benalmadena pueblo - Visit Spain and Mediterranean

Benalmadena Pueblo – explore the white village and old town above the Costa del Sol

Most visitors to the Costa del Sol and Benalmadena only think about the many beaches, marina and promenade area, but once they realize there’s also a fantastic White Village, they also realize there’s plenty of history and culture in the area. Even though the Costa and shore areas are a main draw to the region, the Benalmadena Pueblos is also a wonderful must see destination to enjoy the amazing culture, food and stunning views of the region from above.

Among the many beautiful Pueblos blancos located around the Costa del Sol, Benalmadena Pueblo is understated and a real gem without all the tourist visitors to other popular pueblos like Ronda, Mijas and even Frigiliana east of Malaga. What you’ll find here are breathtaking views, exceptional dining venues, historic landmarks along with the very distinctive white washed buildings, shopping venues and cobblestone streets and quiet little plazas that makes this Pueblo so understate and welcoming.

I took a bus up to the Pueblo from the Costa area of Benalmadena and expected it to be completely touristed since it was a relatively short drive up to get there from the central Costa area. The pueblo is low key and filled with beautiful pottery filled walls with geraniums, fountains, promenades and a variety of restaurants that cater to both locals and visitors to the area.

An easy day trip to Benalmadena Pueblo

It’s easy enough to take a day trip here to visit this pueblo blanco using public transportation, private car rental or even ride share apps to get you quickly up to the village above. Not as touristed as the other popular pueblo blancos, Benalmadena Pueblo feels more genuine even with some tourists that make the trek up to visit this lovely hilltop village.

How to get to Benalmadena Pueblo

You can a few transport options to get here to the pueblo below:

From Málaga Airport to Benalmádena Pueblo

1. By Car

Rent a car at the airport
Take the AP-7 (toll road) or A-7 (free coastal road) westbound
Exit at Benalmádena/Arroyo de la Miel
Follow signs uphill to Benalmádena Pueblo
Approximate driving time: 20–25 minutes

2. By Train + Bus or Taxi

Take Cercanías C1 train from the airport to Benalmádena-Arroyo de la Miel Station
- Runs every 20 minutes
- Duration: ~18 minutesCheck the ceranias website information here for more information.
From the station:
- Taxi: Around 10 minutes up to the Pueblo
- Bus: Take M-103 or M-121 local bus to the Pueblo (runs regularly but check schedule)

Check the local bus service website here for more information.

3. By Taxi (Direct from Airport)

Taxis available at airport arrivals
Direct to Benalmádena Pueblo
Approximate fare: €25–€35
Travel time: 20 minutes

C. From Málaga City Center

By Train + Bus or Taxi
- Take the C1 Cercanías train from Málaga Centro-Alameda or María Zambrano station to Arroyo de la Miel
- Then transfer to local bus or taxi as described above
By Car
- Take the A-7 or AP-7 westbound
- Follow signs to Benalmádena Pueblo

D. From Other Costa del Sol Locations

From Torremolinos, Fuengirola, or Marbella:
- Car: A-7/AP-7 toward Benalmádena
- Train (C1): Stop at Arroyo de la Miel, then bus or taxi to the Pueblo

Top attractions to visit at Benalmadena Pueblo

There’s nothing like visiting the old town of Benalmadena and just getting lost in the myriad of wonderful narrow streets, galleries and shops, historic buildings and picture perfect plazas lined with cafes to lounge in. After doing all that exploring, you can check out these other nearby attractions to visit in the area.

1. Colomares Castle (Castillo de Colomares)

A monument dedicated to Christopher Columbus and the discovery of America
Unique mix of architectural styles: Byzantine, Romanesque, Gothic, and Mudejar
Great for photos and panoramic views

2. Benalmádena Stupa

The largest Buddhist stupa in Europe
Peaceful space for reflection with views of the coast
Includes a small exhibition space and meditation room

3. Iglesia de Santo Domingo

Traditional whitewashed church from the 17th century
Perched on a hilltop with a beautiful overlook
Surrounded by a quiet plaza and gardens

B. Scenic Spots and Viewpoints

1. Mirador de Benalmádena Pueblo

Panoramic viewpoint over the coastline and mountains
Ideal for sunset views and photography

2. Jardines del Muro

Designed by César Manrique
Terraced gardens with fountains and great views
Peaceful place for a stroll or quiet break

C. Museums and Local Culture

1. Museo Precolombino Felipe Orlando

Small museum featuring pre-Columbian art and artifacts from Latin America
Interesting cultural contrast to the Andalusian setting
Free or low-cost entry

D. Food and Local Life

Enjoy the local frood from the region including the tapas, drinks and sweets to eat in the area along with these main dishes below:

Small village squares like Plaza España offer traditional Andalusian atmosphere
Great places to try local tapas and relax at a terrace

A. Traditional Andalusian Dishes

1. Gazpacho / Salmorejo

Cold tomato-based soups, perfect for warmer days
Salmorejo is thicker and creamier, often topped with jamón and egg
Common starter in local restaurants

2. Porra Antequerana

Similar to salmorejo but even thicker, often served with tuna or egg
Local variation from nearby Antequera, also popular here

3. Rabo de Toro (Oxtail Stew)

Slow-cooked, tender meat in a rich red wine sauce
Comfort food often found in village taverns

B. Fresh Seafood

1. Boquerones (Anchovies)

Served either fried (boquerones fritos) or marinated (boquerones en vinagre)
Light and full of flavor, a must-try on the coast

2. Puntillitas

Tiny fried squid, crunchy and served as a tapa or main
Popular across Málaga province

3. Grilled Sardines (Espetos)

Traditionally cooked over open fire pits (more common at the coast, but sometimes featured inland)
Local favorite if you spot it on the menu

C. Tapas and Local Meats

1. Chorizo al Vino or Chistorra

Spicy or mild sausages cooked in wine or grilled
Common tapa in village bars

2. Carrillada (Pork Cheek)

Slow-braised and very tender
Served with local wine or sherry-based sauce

D. Sweets and Desserts

1. Tarta Malagueña

Almond cake with sweet Málaga wine and candied pumpkin
Local specialty for dessert or coffee break

2. Roscos de Vino / Polvorones

Traditional Andalusian pastries
Especially common during festive seasons but can be found year-round in bakeries

E. Drinks to Pair With Local Food

1. Sweet Málaga Wine

Rich and syrupy, made from Moscatel or Pedro Ximénez grapes
Often served as a dessert wine or aperitif

2. Local Red or White Wines

Wines from the Málaga region or nearby Ronda
Pair well with tapas or grilled meats

3. Vermouth (Vermut Casero)

Homemade-style vermouth served on ice with orange or olive
Great for late afternoon tapas

restaurants, or hidden local favorites.

2. Artisan Shops and Boutiques

Local crafts, handmade goods, and souvenirs
Casual browsing in narrow cobbled streets

E. Nearby Attractions (Optional Short Trips)

1. Mariposario de Benalmádena (Butterfly Park)

Next to the Stupa
Tropical environment with hundreds of butterfly species
Family-friendly and visually interesting