Malaga is situated on the Costa del Sol and is well known as a British holiday destination. However Malaga has many hidden gems behind its tourist façade. Firstly it is the birthplace of Picasso, has amazing Gothic architecture, the remains of a Moorish castle and a fashionable array of cultural museums. Malaga is also a good base from which to explore the Alhambra and Grenada which sit majestically in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada.
Marbella and Puerto Banus: Depart from the Port of M?laga and travel to the exclusive and chic resort area of the Costa del Sol, Marbella, which is located 40 miles to the southwest. Your tour will include a visit to the town of Marbella and Puerto Ban?s. Walk in the old town of Marbella, which is filled with whitewashed houses and handicraft stores. You will also see the area of the main square and the town hall, still retaining the character and charm of old Spain. In contrast the "new Marbella," is an area planned and radiating out from a center of gardens and fountains. Built in 1968 by Jos? Ban?s, Puerto Banus is now a fashionable spot for the jet set who visit Marbella and choose the port area for a drink or dinner at night. Enjoy a glass of sangria at one of the luxurious restaurants of Puerto Ban?s; admire the many beautiful yachts in the marina, or watch the parade of high fashion along the promenade before returning to the pier. Malaga City: Departing from the Port of M?laga for the old town, you will pass Plaza de la Marina and head toward Plaza de la Constituci?n. You then continue to the cathedral, passing in front of the Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art, which is housed in the former Episcopal Palace. Diaz Palacio and Ortiz de Vargas successively constructed the cathedral between the 16th and the 18th centuries. The choir is of particular interest. Recently, a new museum has been opened inside the cathedral (Museo Catedralicio). From the cathedral, head for the Gibralfaro Castle and to the Alcazaba, which houses the Archeological Museum. The Gibralfaro Castle is a fortress of Phoenician origin that was later reconstructed by the Moors. From the ancient walls, you can enjoy a great view of the city, bay and surrounding countryside. The Alcazaba is a fortress and palace built between the 10th and 16th centuries. The castle and the Alcazaba are two of the most interesting Islamic works of architecture on the Iberian Peninsula. From the Alcazaba you will see the interesting Roman Theater and the house where the famous painter Pablo Picasso was born. Visit the M?laga Bullring on the Paseo de Reding. It may be possible to see the Museo Taurino inside the bullring, and you will have the opportunity to see a pases de sal?n demonstration by an expert matador (another person will play the bull). You will have the unique opportunity to feel what it is like to be in the arena. In the same arena, your matador and the guides will offer you a glass of M?laga wine.