Weather in Malaga

Spring, from March to May, offers mild and sunny weather in Malaga. Average temperatures range from 14.7°C (58.5°F) in March to 19.6°C (67.2°F) in May. While rainy days are possible, they are infrequent. In April and May, warm days with highs around 30°C (86°F) become more common, heralding the Mediterranean summer.

Wind is frequent in Malaga: in spring, it’s often tied to Atlantic fronts, while in summer, it turns into a refreshing sea breeze. Precipitation is scarce but more likely between October and March.

What to wear and expect in spring

Spring in Malaga combines sunny days with pleasant temperatures and occasional rain. Pack light clothing for daytime, a jacket or jumper for cooler evenings, and an umbrella or raincoat for possible showers.

Activities to enjoy in spring

Spring is ideal for exploring Malaga outdoors due to its mild climate. Here are some unique suggestions:

Visit parks and gardens

Malaga’s parks and gardens bloom vibrantly in spring. Don’t miss the Jardin Botanico-Historico La Concepcion, an oasis with exotic plants and tranquil paths.

Trekking

The mild weather makes spring perfect for trekking routes like the Caminito del Rey or Montes de Malaga. Find more details in our guide to trekking routes in Malaga.

Enjoy local gastronomy

Savour tapas and fresh fish, such as the iconic espeto de sardinas, a traditional dish of grilled sardines, at chiringuitos in the coastal districts of Pedregalejo and El Palo or tapas bars in the historic centre.

Spring festivals

Semana Santa, typically held between late March and early April, fills Malaga’s streets with impressive processions full of devotion and colour. You can also enjoy the Spanish Film Festival, usually in April, showcasing the best of national cinema. Check the official Malaga city council calendar for exact dates.

Summer, from June to mid-September, is the hottest and sunniest season in Malaga. Maximum temperatures average 30-31°C (86-88°F) in July and August, with humid air softened by sea breezes, creating the typical Mediterranean climate. Rain is virtually non-existent.

What to wear in summer

Pack light, breathable clothing like shorts, dresses, or short-sleeved shirts, plus a hat, sunglasses, and swimwear to enjoy the beaches. Sunscreen is essential.

Activities to enjoy in summer

Summer invites you to dive into Malaga’s beachside and festive vibe. Here are some ideas:

Relax on the beaches

Enjoy Malaga’s beaches, such as La Malagueta or Pedregalejo, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or water sports like paddleboarding or kayaking.

Explore the nightlife

Discover the vibrant nightlife in bars and terraces in the city centre or beachside chiringuitos, ideal for cocktails under the stars.

Savour coastal gastronomy

Taste espeto de sardinas, grilled sardines, at chiringuitos in Pedregalejo or El Palo, where fresh fish is prepared with Mediterranean views.

Feria de Malaga

The Feria de Malaga, held in mid-August, typically the third week, transforms the city with casetas, music, flamenco dancing, and local gastronomy in the centre and at the Cortijo de Torres fairground. More details here. Check the official Malaga city council calendar for exact dates.

Autumn, from September to November, offers warm and pleasant weather in Malaga. Daytime temperatures typically exceed 20°C (68°F), and the sea reaches its warmest in September and October, ideal for swimming. Nights are cool, with lows rarely below 15°C (59°F). Rain is uncommon but possible.

What to wear in autumn

Pack light clothing for daytime, a jacket or jumper for evenings, and an umbrella or raincoat for possible showers.

Activities to enjoy in autumn

Autumn is perfect for discovering Malaga’s cultural richness, thanks to the still-warm weather. Here are some suggestions:

Explore museums

Visit the Museo Picasso Malaga to admire the local artist’s works or the Centro Pompidou Malaga, with its contemporary art exhibitions.

Discover history

Stroll through the Alcazaba, a Moorish palace-fortress, and the Roman Theatre, the city’s oldest monument.

Enjoy local gastronomy

Alongside chiringuitos as in summer, thanks to the warm weather, try dishes like pescaito frito or Malaga salad in tapas bars in the historic centre.

Autumn festivals

The Malaga Jazz Festival, typically held in November at the Teatro Cervantes, brings together international artists. In October, the Museo Picasso Malaga hosts events honouring the painter. Check the official calendar for exact dates.

Winter, from December to February, is mild in Malaga, with sunny days alternating with periods of wind and rain. Daytime temperatures typically reach 18-20°C (64-68°F), and on warm days, influenced by African winds, they can exceed 20°C (68°F).

What to wear in winter

Pack warm clothing for cooler days, a coat for evenings, and an umbrella or raincoat for possible showers.

Activities to enjoy in winter

Winter in Malaga offers a festive atmosphere and opportunities to explore the surroundings. Here are some ideas:

Visit Christmas markets

From late November to early January, the Christmas lights in Calle Larios and markets create a magical atmosphere. Stroll around to buy artisan products and soak up the festive vibe.

Take excursions

Visit nearby destinations like Ronda, with its stunning gorge, or the picturesque white villages of the province. See our guide to excursions from Malaga.

Savour winter gastronomy

Try warm dishes like ajo blanco or traditional soups in tapas bars in the historic centre, perfect for cooler days.

Fiesta Mayor de los Verdiales

On 28 December, Malaga celebrates the Fiesta Mayor de los Verdiales, a traditional music festival with groups of musicians and dancers showcasing authentic Malaga culture.