It doesn't happen often, and often has to be seen to be believed, but sometimes it actually does rain in Spain. In fact, if you're reading this, chances are that you’re witnessing this very rare event at this very moment. Or maybe you're supremely organised and preparing for the worst case scenario before you head off on your Costa del Sol holiday.
In any case, there are sometimes rainy days in Malaga, and here are a few ideas of what to see and do in Malaga city centre to help you deal with the shock.
Museums in Malaga
Malaga's status as a European cultural capital has rocketed over the last decade, thanks mainly to the eclectic mix of classic and contemporary art museums that have been installed. Unsurprisingly, the Picasso museum is the most popular, given that the avant-garde artist of his time was born here. Now there is a permanent, 285-strong collection housed at the museum dedicated to his life's work, which is worth seeing whether it's raining or not! His displayed works span the 20s right through to some of his final paintings of the 70s.
For more information visit the Museo Picasso Malaga webpage (museopicassomalaga.org)
Elsewhere in town you can find Museo Carmen Thyseen, which showcases a range of 19th century Andalucian art, the Wine Museum, the popular Pompidou Centre (glass museum) and The Centre of Contemporary Art which features modern and urban art from both the 20th and 21st century.
Shopping in Malaga
From large department stores and high street brand outlets to chic, independent fashion boutiques and gift shops filled with souvenirs, you're never short of shopping options in Malaga.
The major shopping malls, with the exception of Malaga-María Zambrano, are found mainly on the outskirts of the city. Getting to them is easy enough if you've hired a car for the duration of your trip. Otherwise there are good bus links around the city. For more information about shopping in Malaga and featured shopping centres in the Malaga province, see our comprehensive post on Shopping in Malaga.
Cinemas & Theatres in Malaga
Evidently, giant strides have been taken to please the Costa del Sol's booming tourist sector and ever-growing expat community, now that three of the major cinemas in the Malaga province regularly show English language films. They are Cines Teatro Goya in Puerto Banus, Cinesur Miramar in Fuengirola and Yelmo Cines, at Plaza Mayor in Malaga Yelmo Cinemas (near the airport). There are usually more showings at the weekend and special discounts for large groups and families.
For more information about English language films currently being shown at these cinemas visit marbellafamilyfun.com
Alternatively, if you’d like to test your Spanish comprehension skills then you can of course catch a film in Castellano, or, if you're feeling particularly brave, there are several theatres in Malaga city worth investigating. Teatro Cervantes, Teatro Canovas, Teatro Echegaray and Teatro Soho all show plays, musicals and impressive dance performances.
Drink Coffee in a Café all Day and Watch the World Go By
Sometimes it's just easier to sit out the downpour over 'a relaxing cup of café con leche' in a cosy café somewhere off Plaza Mayor, and watch as la vida Malgueña passes you by. Busy cafes - on both wet and warm days - are the perfect places for 'people watching' in Spain. They are institutions for young and old; men and women; friends and family. Even if you're not able to understand Spanish, quietly observing how Spaniards playfully and lovingly interact with one another will bring a smile to your face. You'll probably need enough change for three or four coffees (remember - no English tea in Spain) and a good book too.
For detailed information on typical weather the Costa del Sol receives each month of the year, take a look at our Month-by-month Costa del Sol weather roundup.
