April in Britain, as we all know, is a month of cruel meteorological pranks. One minute you’re basking under a sunbeam, next you’re sheltering in a bus stop with a collapsed brolly and regrets. Which is precisely why I booked a cheeky escape to Malaga one April — and reader, it did not disappoint.
So, what’s the weather in Malaga in April really like? Is it hot enough for the beach, or will you end up sipping sangria in a fleece? The answer, like all good travel tales, is a bit of both — but mostly lovely. Let’s dive into everything you need to know: what to wear, what to do, where to stay, and why April in Malaga might just be the best decision you’ve made since you first tried calamari.
Malaga Weather In April What To Wear
The first thing you’ll notice when you land in Malaga? It smells like orange blossom and possibility. The second thing? It’s warm. Not face-melting hot, but a gentle, sun-on-your-skin kind of warm — the kind that has you instantly rethinking that decision to pack jeans.
Expect average daytime temperatures around 20°C (68°F), though it can creep up to and possibly just above 23–24°C (73–75°F) in the latter half of the month. Evenings cool down to a fresh 11°C (52°F), perfect for alfresco tapas without breaking a sweat (or catching a chill, if you remember a light jacket).
April brings around 8–10 rainy days, though it’s usually more of a polite drizzle than a British downpour. I once got caught in one while wandering through the gardens of the Alcazaba — it lasted all of 10 minutes, dried up in 20, and left everything smelling like springtime heaven.
What to wear:
- Light layers (t-shirts, linen shirts, maxi dresses)
- A cardigan or light jacket for evenings
- Sunglasses and sunscreen (you’ll use both)
- A scarf, because Spaniards will be wearing one — and frankly, they make it look chic
What not to wear:
Those heavy boots you thought might come in handy. I packed mine “just in case” and they sat in the suitcase like a leather-clad reminder of my poor decision-making.
Where To See Malaga In April
April is Malaga’s sweet spot. The crowds of summer haven’t descended, but the city is well and truly awake from its winter snooze. Everything is open, the vibe is relaxed, and you’ll have room to breathe — and to snap that perfect photo without someone’s elbow in the corner.
1. Jardín Botánico-Histórico La Concepción
April is prime time for Malaga’s lush botanical gardens. Picture palm trees, fountains, and flowering wisteria tunnels that look like something out of a fairy tale. Entry is €5.20, and absolutely worth it for a couple of hours of peaceful wandering.
2. Castillo de Gibralfaro
The views from the top of this ancient fortress are even better in spring, when the air is clear and the sun is kind. It’s a bit of a hike, but doable — and far more pleasant when you’re not sweating buckets. Entry is €3.50, or go for a combo ticket with the Alcazaba for just €5.50.
3. Rooftop Bars and Terraces
April evenings are perfect for rooftop drinks. Check out AC Hotel’s rooftop bar for panoramic views of the cathedral and port — and the kind of sunset that turns you into a poet, or at least someone who Instagrams with filters.
What To Do In Malaga In April
April brings with it one of Spain’s most visually spectacular traditions: Semana Santa (Holy Week). Depending on when Easter falls, you may be lucky (or overwhelmed) enough to witness it in full flow.
Semana Santa (dates vary in April)
Processions with towering floats, hooded figures (not nearly as sinister as they sound), live music, and incense galore. It’s a mix of religion, theatre, and community pride that’s genuinely moving — even if you’re just there for the spectacle.
Pro tips:
- Arrive early if you want a decent spot to watch.
- Some events are free, others ticketed.
- Don’t expect anything to run on time. This is Spain. Things happen when they happen.
Springtime Food Markets
April also means fresh produce in abundance: strawberries, asparagus, and seafood so fresh it’s practically swimming off the plate. Visit Mercado de Atarazanas — part food market, part architectural gem. Entry is free, and you’ll likely leave with cheese, chorizo, and a slight smugness about your culinary choices.
Accommodation In Malaga In April
Ah, the joy of shoulder season: fewer people, lower prices, and better availability.
Where to stay:
- Centro Histórico: Charming, walkable, and full of cafés that double as people-watching goldmines.
- El Perchel: A bit more local, slightly less polished, but brilliant for food lovers.
- La Malagueta: Beach adjacent and perfect if you’re hoping for a few hours of sun-lounger time.
You can nab a boutique hotel for around €60–€90 per night, and an Airbnb for as low as €40–€60 if you’re savvy. Avoid anywhere listed as “vibrant nightlife nearby” unless you enjoy your lullabies sung by drunken hen dos.
Personal tip: Don’t be tempted by the ultra-cheap listings up steep hills unless your calves are in better shape than your budget.
Transport & Travel In Malaga In April
Getting to Malaga is gloriously easy from the UK. Budget airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, and Jet2 all fly into Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport, with return fares often under £100 if you book early.
Once you arrive:
- Train: The local Cercanías train is ideal for airport to city centre (€1.80) or day trips to towns like Torremolinos or Fuengirola.
- Bus: Frequent, reliable, and cheap (€1.40 for most routes, check Omio for tickets).
- Bike hire: Great option for beach paths or cruising the port.
- Walking: The old town is delightfully pedestrian-friendly. You’ll get lost, but in the best way.
Car hire? Only if you’re heading into the hills. Otherwise, skip the stress and enjoy the strolls.
Weather In Malaga In April Final Thoughts
So, should you visit Malaga in April? Absolutely. It’s that perfect mix of pleasant weather, blossoming beauty, and cultural buzz — without the sunburn, the crowds, or the eye-watering hotel prices of summer. It’s also warmer than February, too which is another reason to look at Easter out here.
You’ll experience:
- Sunshine without the sweat
- Culture without the queues
- Beaches without the baked tourists
For me, Malaga in April is like that first proper pint in a sunny pub garden after a long, cold winter — unexpected, restorative, and just a bit magical.
So go on. Book the flight. Pack the sunglasses. And remember — if you find yourself sipping sangria while the UK battles a hailstorm, you’re doing April exactly right.
