Flying into Malaga.. recommendations please

[Foreverdancing]

Hi! I'm planning on a three day break with my husband in September, flying into Malaga. Would be so grateful for any recommendations for areas to stay within 30 mins of the airport. I was thinking maybe Mijas but husband not sold on it. Ideally somewhere rustic and traditional Spain where we can wander the streets and enjoy local tapas. Going to book a hotel rather than an apartment as only there for 3 days. Also close to a beach would be a bonus! Thanks so much x

Mijas would have been my choice too if not Malaga itself which has plenty of small streets to wander in with great tapas. If not, what about going in the other direction? Frigiliana? But may be too quiet. Nerja is bigger - Personally I’m not keen on Nerja but it’s very popular.

But my favourite is an hour away - old town Estepona. Enchanting and unique on that coast as the pueblo is on the seafront rather than divided from it by the motorway as elsewhere.

Malaga itself is lovely. As per PP Estepona is so nice. Buses outside airport straight there and back in one hour.

The old town Estepona I mean - the historic quarter with cobbled flower basketed streets, rather than the endless suburbs. There were some beautiful new hotels being built in some of the old town squares when I was last there. Must be built by now. Google Placa del Flores ❤️

Malaga itself! Fabulous place has everything, including beaches. Have a day out to Mijas or Frigiliana.

Malaga itself has everything you are hoping for.

Another vote for Estepona, or ronda if you’re prepared to forgo the beach for fabulous scenery

I would get the train from Malaga (50 mins) and stay in Cordoba, beautiful place with plenty to see

We stayed in Málaga and had a day out to Mijas (very easy on train then bus up into the hills). Unless there are hiking routes we'd have been bored staying in Mijas all the time.

https://hotelbro.com/en/ Loads to do in Malaga for 3 days. We stayed here in Feb. On the edge of the old town close to the palace. Nice breakfast and free (if limited) mini bar. Roof top pool. We did a day by the beach / marina, a day to the palace and castle, and then the Picasso museum and old town. Some nice roof tops bars. Loved El Pimpi. Tapas amazing.

PS - booked via Booking dot com and got a free airport transfer.

I'd echo others saying just stay in Malaga itself! It's a fabulous city with a bit of everything to offer, the beach and marina areas are fab, historical sites to visit and lots of fabulous restaurants. Great shopping too!

Nerja.