Last summer I spent a week in Málaga and stayed at three hotels in different locations, and I’d like to share my real experiences with you. As an important city in Andalusia, Málaga offers plenty of accommodation options when it comes to hotel apartments in Málaga, though location and pricing vary significantly.
Comparison of Three Hotels I Stayed At
First, let me outline my budget and needs: solo traveler, budget of €60-100 per night, looking for proximity to attractions without too much noise. Here’s a comparison of the three hotels:
| Hotel Location | Price Range | Pros | Cons |
| Old Town Center | €70-85 | 5-minute walk to Cathedral | Somewhat noisy at night |
| Beachfront Area | €85-110 | Great sea views | Need transport to city center |
| Near Train Station | €55-75 | Convenient transportation | Limited restaurant options nearby |
Boutique Hotel in the Old Town
The first place I stayed was a converted boutique hotel in the Old Town, housed in a century-old building. The room wasn’t large but had plenty of character, with a terrace offering views of the Cathedral spire. Breakfast was typically Spanish, with authentic ham and olive oil. The only issue was that bars in the square stay open late on weekends, which might be a consideration for light sleepers.

Beachfront Area Options
The second hotel was near Malagueta Beach, a quieter area where you can take morning walks along the seafront promenade. The hotel facilities were quite modern, featuring a small gym and rooftop pool. The beach is just a 3-minute walk from the hotel, though getting to the Old Town requires taking a bus or taxi, about 15 minutes by car. If you prefer a vacation atmosphere over intensive sightseeing, this area is ideal.
Budget-Friendly Option Near the Train Station
I spent my last night near the train station, mainly to catch an early train to Granada the next day. This hotel was the most affordable, with clean rooms and helpful front desk service. Though the surrounding area is somewhat basic, it offers excellent value for a Vincci hotel transit stay. There’s a supermarket and several fast-food restaurants nearby, adequate for basic needs.
Practical Tips
Based on my experience, if it’s your first time in Málaga, I’d recommend staying in the Old Town - while slightly pricier, it saves considerable transportation time. Booking in advance on platforms like Booking or Airbnb typically yields better rates, especially during off-season. Also note that most Málaga hotels don’t include breakfast or charge extra for it, so consider having breakfast at nearby cafés for better value and variety, like at the Picasso Hotel Málaga.
Feel free to share other Málaga accommodation recommendations or ask questions in the comments below.