Long seen as the gateway to the ever-popular Costa del Sol, Malaga has come into its own in the past few years. And while it may have gained a reputation for dining under Michelin stars, swanky rooftop bars and swish hotels, it’s possible to find a hotel at pocket-friendly prices too – you just need to know where to look.
A four-person room at Dulces Dreams Hotel (Photo: Booking.com)
In many ways, Malaga is the perfect budget break. The port city is brimming with affordable museums, jaw-dropping architecture and charming gardens. It boasts a burgeoning culinary scene, but prices have remained happily affordable too. Add to this sunset strolls along the winding pedestrianised streets of the old town and hours stretching out in the sun along the city’s sandy stretches, and it could even be described as a cheap getaway. Here are five of the best affordable and cheap hotels in Malaga to top off your stay.
Dulces Dreams
Housed in a renovated 18th-century townhouse, this poshtel is more hotel than hostel. Located on a pedestrianised street in the heart of the old town, it’s within spitting distance of the city’s best-loved sights, restaurants, bars and shops. The hotel is spread over four floors, with rooms sleeping up to four people. Bedrooms are thoughtfully decorated, with quirky slogans on the bed heds, kooky lamps and colourful bathrooms. Most of the rooms offer small private balconies too. There’s no reception or onsite cafe, but there is a large terrace and snack bar. Rooms from €48 per night.
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El Riad Andaluz
Moroccan flourishes in the bathroom at El Riad Andaluz (Photo: El Riad Andaluz)
Located on a narrow pedestrianised street, El Riad Andaluz Andaluz is moments from the Picasso Museum and a sprawling food market. Malagueta Beach is just a 15-minute stroll away too. The two-hundred-year-old building has been decorated in a Moroccan style, with colourful tiles and artistic flourishes. There are eight simple rooms to choose from, each set around the patio on the first floor. Some have small terraces overlooking the courtyard or out over the street. Rooms feature ceiling fans, private bathrooms with a shower, and plenty of storage for your belonging. Rooms from €55 per night.
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Hotel Picasso
If you’d prefer to stay away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre and make the most of Malaga’s sweeping beaches, Hotel Picasso is an excellent option. Located close to Malaga airport, Hotel Picasso offers 13 spacious rooms kitted out with antiques, coffeemakers and air-conditioning. Prices include a generous breakfast buffet too. If you’re travelling in the summer months, the outdoor pool and charming terrace with sunbeds is a blessing. Guests can rent bikes from the property and parking is free too. Rooms from €55 per night.
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Hotel Boutique Teatro Romano
The Breakfast Room at Hotel Boutique Teatro Romano (Photo: Booking.com)
At first glance, Hotel Boutique Teatro Romano feels more Scandi than Spanish with its bright white rooms, minimalist furniture and bountiful pot plants. Take a look out the window and there’s no mistaking you’re in the heart of Andalucia though, with views of the Moorish Alcazaba just across the street. There’s a 24-hour reception and a breakfast lounge, as well as a friendly English-speaking team on hand to provide everything from tips on where to eat to umbrellas. The hotel’s eight double bedrooms are simple and stylish, with huge windows and soundproofing to ensure a sound nights sleep. There are also eight kitchen-equipped apartments in the adjoining building. Rooms from €70 per night.
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Room Mate Larios
Set in a charming listed Art Deco Building, Room Mate Larios is situated slap bang in the heart of the action, on the corner of Plaza de la Constitución. Inside, it’s all marble floors, soaring ceilings and stripey carpets. Each of the hotel’s 41 rooms is bright, spacious and airy, many with private balconies overlooking the Calle Larios or the square. Rooms are well-appointed with toiletries, hairdryers, crisp linen and fluffy pillows. Best of all is the rooftop bar, which is open all year rounds and serves up local wines and pizzas with sparkling city views. Rooms from €80 per night.
Book at Booking.com