Alcazaba, Malaga: Hours, Address, Alcazaba Reviews: 4.5/5
Alcazaba
4.5
9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
About
Built between 1057 and 1063, this is probably the most important military fortification remaining from the Hispanic-Arabic period.
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listingTours & experiences
Explore different ways to experience this place.
Full view
What is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Top ways to experience Alcazaba
The area
Address
Neighborhood: Centro
Best nearby
Restaurants
2,058 within 3 miles

Dynamit
89
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • International • European • Fusion

Sibuya Urban Sushi Bar Málaga
345
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • Japanese • Sushi • Asian

Anyway WineBar
620
0.3 mi$$ - $$$ • Mediterranean • European • Spanish

Spago's - Fresh Pasta
919
0.3 mi$ • Italian • Fast Food • Mediterranean

Radici Osteria Italiana
240
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • Italian • Mediterranean • European

Papá Piquillo
234
0.3 mi$$ - $$$ • Bar • Mediterranean • Spanish

Mura Mura Osteria Cafe
926
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • Mediterranean • European • Fusion

Terra Mia 2.0
374
0.3 mi$$$$ • Italian • Pizza • Mediterranean

Madí
244
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • Italian • Pizza • Mediterranean

García Taberna
725
0.3 mi$$ - $$$ • International • Mediterranean • European
Attractions
197 within 6 miles

Museo de Malaga
824
0.1 miArt Museums • History Museums

Parque de Malaga
2,416
374 ftParks

Teatro Romano
1,533
333 ftAncient Ruins

Jardines de Pedro Luis Alonso
74
438 ftParks • Gardens

Escultura del Biznaguero
91
379 ftPoints of Interest & Landmarks

Universidad de Malaga
50
480 ftPoints of Interest & Landmarks

Banco de España
62
329 ftArchitectural Buildings

Ayuntamiento de Málaga
61
496 ftArchitectural Buildings • Government Buildings

MUPAM Museo del Patrimonio Municipal
56
0.1 miSpeciality Museums

Revello de Toro Museum
304
0.1 miSpeciality Museums
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
11,018 reviews
Excellent
5,642
Very good
4,367
Average
885
Poor
82
Terrible
42
Ella H
Malaga, Spain6 contributions
Aug 2021
It's a really nice place to visit in the evening when the sun isn't so hot as there is little shade inside. If you go an hour or so before it closes there aren't many people there and you can really appreciate the architecture. You can visit for 30 mins or you could easily spend 3 hours there really looking at everything in detail. There are some nice places to look at views over Malaga (the port, the cathedral, etc.). I would say it is one of the most instagrammable places to visit in Malaga and it is relatively cheap to visit too.
Written August 30, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Maria M.
Malaga, Spain13 contributions
Oct 2021 • Friends
I recommend it if you like to take a walk outdoors and discover all its corners and gardens with incredible views of the city and the port. The truth is that it is incredible but you have to buy tickets. An almost symbolic price to discover a part of the history of this beautiful city.
Written January 18, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Carolyne33
Woodlands, Montserrat21 contributions
Sep 2020
I went on an hour's tour in the afternoon with Mohammed Naciri
(tel: 0034628801198), a local tour guide. It was fascinating and his talk about Moorish culture made the Alcazaba come alive for me.
I also spent a quiet morning alone at the Alcazaba in the morning and it was just what I needed, together with free entry as it was 'International Tourism Day'. I was able to wander round the Alcazaba, as it was 10am, it was pretty quiet and there was a lovely cafe with wonderful views serving rioja and coffee.
The history of the Alcazaba is fascinating and I recommend Mohammed as a knowledgeable and educated guide who explained a lot about the significance of all the water features and gardens and the cultures of the people who had built and inhabited the fort. The building is in excellent condition and has obviously undergone a lot of refurbishment.
(tel: 0034628801198), a local tour guide. It was fascinating and his talk about Moorish culture made the Alcazaba come alive for me.
I also spent a quiet morning alone at the Alcazaba in the morning and it was just what I needed, together with free entry as it was 'International Tourism Day'. I was able to wander round the Alcazaba, as it was 10am, it was pretty quiet and there was a lovely cafe with wonderful views serving rioja and coffee.
The history of the Alcazaba is fascinating and I recommend Mohammed as a knowledgeable and educated guide who explained a lot about the significance of all the water features and gardens and the cultures of the people who had built and inhabited the fort. The building is in excellent condition and has obviously undergone a lot of refurbishment.
Written October 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
TravellerOxford
Oxfordshire, UK657 contributions
Mar 2022
Definitely worth a look and even better if you haven’t yet been to the Alhambra in Granada; the latter being somewhat grander. But it’s great to visit as it’s pretty central and dominates Malaga - almost as much as the Cathedral!
Be sure to take the lift/elevator if you don’t fancy the walk. Finding it was painful as from the small tourist office located at the top (just in front of the Roman amphitheatre) go down the smooth slope on the right/towards the Port and take the small, first turning on your left - Calle Guillen Sotelo, and the lift entrance is 200yards on your left. Entrance is labelled 'Ascensor' (see picture).
You can buy a ticket at this entrance or you can buy a combined ticket for Gibralfaro & Alcazaba - neither are expensive. These two sites aren’t really linked, although there is a walkway from the outside of Gibralfaro which leads down to the Alcazaba. I believe it’s over 30mins. But better to jump in a taxi to Gibralfaro and hope that you can catch one back… or there is a local bus.
In my opinion, both sites are worth visiting.
Be sure to take the lift/elevator if you don’t fancy the walk. Finding it was painful as from the small tourist office located at the top (just in front of the Roman amphitheatre) go down the smooth slope on the right/towards the Port and take the small, first turning on your left - Calle Guillen Sotelo, and the lift entrance is 200yards on your left. Entrance is labelled 'Ascensor' (see picture).
You can buy a ticket at this entrance or you can buy a combined ticket for Gibralfaro & Alcazaba - neither are expensive. These two sites aren’t really linked, although there is a walkway from the outside of Gibralfaro which leads down to the Alcazaba. I believe it’s over 30mins. But better to jump in a taxi to Gibralfaro and hope that you can catch one back… or there is a local bus.
In my opinion, both sites are worth visiting.
Written April 11, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Dan K
The Hague, The Netherlands6,626 contributions
Jan 2022
Last time I was here (three years a go), you could only pay cash. But the Alcazaba has progressed and now you can use your bank card! Friendly staff. The view from up there still is amazing. We could also see our apartment from the Plaza de la Merced. If you don't want to take the stairs/walk the hill, there is an elevator in a tunnel around the corner. Be advised that there isn't any step free access when on the top so you need to leave any push chair or pram at the point where you leave the elevator and do some walking. Wheelchair access is possible to a certain extent, but then you're unfortunately restricted to visiting the upper terrace only (and still need to navigate some steps).
I'd say a must see if you visit Málaga.
I'd say a must see if you visit Málaga.
Written January 9, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Ramona
Auckland Central, New Zealand562 contributions
Aug 2021
Beautifully maintained and easy walking paths. Make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes (ie, not heels) as you'll be walking up/down hill on pebbles. It is so special to walk through historical grounds. Sunday's are free however, be careful as this means much bigger crowds.
Written August 3, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Rodric L
Doorwerth, The Netherlands24 contributions
Sep 2021 • Couples
Truly amazing place. You need at least audio guide to understand the background of this gigantic construction left by Arab conquerors many centuries ago. Take your time, as lots of walking is required. Try to get a timeslot in morning when heat is not too imposing. Finish with a drink in Hotel America.
Written September 17, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
GraceeeeBrown
Birmingham, UK212 contributions
Jan 2020 • Friends
The Alcazaba is incredible affordable to visit, and if I’m correct actually offers free entry from time to time also. The grounds and buildings and fantastic to wander around although there is little information on them.
The views of Malaga old town are lovely and well worth a trip if you would like to see the city from above.
The views of Malaga old town are lovely and well worth a trip if you would like to see the city from above.
Written October 8, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Cajundanzman
League City, TX36 contributions
Mar 2022
I have been to Alcazaba twice in 6 weeks. I will go again. Each time I have gotten something new out of the visit and I love the cafe that provides a good choice of beverages and snack - while offering a majestic view of the harbor, Playa Malagueta and the Med. My YouTube video (TRAVLN TXN channel) is one of many of this historic Moorish fortress.
Written April 7, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Barry Leslie
nova scotia17 contributions
Mar 2020
This is a very impressive site that reminds you of the level of skill and the immense work that went into the building of cities in the past. The visit is not guided and people are free to roam the ins and outs of the fortress as they please. For those who have a particular interest in this period in history, the site evokes pictures of what it must have been like to live day to day, or to be under attack in this place. The views of Malaga port are fantastic. There are no amenities at the site, so you may want to take some water or a snack with you. I feel there could have been more interpretation; however, overall it is well worth the time and price of admission.
Written March 20, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
kisabella🌞
Dalkey, Ireland64 contributions
Some recommendations please for outdoor, nice tapas restaurants near the Picasso museum, Málaga. Muchas graçias
kisabella🌞
Dalkey, Ireland64 contributions
Hola, I want to bring someone to the Alcazaba, Teatro Romano and Picasso Museum, possibly more, in early July. Can you do all these without a guide? Is there a combination ticket for the Gibralfaro/Teatro/Alcazaba? Muchos graçias
Lisa C
17 contributions
Accessibility for people with mobility problems? Specifically, arthritic knee problems. Thanks!
gillsnips
Liverpool, UK106 contributions
It was steep in places .. I have an issue with uphill and I managed it with lots of stops .. there are plenty of places to stop and rest and seats
Bellareena28
Colchester, UK7 contributions
Hi,
We will soon (next week) be visiting Malaga for sightseeing with our 4 year old son. I really want to go to the Alcazaba, Roman Theatre and Gibralfaro but I realise that the long trek or uphill walk may not be child-friendly. Can you please advise on the best (easiest) way to see these lovely places without this turning into an exhausting experience? We want to see these historic buildings and see the views over the city from above if we can get there. Can we take a stroller or are there too many steps? How do you recommend we tackle these places? Please let me know. Thanks
Palma_malaga
Malaga, Spain111 contributions
Hello: I believe it’s very nice visit for her too. I do not know where are you staying but Malaga is a very easy walking place. You can visit the theatre and alcazaba one after the other because there are easily walks. Go first to alcazaba using the lift to go up at the top (entrance behind the town hall) and walk down all the way, easy to walk with the girl if she likes exploring. Or use a stroller but with stones path is not so nice. But at least she can sit to relax. My kids have gone there a few times since they were little and never complained walking down hill. Right at the door of alcazaba is the theatre to the right to visit at least from outside is enough.
The Gibralfaro is further up the city but you can go to the entrance with local bus (1,30 euros each adult) or from the city center with a taxi will cost you at most 7 euros probably. There are a few stairs but at least you can enjoy a lovely view or if the cafe is open also a te there.
dryadka
Prague, Czech Republic118 contributions
Hello, can somebody tell me how much the tickets currently cost to Alcazaba (only to Alcazaba, and combined with Gibralfaro)? Thanks!
Anne Saindon
Quebec City, Canada457 contributions
I don't remember exactly but approx. 5.5 eu for Alcazaba and Castillo...
Patri V
Salou, Spain40 contributions
En cuanto tiempo, visitas la alcazaba y el castillo de gibralfaro?
ericmue
Peiting, Germany4,091 contributions
Es ist schon vieles beantwortet worden. Leichter ist es mit dem Aufzug nach oben und
wieder runter zu kommen. Man muss den Zugang ein wenig suchen.
Aufenthalt je nach eigenen Interessen, etwa 90 Minuten.
Ein schöner Ausblick auf Malaga und den Hafen.
Frequently Asked Questions about Alcazaba
- Alcazaba is open:
- Sun - Sat 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- We recommend booking Alcazaba tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 56 Alcazaba tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Alcazaba:
- Visit to the Alcazaba (From $13.76)
- Best of Málaga tour (From $33.88)
- Rent a City Bike: Full Day 24 hours (From $15.88)
- Alcazaba and Nasrid Palace in Malaga For Small Private Groups (From $26.47)
- Go local for a day! (From $29.64)
- Hotels near Alcazaba:
- (0.00 mi) Alcazaba Lagoon Apartments
- (0.08 mi) Hotel Boutique Teatro Romano
- (0.10 mi) Alcazaba Premium Hotel
- (0.13 mi) Palacio Solecio
- (0.14 mi) Hotel Carlos V
- Restaurants near Alcazaba:
- (0.02 mi) Alcazaba
- (0.10 mi) La Sole del Pimpi
- (0.09 mi) Alcasabar
- (0.08 mi) Uvedoble
- (0.09 mi) El Vegetariano de la Alcazabilla