Since it first attracted the attention of the British in kiss-me-quick hats and the Swedes in bikinis in the Sixties, the Costa del Sol has been a stalwart holiday destination. Perhaps its biggest appeal is those 320 (guaranteed) days of sunshine a year and the almost 100 miles (160km) of mostly sandy coastline. Then there’s its familiarity – not for nothing do nearly 67,000 Brits call this corner of southern Spain home – and the friendly locals.
But the Costa del Sol packs in much more than sun, sand and smiles; this is a destination whose capital, Malaga, is one of the world’s oldest cities, whose Roman and Moorish ancestors left deeply imprinted calling cards, and whose attractions run long and then some. Whether you’re looking for family fun, world-class art, historic monuments, adrenaline-filled adventures, a serious retail fix or gourmet cuisine, the Costa del Sol will tick all your boxes.
For more Costa del Sol inspiration, see our guides to the best hotels, restaurants, bars and nightclubs, things to do and beaches.
Morning
Forget the glitzy side of Marbella and head straight into the old quarter, one of the prettiest in the province and typically Andalusian. Think brilliant white façades, cascading blooms, intricate wrought iron and charming squares.
Start at the central Plaza de los Naranjos (visit in early spring to max out on the scent of orange trees) and admire the 16th-century Ayuntamiento (town hall), Mudejar Casa del Corregidor and the city’s oldest chapel, Ermita de Santiago, complete with a stone clam shell marking St James’ Pilgrim Way, otherwise known as the Camino de Santiago.