Málaga, the capital of the Costa del Sol, has been chosen by European Best Destination as the number one city in Europe to spend the Christmas holidays in the sun 2018.
The festive light display is a highlight of Christmas in Málaga for both locals and visitors
Already top of the list of Best Sunny Christmas Markets in Europe, this year Málaga city has been selected by the European Best Destination organisation, which is responsible for selecting the best European cities in different categories every year, as the best urban destination to spend Christmas in the sun.
Those responsible for the 2018 selection have described the southern city as “a bright and surprising city that is a mix of everything travellers seek: sun, beach, culture, authenticity, tradition and shopping”, and have agreed that it is the fashionable destination to visit in 2019.
One of the highlights of Christmas in Málaga for locals and visitors, are the spectacular light displays on the central Calle Larios. Voted the most beautiful Christmas lights in Europe by members of European Best Destination, the pedestrianised street is illuminated with a fantastic display of light and sound three times each evening throughout the festive season.
The nearby Christmas market is held every year in the Paseo del Parque and includes stalls for food, drinks, crafts, souvenirs and nougat, whilst the surrounding streets are filled with Christmas music and carol performances, the most famous are those of the Cathedral and the Málaga Philharmonic Orchestra.
Nativity scenes spread through the churches and main roads of the city, the most attractive can be found in the Cathedral, but there are also very beautiful displays to be found in the Town Hall and the Brotherhood of the Sepulcher and Students.
On January 5th, much like all towns along the Costa del Sol, Málaga city grinds to a standstill as the three kings arrive in a spectacular procession of floats scattering sweets and candies to crowds of excited children.