3 Day Trips from Malaga That Will Transform Your Holiday. GPS-Ready Itineraries.
26.06.2025
So, you're in Malaga. Awesome! You've already conquered the Alcazaba fortress, snapped a selfie with the Picasso statue, and devoured a plate of espetos on Malagueta beach. What now? You could, of course, spend the rest of your holiday walking in circles on Calle Larios, but is that why you flew all the way here? The real Andalusia begins where the city ends. It’s where winding roads climb into the mountains, white villages cling to the hillsides, and the views make you forget to breathe for a moment.
The problem? You can't get to these places on a tourist bus.
You need the key to freedom. And that key has four wheels and a full tank of gas. As a crew from a car hire in Malaga that has driven these roads hundreds of times, we’ve prepared something special for you. This isn't some boring guidebook. These are three ready-to-go itineraries for epic, one-day adventures that will transform your holiday. Just plug them into your GPS and go. And if you don't have a car yet, our car rental in Malaga has plenty.
In this article:
Trip 1: Ronda – The City on the Edge and the Blue Smurf Village
Who's it for: Lovers of dramatic views, romantic souls, and anyone who wants to take a photo that will break their Instagram feed.
Duration: A full day (approx. 8-9 hours, including driving and sightseeing).
Route: approx. 100 km (62 miles) one way.
Ronda is one of those places that looks photoshopped. The city is literally suspended on two sides of the gigantic El Tajo gorge, connected by the Puente Nuevo bridge, which looks like it was built by the dwarves from The Lord of the Rings. It's an absolute classic, but with a car, you can do it so much better than an organized tour.
Step 1: Morning Coffee and a Start from Malaga
Pick up your rental car in Malaga early in the morning. Fill up the tank and set your navigation for Ronda via the A-357, then the A-367. The drive itself is beautiful, winding through olive groves and hills. Stop at any roadside venta for a coffee and tostada con tomate – feel like a local.
Step 2: Ronda – A Walk on the Edge
In Ronda, park in one of the underground car parks (like Parking Plaza del Socorro). Don't even try driving into the historic center; it's a trap. Your first steps should take you to Puente Nuevo. Stand in the middle and look down. You'll feel a mix of awe and a slight dizziness. Next, cross over to the old Moorish side of the city (La Ciudad) and get lost in its labyrinth of narrow streets. Visit Spain's oldest bullring and the Casa de Don Bosco with its beautiful gardens hanging over the cliff.
Step 3: Lunch with a View (Without Going Broke)
The restaurants with a view of the bridge are expensive. Do what the smart travelers do: buy some local cheese, jamón serrano, and a bottle of wine from a small shop, then walk down the path to the viewpoint from below (Mirador del Tajo). There, sitting on the grass, you'll have the best picnic of your life with a million-dollar backdrop.
Step 4: A Surprise on the Way Back – Júzcar, the Smurf Village
On your way back, take a detour from the main route (head for the A-397, then the MA-7306) to visit Júzcar. It's a small mountain village that, back in 2011 for a movie promotion, was painted entirely blue. It looks absolutely surreal. Even if you're not a Smurfs fan, the sight of a uniformly blue village in the heart of the green mountains is an unforgettable experience. This is exactly the kind of freedom that a car rental gives you.
Trip 2: Caminito del Rey and the White Lakes – Adrenaline and Relaxation
Who's it for: Adventure seekers, nature lovers, and anyone who isn't afraid of heights.
Duration: A full day (remember to book tickets for the trail in advance!).
Route: approx. 60 km (37 miles) one way.
Caminito del Rey, or the "King's Path," was once the most dangerous hiking trail in the world. Today, after extensive renovation, it's completely safe but still gives you goosebumps. It consists of wooden walkways pinned 100 meters (330 ft) above the bottom of a canyon. The views are insane.
Step 1: Booking is Essential
Before you even think about this trip, go to the official Caminito del Rey website and book your tickets online. They sell out weeks in advance, especially in high season! You won't get in without a ticket. This is a key piece of advice any good car hire company in Malaga will give you.
Step 2: Getting There and Logistics
The easiest way to get to Caminito del Rey is by car. Set your GPS for "Parking Caminito del Rey, Ardales." From there, it's a short walk to the north entrance. Important: the trail is one-way. After walking about 3-4 km, you'll finish at the south exit (El Chorro), where a shuttle bus will take you back to the car park.
Step 3: A Walk in the Clouds
The hike itself is pure poetry. You walk through gorges and canyons, culminating in a walk across a suspension bridge over the abyss. It’s an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. Take pictures, but most importantly, soak in the views.
Step 4: Relax by the Turquoise Lakes
After a dose of adrenaline, it's time to relax. Right next to Caminito del Rey are the beautiful, turquoise Guadalhorce reservoirs. Find one of the small, wild beaches, lay out your towel, and jump into the refreshing water. There are also restaurants with a view of the lake where you can have a delicious lunch. It's the perfect end to an intense day, only possible when you have the freedom that a car rental from Malaga airportprovides.
Trip 3: Nerja and Frigiliana – Postcard-Perfect White and Hidden Beaches
Who's it for: Beach lovers, fans of charming towns, and anyone who wants to feel the true Andalusian vibe.
Duration: A relaxed, full day.
Route: approx. 55 km (34 miles) one way.
This trip is the quintessence of the Costa del Sol. A combination of beautiful beaches, atmospheric streets, and delicious food. It’s the perfect plan for a day when you just want to feel the holiday chill.
Step 1: Head East – The Sun Highway
In the morning, get in your car and head east on the A-7 motorway, also known as the Autovía del Mediterráneo. The drive is scenic, with views of the sea and mountains. Your first destination is Nerja.
Step 2: The Balcony of Europe and an Underworld
In Nerja, park in the center and head to the Balcón de Europa. It’s a famous clifftop promenade with a panoramic view of the Mediterranean Sea. You'll feel like you're on the bow of a great ship. Afterwards, if you're up for it, visit the Nerja Caves (Cueva de Nerja) – a huge underground complex with the world's largest stalagmite. It’s one of the biggest attractions the region offers, and a car hire from Malaga is the best way to get there.
Step 3: Frigiliana – The Most Beautiful Village in Spain?
Just a 10-minute drive inland from Nerja is Frigiliana. It has repeatedly been voted the most beautiful "pueblo blanco" (white village) in Andalusia. It’s a labyrinth of perfectly white houses and narrow, steep streets decorated with flowers and colorful ceramics. Just get lost in it, and you'll find a perfect photo opportunity at every corner.
Step 4: A Secret Beach to End the Day
Instead of returning to the crowded beaches of Nerja, get back in your car and drive a few kilometers east to "Playa de Maro." It’s a small, intimate cove with crystal-clear water, surrounded by cliffs. The perfect spot for an afternoon of relaxation and snorkeling. It’s these small discoveries that turn an affordable car rental in Malaga into a priceless investment in memories.
In Conclusion: Your Holiday, Your Rules
You can spend your holiday sticking to the beaten path. Or, you can grab the keys, turn up your favorite playlist, and just drive. Andalusia is a region made for exploring by car. These three suggestions are just the beginning. The real adventure starts when you decide to turn down an unknown road. And we at YourRent are here to make that happen for you. Simply, quickly, and without the unnecessary formalities.