What to See in Torremolinos: The Best Places on the Costa del Sol
Torremolinos is undoubtedly a popular destination all year round, but especially during the summer season. If you come to Torremolinos and want to know more about this town, read on. Below you will find a list of places you should not miss, from the town’s most characteristic monuments to natural areas, viewpoints and spots where you can eat or shop while strolling.
Aerial view of Torremolinos and the coastline
The Best Places to Visit in Torremolinos
St Michael’s Chapel
San Miguel is the patron saint of Torremolinos, a tradition that dates back long before the construction of the hermitage in the early 18th century. The present church and chapel of San Miguel was built in 1896 on the edge of the cliff of El Bajondillo, over the original hermitage. In this area there were once several mills, all protected by the Torre de Pimentel, a symbol of Torremolinos.
Located inside an early 20th-century building known as the College of Railway Orphans, it was reopened as a cultural centre in 2001. It currently offers courses, readings and has gardens and sculptures.
The Palacio de Deportes and the Auditorio Municipal are located in the northern part of Torremolinos. Every Sunday there is a flea market with a wide variety of second-hand items. During September the town also holds its annual fair.
This area was home to one of the highest-quality springs in Andalusia. Although the spring is still in use and many people enjoy the water, it is no longer the same as when it was collected directly from the mountains. Nearby you will find the Hermitage of San Miguel Arcangel, the municipal nursery and the old mills of Batán and Inca, both surrounded by botanical gardens and with activities on special dates.
This green area of the town features beautiful fountains and many different species of trees. There is a barbecue area and tables for those who want to enjoy a day in the countryside.
The symbol of Torremolinos. The tower was built to protect the coast, first by the Arabs and later by the Christians after the Reconquest. Under its protection stood several windmills that have now disappeared.
A palace in Moorish style with sea views, located in the Playamar area. It was commissioned in 1925 by Antonio Navajas Ruiz, the original owner of the land where the airport now stands. It now forms part of Torremolinos’ heritage.
This pedestrian street with shops on both sides is located in the centre of Torremolinos and is the main axis of the town. It offers all kinds of shops, from jewellers and shoe shops to fashion stores. Through its side streets you can reach bars and restaurants. The Torremolinos train station is located in a square next to Calle San Miguel.
In this natural area you will find hiking routes that connect Torremolinos with the Sierra de Mijas. The trails are suitable for both walking and cycling. One of the most popular routes is the Cañada del Lobo trail.
There is nothing better than taking a walk by the sea and breathing in the healthy sea breeze. In Torremolinos you will find a long promenade that connects different areas of the town and its beaches. Along the promenade you will find restaurants, beach bars, shops, fast food outlets, pharmacies and tobacconists.
In some sections you can wander into the parallel streets, where you will also find many other shops and businesses. Life extends beyond the sand, and you are sure to discover plenty of interesting places while strolling.
The promenade stretches along the entire coastline, from El Saltillo to the border with Malaga at Los Alamos.
Torremolinos Beaches
One of the main attractions of the town are its beaches. With around 7 kilometres of coastline, a long promenade, showers and the possibility to practise many water sports, the most popular beaches are: El Saltillo, Montemar, La Carihuela, Bajondillo, Playamar and Los Alamos.
Viewpoints
There are many places in Torremolinos from which you can enjoy beautiful views. Here are some of the best:
Sansueña Viewpoint
A great spot to enjoy lovely views over Playamar from above.
Another viewpoint overlooking Playamar, with a descent to the beach from the centre of Torremolinos that not many visitors know about. You can choose to use the stairs or the lift — a popular route in summer for those heading to the beach or promenade from the town centre.
Torremolinos is very well connected. It lies only 8–10 km from Malaga Airport and has excellent transport links by train, bus and road. Once you are in the centre, most attractions are easy to reach on foot or by short taxi rides.
Car hire: the most flexible option
With a hire car you can reach Torremolinos in less than 15 minutes from the airport. This is the best choice if you want to visit the viewpoints, the Pinar de los Manantiales or make trips to Benalmadena or Malaga.
Taxi or private transfer: convenient from anywhere
Highly recommended if you are travelling with luggage or children. The journey from the airport usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. There are official taxi ranks in the centre and at the main beaches.
*You do not need to enter credit card details or pay in advance. We recommend booking in advance.
Other transport options
Cercanías train (local commuter train): The station is right in the centre, only two minutes from Calle San Miguel. The journey from the airport takes just 8 minutes and to Malaga city centre around 20 minutes. This is the most comfortable and cheapest option.
Bus: Several urban and regional bus lines connect the beaches with the centre and neighbouring towns.
On foot and by bike: The centre and the seafront promenade are very pleasant for walking. There are cycle paths along large sections of the promenade.
Practical Tips for Your Visit to Torremolinos
Best time to visit: Spring and autumn are the most pleasant for walking and exploring. Summer is fine if your main priority is the beach, although it gets busier.
Travelling with children: La Carihuela and Playamar have calm water, showers and beach bars nearby. The lift at the Mirador de Tarifa makes it much easier to reach the beach from the centre.
As a couple: The viewpoints at sunset and a walk along the seafront promenade are romantic and easy to enjoy.
Food and drink: Try sardines on a spit and fresh fish at the beach bars along the promenade. Calle San Miguel and the surrounding area offer restaurants for every budget.
Car in summer: Parking near the beach can be difficult. It is often easier to leave the car and use the train or walk.
Combine your visit: In just 20 minutes by train you can be in central Malaga or Benalmadena.
Frequently Asked Questions about Torremolinos
Which beaches in Torremolinos are best for families?
La Carihuela and Playamar are the most recommended. They have calm water, showers, lifeguards in summer and beach bars nearby. Playamar also has a play area and a family-friendly atmosphere.
How do I get from Malaga Airport to Torremolinos?
The fastest and most comfortable option is the Cercanías train (line C1). In just 8 minutes you reach Torremolinos station. Taxis and private transfers (10–15 minutes) as well as buses are also available.
What can I do in Torremolinos for free?
Almost all the main attractions are free: the watchtower, Casa de los Navajas (exterior), all the viewpoints, the seafront promenade, the beaches, Pinar de los Manantiales and the hiking routes.
Is summer or another season better for visiting Torremolinos?
Summer is fine if your main priority is the beach. Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) are more pleasant for walking, taking photos and avoiding crowds.
Where can I eat typical Andalusian food in Torremolinos?
The beach bars along the promenade are the best place to try sardines on a spit and fresh fish. In Calle San Miguel and the surrounding area you will find restaurants for every budget.
Is Torremolinos a good destination for couples?
Yes. The viewpoints at sunset, the seafront promenade and Casa de los Navajas are romantic and easy to enjoy. There is also a good selection of hotels and apartments with sea views.
Can I walk from the centre to the beaches and viewpoints?
The centre is only a few minutes’ walk from several beaches. The lift at the Mirador de Tarifa makes it much easier to reach the lower beach area. For the higher viewpoints a taxi or car is more practical.