Bullring La Malagueta Malaga | History, Immersive Museum and August Fair

Bullring La Malagueta in Malaga | History, Immersive Museum and August Fair

Panoramic view of Bullring La Malagueta in Malaga.

Right in the heart of Malaga, beside the seafront promenade and just a short walk from the historic centre, stands the Bullring La Malagueta. Built in 1874 and inaugurated in June 1876, this neo-Mudéjar arena with over 9,000 seats is much more than a bullfighting venue: it is a protected historic monument, a living stage of Malaga’s culture, and one of the city’s most versatile spaces.

Today La Malagueta successfully combines tradition and modernity like few other bullrings in Spain. In addition to hosting the major August fair (one of the most important in the Spanish calendar), it functions as a state-of-the-art immersive museum, a concert venue, and a space for cultural events. Whether you are passionate about bullfighting or simply looking for an authentic cultural experience, this arena offers a complete and up-to-date insight into the world of tauromachy and Malaga’s festive life.

Visiting La Malagueta is one of those experiences that help you truly understand the soul of the city. Whether you explore the immersive halls on a regular weekday, experience the atmosphere of the August fair, or attend a concert under the stars, this place always has a story to tell.

*Opening times and prices may change. We recommend checking the official websites.

Bullring La Malagueta: History, Museum and Events

History and Architecture of a Historic Monument

La Malagueta was designed by architect Joaquín Rucoba in a neo-Mudéjar style with classical elements. Construction began in 1874 and the first bullfight took place on 11 June 1876. Over the years it has hosted the greatest Spanish and international toreros and has undergone several renovations, the most significant in 2010.

The ring measures 52 metres in diameter and currently has a capacity of 9,032 spectators. Highlights include the toriles (bull pens), chiqueros, the infirmary, and the famous Puerta Grande, through which successful toreros exit on the shoulders of the crowd. It was declared a Site of Cultural Interest in 1981.

Practical information:
Address: Paseo de Reding s/n, 29016 Malaga
Capacity: 9,032 spectators
Ring diameter: 52 metres
View exact location on Google Maps →

The Immersive Tour and Modern Bullfighting Museum

The former bullfighting museum has evolved into the La Malagueta Tour, one of the most modern and technologically advanced experiential centres dedicated to tauromachy in Spain. The CEIT (Centre for Immersive Tauromachy Experiences) offers a 60–90 minute guided tour through 6 thematic rooms featuring projections, virtual reality, sensory experiences and original artefacts.

You can discover the origins of tauromachy, see original “trajes de luces” worn by legendary Malaga toreros such as Antonio Ordóñez, explore the connection between Malaga, Picasso and bullfighting, step into the ring itself, and experience the emotion of a faena up close through virtual reality. Audio guides are available in 7 languages.

Opening times and prices (2026):
Open daily from 10:00 to 18:00 (June–September until 19:00). Last entry one hour before closing.
Closed only on 25 December and 1 January.
Prices: Adults £14 | Reduced £12 (students, over-65s, 13–18 years) | Children 5–12 years £7 | Free for under-4s.
Private guided tours from £20.
Official website: lamalaguetatour.com (online booking recommended)

La Malagueta During the August Fair and Bullfighting Season

August is the highlight of the year at La Malagueta. During the big August fair of Malaga (usually from 15 to 22 August) the arena reaches its most spectacular moment with a top-level bullfighting programme that in 2026 celebrates the 150th anniversary of the bullring.

The full subscription includes several corridas featuring the leading toreros of the moment, novilladas, rejoneo events and the National Recortadores Competition. Family-friendly activities are also organised during the fair.

Another highlight is the Corrida Picassiana held in April.

Bullfight tickets: Available on plazadetoroslamalagueta.com. Full subscriptions and individual tickets are available. Advance booking is strongly recommended, especially for the August fair.

Concerts and Other Cultural Uses of La Malagueta

The versatility of La Malagueta is one of its greatest strengths. When there are no bullfights, the arena transforms into an excellent open-air concert venue. National and international artists have performed here, and festivals and musical events take place throughout the year.

The bullring also occasionally hosts exhibitions, presentations and institutional events. This ability to reinvent itself makes it a lively space that remains interesting all year round.

Check the current concert programme on ticket platforms such as El Corte Inglés Entradas or the official bullring website.

How to Get to Bullring La Malagueta

La Malagueta enjoys an excellent central location in Malaga. It is only a 10–15 minute walk from the historic centre (Paseo del Parque) and very close to the beach promenade of La Malagueta. It is one of the easiest attractions to reach in the city, whether on foot or by public transport.

Car hire: the most flexible option

If you are exploring the Costa del Sol or want complete freedom, hiring a car is very practical. The bullring has easy access via the MA-20 and there are parking options nearby (although these can fill up quickly during major events or the August fair). Ideal if you combine your visit with Gibralfaro Castle or the eastern part of the city.

Hire a car in Malaga

Taxi or private transfer: comfort from wherever you are

From the city centre or any hotel on the Costa del Sol (Torremolinos, Benalmadena, Marbella…) a taxi will drop you almost at the door in just a few minutes. The most comfortable choice if you are travelling with children, in a group, or after an evening concert. Approximate price from the historic centre: £6–10.

Book a taxi or transfer

*No credit card details or advance payment required. We recommend booking in advance.

Other transport options

If you are staying in the historic centre or near the port, the most pleasant option is to walk (around 10–15 minutes via the Paseo del Parque). By public transport, bus lines 3, 11, 32 and C1 stop very close by. The nearest metro station is La Marina (Line 1), from where it is a 10–12 minute walk.

From the Costa del Sol, the Cercanías commuter train (C-1 line) is a very convenient option. It runs from Fuengirola through Torremolinos, Benalmadena and other coastal towns to Malaga Centro-Alameda or Malaga-Maria Zambrano stations. From either station you can reach La Malagueta on foot (15–20 minutes), by city bus or by taxi (£5–8). During major events the city often increases bus services.

Practical Tips for Visiting La Malagueta

Book the immersive tour in advance during peak season (summer, Easter and public holidays). Although tickets are available at the box office, online booking helps you avoid queues.

During the August fair, shaded seats are much more comfortable. If you are visiting with children or in the height of summer, these are worth choosing even if they cost a little more.

Combine your visit with Gibralfaro Castle (very close by) or a walk along the beach of La Malagueta. The area is perfect for spending half a day.

The immersive tour is highly recommended even if you are not a bullfighting enthusiast. It is a modern, educational and very well-designed cultural experience.

If attending a bullfight, bring a light jacket for the evening (especially in May or September) and respect the venue rules.

The arena and the immersive tour are wheelchair accessible (reduced rate available).

The official souvenir shop offers nice mementos and handmade products – perfect as a souvenir from Malaga.

Frequently Asked Questions about Bullring La Malagueta

Can I visit Bullring La Malagueta even when there is no bullfight?

Yes. The La Malagueta Tour is open every day – the immersive museum with 6 thematic rooms, virtual reality and audio guides in 7 languages. This is the best way to experience the inside of the bullring without attending a bullfight.

How much does the immersive tour cost?

The standard price is £14 (including audio guide). Reduced rate £12 for students, over-65s and 13–18 year olds. Children aged 5–12 pay £7. Entry is free for children under 4. Private guided tours start from £20.

When is the August bullfighting fair in Malaga 2026?

The big August fair with bullfights in 2026 takes place approximately between 8 and 22 August. The programme includes novilladas, full corridas, rejoneo events and the National Recortadores Competition. 2026 marks the 150th anniversary of the bullring.

Is the immersive tour suitable for children and people who are not bullfighting fans?

Yes. The tour has been designed to be educational and engaging for all types of visitors. The immersive rooms, virtual reality experiences and sensory elements are very interesting even for those with no prior knowledge of bullfighting. It is a modern, family-friendly cultural attraction.

How do I buy tickets for the bullfights?

Official tickets are available on plazadetoroslamalagueta.com. Full subscriptions and individual tickets can be purchased. Advance booking is strongly recommended, especially for the August fair. There is also a box office at the venue on event days.

How do I get to La Malagueta from the centre or my hotel?

Very easily. From the historic centre it is a 10–15 minute walk via the Paseo del Parque. Bus lines 3, 11, 32 and C1 stop very close by. A taxi from the centre costs approximately £6–10. From the Costa del Sol, the Cercanías commuter train (C-1 line) is a very practical option.