Underrated Spanish beach destination that is still hot in February & has cheap holidays under £250pp
FORGET the Canaries and Balearics – Malaga is a hidden winter sun holiday treasure waiting to be discovered.
The Spanish city is only two hours away from the UK, has highs of 20C in February and cheap pints from £2.20.
Why Malaga?
Direct flights from most UK airports to Malaga take two to three hours, making it a short-haul destination perfect for a long weekend away or a longer trip.
Brits tend to overlook Malaga, as they usually opt for the most popular destinations like Marbella and Seville or even the Canaries and Balearics.
However, this makes it a great winter destination – holidaymakers will experience the authentic local lifestyle and uncrowded experience of the beaches and the city’s hidden charm.
And while the UK still feels the effects of winter, daytime highs in Malaga typically reach between 18 and 20C in February.
The beaches on the Costa del Sol offer a relaxing environment for a stroll or even sunbathing.
What is it like in Malaga?
Malaga has more than 105 miles of sandy beaches, watersports, hundreds of restaurants serving local cuisine and a rich history.
One of the main draws of the location is the beaches, which are usually bordered by palm trees and decorated with colourful parasols and hammocks.
Every beach in Malaga has a distinct appeal, whether it is a calm, family-friendly coastline near fishing villages or surrounded by beach bars and nightclubs.
For instance, Playa de la Malagueta is one of the most famous beaches located only a few steps away from Malagueta’s city centre.
The dark sandy beach is often filled with activities and sports, and visitors can even try the traditional ‘spit-roasted sardines’ at most beach bars.
After spending days by the beach or strolling around the city centre, Malaga was named the 12th cheapest Spanish city for drinks by the newspaper El Dia.
The research found that the average beer price in Malaga is €2.58 – which is around £2.20.
Those wishing to keep the party going might want to check out Akari nightclub, where entry and three drinks cost €5 (£4.30) every Thursday.
There is also a quieter side to the city, as it’s home to museums, monuments and more.
Pablo Picasso was born in Malaga, so there is a huge display of his work at the Picasso Museum in the city centre, and it’s a must-see.
The Costa del Sol city is also home to a centuries-old Roman theatre, the Alcazaba fortress, and the Gibralfaro Castle.
When is the best time to visit Malaga?
Like most coastal locations in Spain, the most popular time to visit is spring and summer when temperatures hit the mid-30C.
Malaga is a great place to catch winter sun since it has pleasant temperatures, reaching highs of 20C even in the winter.
Another incentive to visit in February is the Carnival celebrations that light up the city, with traditional music, parades, and street performers taking over the streets for a whole week.
Autumn also offers nicer temperatures and fewer people, making the destination an ‘all year-rounder’.
What are the best deals to visit Malaga?
February is considered off-peak season, so many deals are available for less than £300pp, including flights.
The destination is also easily accessible from most of the UK, so the deals are available from many companies, including loveholidays, On the Beach, easyJet holidays, Travel Republic, Jet2holidays and more.
The biggest bargain we’ve found is on short breaks, costing from
Here are the best deals we’ve spotted on short breaks in February 2024:
- 3 nights at BLUESEA Al Andalus in Torremolinos, Costa del Sol, Spain – from £139pp
- 3 nights at Hotel Soho Los Naranjos in Malaga, Costa del Sol, Spain – from £179pp
- 3 nights at Casual del Mar Malaga in Malaga City, Costa del Sol, Spain – from £186pp
- 3 nights at Exe Malaga Museos Hotel in Malaga, Costa del Sol, Spain – from £179pp
Those wishing to stay longer can book seven-night stays from just £225pp.
What else do I need to know about Malaga?
Malaga is currently one hour ahead of the UK, and flights to the destination are available from more than ten local airports.
The local currency is the Euro, and the official language is Spanish; however, most people also speak English.
There are no entry requirements for Brits visiting.
Brits stay in Malaga without a visa for up to 90 consecutive days, as long as their passport has been issued less than ten years before the date of entry and will be valid for more than three months after you leave.
Brits could also visit the Canary Islands in January for 21C temperatures and cheap winter sun holidays on sale for under £200.
We’ve also revealed the short-haul island destination with 300 days of sunshine and holidays for under £150.
And the cheapest Caribbean island for all-inclusive holidays, with direct flights and 29C temperatures.