Spain's best-preserved Moorish fortress (Alcazaba means 'citadel'), the Alcazaba dates back to the 11th century, and served as a fortress and palace of the Moorish leaders in Malaga. Today, it is one of the finest examples of Islamic architecture in the region, if not in the whole of Spain. The views from the top are breathtaking.

With its beautiful statutes and working organ, Malaga Cathedral is absolutely stunning inside and out. Each chapel features intricate carvings and detailed pillars, and there is so much going on that you're likely to find something new every time you visit.

Marble-paved Calle Larios is grand, beautiful, and very popular for shopping. All the major Spanish high-street stores have outposts here, as do some typical Andalucian shops. The street is also full of cafes and restaurants, in addition to several very popular ice cream spots.

Bursting with colors, Mercado Central de Atarazanas is a fun place to browse whether you're shopping for foods or just poking around. Here you'll find fresh local vegetables, cheeses, rolls of sausages, and all manner of seafood. The site is thought to have been used for trading as early as the 14th century, and the original 14th-century gate still stands. The building itself is a 19th-century structure, a soaring industrial space with massive stained-glass windows at either end.

An absolute must, Atingua Casa de Guardia is a really special place for trying traditional wines from Malaga — all served straight from the cask. The interior makes you feel like you have stepped back in time, and even your bill is simply a chalkboard in front of you, with a tally of your drinks.

The walk up to Castillo de Gibralfaro is enjoyable, although it's quite a climb. Once there, however, you are rewarded with stunning views over all of Malaga, including vistas onto the bull ring and the port. Upon entering the castle, you can walk along the walls and get a fantastic 360-degree panoramic. The museum is also interesting, and it's worth taking some time to look around.

Located in the vibrant Plaza de la Merced, a short walk from the Alcazaba, the Picasso Foundation is known as the 'casa natal' (birthplace) of Picasso. The museum provides a fascinating look at the artist's origins, including how the family lived, and artwork by young Picasso as well as some by his father, who was a painter and art teacher himself.

This vibrant square has everything, and often serves as a meeting point for starting out the evening. You can sit in Plaza de la Merced to enjoy some tapas and watch the world go by, or you might have your photo taken by the Picasso statue, or wander up the connecting side streets, where there are bars and restaurants with good, reasonably priced food.

A few minutes' walk from the vibrant Plaza de la Merced, Tapería de Sybaris is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Monolo, the owner, is very welcoming and clearly passionate about food, all of which is cooked to perfection.

Entering the Teatro Cervantes is like going back 150 years in time. This theater, built in 1870, is beautifully designed, with four floors overlooking the stage. The venue still hosts an array of drama, music, and dance performances — Malaga's popular and talented philharmonic orchestra regularly performs here, and the theater attracts visiting acts from around the world.