Ditch the beach crowds and discover quiet plazas, epic views, and storybook charm in these stunning white villages just a short drive from Málaga.
By Liza S. | Updated 15 Apr 2025 | Málaga | Places To Go |
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Look, I get it — Costa del Sol is comfy. Beach, sun, a cold drink in hand... what’s not to love? But if you never stray beyond the coast, you’re seriously missing out. Away from the bustling beaches and tourist hotspots, there’s a whole world of whitewashed villages that feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook (minus the crowds and overpriced sangria).
These pueblos blancos are full of cobbled streets, mountain views, sleepy plazas, and that slow, peaceful vibe that makes you wonder why you ever thought a sunbed was exciting. Some are well-loved, others are blissfully under the radar — but they all show off Andalucia at its most charming.
So go on, peel yourself off that beach towel. Here are 7 white villages near Málaga that are 100% worth swapping flip-flops for walking shoes. Best of all: they’re all within 90 minutes of the city!
Here’s a quick overview of my favourite white villages near Malaga city:
Read on to discover the magic and beauty of each of these white villages in Malaga province!
How to get there: Frigiliana is a 50-minute drive east of Málaga. No car? You can take a bus to Nerja, then hop in a local taxi or catch the bus up to the village.
Frigiliana is the kind of village that makes you question whether you’ve accidentally wandered onto a film set. It’s that ridiculously pretty.
Whitewashed houses trimmed with cobalt blue, potted plants bursting with colour, tiled steps, and sweeping views of the sea — it’s almost suspicious how photogenic it all is.
But it’s not just a pretty face.
The village near Malaga is known for its well-preserved Moorish quarter, and you’ll definitely get your steps in wandering its maze of steep, narrow lanes (tip: wear actual shoes, not flip-flops). Keep an eye out for the ceramic plaques telling stories from Frigiliana’s past — it’s history, but make it cute.
There’s also a lovely artsy vibe here — local shops, galleries, and a summer festival that turns the whole village into one big street party.
Despite being one of the more popular white villages, in my opinion, it hasn’t lost its charm. It’s small, scenic, and easy to fall in love with — especially if you pair it with a side trip to nearby Nerja.
How to get there: Mijas Pueblo is about 35–45 minutes by car from Málaga. If you’re not driving, take the C1 train or bus to Fuengirola, then hop on a local bus M-122 up the hill — they run regularly.
Mijas Pueblo is one of those places that manages to be both postcard-perfect and easy to visit — which is probably why it’s a favourite day trip from the coast.
But don’t let the tour groups put you off.
Honestly, I was a bit skeptical before I went because it seems like everyone loves Mijas… and yes, it is popular but I was still really charmed by it!
Come early or stay late, and you’ll catch it at its most peaceful — with narrow cobbled streets, colourful flower pots, and epic views that stretch all the way to the Med.
It’s got a bit of everything: quirky little museums, a bullring carved into the rock, and plenty of shady plazas to chill in when the sun’s doing its thing. There’s even a chapel built into a cave (because why not?).
And yes, you’ll spot the famous donkey taxis. Love them or hate them, they’re part of the town’s identity — but personally, I’d recommend skipping the ride and grabbing a coffee with a view instead.
How to get there: Just 30 minutes by car from Málaga. If you’re using public transport, take the C1 train to Benalmádena-Arroyo de la Miel, then catch a local bus (there are a few like M-103 and M-121) or short taxi ride up to the pueblo.
If you’ve only ever seen the beachy, built-up part of Benalmádena, prepare to be pleasantly surprised.
Just a short drive up the hill is Benalmádena Pueblo — the original village — and it’s got all the whitewashed charm you came to Andalucia for, minus the karaoke bars and souvenir shops.
I was kinda on-the-fence about Benalmádena but visiting the pueblo completely turned my feelings around! It’s a whole world away from the crowded beaches, scores of hotels and resorts, and touristy amenities in Benalmádena Costa.
Benalmádena Pueblo is small, calm, and ridiculously pretty, with flower-filled balconies, winding streets, and viewpoints that’ll make you do that dramatic “wow” exhale. The vibe is relaxed, almost sleepy — perfect for a lazy stroll, a long lunch, or just pretending you live there (you’ll be tempted).
Just wandering along the streets was lovely. It’s a place that encourages you to slow down and enjoy the moment.
Don’t miss the quirky Castillo de Colomares — a bonkers, fairytale-like monument to Christopher Columbus with amazing intricate details — and the peaceful Buddhist Stupa, which has panoramic views all the way to Africa on a clear day. Yep, really.
Photo courtesy of VisitCostadelSol.com
How to get there: Best accessed by car, Canillas de Aceituno is about 1 hour drive from Málaga. The drive is scenic, winding through olive groves and rolling hills, so it’s all part of the experience.
If you’re the kind of traveller who hears “off the beaten path” and immediately perks up, Canillas de Aceituno should be firmly on your radar.
Tucked away in the Axarquía region, on the edge of the Sierra de Tejeda mountains, this little village is the kind of place that feels like a well-kept secret — no crowds, no gimmicks, just whitewashed beauty and proper small-town Andalucian life.
The village itself is a delight to wander. Think narrow streets that twist and climb, traditional tiled doorways, and colourful geraniums bursting from every windowsill. It’s the kind of place where neighbours still stop to chat in the street and nothing much happens in a hurry — and that’s exactly the point.
Canillas is also a top spot for walkers and nature lovers. It’s the starting point for the El Saltillo trail, a lesser-known (and less busy) alternative to the Caminito del Rey. The hike includes a dramatic suspension bridge that crosses a deep gorge — and if you’re into sweeping mountain views, this trail seriously delivers.
If you’re not up for hiking, don’t worry — the village is worth the visit all on its own.
There are a few excellent spots to sit and admire the views, especially near the main plaza. You’ll see La Maroma, the highest peak in Malaga province, looming in the distance — and on a clear day, you can even spot the sea.
How to get there: About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from Málaga. There’s no direct public transport, so you’ll need your own wheels — but the drive is beautiful and totally worth it.
Casares is the kind of village that makes you pull over the car just to stare at it.
Located dramatically on a steep hillside, the white houses look like they’ve been stacked by hand, tumbling down from the old Moorish castle at the top. It’s got that wow factor — especially if you love your views with a side of history.
This is classic white village territory: cobbled lanes, crooked staircases, old stone fountains, and locals who always seem to be carrying a loaf of bread or heading to the plaza for a chat. There’s a calm, everyday rhythm to Casares that’s really refreshing.
The ruins of the Castillo de Casares are worth the (steep) walk, not just for the history, but for the 360° views across the valley — and on a clear day, all the way to the Rock of Gibraltar and even Morocco. Not bad, eh?
If you’re into walking, there are loads of nearby trails through the surrounding hills and nature reserves. Casares is also part of a protected natural area, so it’s not unusual to spot soaring eagles or even griffon vultures circling overhead like something out of a nature documentary.
Photo courtesy of Ayuntamiento de Comares
How to get there: Around 1 hour by car from Málaga. — and honestly, the drive through the Axarquía hills is all part of the adventure. ALSA does have a direct bus but only once a day so it’s not ideal for a day trip.
If you want the kind of views that make you feel like you’re standing on top of the world, Comares is your village.
Nicknamed “The Balcony of the Axarquía,” this clifftop gem sits over 700 metres above sea level — and yes, the drive up is a bit twisty, but the pay-off? Absolutely spectacular.
Comares is steeped in Moorish history, and you can literally follow it through the village by tracing the ceramic footprints embedded in the pavement. They lead you past Arabic arches, hidden lookouts, and ancient remains of a fortress that once guarded these mountains.
It’s part living museum, part sleepy mountain village, with a few goats thrown in for good measure.
It’s also the kind of place where you'll probably be the only tourist — and that’s half the appeal. Stroll the narrow streets, find a shady bench with a jaw-dropping view, and just be. Bonus points if you catch one of the local festivals — they go all in.
Feeling brave? Comares is also home to the longest zipline in Spain and it runs across a dramatic ravine. Not for the faint of heart, but definitely one for the memory books!
How to get there: Around 1 hour by car from Málaga. There are municipal minibuses from Málaga to Cómpeta, but they only run 2-4x per day— driving will give you more flexibility (and better views en route!).
Tucked into the side of the Sierra Almijara mountains, Cómpeta is the kind of village that knows how to take things slow — in the best possible way. It’s got a laid-back, creative vibe, a thriving expat community, and some of the best local wine in the region (don’t leave without trying the sweet vino de Cómpeta).
The heart of the village is Plaza Almijara, a sun-drenched square perfect for lazy lunches or people-watching over a cold drink. From there, it’s all winding alleys, whitewashed houses, and unexpected views around every corner — the kind that make you instinctively reach for your camera.
Cómpeta’s also a base for walkers and outdoorsy types, with access to stunning trails that wind into the nearby Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara y Alhama Natural Park. Whether you’re hiking or just here for the peaceful atmosphere and mountain air, it’s hard not to fall for this place.
Artists and makers have quietly made Cómpeta home over the years, so don’t be surprised to stumble upon galleries, workshops, or a pottery studio tucked behind a church. It’s got just the right amount of buzz — without ever feeling busy.
While a few of these white villages are accessible by public transport, the best way to discover them is by renting a car and exploring on your own.
I personally use and recommend DiscoverCars. I love being able to compare prices, conditions, etc and find the best deal that suits my needs.
Input your travel dates below and see what deals are available for your Andalucia trip.
Sure, the coast is fun — but these white villages near Malaga? They’re where the real magic happens.
Think jaw-dropping views, cute tapas bars, and streets so pretty you’ll wonder if you’ve wandered into a postcard. It’s the Andalucia most tourists miss… and that’s exactly why you should go.
So if you’ve got a free day (and a sense of adventure), hop in the car, head for the hills, and get exploring — you’ll be back with better photos, fewer crowds, and a whole new favourite side of southern Spain.
Buen viaje!
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