What to do and see in Nerja? Delight in its beaches and famous Guinness World Record caves

Waking up every morning in a natural paradise like Nerja, on the Costa del Sol, is a unique experience. If you’re wondering what to see in Nerja, you’ll be delighted to know that this destination is much more than its famous fine sandy beaches. It offers must-see sights such as the impressive Nerja Caves and the iconic “Balcon de Europa”, which invite you to explore the region’s rich history and enjoy its spectacular views.

But that’s not all. If you’re considering moving to this idyllic location, the homes in Nerja combine the peace and quiet of a picturesque seaside village with all modern comforts. Can you imagine living in such a place? Read on this Quadratia article to discover all that Nerja has to offer – we guarantee you’ll fall in love with this destination and its unique lifestyle!

Nerja, one of the most charming spots on the Costa del Sol

Thus, Nerja, a charming coastal destination located in the province of Malaga, stands out for its unrivalled natural beauty and cultural richness. This municipality on the Costa del Sol boasts golden sandy beaches such as Burriana beach, and hidden coves such as “Barranco de Maro”, ideal for enjoying the sun and the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean.

In addition, the Costa del Sol is home to a wide variety of golf courses, which makes Nerja an ideal starting point to explore different options and enjoy the practice of this sport. For example, one of the golf courses near Nerja is the Baviera Golf Club, which is approximately 20 minutes away by car. This course offers a challenging round with views of the sea and mountains, and is known for its excellent maintenance and services.

Malaga’s gastronomic offer in Nerja is also remarkable. The local restaurants serve a variety of dishes based on fresh fish and seafood, such as pescaíto frito (fried fish) and espetos de sardinas (sardine skewers), which are true culinary delights.

All in all, Nerja presents itself as an irresistible destination for those who are looking for new opportunities or experiences outside their trusted circle on the wonderful Costa del Sol.

On Sunday 28th April 2024, Nerja celebrated its popular “Residents’ Day”. This is conceived as a day where the town celebrates its multiculturalism, given that ⅓ of the resident population is foreign.

Isabel Soriano, Sales and Marketing Office Coordinator at Quadratia

Essential route to get to know Nerja if you don’t have many days to spare

Do you have little time and are just passing through the town? If your answer is yes and you only have a day or a weekend, we suggest this essential route to make the most of your visit.

Discover the highlights of Nerja and enjoy its main attractions.

What to see in Nerja in one day?

1. “Balcon de Europa”: Start your visit at this iconic viewpoint with panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the town.
2. Nerja Caves: Explore these impressive caves, famous for their geological formations and stalactites – the largest in Europe!
3. Burriana Beach: Enjoy some time at this popular beach, ideal for relaxing and swimming in crystal clear waters.
4. Old Town: Stroll through the charming centre of Nerja, with its narrow streets, whitewashed houses and picturesque squares.
5. “Barranco de Maro”: Finish with a visit to this cove and enjoy the sunset with amazing views of the Maro Cliffs.

Things to do and see in Nerja in one weekend

• Day 1: Getting to know the city:
  • Morning: Start the day with panoramic views from the “Balcón de Europa”. This viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the coast of Nerja, making it the perfect starting point for exploring the town.
  • Noon: Walk through the charming historic centre of Nerja. Stroll through its narrow, whitewashed streets, visit the “Iglesia del Salvador” and enjoy its traditional architecture.
  • Afternoon: Spend the afternoon exploring the impressive Nerja Caves. Famous for their stalactite and stalagmite formations, these caves are a natural spectacle not to be missed.
  • Dinner: There’s no better way to end the day than with dinner at one of the restaurants in the historic centre. Here you will find a wide variety of gastronomic options to enjoy the local cuisine.

• Day 2: Nature and relaxation:
  • Morning and Noon: Visit Burriana Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Nerja. Relax on its sands, swim in its crystal clear waters and take advantage of the restaurants and bars that are distributed along its length.
  • Afternoon and evening: Head to “Cala Barranco del Maro” in the afternoon to enjoy a more intimate and relaxed environment. Pack a picnic and enjoy a dreamy sunset.

Tourism in Nerja: From the “Balcón de Europa” to the famous Chanquete’s boat

If you are new to Nerja, we recommend you start your visit at the Tourist Office, located near the Plaza de España and the Church of El Salvador. There, the team of trained, multilingual staff will give you with all the essential information you need to explore the town. You will get useful recommendations, interesting facts and tips on the main sights and leisure activities, ensuring that you can make the most of your experience in this charming seaside resort.

For those who prefer immediate access to online information, we at Quadratia have created a comprehensive guide highlighting the cultural richness and tourism in Nerja. This guide is designed to make it easy for you to discover the highlights of the town at the click of a button.

Discover the 5 essential places to see in Nerja!

The “Balcón de Europa”

The “Balcón de Europa” is one of the most emblematic viewpoints on the Costa del Sol . This iconic vantage point owes its name to King Alfonso XII, who, impressed with its views, described it as a balcony from which to reach Africa, although this statement is more symbolic than literal.

Located in the heart of Nerja, between the beaches of Calahonda and “El Salón”, the “Balcón de Europa” is a perfect place to enjoy the sun and the pleasant climate while contemplating the beautiful seascape. Moreover, its central location allows you to easily explore the surroundings and savour the local gastronomy, experiencing the unique atmosphere of Nerja.

Other nearby viewpoints to see in Nerja

Taking this acclaimed viewpoint as a starting point, one of the most recommended routes is to walk along “Calle Hernando de Carabeo“, famous for its terraces that offer exceptional panoramic views of beaches, coves and cliffs. Among the highlights of this walk, the “Mirador del Bendito” viewpoint stands out for offering a privileged view of the imposing rock formations.

Similarly and just on the other side, you should not miss the “Mirador de los Cangrejos”, located at the intersection of Av. Mediterráneo and “Calle Málaga”, next to the “Plaza/Parque de los Cangrejos”. This viewpoint provides a unique perspective of the coastline of Nerja, completing a visually stunning tour that captures the essence of this Malaga town.

The Nerja caves: Visit the world’s largest stalactite awarded with a Guinness World Record

The Nerja Caves, discovered in 1959, are one of the must-see places in Nerja. Here you will find the largest stalactite in the world, recognised by the Guinness World Record, with a height of more than 32 metres. In addition, the caves are home to cave paintings between 35,000 and 43,500 years old, making it a site of great archaeological and cultural importance. It is a destination not to be missed for nature and history lovers.

The Nerja Caves have been in the Guinness Book of Records since 1977, when the cave was recognised as having the largest stalactite in the world (32 metres from ceiling to floor, with a maximum diameter of 18 metres).

Isabel Soriano, Sales and Marketing Office Coordinator at Quadratia

Which days can you visit the caves of Nerja for free?

The Nerja Caves can be visited free of charge from Monday to Friday at 9.30 am, although places are limited to 60 tickets per day. This benefit is available exclusively to European Union citizens on presentation of a valid identity card. Therefore, if you want to secure a ticket, it is advisable to apply a couple of days in advance. That is, 48 hours in advance.

The caves are open all year round, with the exception of 1 January, in celebration of New Year’s Day, and 15 May, in commemoration of St. Isidore’s Day.

How to get to the Nerja Caves from the town centre

To get to the Nerja Caves from the town centre, you have several options:

• By bus: From the bus station in Nerja, located on Avenida de Pescia, you can take the bus in the direction of Granada, which makes its first stop in Maro, where the caves are located.
• By taxi: There are several taxi stops in Nerja, such as the “Plaza de la Ermita” or the bus stop. The taxi ride to the Nerja Caves costs approximately 10 euros.
• By car: If you prefer to go by car, follow the N-340 road in the direction of Granada. The signs will take you easily to the caves, located in the hamlet of Maro.
• By tourist train (Cueva Tren): There is a tourist train that departs from the “Plaza de España” in Nerja and runs through the town, making a stop at the Nerja Caves. This train offers a comfortable and picturesque option to visit the caves.

The “Plaza de España” and the Church of El Salvador

At the end of your tour of the Nerja Caves and if you decide to return to the centre, you have the option of parking your vehicle in the free car park behind the Hermitage of Nuestra Señora de las Angustias, or else in the paid car park in Plaza España, right in the heart of the historic centre. The latter is especially convenient if you want to explore the main sights of Nerja, starting with Plaza España itself.

This large space is not only a central meeting point, but also houses the Nerja Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the town’s rich history, from the Palaeolithic era to the 20th century (you get free entry to it with your Nerja Caves ticket).

From Plaza España, walking along Calle Carmen and passing under the Town Hall, you will come to the Plaza del Balcón de Europa. Here you will find the Iglesia del Salvador, one of the points of interest to see in Nerja. This church, built between 1505 and 1697, is distinguished by its elegant Baroque-Academic architecture, structured in three naves divided by pillars and semicircular arches. It is also one of the few in the world to exhibit representations of the three Archangels, including Saint Michael, patron saint of Nerja.

Take the opportunity to lose yourself in the old town and enjoy its streets and people!

The Verano Azul park and the famous Chanquete’s Boat (La Dorada)

For those nostalgic for the iconic 80’s Spanish TV series “Verano Azul”, a visit to the Verano Azul Park in Nerja is highly recommended. Meticulously restored and now a vibrant cultural and tourist attraction, La Dorada, Chanquete’s signature boat, is on display.

The presence of this boat in the park, dedicated to the memory of the series, attracts both die-hard fans and new visitors eager to explore Spain’s television history. Through information panels scattered throughout the park, visitors can delve deeper into the cultural impact of ‘Verano Azul’ and discover how the series has shaped the perception of Nerja, both nationally and internationally.

Beaches and coves of Nerja: from Burriana Beach to Barranco del Maro

We have left for last what perhaps makes Nerja stand out the most: its beaches and coves. A destination that shines for its crystal clear waters and golden sands and that offers an impressive variety of options for all tastes and needs:

• Burriana Beach: Nerja’s most popular beach. This beach has multiple services including disabled access, jet ski hire and, of course, a vibrant selection of restaurants and beach bars. During the summer, public parking makes access easy, although early arrival is recommended due to high demand.
• Carabeillo Beach: Accessible by a somewhat demanding path, this mixed sand and gravel beach is perfect for those seeking tranquillity away from the hustle and bustle of tourism.
• Carabeo Beach: Accessed via a stairway from Carabeo Street, this beach offers privacy with basic services, ideal for a relaxing day by the sea.
• Chorrillo Beach: Reachable only via Calahonda Beach, this hidden gem is perfect for enjoying a more natural and less crowded environment.
• Calahonda Beach: Right next to the famous Balcón de Europa, this small beach is popular with locals and offers a picturesque experience with local fishermen.
• Caletilla Beach: On the other side of the Balcony, it offers easy access and essential services, ideal for a quick dip in the sea.
• El Salón Beach: Adjacent to the Caletilla, known for its traditional atmosphere with small fishermen’s houses adorning its shore.
• La Torrecilla Beach and El Chucho Beach: Both offer excellent services and are favourites with families for their safety and nearby dining options.
• El Playazo Beach: The longestbeach in Nerja, perfect for group activities and barbecues, with ample space and easy parking.

Barranco de Maro cove and the Natural Park of the Maro Cliffs

Visiting the Barranco del Maro and the Maro Cliffs is not only to enjoy unforgettable landscapes, but also to participate in the preservation of one of the most special corners of the Costa del Sol. This area, renowned for its scenic beauty and rich biodiversity, offers visitors a unique experience of contact with nature in its purest state.

• Barranco de Maro cove: It is known for its crystal clear waters and peaceful atmosphere, ideal for snorkelling and underwater exploration. Its limited access preserves its natural environment, making each visit an exclusive and serene experience.
• Cliffs of Maro-Cerro Gordo: This natural site stands out for its impressive views of the Mediterranean and its cliffs that drop steeply into the sea. It is an excellent place for hiking and bird watching, with routes offering spectacular panoramic views.

If you have the opportunity, come at sunset and immortalise the best moments – you’ll thank us for it!

Bonus Track: Get to know Frigiliana, considered one of the most beautiful villages in Spain

Although Nerja already offers countless attractions, there is always something more to discover. From Quadratia, we suggest a special getaway: just a 15-minute drive from Nerja, approximately 10 km, you will find one of the most charming and picturesque villages in Spain. Get ready for an experience that will perfectly complement your visit.

Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra de Almijara, Frigiliana steals your heart with its charming maze of steep alleyways and traditional whitewashed houses, embellished with a profusion of flowers. This village is not only a testament to Spain’s rich Moorish heritage, but also a showcase of living, vibrant culture.

We encourage you to explore its most emblematic corners, from the historic Cuesta de Apero to the Cruce Hernando el Darra, as well as its impressive viewpoints offering spectacular panoramic views. Frigiliana not only invites you to lose yourself in its streets, but also offers guided excursions that will immerse you in the rich history and traditions of the place, highlighting why it is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Spain.

For the independent adventurer, regular bus services from Nerja provide easy and convenient access, allowing you to discover this charming town at your own pace.

If you have time in Nerja and don’t know what to do, head to Frigiliana because it’s well worth a visit!

Properties for sale in Nerja (Malaga) and the Costa del Sol

Get to know Isea Calaceite and explore a wide variety of luxury homes and flats next to Nerja. This residential complex, designed for enjoyment and relaxation, offers the comfort of living in an environment full of possibilities with beaches for all types of families and activities.

The project, which has 3 different blocks and a total of 131 homes, with 1, 2 and 3 bedrooms, has a perfectly studied orientation to make the most of the hours of sunshine and intensify the use of the terraces. Download the brochure and the building specifications!

However, if you think that Nerja and the Costa del Sol do not meet your expectations, Quadratia analysed in a previous article which are the best cities to live in Spain as a foreigner. Find other cities like Alicante (Costa Blanca) or Murcia (Costa Calida) that are waiting for you with open arms.

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