Cheong Fatt Tze, the Blue Mansion, was one of the wealthiest merchants of the 19th century, and Penang Straits Settlement imported artisans from China to build this opulent 38-room mansion. With its five courtyards, carved woodwork, Gothic louvered windows and cast iron, the mansion is a fascinating fusion of East and West culture. The building was restored at a cost of 7.6 million ringgit, and it is crammed with sculptures, antique furniture and tapestries, while now being a unique boutique hotel. However, it is also open for non-residents during guided tours, so book one ahead.

For brave souls seeking the world’s most exhilarating swim, Devil’s Pool delivers an unforgettable adrenaline rush. This natural rock pool, sculpted by millennia of erosion, sits precisely on the precipice of Victoria Falls, where the Zambezi’s waters cascade 100 metres into the gorge below. Accessible only during the dry season (typically mid-August to mid-January), the experience begins with a boat ride to Livingstone Island — the very spot where explorer David Livingstone first laid eyes on the falls in 1855. The adventure continues as visitors wade and swim through gentle currents, guided by experts to the pool’s edge. Here, a submerged rock lip creates a natural barrier, allowing swimmers to peer safely over the thunderous drop while the river’s force swirls around them. In the driest months (October-November), some may walk across exposed rocks to reach the pool, though a guide remains mandatory. While the sight of bathers lounging at the waterfall’s brink makes for iconic photos, the reality is even more breathtaking. As over 500 million litres of water plunge past each minute, the pool’s deceptive calm contrasts with the roaring abyss just beyond your fingertips. Five daily tours depart for this once-in-a-lifetime experience, though nature dictates the schedule — high waters from March to May render the pool inaccessible. For those who dare, Devil’s Pool offers not just a swim, but a visceral connection to the raw power of Africa’s greatest waterfall.

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.

This compact museum brings a slice of Russian art and culture to Malaga, with pieces borrowed from the Leningrad State Museum. The collection covers everything from grand, classical works to more modern, postmodern stuff. They also run events like talks, music performances, and readings. Audio guides and tours are available.