The 8 most beautiful villages in Malaga to visit by car

Malaga

The Costa del Sol is a marvel, and Malaga is fortunate to be part of it. With its excellent climate, stunning beaches, and rich historical and cultural heritage, Malaga is one of the perfect destinations to visit in Andalusia, whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a long holiday.

If you choose the province of Malaga for your holiday, we recommend visiting the following villages. This way, you can book your car hire in Malaga and explore each one without missing a thing. At DoYouSpain, we've created a list of the 8 most beautiful villages in Malaga to visit by car.

Why visit villages near Malaga by car?

Choosing a rental car for your visit to Malaga is a no-brainer. Starting your holiday with a rental car means you don't have to stick to a rigid schedule and can enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace without relying on public transport.

By visiting villages near Malaga you will be able to connect with the true essence of the region. Explore Andalusian culture, learn about the region’s history, try the gastronomy, meet friendly locals, and more. If you think you don’t have enough time for everything, check out the best things to see and do in Malaga in 3 days.

8 villages to visit in Malaga: The essentials

If you want to relax and escape the routine of daily life, Malaga is the ideal place. There are many charming villages in Malaga, some better known than others, offering you the opportunity to explore and enjoy the local culture and gastronomy. Here are 8 you shouldn't miss:

Frigiliana

Frigiliana is part of the Most Beautiful Villages of Spain Association, and no wonder why! Nestled on the slopes of the Sierra Almijara mountain range, this town offers some of the most stunning views of the Costa del Sol. Notable sites include El Ingenio, which was once the Palace of the Counts of Frigiliana and is now where the famous sugar cane honey is produced, as well as the fascinating Castle of Lizar.

Casares

When you see Casares from a distance, you immediately fall in love with its whitewashed houses clinging to the hillside around the Iglesia de la Encarnación. This town perfectly captures the essence of an Andalusian village, with its narrow, steep streets. As you wander through Casares, you'll discover numerous fascinating monuments and buildings, such as the House of Blas Infante, known as the Father of Andalusia, and the Fountain of Carlos II.

Sedella

Sedella, nestled between the Natural Park of the Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara and Alhama, is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful villages in Malaga. It offers many places of interest to explore during your holiday, such as the ruins of the fortress, and the Casa Torreon. Additionally, with a rental car from Malaga, you can easily discover all the surrounding wonders.

Nerja

Nerja is home to one of Malaga's most iconic landmarks, the Balcon de Europa. Located in the centre of Nerja, this beautiful viewpoint offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea. By hiring a car in Nerja, you will discover a wealth of heritage, including monuments such as the Church of San Salvador, the replica of Chanquete's boat, and the famous Nerja Cave.

Yunquera

Yunquera is a small village located within the Natural Park of Las Nieves, offering some of the most spectacular views in the region. It is home to Pinsapo forests (Spanish fir), one of the most unique plant formations on the Iberian Peninsula. Notable buildings include the Ermita de la Cruz del Pobre, Casa de Sola, Finca de La Puente, and its mediaeval walls.

Júzcar

Continuing our tour of villages to visit in Malaga, we come across Juzcar, nestled in the Serrania de Ronda. What makes this village unique is its distinctive blue color; this transformation happened because the film "The Smurfs 3D" was shot there, and since then, the entire village has been painted blue. Today, it’s famously known as the "Smurf Village". While visiting, you can also explore the Real Fabrica de Hojalata de San Miguel de Juzcar (Royal Tinplate Factory of San Miguel de Juzcar).

Genalguacil

Genalguacil, nestled in the Genal Valley, has been recognised as one of the Most Beautiful Villages of Spain. The village's streets are adorned with numerous artistic works, a result of the annual 'Encuentro de Artistas' (Artists' Meeting) event. This unique feature has earned it the nickname 'museum town'.

Canillas de Aceituno

To wrap up our tour of the most beautiful villages in Malaga, let’s talk about Canillas de Aceituno, in Sierra de Tejeda. This village boasts a unique heritage, featuring sites such as the Casa de los Diezmos and the Parish Church of Nuestra Señora del Rosario. However, the highlight is undoubtedly El Saltillo, a suspension bridge that stretches 78 metres above the Almanchares River.

Recommendations when visiting villages in Malaga

Before starting this journey, it's essential to plan your route and decide which villages you want to visit in Malaga. This way, you can create an optimal car route through Malaga.

If you're excited to try the local cuisine, take some time to research restaurants at each destination in advance. This preparation will help ensure a stress-free and enjoyable trip.

Best car hire with DoYouSpain

To explore the best villages in Malaga, hiring a car is essential. DoYouSpain compares all market offers to provide the best service at guaranteed competitive prices.

When booking with DoYouSpain, you can pick up your car at key locations, such as Malaga Train Station, Puerto Banus in Marbella, or at Malaga Airport. If you have any questions during the process, feel free to contact us online through the Client Area or by calling +34 964 830 995.