food-drink
12 Best Rooftop Bars in Malaga: Sunset Views & Cocktails (2026)
After living in Spain for years, this is the advice I always give to visiting friends.
Rooftop Bars in Malaga
Looking for rooftop bars in Malaga? The city has transformed its skyline into a cocktail playground. From historic hotel terraces overlooking the cathedral to modern infinity pools with harbour views, there's a rooftop for every mood.
Here's where to go when you want to add a little height to your night. These are the spots we keep coming back to.
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Best Rooftop Bars in Malaga Centre
These are the rooftops in the heart of the city, all within walking distance of each other. Start at one, end at another.
AC Hotel Malaga Palacio
View: 360-degree panorama from 15th floor | Best for: Best overall views | Price: 8-15 euros
This is the highest rooftop bar in Malaga, and the views prove it.
You can see the port, the distant mountains, and the entire Costa del Sol coastline. The pioneer of Malaga's rooftop scene and still one of the best.
The drinks are good, but it's the view that makes it special.
Elevator access to the 15th floor. They often have live music on weekends. If the queue is too long, head next door to La Terraza Molina Lario.
What to order: Classic Negroni, gin and tonic
Location: Calle Cortina del Muelle, 1 (by the port)
Local tip
Book ahead for sunset, especially on weekends. Non-hotel guests may face an entry charge during peak times.
La Terraza at Hotel Molina Lario
View: Cathedral and city centre | Best for: Live music | Price: 7-12 euros
Set above the Molina Lario Hotel on the eighth floor, this rooftop offers sweeping views of Malaga's cathedral and the surrounding streets. The port is visible in the distance.
My absolute favourite part about this rooftop is it's the only one that regularly has a live band.
Check their schedule to time your visit with some live music. There's also a small pool (hotel guests only).
What to order: Wine by the glass, cocktails
Location: Calle Molina Lario, 22 (next to the cathedral)
Aurea Rooftop
View: City skyline with infinity pool | Best for: Stylish evening | Price: 10-16 euros
If you're into sleek design and well-made cocktails, head to Aurea.
It sits on top of the Salles Hotel Malaga Centro and looks like it belongs in a travel magazine. There's also an infinity pool, just in case you needed another reason.
The split-level terrace has wooden bars and tented seating.
They host flamenco nights on Wednesdays and indie band concerts throughout summer. The infinity pool is for hotel guests, but the bar area is open to all.
What to order: Signature gin and tonic with locally sourced botanicals
Location: Calle Marmoles, 6
Chinitas Urban Sky
View: Cathedral to port panorama | Best for: Local atmosphere | Price: 6-12 euros
Tucked above a historic building near Calle Larios, this rooftop is a local favourite. Less touri
sty than the hotel rooftops, with more character. The atmosphere is relaxed, the drinks are excellent, and the view takes in everything from the cathedral to the busy port.
If you can, go during golden hour.
You won't regret it. Access via stairs, so may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.
What to order: Mojito (their specialty)
Location: Pasaje Chinitas, 2
Larios Terrace at Room Mate Larios
View: Calle Larios shopping street | Best for: Pre-dinner drinks | Price: 8-14 euros
Perched above the stylish Room Mate Larios Hotel, this terrace has a retractable roof and overlooks Malaga's main shopping street. Hip monochrome furniture, stone walls, and a mosaic-tiled bar give it a quirky vibe.
The setting is chic and elegant, perfect for a relaxed evening before dinner. They have DJ entertainment on weekends.
What to order: Expertly crafted gin and tonic
Location: Calle Marques de Larios, 2
La Terraza de Valeria
View: Mountains and marina | Best for: Colourful Instagram photos | Price: 8-14 euros
Colourful, cosy, and effortlessly cool.
The striped loungers add a playful touch, giving off major Miami vibes with far better tapas. You'll get stunning city views, a fun crowd, and cocktails that don't mess around.
They serve sushi at night, and there's a small plunge pool. Hotel guests get priority, but the bar area welcomes everyone.
What to order: Virgen Valeria (non-alcoholic specialty)
Location: Room Mate Valeria Hotel, Plaza del Poeta Alfonso Canales
Terraza San Juan
View: San Juan Bautista Church | Best for: Atmospheric evening | Price: 7-12 euros
Perched atop Hotel Malaga Premium on the 5th floor, this laid-back rooftop has unbeatable views of the Iglesia de San Juan Bautista. Especially stunning at sunset when the bell tower glows gold.
Not the highest rooftop, but incredibly atmospheric.
The classic cocktails like Negroni are well-made and fairly priced. Great for relaxed evening drinks or a pre-dinner meet-up.
What to order: Negroni, tinto de verano
Location: Hotel Malaga Premium, 5th floor
Rooftop Bars with Alcazaba Views
These terraces put you face-to-face with Malaga's ancient Moorish fortress.
La Terraza de la Alcazaba (Batik)
View: Alcazaba fortress at eye level | Best for: History with drinks | Price: 8-14 euros
This spot has one major perk: it puts you right in front of the Alcazaba, Malaga's ancient Moorish fortress. The multi-level terrace includes the Batik restaurant, and the views stretch to Gibralfaro Castle above.
Order a tinto de verano, find a seat, and enjoy the kind of view that makes you wonder why you don't live here year-round.
Arrive early to snag a prime spot. They fill up quickly.
What to order: Tinto de verano, sharing plates
Location: Alcazaba Premium Hostel, Calle Alcazabilla, 12
Budget-Friendly Rooftop Bars
You don't need to spend a fortune for sunset views in Malaga.
Terraza Oasis (La Terraza San Telmo)
View: City rooftops | Best for: Backpackers and budget travellers | Price: 4-8 euros
Tucked away on top of the Oasis Hostel, this plant-filled terrace is a backpacker's dream. The drinks are affordable, the atmosphere is easygoing, and the crowd is friendly.
They host concerts, exhibitions, and DJ performances throughout the season. Great place to strike up a conversation and meet new people.
What to order: Mojito (popular and refreshing)
Location: Oasis Hostel, Calle San Telmo, 14
Rooftop Bars with Pools
Want to swim with your sundowner? These spots have pools (though usually for hotel guests only).
Lolita Skyview Pool & Lounge
View: City panorama with infinity pool | Best for: Glamorous afternoon | Price: 10-16 euros
At the Only You Hotel, Lolita Skyview has an infinity pool overlooking the city with multiple bars. There's also a gluten-free restaurant option.
The rooftop pool adds a touch of luxury without feeling over the top.
Great place to enjoy an afternoon cocktail or wind down in the evening. Pool access is for hotel guests, but the bar welcomes everyone.
What to order: Aperol spritz, signature cocktails
Location: Only You Hotel
H10 Croma Rooftop Bar
View: Wide city panorama | Best for: Weekday visits | Price: 8-14 euros
At the top of the H10 Croma Hotel, this rooftop offers wide views over Malaga and a sleek, modern atmosphere. It's often less crowded on weekdays, making it a good choice when other spots are packed.
What to order: Signature gin cocktail
Location: H10 Croma Hotel
How to Choose the Right Rooftop Bar
With so many options, here's how to narrow it down:
For the best overall view: AC Hotel Malaga Palacio (highest in the city) For sunset: Aurea Rooftop or La Terraza Molina Lario For local atmosphere: Chinitas Urban Sky For history lovers: La Terraza de la Alcazaba For Instagram: La Terraza de Valeria For budget travellers: Terraza Oasis For pool vibes: Lolita Skyview or Aurea
Tips for Visiting Rooftop Bars in Malaga
- Arrive early for sunset: The best tables go fast. Aim to arrive 30-45 minutes before sunset
- Book ahead: AC Hotel and Aurea are especially busy. Reserve for weekend evenings
- Seasonal hours: Most rooftops are open April-September. Some operate year-round with retractable roofs
- Dress code: Smart casual works everywhere. Beach clothes won't get you in at the hotel rooftops
- Entry charges: Some hotel rooftops charge non-guests during peak times, especially AC Hotel
- Check for events: Many host live music, flamenco, or DJ nights. Check schedules in advance
Best Time to Visit
Golden hour (1-2 hours before sunset): Best light for photos, atmosphere building Sunset: Peak time, most crowded, book ahead After dark: City lights, romantic atmosphere, often live music Weekday evenings: Quieter, easier to get good seats
Frequently Asked Questions
Hola! I'm the researcher, walker, and co-founder behind Spain on Foot. I help travellers experience Spain authentically, through in-depth guides, locals-only knowledge, and cultural stories you won't find in guidebooks. You can reach me at heidi@spainonfoot.com
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