The gateway to Spain’s Costa Del Sol, Malaga is a mix of history, beaches, and bars. That’s not all though, it’s packed with art and culture too. It’s where Pablo Picasso was born. You’ll have trouble packing everything in, as you’ll not want to miss the natural beauty of nearby Torcal de Antequera!
With so much to do in Malaga, you’re going to need somewhere to stay. An Airbnb in Malaga is a good base for your trip, as you’ll be able to save money and have a bit more freedom than in a hotel or a hostel. Malaga Airbnbs come in a wide range of shapes and sizes – from private rooms to villas.
In this guide, I’ll introduce you to the best Airbnbs in Malaga. I’ve taken into account a wide range of travel style and budgets, and there’s sure to be something to suit you. So, let’s check them out!
Quick Answer: These are the Top 5 Airbnbs in Malaga
Premium Historic Center
- > $
- > 4 Guests
- > Free parking
- > Safe and quiet area
Lovely Apartment in Central Location
- > $
- > 3 Guests
- > Small Terrace with dining set
- > In the heart of Malaga City
Lovely Studio in Historic Centre
- > $$
- > 2 Guests
- > Great location
- > Outdoor Terrace
Elegant and Central Apartment
- > $$
- > 6 Guests
- > High Speed Wi-Fi
- > Small balconies
Andalusian House w/ Terrace
- > $$$$
- > 8 Guests
- > Wonderful location
- > Fantastic Terrace
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What to Expect from Airbnbs in Malaga
As I’ve already mentioned, there is a huge range of property available in Malaga. The best place to start is in the historic centre of the city, where you’re likely to be finding places run by friendly locals.
You might even need to brush up on your Spanish for some private rooms! The good thing about that is that you’ll get to know about the best hidden tapas bars and nightspots.
Many Malaga Airbnbs come with an outdoor terrace, so be sure to check if there’s one available at your property. There’s nothing nicer than people watching or having your morning coffee with the chatter of the narrow lanes down below.
Further out of the city centre, you might come across bigger properties such as villas. While you’ll have lots of space and maybe even a pool, you’ll have to trade that with being far away from where everything’s happening.
City Centre Apartment
First of all, let’s check out the most common property in Malaga. A city centre apartment comes in two varieties – you might be staying in someone else’s private room, or you might have it all to yourself. This is reflected in the price, so budget travellers should definitely look to share.
However, Malaga’s entire apartments cost much less than you would expect in Barcelona and Madrid. Spain also has the benefit of being one of the cheapest countries to travel to in Western Europe, so you could be pleasantly surprised at the small size of your final bill.
Apartments are likely to come with a basic kitchen. However, don’t expect an oven as a lot of Spanish food is fried. To be honest, you probably won’t be using the kitchen too much when there are so many great Andalusian tapas bars on your doorstep!
Loft
Loft apartments aren’t that different from city centre flats. But one thing is for sure, they will always be on the top floor! If you’re looking to rent a loft in Malaga, you might pay a little more than the average city centre flat, but that isn’t always the case.
Often studio flats, and lofts are an entire rental unit, which is likely to come with a balcony or terrace, and some have sublime views of important Malaga attractions like the cathedral. Just imagine sipping some wine out on the terrace in the evening!
These are a great option if you’re travelling with your other half or enjoying a honeymoon.
Villa
Last but not least, it’s the dream Andalusian stay. Who doesn’t want to stay in a villa on the Costa Del Sol?!
While villas are great for romantic getaways, they can prove pretty expensive. Better instead for families and large groups of friends, as most villas will accommodate a minimum of at least 8 people. If you stay in a villa, you could probably spend your holiday there.
Most likely, you’ll have luxurious additions such as a fully equipped kitchen, multiple bedrooms, and maybe even a swimming pool.
If you split the cost of a villa multiple ways, they often are more affordable than you might expect. However, do remember that they’ll be found outside of the city centre. So, if you do want to travel in and have a few drinks, you’ll be spending a lot on taxis.
Why Stay in an Airbnb
If you’re not already convinced, here are five of the endless reasons that you should consider staying in an Airbnb property.
- Local Experience: Staying in an Airbnb means you can get tips and tricks on the best ways to see the local area that you won’t find in the guidebooks.
- Privacy: Malaga is often a romantic getaway destination. There are hundreds of vacation rentals which you’ll be able to treat as a home away from home.
- Affordability: The savings you can make on Airbnb as opposed to hotels of the same quality are enormous. Then, you can spend your money on tapas!
- Safety: Both hosts and guests are vetted by Airbnb. The review platform protects both you and them.
- Airbnb Experiences: Locals won’t just help you out with the best things to see and do – they can even take you! Airbnb Experiences are a great way to see Malaga with a personal touch. And I’ve listed my top five below!
The Top 15 Airbnbs in Malaga
I’ve had you waiting long enough, check out the 15 best Airbnbs in Malaga. But before you head off, make sure to decide where you want to stay in Malaga first. You don’t want to end up far away from your favourite hotspots!
Overall Best Value Airbnb in Malaga | Premium Historic Center
- $
- Free parking
- 4 Guests
- Safea nd quiet area
This flat is the best Airbnb in Malaga to make the most of the city centre and keep your costs down low. It can sleep as many as four people, though it might be more comfortable and cosy for a couple.
As well as a comfortable bed, you’ve got a balcony where you can sit and enjoy a glass of wine or a morning coffee as you soak up the atmosphere of the historic centre. Renting a car? There’s free parking too!
Best Budget Airbnb in Malaga | Lovely Apartment in Central Location
- $
- Small Terrace with dining set
- 3 Guests
- In the heart of Malaga City
Backpacking Spain on a budget? It might be a better idea to look at a small condo rather than a huge apartment. Which brings us to this bright and comfortable studio with your very own private terrace.
You’ll have the entire rental unit to yourself, and it comes with all the basics you will need – a double bed, a modern kitchen and a good-sized bathroom. This comfortable apartment is also in a great location in the city centre, so you’re within walking distance to all the main attractions such as Malaga Cathedral and Plaza de la Merced.
Budget Tip: Dorms in Malaga start from $10USD per bed. They’re the cheapest accommodation in the city. Search for hostels in the area!
Perfect Airbnb for Solo Travellers | Cozy Single Room
- $
- Air conditioning
- 1 Guest
- Terrace with sofas
Yeah, a double bed is nice, but in the interest of keeping your costs down you can do without one if you’re travelling solo!
Again, this isn’t the only private room on the property so there’s every chance you’ll meet other travellers you can explore the top hotspots in Malaga with. Chill out in the living room where there is a sofa, dining table, and a library. Everything you need if you fancy a night in!
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View on Osprey View on REIBest Malaga Airbnb for Couples | Lovely Studio in Historic Centre
- $$
- Great location
- 2 Guests
- Outdoor Terrace
Wow, it really is hard to choose the best Airbnb in Malaga for couples. There are so many awesome apartments in the centre that will give you the privacy and romance you desire!
This one just edges it with its Andalusian balconies which are the perfect suntrap. The wonderful location means it’s not far to try the best bars and restaurants in Malaga too!
Best Airbnb in Malaga for Families | Elegant Central Apartment
- $$
- High Speed Wi-Fi
- 6 Guests
- Small balconies
With three bedrooms, a comfortable living room, and space for up to 6 guests, you won’t find a better Airbnb for families in Malaga. No matter the age!
You’ll just have to be quick as this place gets booked up fast! Eating out can get expensive in a big group, so choose to prepare something in the fully equipped kitchen instead. High-speed Wi-Fi means everyone can connect to their devices too – who’s for a movie night on one of the balconies?
Over the Top luxury Airbnb in Malaga | Andalusian House w/ Terrace
- $$$$
- Wonderful location
- 8 Guests
- Fantastic Terrace
Money no object? If that’s the case splash out on this totally beautiful and over the top Airbnb in Malaga. For you and seven of your nearest and dearest, you can spend the day on the roof just soaking up the sun.
The weather’s not good? No problem, just head inside and have a play on the piano or enjoy some food in the farmhouse-style kitchen. You’re going to love it!
Best City Centre Apartment in Malaga | Adventure Terrace City Centre
- $$
- Awesome location
- 3 Guests
- Roof Terrace
Just look at that view of the cathedral from your roof terrace! It’s worth the shaky climb up the telescopic ladder in your bedroom.
Another awesome staff for couples, this beautiful city centre flat might just end up on your Instagram page. It’s just five minutes from the city centre and 15 from Malagueta Beach. Book it now!
Best Loft in Malaga | Studio in Historic City Centre
- $$
- Modern Kitchen
- 2 Guests
- Two balconies
The walls of this Malaga loft apartment are lined with art, which gets plenty of light from the double doors! Open them up and step out onto two balconies which will give you a view over the car-free historic centre.
When you finally decide to leave the flat, it’s walking distance to the top tourist attractions, including the cathedral, beach, and port. Lots of restaurants and cafes nearby too!
Best Villa in Malaga | Minimalist Villa w/ Private Infinity Pool
- $$$$
- Private infinity pool
- 7 Guests
- Ocean views
You’ll find that most of the villas in Malaga are nowhere near the centre of town. However, with that, you get the best views of the ocean from the top of the Southern Andalucia hills!
With space for up to seven guests, this is a wonderful villa that’s ideal for a large family. If you are travelling with children, they will love the cabin-style beds, a tree house in the 300-year-old olive tree as well as the trampoline and the table football.
The price is high but that does get you a spacious home with a private rooftop terrace and infinity pool – all within a five-minute drive of the nearest beach and historic centre of Malaga City.
Perfect Airbnb for Digital Nomads | Downtown Room w/ Double Bed
- $
- Laptop friendly workspace
- 2 Guests
- Near bars and cafes
What are the two most important things as a digital nomad? That’s right, a laptop-friendly workspace and superfast broadband. Both of which you’ll get at this pleasant city-centre flat.
If you want a change of scenery but need to continue working, it’s within walking distance to loads of cafes and bars where you can keep your caffeine levels high while people watching!
Centro Historico Airbnb in Malaga | Beautiful Apmt in Malaga’s Historic Centre
- $
- Gorgeous views of the historic centre
- 4 Guests
- Lots of natural light
And now for the most gorgeous Airbnb in Malaga in the historic district, this one bedroom apartment with incredible views of the city. The apartment comes with everything you need for a comfortable stay – a fully equipped kitchen, a good-sized bathroom and a spacious living area.
You’ll be located within a short walk of La Malagueta sand beach and it’s only a short drive to the airport. This is the perfect place to base yourself to be close to all the great things to do in Malaga.
Most Beautiful Apartment in Malaga | Central Apmt in Historic Building
- $$$$
- Fully equipped kitchen
- 8 Guests
- Lots of artwork
Malaga is a city known for its art scene, but this beautiful Airbnb proves you don’t need to leave where you’re staying to get your fix.
With elegant paintings in a multitude of styles across the three bedrooms and living space, you’ll always have something to feast your eyes on. The furnishings and large spaces in this awesome flat only make it more likely that you’ll spend all of your time rather than going out to explore the city!
Best Airbnb Plus in Malaga | Elegant Central Apartment
- $$$
- Fully equipped kitchen
- 4 Guests
- Lift
Usually, you’d expect an Airbnb Plus property to be noticeably more expensive than similar apartments of its size. Not this one in Malaga’s Soho art district though.
It’s one of the city’s coolest neighbourhoods, and this flat reflects that with cool artwork on the walls. There are two bedrooms, the larger of which has a balcony and a cot so it’s appropriate for families visiting with small children.
Best Airbnb for a weekend in Malaga | Alcazaba Views
- $$$
- Unbeatable location
- 4 Guests
- Awesome Views
If you’re planning a weekend in Malaga, you’ll want to be close to all of the best things to do and see.
Well, from this Malaga Airbnb you’ve got the stunning Alcazaba on show so you can enjoy views of that while you eat breakfast or lunch! As well as having multiple tapas restaurants on your doorstep, the city’s stunning cathedral awaits you. Check it out from your roof terrace.
Best Airbnb in Malaga for a Group of Friends | Stylish Apartment
- $$
- Shared Swimming Pool
- 6 Guests
- Independent Kitchen
With space for up to six people, you can have a real blast in this stunning Airbnb. Whether you spend the day at the close-by beach or chill around the shared pool, you can be sure to have a great time (just don’t forget your sunscreen!).
The spacious apartment is the perfect spot to hang out with your friends and plan your next adventure.
Top 5 Airbnb Experiences in Malaga
Don’t like the feeling of forced fun with a tour company? You don’t have to put up with that anymore. Airbnb Experiences are put together by locals who enjoy nothing more than showing you what’s great about their city.
It could be anything from a cooking class or bar crawl to a multi-day hike in the mountains (though you’ll only find day hikes in Malaga).
Organising an experience through Airbnb can save you the hassle of booking at a tour operator and it means there won’t be any confusion if there’s a language barrier. Just a few clicks and you’re done! Let’s take a look at the best experiences in Malaga.
Hiking Torcal de Antequera
- €49 per person
- 5 hours
- Up to 8 guests
You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to hiking in Malaga, with Caminito del Rey and Frigiliana nearby.
However, why not tick a UNESCO World Heritage site off the list with a guided hike around the Torcal de Antequera?
It’s unlike any other landscape in Europe and you’re likely to see vultures, goats, and reptiles.
Hike the Caminito del Rey
- $69
- 6 hours
- Up to 8 guests
If you love hiking, you’ll want to make sure to check out the incredible gorgeous of Caminito del Rey and its surrounding countryside. On this tour, you will be picked up from Malaga City Centre where you will be taken to the dam of Conde del Guadalhorce.
Here you will start hiking around the Guadalhorce Valley, an area that specialises in the production of citrus trees. The trail then takes you along the range of Alcaparain and some small villages.
Once you reach the dam you will cross a tunnel made under the rock and along the epic King’s Walkway. Your guide will tell you about the geology of the natural park, and the Mediterranean plants and animals you’ll find in the surrounding landscape.
There will be plenty of stops to admire the breathtaking views before you are taken home.
Río Verde Canyoning Adventure
- $70
- 8 hours
- Up to 8 guests
What better way to escape the Malaga heat than by jumping into the cool pools of the Río Verde. On this epic adrenaline-fuelled adventure, you’ll get to explore the green river full of cascading natural pools and incredible rock formations. With an experienced guide, you’ll learn where is safe to jump, slide and rappel into the refreshing pools below. If it’s your first time canyoning, no worries, this is a great experience for beginners.
Famous Tapas Tour – Tastes of Malaga
- €67 per person
- 3 hours
- Up to 6 guests
Spain is incredibly famous for its tasty tapas. It’s not just the food that makes this experience special, the socializing part of the tour is also worth the unique experience.
You’ll discover the five best tapas hotspots in Malaga together with your host and learn everything there is to know about the Andalusian cuisine.
You can enjoy local bars that aren’t overfilled with tourists and some of the best local drinks as well. Make sure you come with an empty stomach!
Original Nightlife Pub Crawl
- €15 per person
- 5 hours
- Up to 10 guests
No trip to Malaga is complete without a night out, but where should you go?!
Well, your host has prepared an itinerary that will have you relax and enjoy a few drinks before you move onto a couple of clubs.
And yes, you can expect a free shot!
FAQs About The Best Airbnbs in Malaga
Here’s what people usually ask me about Malaga Airbnbs…
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Final Thoughts on Malaga Airbnbs
Hopefully, now you have a better idea of where to stay in Malaga. All you need to do is pick your favourite of the best Airbnbs in Malaga. Are you going to go with a central loft apartment with awesome views or a grand villa? Only you can decide!
If you’re still struggling, I’d suggest keeping it simple and going for our overall favourite Airbnb in Malaga – Premium Historic Centre Apartment with Parking. It boasts a wonderful location and great value for money.
I hope that now you have a good idea of where to stay in Malaga and are ready to book your trip. As well as booking your accommodation, make sure to take out travel insurance from World Nomads!
Fancy staying at a beach house in Spain? We’ve collated our top picks for you.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
