremolinos, Benalmádena is a city split in two: the traditional mountain village and the modern coastline. A cable car ride to the top of Monte Calamorro offers unparalleled views of the coast. Benalmádena is also home to one of Spain’s most beautiful harbours, where you can admire luxurious yachts or enjoy a sunset dinner. For families there is Selwo Marina, a park with marine animals and dolphin shows.
Fuengirola
A short drive west of Torremolinos takes you to Fuengirola, a town known for its beautiful sandy beaches that stretch for seven kilometers. Fuengirola is also home to a historic castle, ‘Castillo Sohail’, which was once used to defend the coast against pirate attacks. Nowadays you can enjoy concerts and festivals there. In addition, there is the famous ‘Bioparc Fuengirola’, an innovative zoo where animals live in their natural habitat. Here, between shopping streets and pleasant squares, the atmosphere is always lively, whether you come for a family holiday or a romantic getaway.
Estepona
Estepona is an enchanting coastal town, where you will find a beautiful mix of traditional Andalusian life and modern facilities. The beaches are long, golden and flanked by an attractive promenade with many eateries and bars. The old center has an authentic Spanish atmosphere with narrow cobbled streets full of flowers, cozy squares and a rich selection of tapas bars. If you are an art lover, you will appreciate the many murals and sculptures scattered throughout the city. And don’t forget the Orchidarium, a beautiful botanical garden with thousands of orchids.
Torrox
Famous for its claim to have “the best climate in Europe”, Torrox offers a combination of beaches and a charming historic centre. While Torrox Costa’s coastline is dotted with modern apartments, bars and restaurants, the old inland part, Torrox Pueblo, offers a more traditional experience with whitewashed houses nestled into the hills. The Moorish influence can still be felt here, especially in summer when festivals and events celebrate the area’s rich heritage.
Tarifa
Tarifa is located at the southernmost tip of Spain, where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean. It is known as the windsurfing and kitesurfing capital of Europe thanks to the strong winds that often hit the area. But Tarifa is not just for sports enthusiasts. The city has a rich history, with old city walls and Guzmán Castle. Plus, Africa is so close from here that you can see Morocco across the Strait of Gibraltar. For nature lovers, the nearby Parque Natural de los Alcornocales is a must.
Mijas
Located in the hills above the coast, Mijas offers a quieter and cooler retreat from busy coastal life. This whitewashed village offers beautiful views of the coastline and the Mediterranean Sea. The narrow cobbled streets are filled with craft shops, traditional restaurants and charming houses. Mijas is also famous for its donkey taxis, which have been a favorite attraction for visitors for decades.
Ronda
Although it is slightly further inland than the other towns on the Costa del Sol, Ronda is well worth a visit. It is known for its impressive bridge, the Puente Nuevo, which connects the old and new parts of the city and spans over a deep gorge. The city has a rich history, from Roman settlements to Moorish rule, which is reflected in its architecture and culture. In addition to historical sites, there are many restaurants and wineries offering the region’s local wines.