San Agustín is the calm, grown-up cousin in Gran Canaria’s south coast family. Just a few minutes east of Playa del Inglés, it trades wild nights and party strips for peaceful walks, soft sand, and a slower pace of life. It’s the kind of place where you hear the ocean at night, and where the most stressful decision of the day is choosing between the pool or the beach.
This is a destination for people who want to do less, better. Mornings are for long breakfasts and sun loungers. Afternoons mean coastal walks, maybe a massage, and the occasional lazy sangria. And evenings? Dinner with a view, with the sound of waves in the background.
San Agustín is relaxed, quiet, and low-key — especially compared to nearby Playa del Inglés or Maspalomas. It’s popular with Scandinavian and German visitors (some of whom live here part-time), and it’s definitely not a party town. It’s about sea views, casual walks, good food, and the occasional spa day.
You won’t find big shopping streets or all-night bars. Instead, you get coastal promenades, mellow beaches, and restaurants that don’t rush you. It’s a great fit for couples, solo travellers, families and anyone who wants to avoid the chaos without being completely isolated.
VISITING SAN AGUSTIN, GRAN CANARIA: THE ESSENTIALS
Transport / San Agustín is very walkable — you can get to the beach, shopping centre, and restaurants on foot. There are local buses that connect you to nearby areas like Maspalomas or Las Palmas, but if you want to properly explore Gran Canaria, renting a car is the best move. The island is small and easy to drive, so you can comfortably do day trips from here. Book your rental using DiscoverCars, the comparison site I use for all international car hires. If you’re not hiring a car but need an airport transfer, I recommend WelcomePickups — more reliable than local taxis and you can pre-book in English.
Gloria Palace San Agustín Thalasso & Hotel $$ The biggest and most well-known hotel in the area, with sea views, multiple pools, and a well-rated spa. The rooftop restaurant, Gorbea, is a popular dinner spot even for non-guests. This is where I stayed and loved it!
Connect / You’ll need mobile data while you are in Spain, I always recommend using an eSIM (there’s absolutely no need for a physical one!). I always use Sim Local, and you can get 5% discount with code TRAVELWITHPAU. Get it here.
Get Insured / Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.
Can you visit Costa Brava without a car? The answer is YES! Despite literally 100% of the people I asked saying the opposite, I went for it and I’m happy to report I’ve proved them all wrong. Yes you can absolutely do Costa Brava without a car, yes it’s not the same thing as having a car but you are still able to see most stuff and definitely better than not visiting at all. In the post below I’ll explain how you can make this happen and I’ll include a sample itinerary you can follow. Of course this itinerary can be done by car as well, and I recommend you rent a car using DiscoverCars if you are planning to drive which is what I use.
Cadaques
VISITING COSTA BRAVA WITHOUT A CAR: THE ESSENTIALS
Transport / The main bus company which runs in Costa Brava is called SARFA. You can view its timetable and buy tickets online here. The best airport to arrive to is Barcelona, if you need a transfer from the airport I recommend you use WelcomePickups (which is what I use). Of course this itinerary can be done by car as well, and I recommend you rent a car using DiscoverCars if you are planning to drive which is what I use.
Connect / You’ll need mobile data while you are in Spain, I always recommend using an eSIM (there’s absolutely no need for a physical one!). I always use Sim Local, and you can get 5% discount with code TRAVELWITHPAU. Get it here.
Get Insured / Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.
COSTA BRAVA WITHOUT A CAR: WHICH TRANSPORT IS AVAILABLE?
Sadly, trains don’t connect all of the Costa Brava but buses do! The main bus company which runs in Costa Brava is called SARFA. You can view its timetable and buy tickets online here. I found frequency to be good enough to allow flexible travel without planning much in advance either buying tickets online or simply directly from the bus station (where I had no issues with availability).
To make this trip happen, what I did was combine going to a major city by train from Barcelona and from that city take day trips using the buses. The reason I did this is that many of the cities you’ll end up visiting don’t really have direct buses connecting them so you need to go back to a major city to continue your journey to other cities. It will all become clearer once you see the itinerary below.
Now, if you are short in time you can avoid the itinerary below and just take a day trip from Barcelona. Easy peasy. The below tours are the best options:
From Barcelona: Girona, Figueres and Dalí Museum Day Tour: Embark on a full-day adventure exploring the medieval town of Girona, home to rich history and stunning Gothic architecture. Walk along its ancient streets, visit the Jewish Quarter, and admire the iconic colorful houses along the Onyar River. Then, head to Figueres, birthplace of Salvador Dalí, and explore the world-famous Dalí Museum. Discover the eccentric works of the surrealist master in this unique and interactive museum. Book your tour here: Girona, Figueres, and Dalí Museum Day Tour.
From Barcelona: Girona, Dalí Museum, and Cadaqués Day Trip: Immerse yourself in the life and works of Salvador Dalí on this guided tour. Visit the Dalí Museum in Figueres to explore his surreal masterpieces, then travel to Cadaqués to see the coastal town that inspired much of his art. End the day with a visit to Dalí’s house in Portlligat, gaining insight into his personal life and creative process. Book your tour here: Dalí Museum, House, and Cadaqués Guided Tour.
From Barcelona: Girona and Costa Brava Full-Day Tour: Discover the history and beauty of Girona and Costa Brava on this full-day tour. Walk through Girona’s historic Old Town, see the city’s Roman walls, and enjoy its picturesque streets. Then, travel to Costa Brava to explore its stunning coastline, charming fishing villages, and clear turquoise waters. Enjoy some free time to relax, swim, or soak in the Mediterranean views. Book your tour here: Girona and Costa Brava Full-Day Tour.
From Barcelona: Costa Brava Day Tour with Boat Trip: Escape to the breathtaking Costa Brava for a day of stunning landscapes and coastal charm. Visit scenic villages like Tossa de Mar and Lloret de Mar, and explore hidden coves and sandy beaches. This tour includes a delightful boat trip along the coast, allowing you to admire the dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters from a unique perspective. Book your tour here: Costa Brava Day Tour with Boat Trip.
Hola from the vibrant coastal city of Malaga! Malaga captured my heart with its perfect blend of rich history, stunning beaches, and lively culture. Nestled on the Costa del Sol, this Mediterranean gem invites you to soak up the sun, indulge in delicious tapas, and immerse yourself in its captivating past. Join me as I share my Malaga Bucket List, uncovering the best activities, places to stay, places to eat and tips for navigating this Spanish haven.
WONDERFUL THINGS TO DO IN MALAGA
Roam the Historic Alcazaba
Begin your Malaga adventure at the Alcazaba, a centuries-old Moorish fortress offering breathtaking views of the city and the Mediterranean. Wander through its enchanting gardens and ancient walls, transporting yourself back in time. Book tickets here.
Admire Picasso’s Birthplace
Discover the birthplace of the legendary artist Pablo Picasso. The Picasso Museum, situated in a historic palace, showcases an impressive collection of his works, providing insight into the life of this creative genius.Make sure you book your ticket in advance here.
Stroll Through Old Town (Casco Antiguo)
Lose yourself in the charming streets of the Old Town, where vibrant markets, cozy cafes, and hidden squares await. Don’t miss the bustling Atarazanas Market, a sensory delight with stalls brimming with fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. A walking tour is always something I’ll recommend! You could book this one.
Try the sweet wine in one of its taverns
And after a magnificent sunset, what can you do? Have a little wine and something to snack before dinner, of course. A great (and legendary) place to do it is El Pimpi. We recommend their Málaga Virgen sweet wine (€2.06 a glass), a portion of dogfish to share (€11) or a light piripi, a mini-sandwich of pork loin, natural tomato, bacon, cheese and aioli. At the end of the post you will find a section with a few gastronomic recommendations, so you can eat all of Málaga.
Relax at La Malagueta Beach
Unwind at La Malagueta Beach, where golden sands meet the azure Mediterranean. Whether you’re a sunbather, water sports enthusiast, or beachcomber, this coastal haven offers the perfect escape.
Did you know that Malaga is one of the cities with the most museums in Spain? And if you love art, you’re going to have a busy few hours here: unmissable stops are the Pompidou Center, the Carmen Thyssen Museum and the Contemporary Center of Malaga.
Hike Mount Gibralfaro for Panoramic Views
Lace up your hiking boots and ascend Mount Gibralfaro for panoramic views of Malaga. The journey is rewarded with stunning vistas of the city, the sea, and the Alcazaba below. Visit on your own, or take a segway tour.
Indulge in Tapas Culture
Dive into Malaga’s vibrant food scene by hopping from one tapas bar to another. Savor local specialties like boquerones (anchovies) and salmorejo (cold tomato soup) while embracing the lively atmosphere. You’ll love this tapas tour!
Visit the Cathedral of Malaga
Marvel at the grandeur of the Malaga Cathedral, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Climb to the top for a unique perspective of the city and the surrounding landscapes. The walking tour I recommended before includes the cathedral.
Visite the AC Málaga Palacio’s Terrace
To have a nice panoramic view of the cathedral, go up to the terrace of the AC Málaga Palacio (I used to stay here on work trips) and it’s really cool, it even has a pool with views! Admission with a drink costs €10 but the views are priceless.
Atarazanas Central Market
Stroll through the stalls of the Atarazanas Central Market, a Malaga classic. Work of Joaquín de Rucoba who built the market on the remains of an old naval workshop from the Nasrid era. Don’t miss the stained glass window, which is truly marvelous.
La Concepción Botanical Garden, something to see in Malaga with children
If you like quiet places and want to surround yourself with greenery, the La Concepción Botanical Garden is an oasis of peace. It was inaugurated in 1855 and expanded later, and you will find many tropical species. Admission costs €5.20.
Another essential thing to do in Malaga is take a swim on the beach, there are many of course! Apart from Malagueta, if you have several days and want a change, you can go to the beaches of La Caleta and Pedregalejo.
And why not rent a boat and go out to explore the beaches of the Malaga coast and its most inaccessible corners at our own pace? There are options with and without skipper from less than €100 per boat/day. Book it here.
Explore the province of Malaga
Do you have more time and have you already done everything there was to see and do in Malaga? Consider renting a car and taking a route through the province, passing through some of its most beautiful towns such as Nerja, Frigiliana, Ronda,Antequera or Setenil. Here’s a tour you can take if you won’t be driving.
HikeEl Caminito del Rey
Another option is to hike the famous Caminito del Rey, a walkway route of about 3 km hanging over the Gaitanes Gorge. Just know you’re going to be scared: the walkways are nailed to the canyon walls and you will literally have an abyss under your feet. There are areas where you will be 105 meters high! More info and tours here.
Explore the Automobile and Fashion Museum
For a unique experience, delve into the Automobile and Fashion Museum, a fascinating blend of vintage cars and haute couture. It’s a journey through time showcasing the evolution of both industries. Book it here.
WHERE TO EAT & DRINK IN MALAGA
Embark on a culinary journey in Malaga, where the vibrant flavors of Andalusian cuisine await. Start with espetos de sardinas, grilled sardines on the beach skewered to perfection. Dive into the refreshing depths of salmorejo, a cold soup adorned with eggs and jamón. For a crispy seafood affair, relish pescaíto frito, an array of lightly battered and deep-fried fish. Cool off with porra antequerana, a heartier cold soup, and savor the almond-infused freshness of ajoblanco. Ignite your palate with gambas al pil pil, prawns sizzling in olive oil and chili peppers. Conclude your feast with sweet wines or indulge in the classic joy of churros dipped in velvety chocolate. Malaga’s culinary tapestry promises a symphony of tastes that celebrate the region’s rich culinary heritage. Here are some of the best restaurants to eat in Malaga ¡Buen provecho! (Enjoy your meal!)
For a stay that combines comfort and proximity to Malaga’s main attractions, consider the vibrant Old Town or the trendy Soho district. The Malagueta area offers beachfront accommodations, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and city life. Alternatively, immerse yourself in luxury at the Parador de Malaga Gibralfaro, boasting stunning views and a touch of historical charm.
I stayed in this serviced apartmentwhich was bang in the city centre, and everything was absolutely perfect!
HOW TO GET TO AND AROUND MALAGA
Getting to Malaga is a breeze, thanks to Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport, which connects to major European cities. From the airport, grab a taxi or hop on the efficient public transportation system (you can pay with contactless on trains & bsues). The city is walkable, and buses offer convenient options for venturing further. Consider renting a bike to explore the scenic waterfront or taking a train to nearby destinations. Uber, Bolt & FreeNow are also available.
MALAGA FAQs
Is Malaga safe for tourists?
Malaga is generally very safe for tourists. Exercise normal precautions, stay aware of your surroundings, and be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas.
What is the best time to visit Malaga?
The spring and fall months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making them ideal for a visit. Summers can be hot, while winters are mild.
What currency is used in Malaga?
The currency used in Malaga is the Euro (EUR). ATMs are widely available for cash withdrawal.
Are English speakers common in Malaga?
English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, but learning a few basic Spanish phrases can enhance your experience.
Are there any cultural etiquette tips for visitors?
When dining, it’s customary to greet with a “Hola” and say “Gracias” after a meal. Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory.
What day trips are recommended from Malaga?
Consider day trips to Ronda, Nerja, or the charming village of Mijas for a taste of Andalusian beauty and culture.
Remember to check travel advisories and local guidelines before planning your trip. ¡Disfruta tu tiempo en Malaga! (Enjoy your time in Malaga!).
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I know what you are thinking… should I visit Lloret De Mar? Lloret de Mar is a small Mediterranean beach town in Costa Brava, Spain. It is located only 75 kilometers away from Barcelona and 40km from Girona. It’s a perfect getaway from Barcelona, and a great place to stop on if you are touring the Costa Brava. I chose to stay in Lloret de Mar because, compared to other towns in the Costa Brava, Lloret de Mar is slightly bigger. As such, there’s a lot of hotel availability and hence cheaper prices. In simple words, you get better bang for your buck if you are staying here versus other perhaps more quaint but smaller towns like Tossa de Mar.
In this post I’ll walk you through my personal recommendations on what to see, do and where to stay in Lloret de Mar. Let’s start with things to do!
Hike from Lloret Beach to Punta Roja
VISITING SAN AGUSTIN, GRAN CANARIA: THE ESSENTIALS
Transport / Lloret de Mar is compact and easy to walk around. Buses connect you to nearby beaches and towns, and day trips are doable by public transport. If you’re planning to explore inland or want more flexibility, a rental car is worth it — I use DiscoverCars. For airport transfers from Barcelona or Girona, WelcomePickups is a reliable pre-book option.
Connect / Stay connected with an eSIM — I use Sim Local (get 5% off with code TRAVELWITHPAU). Grab one here.
Get Insured / Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.
