Although justly renowned for its glorious beaches and vibrant nightlife, one facet of Malaga is sometimes overlooked: its shopping attractions. Indeed, the Costa del Sol and its capital are notable for having the highest concentration of malls and shopping areas per capita in Spain. Whether you are looking for unique pieces made by local craftspeople and artists, inexpensive souvenirs for yourself or loved ones at home, or chic fashion items in the latest styles, the city has it all. Given the availability of cheap flights to Malaga, there has never been a better time to book your own memorable holiday and enjoy the excellent shopping Malaga has to offer.
Traditional Spanish street markets, or mercadillos, are abundant in Malaga and the surrounding area and are often held weekly. They typically open in the morning at around 9am and close at around 1 or 2pm, at which time stallholders and their patrons take a customary siesta rather than remain out in the midday sun. All manner of items are available, from locally produced leather goods, ceramics and wickerware to souvenirs, clothes and household goods.
One such flea market occurs on Avenida Juan XXIII, which takes place every Wednesday, and another at the Paseo de los Martiricos on Sundays. For who wish to travel beyond the city, perhaps renting cars or taking bus tours throughout the region, markets are also held in nearby Rincon, Torremolinos, Fuengirola, Marbella and throughout the Costa del Sol.
Malaga’s Central Market Atarazanas, although oriented toward food, is very popular among locals and visitors alike. Fresh seafood, cheese, meat, fruit, vegetables, herbs, spices and other varieties of excellent regional produce are available. The site was once a shipyard and arsenal, and contains an original 14th century Moorish gateway which evokes that chapter of the city’s rich history.
For those seeking a little more up-market retail therapy, the El Corte Ingles department store on Avenida Andalucia is well worth visiting. All manner of trendy clothing, accessories, footwear, perfume and cologne can all be found here, with many recognisable brands on display as well as those unique to Spain and the region.
Nearby Malaga Plaza Centro Commercial on Armengual de la Mota will also appeal to mall-lovers, as will La Trocha Centro Commercial on Avenida de la Encarnacion where foreign food items may be found for those wishing for a taste of home.
If ambling through the thoroughfares in the open air and sunshine is more to your taste, then Malaga’s most renowned shopping street, calle Marques de Larios in the centre of town, along with the many side-streets along it, are definitely worth visiting.
Along with popular stores such as Mango and Massimo Dutti, many handicraft shops may be found here offering distinctive items crafted by Malagan artisans that are ideal as gifts or mementos of your trip.
There are also many coffee shops, bars and restaurants in the area to relax and unwind in when you are all shopped out, or if you merely wish to take a break before continuing your spree. Named after the Marques de Larios, a local nobleman whose family built the street in the 19th century, its picturesque architecture provides beautiful surroundings.