Malaga

To see what inspired a genius

Malaga-born Picasso, the genius behind the world’s priciest pictures, adored his home city and at the Picasso Museum you’ll see some of his best-loved works (mostly donated by his family) and learn how the city’s famous natural light, architecture and cheeky spirit, influenced the great man.

For the history

In my opinion, Malaga will easily give Seville a run for its money when it comes to historical monuments. The oldest, Gibralfaro Castle, which was founded by the Phoenicians, has a museum inside chronicling the city's history over the centuries, but the over-riding reason for a visit is that it has the best views in town. On your way down from the giddying heights, take in the 11th-century Alcazaba fortress, whose aromatic gardens will take you on a meandering route down to the web of the 19th-century lanes and to the imposing 16th-century cathedral that dominates the city's skyline.

For the tapas route

I like to do as the locals do and spend lunchtimes or evenings calling into different bars – sampling different tapas along the way. By doing the same you will experience the heart and soul of this historic city; it will be almost like dining with the city itself. From contemporary, Michelin-rated venues like La Moraga to the oldest bar in Malaga, El Pimpi, there’s no shortage of great places to choose from.

To experience a botanical masterpiece

Set in the 250,000 square metre sub-tropical grounds of a palatial 19th-century home on the city’s outskirts and with more than 3,000 different plants and countless streams and fountains, I rate Jardín de la Concepción as one of the most stunning gardens in Europe. You’ll have to tear yourself away from the jaw-dropping views when it’s time to leave.

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