Just outside the city, this 19th-century garden was once the private estate of the Loring-Heredia family. Today it’s open to the public, with winding paths, tropical and subtropical plants, a huge collection of palms, and even a Roman aqueduct tucked between the trees.

A sweeping portion of the Split peninsula is covered by a thick Mediterranean flora that creates the Marjan Forest Park. An intricate knot of walking paths, jogging trails, lookout points, and a botanical garden that attracts hiking enthusiasts and everyone who wants a break from the busy city life.

The town of Punta Gorda is famous for its relaxed atmosphere and for being a popular destination away from the crowds. What makes Punta Gorda an interesting place to visit, is the Garifuna People — the oldest settlement on the island. They speak their own language and still keep the own traditions and culture alive. The locals also have their own cuisine which combines seafood, coconut milk, plantains, bananas and other local ingredients. Sunday is considered to be the best day to visit the town as it is a festive day for the Garifuna People.

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.