After a long day at La Malagueta beach, with sand in your hair and salt on your skin, it's time to transform. The day still sticks to you a bit, but the city beckons. Whether you're on a city break with your sweetheart, celebrating a bachelor party with friends or just treating yourself to a nice evening - Málaga has rooftops where the cocktails taste as good as the view.
Sunbeams on your shoulders, one last lick of aftersun and then head downtown, toward the heights. These are the five rooftops that will start your evening as it should be: with views, atmosphere and a cocktail in hand.
📍 Calle Postigo de San Agustín 6
The elevator whooshes up, the doors open, and there she is: La Terraza de Valeria. Overlooking the harbor, the cathedral AND the sea - this is Málaga at its finest. The DJ spins a laidback beat, the sun slowly sinks behind the horizon, and you float in the pool with a mojito within reach. Only for hotel guests? Not so. Starting at 11 a.m., everyone is welcome, until deep into the night (provided you're 18+ after 10 p.m.).
Tip: arrive early, score a Balinese bed, and linger until dark. Magical is a big word. But right here it is.
📍 Calle Cortina del Muelle 1
Say rooftop in Málaga, the city says: AC Palacio. Here you drink a cocktail at altitude, with the park, harbor and cathedral at your feet. The atmosphere is chic, the service sleek in suits, the crowd a mix of international travelers and local couples having something to celebrate.
From the rooftop bar, you can see city life putting on its evening coat. This is the place for cava at sunset. No fuss, just class.
📍 Calle Alcazabilla 12
Here you sip your gin-tonic with the ancient walls of the Alcazaba fortress directly in front of you. The atmosphere here is a little looser, a little younger, and above all: sultry. La Terraza de la Alcazaba is part of Hotel Alcazaba Premium, and feels like a secret spot in the middle of the old town.
Expect bartenders who take their shaking seriously, a menu full of signature drinks and an interior that's just a bit more designer than your average rooftop. Perfect for that one night when it can all shine.
📍 Pasaje Chinitas 3
Hidden among the rooftops of the historic center is a gem: Chinitas. An intimate rooftop overlooking "La Manquita," Malaga's iconic, asymmetrical cathedral. This spot has two floors, so you can always find a spot for that perfect view.
Here you drink your cocktail without rushing. Maybe even with a candle on the table. Romantic? Definitely. But also suitable for birthdays, pre-wedding drinks or that casual party where everyone finally falls into each other's arms.
📍 Calle San Juan 11
You wouldn't expect it. But on the fifth floor of the boutique hotel on Calle San Juan, you'll find a rooftop that has everything: good views, good music, and a good cocktail menu. La Terraza de San Juan is a fine blend between design and coziness.
With views of the tower of Iglesia de San Juan and the hills of Málaga in the background, here you feel you are in the south. The bartenders conjure with bottles and glasses as if it were a dance. This is where you linger, one more drink, one more song.
You come here for the view, you stay for the feeling. Malaga's rooftops are not places for a quick drink - they are little worlds in themselves. Worlds filled with soft music, warm evenings and the clink of glasses. Whichever one you choose, the city is at your feet.
Fancy more Málaga tips for the evening? Think tapas in the old fishing district of El Palo or flamenco in a patio full of orange trees - but that's for next time.
Salud! 🍸
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