The municipality of Malaga on the Costa del Sol, Torremolinos, has experienced significant growth in visitors and residents from 1920 to the present day. Originally a small fishing village, it has transformed into one of the main tourist destinations in Europe, especially since 1960, and has been quite popular in the films of that era.
Torremolinos, located at the foot of the Sierra de Mijas and extending to the coast, has a promenade that divides the two oldest districts of Torremolinos: La Carihuela and Bajondillo.
With its mix of cultures and nationalities, Torremolinos can be considered one of the most cosmopolitan destinations in Andalusia. Here, people from all over the world live all year round and enjoy services such as shops or pubs where English or German is mainly spoken, which can make you feel as if you were in another country once you cross their doors.
There is evidence of human presence in Torremolinos dating back more than 5000 years before our era. Human bones and other artefacts such as vessels, arrowheads, a ring and some decorative elements have been discovered in various caves, including the Cueva del Tesoro, the Cueva del Encanto, the Cueva de los Tejones and the Cueva Cubierta.
The first remains found correspond to a time when humans were learning to cultivate the fields, had domesticated animals and were already manufacturing pottery and other hunting utensils. In La Carihuela, an ancient cave was found in the area that joins with Bajondillo, where human remains were discovered that evidence a settlement.
In antiquity, there was a city founded by the Phoenicians known as Saduce near the municipality. However, it was the Romans who promoted the growth of the population around Torremolinos. They created a Roman road that extended from Malaga to Cadiz passing through Torremolinos, which led to the growth of settlements and fish salting factories along this route.
The Arab invasion in southern Spain left as a legacy the defensive tower of Torremolinos, located on the famous San Miguel street. This tower, known as "Torre de los Molinos", is 12 meters high and is located almost at the end of the mentioned street, in the direction of the promenade, just before starting the descent.
After the conquest by the Christian troops, they had to continue using the Moorish defensive towers to prevent the entry of pirates on land. Over time, they built the Castillo de Santa Clara and a defensive line with cannons in 1763 in the Montemar area, where the restored remains are still preserved in the Parque de la Batería.
Poverty in Torremolinos led it to join the capital in the early 20th century. The industry related to the mills disappeared and Torremolinos became a fishing district until around 1950. However, during the 60s, it transformed into a place of great tourist importance that attracted all kinds of celebrities of the time, such as Ava Gardner and many others.
The tourist boom in Torremolinos led to the opening of the first gay bar in Spain during Franco's dictatorship, who tolerated it although he carried out periodic raids.
Torremolinos became an independent municipality of Malaga on September 27, 1988.
Torremolinos, a vibrant municipality on the Costa del Sol, is a treasure trove of tourist attractions and activities. From its beautiful beaches to its rich history and culture, there is something for everyone in this charming destination. Here are some of the highlights that you can explore during your visit to Torremolinos.
San Miguel Street, located in the old town, is a place that every tourist should not miss. Along this street you will find a multitude of shops and establishments where you can eat or drink something. The street ends in a slope that goes down to the beach and passes next to the old Torre de los Molinos.
To see the location of San Miguel Street on the map, you can click here.
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Torremolinos among tourists are its beaches. With approximately 7 kilometers in total length, they are filled with tourists every summer and are the ideal place to, in addition to sunbathing, enjoy the good fried fish, the most popular dish of Torremolinos and the Costa del Sol in general.
To see the location of the beaches of Torremolinos on the map, you can click here.
If you like nature, in Torremolinos we find several green areas where you can enjoy tranquility. Among these areas are the botanical garden of Inca and the Battery park, which was used as an anti-aircraft defense with bunkers and tunnels in the past.
The Pinar de Torremolinos, also known as Los Pinares, is a magnificent natural spot just a few minutes from the town center. This authentic lung of the city is an outdoor space where you can enjoy a good shade in the middle of nature, practice sports on its trails, have a barbecue and refresh yourself with the water that springs from the fountains.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XiuwZ6qG1Hx7ct1j6
The Cañada del Lobo is another outstanding place for nature lovers. This enclave offers a network of trails that crosses a dense pine forest dotted with holm oaks, cork oaks, wild olive trees and dwarf palms, typically Mediterranean species. At the highest part there is a viewpoint from which you can get one of the best views of the Costa del Sol.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/V9cgC5zTGTkeAbtr9
Aqualand is the largest water park on the Costa del Sol and offers a variety of attractions for all ages. From exciting high-speed slides to children's play areas and relaxing lazy rivers, Aqualand has something for everyone. The park also has extensive picnic areas, restaurants and shops, making it an ideal place to spend a family day. Aqualand opens its doors on April 11. To see the location of the Aqualand water park on the map, you can click here.
Right next to Aqualand, you'll find the Crocodile Park, a fascinating reptile park where you can observe more than 200 crocodiles up close. This park offers the unique opportunity to learn about these impressive prehistoric animals in a safe and educational environment. In addition to the crocodiles, the park also houses a variety of other reptile species for visitors to discover. To see the location of the Crocodile Park on the map, you can click here.
In addition to the most well-known places, Torremolinos is home to a number of tourist attractions that are often overlooked but are equally charming. Here are some of them:
In Torremolinos, a city full of life and traditions, several important festivities are celebrated throughout the year. Among them, the Fair and Festivals of San Miguel, the celebration of the Virgen del Carmen and the Night of San Juan stand out.
Torremolinos has excellent road and train access, with 5 train stops throughout the municipality making it easy to get there from the Malaga airport or from the María Zambrano train station.
The bus network connects Torremolinos with Arroyo de la Miel, Benalmádena coast and town, Churriana, Estepona, Fuengirola, La Linea and Malaga. Among the lines operated by the Portillo company are:
Torremolinos is very close to Malaga airport, just a 10-minute drive or taxi ride away. If you need your own vehicle to discover Malaga during your holidays, you can check our car rental prices, or if you prefer you can request a taxi from Malaga airport to Torremolinos.
In the following map you can see the road route from Malaga airport to Torremolinos:
Town Hall: Plaza Blas Infante, 1 - 29620.
Telephone: 952 37 95 11
Official Website: Torremolinos Town Hall
Credit cards accepted
