Alcazaba

The Alcazaba of Málaga is a true gem of Andalusian history and architecture. Perched on a hill overlooking the city and the port, this Moorish fortress offers not only a fascinating glimpse into the Islamic past of Spain but also some of the best panoramic views in Málaga. The structure is remarkably well-preserved, with beautiful arches, lush gardens, and quiet courtyards that invite you to slow down and imagine what life was like centuries ago. The blend of military strength and delicate design is stunning — especially the intricate stonework and the refreshing water features scattered throughout the site. PS: A beautiful and peaceful place with great views over Málaga. The architecture and gardens are stunning, and it’s perfect for a short historical visit. Highly recommended!

We visited with 7 and 3 y.o. children and a stroller. Stroller friendliness is 6/10 (manageable, but not easy) - too many cobblestones. Children didn't enjoy the fortress because of the hilly terrain. Overall I recommend to go in the morning hours because there are too many open spaces (getting very hot) and many people.

Very neat Moorish Palace. The lower fortifications are interesting and offer views over the city as you move higher towards the Palace. The arched gates are quite beautiful. The palace grounds, gardens, and rooms are wonderful to see. If you plan to see both Alcazaba and Gibralfaro, one admission can cover both. Also, think about riding the bus up to Gibralfaro (route 35) and then walking DOWN to the Alcazaba on a very lovely pathway with more great views over Malaga and the sea. April 3, 2025 C & J

Not even close to the equivalents of Seville or (obviously) Granada in grandeur or scale, but still an interesting visit, with some lovely views. Also reasonably priced, and nicely quiet first thing.

This is a great place to visit. Just to walk through and see the architecture and design is enough, but there are gardens and viewpoints too. There is little or no information so bring headphones & phone to listen to the free QR guide. Not an easy walk with lots of cobbles and steps. Would recommend going early morning or late evening to get the best access, as we went off season, mid day, and it was still very busy.

Beautiful architecture! The smell of the wild thyme and the warmth of April’s spring. It’s totally worth visiting. Unfortunately, we visited at a late time but they closed when we arrived :( they should be open until 9 pm, especially now that it’s the summer and more tourists will be coming for a visit. I recommend booking the tickets prior to your visit and plan it better than we did.

Absolutely loved our visit to Alcazaba! The architecture is breathtaking, with that classic Moorish charm and historical depth that transports you back in time. Every corner had a story, and the views overlooking the city were stunning. The whole place has such a peaceful atmosphere, and the preservation of the site is impressive. If you're in the area, this is a must-visit. We left completely enchanted!

Great visit. Book your tickets in advance to fast track in, we waited a while to pay at the entrance, we spent 2 to 3 hours here. Highly recommended architecture was beautiful you can capture some stunning pictures. Staff was great really helpful sociable also the entrance fee was very reasonable.

The Alcazaba (which comes from al-Qasba, meaning urban fortress) is located at the foot of the hillside of Mount Gibralfaro, in the small bay that is home to the city of Malaga. Its strategic position led it to be inhabited by ancient civilisations such as the Phoenicians and the Romans where they built a theatre in the 1st century. During the Islamic period, the Alcazaba was initially built as a fortification, and later became a palace-fortress, and the seat of the city government. You can buy a ticket for the Alcazaba itself or a combo ticket for the Gibralfaro and the Alcazaba. Sundays are free from 2p-7pm

Very easy to get to since it's central in the downtown near the Picasso museum. I did not go to the top to see the Moorish fortress up close. From what I understand the views of the city and Sea from there amazing. A must see. So much history in Spain... the Visgoths, Romans, Arabs from Morrocco (Moors), the Spanish Catholics. Did I leave anyone else out? Go see it. Especially if you didn't see the Alhambra in Granada. Because it's similar in style, but NOT as grand.

We had seen a lot of fortresses and ruins on our trip but we were glad to have not passed up the Alcazaba. It is much more than just a fortress. The delicate stone carvings and water elements are reminiscent of the Alhambra. There are great spaces for photos, views over the city and an amazing history. We were also lucky to come on a Sunday when it was free (2-5).

A very nice tourist attraction located right in the middle of the city and an easy walk to get to. It's cool to see the Moorish influence on this part of Spain. The gardens and flowers were beautiful and the views were cool.

Following the clearly marked street signs we soon came by this ancient limestone Muslim palace/fortress. Because it's a Sunday there is no admission saving 3.55 euros pp. The hike up an uneven cobblestone incline was hard on the feet. We were exhausted by the time we reached about mid level of the Nazari palace rooms and decided to turn back, abandoning the plan to summit the Gibralfaro lookout. Thank God we have a panoramic view from our 13th floor room at the AC Palacio Hotel.

Must see if you visit Malaga. Start first by taking a quick look at the ruins of the Roman theatre in front of Alcazaba, then go inside and take a glimpse of what Moorish Spain looked like. As you go uphill, you'll also get amazing views of the city.

Lovely hike in what used to be some sort of Arabic palace. A nice hybrid of courtyard garden and maze-like walls. Great views of the entire city. I personally loved that you can spot the cathedral tower from so many points. The room space inside does not offer much for viewing but you will appreciate the courtyard layout and doorways. Bar up on the top is perfectly situated for a good breeze and amazing views with that rewarding drink.

I'll be pretty brief. It's pretty god damn gorgeous! This place shows us how beautiful and the scenery of the south of spain is . Andalousia in particular!

Literally this is located in the mountain behind my flat. I'm very lucky to live at this location. I just have to walk up that mountain and checkout gorgeous views. If you come here Sundays. I think it's free. It was when we came. But even if you have to pay... it's only a few euros. I love this sport. My favourite part of Malaga and the best views! Be warned... if you go up in the rain... make sure you have good shoes. It can get slippery.

An outstanding and marvellous place to spend half a day, both walking and being with friends, maybe eating on the top of the fortress! A really, really beautiful scenery down to the city.

This place was great. Very well preserved clean and organized. Great walking self-tour with lots of history and photo opportunities.

A beautiful and impressive Moorish fortress that dates back to the 700s! This is an unmissable part of Malaga, a must see! Incredible stone work, beautiful views of the city, lovely fountains and gardens. And at 2,20 euros a ticket it is a bargain. Student and senior admission was only 60 cents, amazing! My only warning: the cobbled walkways are very steep and uneven, be careful not to trip!

Completely worth the epic uphill walk. The pool and garden are gorgeous. The small stream running through a lot of the main house is really brilliant. You also get a great view of the marina.

Great fortress located in teh center of Malaga. The normal price is 2.10EUR but if you combine Alcazaba + Gibralfaro castle you get it all for 3.45EUR. Dont miss a visit to this emblematic place.

I was there 2 weeks ago. Be carefull in the rain, it gets slippery. Otherwise the walk before the experience of that little paradise is worth the whole experience. Recommended! Will be there in August as well