Benalmádena in 3 days: Discover the definitive guide to making the most of this Costa del Sol destination. A comprehensive itinerary that breaks the trip down into its three main highlights: the Andalusian tradition of Benalmádena Pueblo, the natural beauty and hills of Arroyo de la Miel, and the leisure activities, beaches and marine life of Puerto Marina. Everything you need for the perfect getaway!
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If you’re planning your next getaway and wondering what to do in Benalmádena in 3 days, you’ve come to the right place.
This guide brings together the town’s top attractions, divided into its three main areas: Benalmádena Pueblo, Arroyo de la Miel and Benalmádena Costa.
With this itinerary, you’ll discover everything from Mediterranean beaches and an award-winning marina to unique monuments and mountain viewpoints.
The municipality is divided into three areas at different altitudes, and getting between them is quick and easy:
By hire car: This is the quickest option. From Benalmádena Pueblo to Arroyo de la Miel or the coast
it takes just 10–15 minutes via the A-368 road.
By local bus (lines M-112 and M-121): These run frequently between Pueblo, Arroyo de la Miel
(railway station) and Benalmádena Costa at a very affordable price. The journey takes around 20 minutes.
Start the day by wandering through the narrow, whitewashed streets of the historic centre.
The ideal starting point is the Plaza de España, home to the iconic sculpture of La Niña de Benalmádena. From there, head up to the Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán, the town’s oldest church, and stroll through the adjacent Jardines del Muro, a beautiful viewpoint designed by César Manrique.
Just a few minutes away stands the Colomares Castle Monument, an impressive architectural tribute in
stone built in the late 20th century to commemorate the Discovery of the Americas.
To round off the afternoon, visit the Buddhist Stupa of Enlightenment, which, at 33 metres high, is the largest in the Western world and offers a magical sunset.
La Pala d’Oro: Excellent Italian cuisine with a sophisticated touch right in the heart of the town.
El Higuerón Restaurant: Spectacular views of the coast and fine Andalusian cuisine.
La Niña Bonita: A traditional spot, ideal for sampling typical Málaga tapas at a good price.
Start the day in Arroyo de la Miel with a stroll through Parque de la Paloma, considered one of the
most beautiful urban green spaces in Europe. It covers over 200,000 square metres and is home to animals
roaming freely, such as peacocks, ducks and rabbits. It also boasts an incredible cactus garden.
Head to the Benalmádena Cable Car station to take a cable car up to the summit of Mount
Calamorro, almost 800 metres above sea level, from where, on a clear day, you can enjoy unobstructed views of the Rock of Gibraltar and Africa.
On your way down, head towards the coast to take photos of the striking Bil-Bil Castle, built in the Neo-Arabic style.
Enjoy the views: Get an exclusive discount by buying your [tickets for the Benalmádena Cable Car
at the best price; here’s a comparison table of the best options:
| Option | Seller | Price | See price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Teleférico Benalmádena: Entradas | Tiqets | From 20,40 € (checked Oct 2026) | Buy |
| Benalmádena: billete del teleférico | GetYourGuide | From 16,90 € (checked Oct 2026) | Buy |
Los Delirios: Creative dishes and signature tapas in a modern, cosy setting.
El Parador de la Paloma: Perfect for grilled meats and generous portions right next to the park.
Tapería El rincón de iker: A fantastic spot to enjoy authentic local tapas – quick and affordable.
Relax on the town’s urban beaches. Malapesquera Beach and Santa Ana Beach are ideal
for their calm waters and easy access. Stroll along the seafront promenade and enjoy delicious espetos for lunch at the
traditional beach bars.
Explore Puerto Marina, recognised as one of the world’s most beautiful marinas thanks to its
. Enjoy the shops, yachts and unmissable maritime activities.
One of the best things to do on a 3-day tour of Benalmádena is a dolphin-watching cruise.
Here are some selected links so you can choose the one that best suits your tastes and travel style.
Reservar entradas para avistar delfines en Benalmádena
Chiringuito El Mero: Specialists in seafood and fried fish from the coast.
Metro Pizza: Excellent Italian food with unobstructed views of the yachts in the harbour.
Toro Puerto Marina: High-quality meat and fine wines in an exclusive setting.
Explore breathtaking destinations just a short drive away. Book organized day trips with round-trip transport, official guides, and skip-the-line tickets included
Guides · BenalmádenaEnjoy a unique experience without having to worry about driving or getting tickets. Pick-up in Benalmádena to take you on a tour of the Caminito del Rey, one of the world’s most spectacular high-altitude walking trails, with walkways suspended more than 100 metres above the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes.
View details →
Guides · BenalmádenaDiscover the magic of the Serranía with one-day excursion to Ronda from the Costa del Sol. Enjoy a comfortable journey—with pickup available at key locations in Málaga, Torremolinos, Benalmádena, Fuengirola, and Marbella—and let yourself be captivated by one of the most visited destinations in Andalusia.
View details →
ExperiencesColomares CastleColomares Castle, situated in the heart of the picturesque town of Benalmádena, is a unique monument that has…From 9.00 €ExperiencesBenalmádena Cable CarBuy your tickets for the Benalmádena Cable Car at the best price. Enjoy the best views of the Costa del Sol, …From 16.90 €
GuidesWhat to see in Torremolinos with our official tourist guide: the best beaches, completely free activities, nightlife and events on the Costa del Sol.
Read guide →
GuidesA comprehensive 7-day guide featuring the best itineraries, activities and places of interest to visit in Benalmádena with the family.
Read guide →
GuidesDiscover Málaga in winter with this comprehensive 10-day guide, designed to help you make the most of the province while avoiding the crowds. It features detailed itineraries for the historic center, hiking trails through the Montes de Málaga, the best-kept secrets of Marbella, and top spots for traditional local cuisine—all while you enjoy the Costa del Sol’s excellent winter microclimate.
Read guide →
Event · MálagaTeatro del Soho CaixaBank
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Event · MálagaSohrlin Andalucía
From 11.90 €
See tickets (64 dates) →See tickets →
Event · MálagaTeatro Esad Málaga, C. Béla Bartók, 2, Teatinos-Universidad, 29010 Málaga
From 22.05 €
Buy on El Corte Inglés →See tickets →
