Where to Shop in Malaga: Where to Go & What to Buy

This blog post was originally posted on January 7, 2016 and was updated on October 19, 2017.

Craving a bit of shopping while visiting the Costa del Sol? You’re in luck. There are dozens of places to shop in Malaga for all budgets and tastes—the only question is where to start.

You can choose to go to one of the more modern malls, pop into the smaller stores in the historic center, or simply just walk around the streets and see what stores you stumble across. There are also chain stores and familiar brands for those looking to get a good exchange rate on the euro. Here's everything you need to know about where to shop in Malaga.

Where to Shop in Malaga: The Complete Guide

Shopping malls

While they don't have the charm of an independent store or boutique, one of the easiest places to shop in Malaga is a mall, and it just so happens that there are several right in Malaga city. These offer the benefits of most shopping centers you may already be familiar with: lots of stores in a concentrated area, places to grab a bite to eat and often times, even a grocery store or hair salon.

Vialia Shopping Center is located in the train station and is a great option if you are trying to grab a last minute present while waiting for the train. Nearby is Larios Center (Avenida de la Aurora, 25), which offers a range of stores and is Malaga's most similar option to the malls you've probably seen back home. Next to the soccer stadium, you'll find the Rosaleda Shopping Center (Avenida Simón Bolívar), and just outside the city is Plaza Mayor (Calle Alfonso Ponce de León, 3–2) and Factory Outlet Malaga (Calle Jaén, 3).

If your idea of where to shop in Malaga includes some smaller, local stores, your best bet is to head to the historic center. There, you will find the majority of the specialty stores selling local products—in other words, things that make great souvenirs!

Start by walking up Calle Nueva and then wander down Calle Compañia, Calle Andrés Perez or Calle Granada. Of course, the best way to find these smaller stores is by exploring off the beaten path. If you have something specific in mind that you're looking for, don’t hesitate to ask. Most shops have someone who speaks English on staff and they are usually eager to help you find what you need.

The main shopping street

If you ask anyone where to shop in Málaga, chances are the first place they suggest will be Calle Larios. The impressive street is the heart of Malaga’s downtown and is completely pedestrian friendly. Here, you'll find Spanish chain stores along with higher end shops—there really is something for every budget! It’s a good place to come if you are just planning to window shop (or if you’ve suddenly realized that you forgot a clothing item when you packed your suitcase!)

Artisan Markets

The first Saturday of every month, Malaga plays host to an artisan market in the neighborhood of Soho, appropriately called “Made in Soho.” (Calle Tomás Heredia).

Locals also like to frequent the Merced Market in the Plaza de la Merced every fourth Sunday of the month from 10 a.m.–6 p.m. These are some of the most fun and interesting places to shop in Malaga, as you get to talk to the actual artists who made the pieces and learn about the story behind their small business.

Luxury Shopping

If you have more time and are looking for a really special item, the best luxury places to shop in Malaga can be found in the nearby town of Marbella. You can find high-end brands in the area of Puerto Banus and Avenida Ricardo Soriano. Of course, in both Malaga city and Marbella, you can find the top brands at the large El Corte Inglés department stores as well.

Know what to get: Guide to the most authentic souvenirs from Malaga

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