Practical Guide to visit the Alcazaba of Malaga

The Alcazaba of Malaga is one of the main historical attractions of the city. Built in the 11th century by the Muslims, this fortress-palace stands on the slopes of Mount Gibralfaro and offers a journey through history, architecture and breathtaking views of the city and the coast.

If you are planning your visit, in this guide you will find all the relevant information about opening times, prices, accessibility and recommendations to make the most of this emblematic monument.

⏰Visiting hours

• Winter opening hours (1 November to 31 March): 9:00 – 18:00 h (last admission at 17:15 h).
• Summer opening hours (1 April to 31 October): 9:00 am – 8:00 pm (last admission at 7:15 pm).

🎟️ Tickets and Prices

• General admission: 3,50 €
• Combined ticket Alcazaba + Gibralfaro Castle: 5,50 €
• Reduced admission: 1,50 € (applicable to students, senior citizens and groups).
• (applicable to students, senior citizens and groups). 14:00 h: Free admission.

Tickets can be purchased at the ticket machines located at the entrance of the Alcazaba. It is advisable to go in advance, as there are usually long queues.

For a more complete experience, it is advisable to visit with a guide. In addition to providing detailed information on the history and architecture of the monument, guided tours allow direct access without waiting in line at the entrance.

📍 Location and How to Get There

🏰 Address: Calle Alcazabilla, Málaga.

🚶‍♂️ On foot: Its central location allows easy access from anywhere in the historic centre.

🚌 By bus: Several bus lines have stops nearby.

🚗 By car: We recommend parking in nearby public car parks and access on foot.

🏰 Relationship between the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Castle

The Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Castle form a defensive complex that was originally connected by a walled corridor known as La Coracha. However, nowadays there is no direct access between the two monuments.

To complete the visit and understand the importance of this fortification, it is highly recommended that you also visit the Gibralfaro Castle. From its summit you can enjoy one of the best panoramic views of Malaga and its bay, as well as learning about the defensive function it performed over the centuries.

📌 Options for reaching Gibralfaro Castle from the Alcazaba:

On foot: Ascending route with magnificent views.

By bus: Line 35, which stops at the entrance to the castle.

By taxi: A convenient option to avoid the climb on foot.

If you wish to visit both monuments, the best option is to purchase the combined ticket, which offers access to both the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Castle for 5.50 €.

📸 Photography and Views

The Alcazaba offers multiple opportunities for photography. From its walls you can capture spectacular views of the port, the Cathedral and the historic centre of Malaga. In addition, its architecture of Andalusian origin provides unique settings of light and shadow, ideal for photography lovers.

☕ Services on the premises

Coffee shop: It is located inside the enclosure and allows you to take a break during your visit.

Water vending machines: Located at the entrance and in the upper part of the palace.

Toilets: There are two toilet areas: one next to the cafeteria and the other at the top of the palace.

⚠️ Important Information

❌ Pets are not allowed.

♿ Not suitable for people with reduced mobility. Due to numerous steps and slopes, wheelchair access is very limited.

⛔ There is no direct connection between the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Castle.

🚼 It is not recommended to visit with pushchairs due to the stairs and unevenness of the route. If it is not possible to do without a pushchair, it is advisable to consult the site staff or the guide to determine the best place to leave it.

🌦️ Recommendations for the Visit

1. The tour is completely outdoors, so on rainy days it is advisable to bring an umbrella or mackintosh.
2. In summer, it is advisable to avoid the central hours of the day due to the high temperatures.
3. It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes, as the visit involves walking through cobbled and stepped areas.
4. A guided tour is the best way to understand the history and architectural details of the monument, as well as avoiding queues at the entrance.

🔹 Rules of Behaviour in the Alcazaba

Given its historical and heritage value, visitors are requested to respect the environment during their visit:

• Do not touch or climb on the historic structures.
• Do not litter. Use the litter bins available.
• Avoid excessive noise. The Alcazaba is a cultural and historical site.
• It is forbidden to make inscriptions or engravings on the walls and ramparts.

Compliance with these rules guarantees the preservation of the monument for future generations.

📅 Visits on Sunday afternoons: Opportunity to take a freetour

Entry to the Alcazaba is free on Sundays from 2pm onwards. For those who wish to take advantage of this opportunity, it is advisable to book a freetour, a guided tour at no fixed cost in which visitors can contribute a voluntary amount depending on their experience.

Places are limited, so it is advisable to book in advance.