Built in the 1300s to protect the Alcazaba and house troops, Gibralfaro Castle still has walkable ramparts with some of the best views over Malaga, the port, and the coastline. Inside, there’s a small military museum. The name comes from Jabal-Faruk, meaning 'hill of the lighthouse' in Arabic. The castle was also the site of a long siege in 1487, when Catholic forces took the city from the Moors.

Bar Beach lies southwest of the city centre, and is a popular spot for getting a tan. The well-maintained beach offers a number of surfing spots, where you can easily enjoy a lazy afternoon on your summer vacation by the clear blue ocean.

The Newcastle Regional Museum gives a good overview of Newcastle’s history as the hub for the region’s mining and steel industry. Variety of exhibitions, including permanent and special ones, are of great interest to everyone. One of these exhibitions is the Supernova hands-on science centre, which is fun for the whole family. Don't forget to book your tickets in advance.

Malaga’s coastline runs right along the city, so you don’t need to go far for a swim. The main stretch starts near the port along the Paseo de Pablo Ruiz Picasso. La Malagueta is the most central beach — about 10 minutes from the Old Town — with dark sand, showers, toilets, and sunbeds for hire. You’ll spot the big Malagueta sign where everyone stops for photos. The beach is lined with chiringuitos, casual seafood spots where you can try grilled sardines (espetos) cooked over open fire. La Caleta, just a bit further east, is quieter but has the same setup — clean, calm water, and easy access.