Marbella to Malaga and Nerja: Private day trip

Starting with the Phoenicians, every Mediterranean empire for the past 2000 years has sought to control Malaga’s strategic port. For the Moors, the city was so integral that they built their largest fortress in the region here. Today, the 8th century Alcazaba is home to the Archaeological Museum, exhibiting Phoenician and Roman artefacts. The 14th century Gibralfaro castle is connected to the Alcazaba by a stretch of wall, which offers stupendous views of the city. At the foot of the castle is the city’s historic center, with the Roman theatre, bullring, and 16th century Cathedral. Known as 'the one-armed' thanks to its unfinished tower, this palatial Renaissance building houses a series of artistic chapels. Picasso was born in Malaga, so his eponymous museum is a must visit - housed in a 16th century castle, visitors can enjoy the career-spanning collection, and the glass floor in the basement revealing the remains of Phoenician buildings.

Positioned at the eastern tip of the Costa del Sol, Nerja boasts nearly 10 miles of powdery beaches, making it a popular destination for beachgoers and watersports. However, its historic town center still feels like a village. The Balcon de Europa is the natural focus of the town and the venue for fiestas. Built on a rocky outcrop, jutting into the sea, it offers spectacular panoramic views of the whole coast. Discover the Nerja caves which are home to the world’s largest column and the world’s oldest Neanderthal cave paintings. The recent discovery of Roman pottery, Moorish coins, and the presence of an unusual biodiversity have all confirmed that discoveries in the Nerja Caves are seemingly limitless and subject to incredible global speculation.