Travel Plan
Gibralfaro Castle

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ATTRACTION GUIDE · MÁLAGA

Gibralfaro Castle

A 14th-century Nasrid castle on a hilltop, with sweeping views over Málaga's bay and port.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
1 hour
Entry
Paid (small fee)
Best time
Late afternoon
Area
Monte Gibralfaro

Castle walls on the hill above the Alcazaba, with the best views over the city and the bay.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Camino Gibralfaro 11, 29016 Málaga

  • Bus: Bus 35 goes up to the castle from Paseo del Parque.
  • On foot: A steep 20–30 minute path climbs from beside the Alcazaba.
  • Ticket: Combined ticket available with the Alcazaba.

The story of Gibralfaro Castle

Gibralfaro Castle was built in the 14th century by the Nasrid sultan Yusuf I of Granada to protect the Alcazaba below. Its name comes from the Arabic "Jabal Faro", the mountain of the lighthouse, after an ancient beacon on the hill.

You can walk along its walls for panoramic views of the city, the port, the bullring and the Mediterranean coast.

Best time to visit

Best season

All year.

Best time of day

Late afternoon into sunset.

Summer

Walk up early or take the bus.

Tips before you go

  • Take bus 35 up and walk down through the gardens.
  • Walk the walls for the best views of the bay.
  • Stop at the Mirador de Gibralfaro on the way up.

Best hotels near Gibralfaro Castle

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

Gran Hotel Miramar

Palace hotel by the sea near La Malagueta.

See prices

AC Hotel Málaga Palacio

Rooftop pool with cathedral and port views.

See prices

Parador de Málaga Gibralfaro

Hotel beside Gibralfaro Castle.

See prices
All hotels near Gibralfaro Castle

What's around Gibralfaro Castle

  • Mirador de GibralfaroViewpoint on the path.
  • AlcazabaFortress below.
  • Parador de Málaga GibralfaroHotel with a terrace.
  • La MalaguetaBeach below the hill.

Questions travellers ask

What does Gibralfaro mean?

From the Arabic "Jabal Faro", mountain of the lighthouse.

How do I get up?

By bus 35 or a steep walk.

Is the view worth it?

Yes, it is the best view of Málaga.

More in Málaga

Alcazaba of Málaga

Alcazaba of Málaga

Read the guide
Málaga Cathedral

Málaga Cathedral

Read the guide
Picasso Museum

Picasso Museum

Read the guide
Back to the Málaga guide
Travel Plan · Gibralfaro Castle Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure