Malaga Cruise Port Guide: Top Things to Do & Shore Excursions
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Located on the southern coast of Spain, Malaga stands as one of the main cities of the Costa del Sol, a region known for its sunshine, historic towns, and mix of cultures.
I visited Malaga on a cruise and returned later for a longer holiday, which allowed me to explore the city in more depth and take memorable day trips to Granada and Seville.
The cruise port lies close to the city center, with most attractions within easy reach.
In this guide, Iโll cover the port overview, how to move around, what to see near the port, and the best shore excursions for cruise passengers.
Malaga Cruise Port Overview
Malaga Cruise Port is one of Spainโs most modern and well-equipped cruise ports, with three passenger terminals (Terminal A, Terminal B, and the Palm Grove Terminal) and the capacity to handle cruise ships of all sizes, including the worldโs largest.
Most large cruise ships dock at the Eastern Wharf, while smaller and mid-sized vessels may use the Palm Grove Terminal, just a short walk from the cathedral.
๐ข The Eastern Wharf (Terminal A and Terminal B)
The Eastern Wharf, home to Terminal A and Terminal B, stretches along the Paseo de Levante pier, which can accommodate up to four large cruise ships at once.
It sits about a 25โ30 minute walk from Malagaโs Old Town.
At the Eastern Wharf, cruise passengers have access to a large, modern terminal equipped with everything they might need.
Facilities include duty-free shops, souvenir stores, a tourist information desk, ATM, currency exchange, public phones, Wi-Fi, elevators, toilets, and wheelchair assistance.
Just outside the terminal, thereโs a spacious parking area reserved for tour buses, taxis, and shuttle buses.
Getting to the City Center
From the Eastern Wharf, itโs about a 25โ30 minute walk to Malagaโs old town. The route follows a flat and scenic promenade along the waterfront, passing along Playa de la Malagueta beach.
For those who prefer not to walk, a shuttle bus is usually available for a small fee. The ride takes around 5 minutes and drops passengers at Plaza de la Marina, just a 5-minute walk from Malaga Cathedral, one of the cityโs main landmarks.
๐ข Palm Grove Terminal (Palmeral de las Sorpresas)
The Inner Basin, home to the Palm Grove Terminal, sits right by the historic center in the Palmeral de las Sorpresas waterfront area, just a 5-minute walk from Malaga Cathedral.
The Palm Grove Terminal features a modern, well-equipped building offering the same amenities as Terminals A and B, and is often regarded as one of the most exclusive cruise terminals in the Mediterranean.
Getting Around Malaga
Malagaโs city center sits within a short walk or shuttle ride from the cruise terminal (depending on where the ship docks), and most major attractions are easy to reach on foot.
If youโre spending the day in port, check out my Malaga one-day itinerary for a suggested route.
For day trips to places like Granada, Cordoba, or Marbella, you can take public transport, rent a car for more flexibility, or book a shore excursion.
๐ Train & Bus Stations
The main train station, Estaciรณn de Mรกlaga Marรญa Zambrano, is about 4 km (2.5 miles) or a 15-minute drive from the port.
Spainโs national rail company RENFE runs regular trains to nearby cities โ you can check timetables and prices at renfe.com.
โน๏ธ If youโre interested in exploring beyond Malaga, Iโve shared my experiences of visiting Granada on a day trip from Malaga and Seville on a day trip from Malaga by train โ both guides include how to get there and what to see.
Next to the train station is the Malaga Bus Station (Estaciรณn de Autobuses de Mรกlaga), which offers a wide network of regional and intercity buses. Bus schedules are available at estabus.malaga.eu.
๐ Taxis & Transfers
Taxis are usually available at the pier and are metered. For longer trips, it’s a good idea to ask for the fare in advance or check with the tourist information desk for standard rates.
Uber also operates in Malaga and can be a convenient alternative, especially if you’re heading further out or returning to the port.
For comfort and peace of mind, consider booking a private transfer to or from Malaga cruise port.
๐ Car Rental
If you’re planning to explore Andalusia on your own, renting a car in Malaga is a convenient and often budget-friendly option. Roads are well-marked and easy to navigate.
You can compare rental prices and book online here.
๐ Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
The Malaga Hop-On Hop-Off bus is a great way to see the city if youโre short on time. The buses stop at major attractions and depart regularly from Plaza de la Marina, near the shuttle drop-off point.
You can check availability and book on Viator or GetYourGuide.
๐๏ธ Shore Excursions
If you prefer a guided experience, youโll find plenty of shore excursions to Malagaโs highlights or nearby cities like Granada, Ronda, or Seville.
You can book through your cruise line or explore more options on Viator and GetYourGuide, including walking tours, food experiences, and day trips with local guides.
Practical Tips for Your Stop in Malaga
- Currency: The local currency is the euro (โฌ). Most shops accept credit cards, but U.S. dollars are rarely accepted.
- Shopping Hours: Shops usually open from 10 am to 1 pm, then again from 4:30 pm to 8 pm, Monday through Saturday. Large department stores like El Corte Inglรฉs stay open all day. Sunday closures are common, though some souvenir shops near the port remain open.
- Airport Transfers: Malaga Airport is located about 12 km (7.5 miles) from the port. The drive takes roughly 30 minutes. If you’re flying in or out, consider booking a transfer in advance to save time.
- Where to Stay: Planning to extend your stay? You can browse hotels in Malaga here to find accommodation near the port or in the city center.
๐ Planning a Mediterranean Cruise?
If Malaga is just one stop on your Mediterranean adventure, you might find my Mediterranean Cruise Port Guide eBook helpful.
It covers 45 ports with local tips, shore excursion ideas, maps, and everything you need to make the most of your time ashore.
You can grab your copy here and start planning your cruise days with confidence.
Top Things to Do Near Malaga Cruise Port
Malaga is easy to explore in a day, with many of its top landmarks โ including the historic Old Town โ located within a short walk or shuttle ride from the cruise terminal.
For a detailed route, see my Malaga one-day itinerary.
โช Malaga Cathedral
One of the cityโs most iconic landmarks, the Cathedral of the Incarnation rises over the Old Town with its 84-meter north tower โ the second-highest in Andalusia after Sevilleโs Giralda.
The cathedral blends Baroque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles and faces the charming Plaza del Obispo.
Itโs often called โLa Manquitaโ (โthe one-armed ladyโ) because its south tower was never completed, due to funding being redirected in the 18th century to support the American War of Independence.
Entrance is โฌ10, which includes an audio guide. Access to the rooftop is currently closed.
๐ Book Malaga Cathedral tours and tickets here
๐ฐ Alcazaba de Mรกlaga
This impressive Moorish palace-fortress, built between 1057 and 1063 by the Hammudid dynasty, once served as a key military stronghold. The name alcazaba comes from the Arabic word for โcitadel.โ
It stands on a hill overlooking the port, surrounded by lush gardens, fountains, towers, and fortified gates.
Just below the entrance, youโll also find the remains of a 1st-century Roman theatre, highlighting Malagaโs layered history.
๐ Check out Alcazaba tours and tickets here
๐ฏ Gibralfaro Castle
Perched on Mount Gibralfaro, this 14th-century fortress is connected to the Alcazaba by a long walled passage and offers some of the best panoramic views of Malaga and the Mediterranean.
Yusuf I built the castle in the 1300s to strengthen the city’s defenses, on the site of an older Phoenician fortress and a 10th-century lighthouse.
Combo tickets for Gibralfaro and Alcazaba are available at a small fee. Free entry on Sundays after 2 pm.
To reach the castle on foot, allow 15โ20 minutes for an uphill walk from the Alcazaba entrance. Thereโs a well-marked path leading up to Gibralfaro โ we walked it ourselves, and while the views are worth it, be sure to keep hydrated.
๐ Book Gibralfaro Castle tours and tickets here
๐ผ๏ธ Picasso Museum
Malaga is the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, and the Museo Picasso Mรกlaga is a must for art lovers.
Located in the Old Town, just 300 meters from the cathedral, the museum is housed in a beautifully restored 16th-century palace.
The collection includes over 200 works donated by Picassoโs family, including paintings, sketches, sculptures, and rotating exhibitions. While it doesnโt feature his most famous masterpieces, it offers a fascinating look at his creative journey.
To learn more about his early life, visit the nearby Picasso Birthplace Museum (Casa Natal) on Plaza de la Merced, just a short walk away.
๐ Check out Picasso Museum tours and tickets here
๐๏ธ Roman Theater of Malaga
The Teatro Romano de Mรกlaga sits at the foot of the Alcazaba and dates back to the 1st century, built during the reign of Emperor Augustus. Itโs one of the oldest historical sites in the city and a great spot for a quick visit.
The theater is just a 10-minute walk from the city center, and entry is free.
๐ Explore Roman Theater tours and activities here
๐๏ธ La Malagueta Beach
Located just a short walk from the port, Playa de la Malagueta is a wide, sandy beach thatโs perfect for a quick beach break during your cruise stop. You’ll spot it as soon as you exit the terminal.
The beach offers plenty of cafรฉs, bars, and useful amenities like sunbed rentals, umbrellas, and showers โ great if you want to relax by the sea before heading back to the ship.
Best Day Trips from Malaga Cruise Port
If youโve already visited Malaga or want to explore more of Andalusia, there are several amazing day trips you can take directly from the cruise port.
Malagaโs train station is well connected with cities like Seville, Granada, Cรณrdoba, Ronda, and Marbella, but if youโre in port for just a day, a guided tour is usually the best option.
๐ด Marbella & Puerto Banรบs
Located about 60 km (37 miles) from Malaga port, Marbella and Puerto Banรบs are two of the most glamorous resorts on the Costa del Sol โ about a 1-hour drive away.
Framed by the Sierra Blanca Mountains, this area is known for its sandy beaches, luxury villas, golf courses, designer shops, and upscale nightlife.
Donโt miss Marbellaโs Old Town, with its whitewashed houses and 15th-century Plaza de los Naranjos.
๐ Check out Marbella day trips from Malaga port
๐ Alhambra Palace (Granada)
Located about 142 km (88 miles) from Malaga port โ roughly a 1 hour 40-minute drive โ the Alhambra Palace is one of Spainโs most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984.
Overlooking the city of Granada, this spectacular Moorish fortress dates back to the 9th century and features palaces, courtyards, gardens, and intricate Islamic art and architecture.
A full visit takes at least 3 hours, so itโs unlikely youโll have time to explore Granada itself afterward.
๐ I highly recommend booking a shore excursion, either through your cruise line or a trusted tour provider, and securing skip-the-line tickets in advance.
๐ You can also read my full guide on visiting Granada and the Alhambra on your own from Malaga cruise port, with step-by-step tips on transport, tickets, and what to see.
๐ Explore Alhambra tours and tickets from Malaga
๐๏ธ Granada
If youโve already visited the Alhambra, itโs worth making the trip just to experience the city of Granada itself.
Nestled at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Granada is known for its rich Moorish heritage and breathtaking medieval architecture.
Wander through the Albaicรญn (the oldest Arab district), take in the views from St. Nicolas Square, and explore the Granada Cathedral and Juderia, the historic Jewish quarter.
The city lies about 132 km (82 miles) from Malaga port โ roughly a 1h 30 minutes drive.
๐ Check out Granada day trips from Malaga
๐ Cรณrdoba
Located about 165 km (102 miles) north of Malaga port, Cรณrdoba is a historic Andalusian city known for its striking Moorish architecture and cultural heritage.
The drive takes around 2 hours one way, making it a full-day trip.
Once a major Roman and Islamic center, Cรณrdoba is home to the famous Mezquita โ a vast 8th-century mosque later converted into a Catholic cathedral.
Other highlights include the Jewish Quarter and the 14th-century Synagogue, one of the few remaining in Spain.
๐ Check out Cรณrdoba day trips from Malaga port
๐ก The Village of Mijas
Perched on a hillside about 33 km (20 miles) from Malaga port โ roughly a 40-minute drive โ the whitewashed village of Mijas offers stunning views over the coast and a peaceful, traditional Andalusian vibe.
Wander its medieval streets, visit the Chapel of the Virgin of the Rock, the Mijas Bullring, and the Church of the Conception.
Along the way, stop for a wine tasting, explore local shops, or relax in one of the villageโs charming cafรฉs.
๐ Explore Mijas day trips from Malaga
๐ณ๏ธ Caves of Nerja
Located near the town of Nerja, about 60 km (37 miles) east of Malaga port, the Caves of Nerja are one of the most popular attractions in Andalusia.
This vast underground cave system features dramatic rock formations, galleries, and natural halls, all accessible on a guided tour.
The site also hosts occasional classical music and dance performances inside the caves.
๐ Explore Caves of Nerja tours and tickets
๐ Ronda
Located about 102 km (63 miles) from Malaga port, or a 1.5-hour drive, Ronda is best seen on a guided tour.
The town sits high above a deep gorge spanned by the impressive Puente Nuevo bridge and is known for its whitewashed streets, Moorish old quarter, and historic bullring.
With origins going back to Roman times, Ronda is one of the most scenic towns in Andalusia.
๐ Check out Ronda day trips from Malaga
๐ Seville
Around 205 km (127 miles) from Malaga port, or a 2.5-hour drive, Seville is Andalusiaโs vibrant capital.
Due to the distance, I recommend visiting only on a guided tour to make the most of your time.
Highlights include the Seville Cathedral and Giralda Tower, the Royal Alcรกzar, and the lively Santa Cruz quarter.
With its blend of Moorish, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture, Seville is one of the most captivating cities in southern Spain.
๐ You can also read my full guide on visiting Seville from Malaga or Cadiz cruise ports, which includes how to get there, travel tips, and a one-day itinerary covering the cityโs main highlights.
๐ Check out Seville day trips from Malaga
Frequently Asked Questions about Malaga Cruise Port
โ How far is Malaga city center from the cruise terminal?
Itโs a short walk or quick shuttle ride. On foot, it takes about 20 minutes along the waterfront; the shuttle drops you at Plaza de la Marina in just a few minutes.
โ Can I store my luggage at the port?
Yes, thereโs a left-luggage service in the baggage claim area. Youโll get a receipt and need ID to collect your bags later.
โ Is wheelchair assistance available?
Yes. Ask port staff on arrival and they will arrange it for you.
โ What facilities are at the terminal?
Duty-free shops, souvenir stores, ATMs, a tourist information desk, Wi-Fi, elevators, toilets, and more.
โ How can I get from the port into the city?
Walk, take the shuttle bus, grab a taxi or Uber, or use local buses. The train station is a short drive away.
โ Is the port well located for exploring Malaga?
Yes โ itโs right by the historic center, perfect for sightseeing, shopping, or heading to the beach.
โ Are there good connections for onward travel?
Yes. Malaga has high-speed trains to cities like Granada, Cรณrdoba and Seville, an airport about 12 km (7.5 miles) from the port, and easy road links across Andalusia.
Helpful Resources for Your Cruise Stop
๐ Useful Websites for Malaga Cruise Port
- Find Malaga Cruise Port on Google Maps
- Malaga Port Authority & Cruise Ship Schedule
- Malaga Tourism Office
- Andalusia Tourism Board
- Local Weather Forecast
- RENFE โ Spanish national rail timetables and tickets
๐ Ports Often Included with Malaga Itineraries
- Lisbon โ Explore Portugalโs capital with scenic tram rides, historic neighborhoods, and waterfront views.
- Madeira โ Discover lush gardens, dramatic cliffs, and year-round mild weather on this Portuguese island.
- Cadiz โ Gateway to Seville and the whitewashed villages of Andalusia, rich in history and charm.
- Gibraltar โ Visit the famous Rock, enjoy panoramic views, and see the Barbary macaques up close.
- Ajaccio โ Walk in Napoleonโs footsteps in the capital of Corsica.
- Cartagena โ Home to well-preserved Roman ruins and a beautiful harbor.
- Valencia โ A city that blends modern architecture with a lively historic Old Town.
- Palma de Mallorca โ Known for stunning beaches, Gothic architecture, and vibrant nightlife.
- Ibiza โ Famous for its nightlife, but also offers peaceful beaches and charming villages.
- Vigo โ Gateway to Galiciaโs rugged coastline and delicious seafood.
- Alicante โ Enjoy sandy beaches, a scenic promenade, and a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.
You may also like our cruise port guides to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Northern Europe, USA & Canada, Middle East, Australia & New Zealand
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