What To Do in Nerja, One of Spain’s Sunniest Corners

Last updated on January 3rd, 2024 at 01:36 pm

If you’re planning a trip to Southern Spain’s Costa del Sol, make sure the town of Nerja makes your list of places to visit and if you’re wondering what to do in Nerja, keep reading to find out the best things to do in Nerja as seen through the eyes of a fellow content creator who calls Southern Spain home.

This article was written by Lucia Pöllä, a travel blogger living in Southern Spain, who shares her discoveries of beautiful locations, hidden gems and stunning historic sights on her travel blog Viva La Vita. All the images in this article, including the featured image, were also contributed by Lucia.

Nerja makes an unforgettable headquarters for exploring the villages, cities and wonderful natural sights only Southern Spain has to offer. Busy enough to keep you engaged but quieter than the coast’s major hubs, the community offers the best of both worlds. 

In this article, I have prepared a short list of the most popular things to do in Nerja to give you plenty of inspiration and reasons to get excited about your trip. Whether you’re staying for a week or coming for a day trip, you’ll come prepared on what to do in Nerja, a picturesque coastal resort town you’ll absolutely love.

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Travel Resources To Help You Plan Your Nerja Trip

Where Is Nerja

Nerja sits to the very east of the Costa del Sol in Spain. Costa del Sol is one of Spain’s Mediterranean regions – and one of its best known. Nerja overlooks the sea just below one of Spain’s national parks. 

Why Visit Nerja

The town is close to the large city of Malaga, meaning you can easily plan day trips between the two. Nerja is a 45-minute drive from Malaga. You can also take the bus to Malaga from Nerja and the journey lasts about an hour.

Check out this day trip to Nerja and Frigiliana from Malaga.

The communities of La Herradura and Motril, as well as the city of Almeria, are other day trip possibilities. This area of Southern Spain boasts idyllic beaches, natural attractions and Moorish heritage, meaning you’ll be able to visit famous architectural relics. Staying in Nerja puts you in an ultra-convenient location with the added touch of a seaside community.

Find the best deals to rent a car from Nerja to explore Costa del Sol at your own pace.

7 Cool Things To Do in Nerja

Nerja is guaranteed to keep you busy no matter how long you’re planning to stay. Consider the following recommendations for the coolest things to do in Nerja and around.

1. Visit Cueva de Nerja

Located east of Nerja’s town centre, Cuevas de Nerja (Nerja Caves) is one of the most beloved Nerja attractions. The cave network is a five-minute drive from town or a short 15-minute bus ride. You can also hop on the Cueva Tren, a charming train-car-inspired vehicle that gets you from the Nerja Museum to the caves in minutes. 

Measuring nearly five kilometres, the caves boast the world’s largest stalagmite. Cave paintings have been found inside, making this a cultural and natural artefact. The Caves of Nerja are open throughout the year, though hours vary slightly based on the season. 

Thanks to their natural chambers, the caves also make a perfect music venue. Summer concerts happen regularly, so check the schedule if you’re arriving in the peak season. 

An audio tour helps guests learn more about the underground environment as they walk through. Book your tickets with an audioguide to Nerja Caves.

2. Step Inside The Museum of Nerja

Located on Nerja’s Plaza de España, the town museum is an amazing resource to learn about Nerja’s history and culture and one of the best things to see in Nerja. Visitors will also have a chance to learn more about the Nerja caves through museum exhibits. Interactive showcases include archaeological artefacts and the stories of other communities throughout the region.

The three-floor museum is a great way to spend an informative morning. Not to mention it’s one of the best things to do in Nerja when it rains. Hours may vary based on the season, but the museum is generally open daily.

For more information about admission fees and opening hours, click here.

3. Hit The Beach

Nerja’s beautiful beaches are no secret, so be sure to check out more than one. The most popular is Playa Burriana, where you’ll find all the amenities you need to plan a full day out on the sand. The beach features plenty of restaurants, shops and water activities on an idyllic slice of the Mediterranean coastline. Other beaches you can visit in the city centre are Playa de la Calahonda and Playa Torrecilla.

For another beach that is easily accessible on foot from town, consider Playa El Chorrillo. This stretch of sand is known for its huge boulders, which make it easy to find shady spots and hideaways on the sand. 

For a more private beach experience, take the short drive to Playa del Molino de Papel. Located just east of town, this beach with crystal clear waters is much quieter than Burriana Beach and is home to an old paper mill and an 18th-century tower. This beach has a more natural feel, with views of the Maro-Cerro Gordo cliffs completing the picture. 

4. Explore The Maro-Cerro Gordo Nature Reserve

Rugged and photogenic, the Maro-Сerro Gordo Natural Park is just 20 minutes from Nerja by car or half an hour by bus. The nature reserve overlooks the Mediterranean and features several beaches. Cala del Canuelo lies in a secluded cove with a pristine waterfront. 

Though remote, this beach has a restaurant, making your trek worthwhile. There are seven other beaches to discover, meaning you might want to visit Maro-Cerro Gordo more than once to experience them all. 

The natural park is home to countless species of flora and fauna, all supported by the region’s unique ecosystem. Along with wildflowers and birds, you might spot an Iberian Ibex, the local mountain goat. The sea coves feature a host of amazing water-dwelling creatures. 

The park’s ancient Roman towers are a popular attraction, as each offers breathtaking views of the reserve, adjacent coastline and open sea. There are five towers within the park: Torre de La Miel, Torre del Pino, Torre La Caleta, Torre Maro and Torre Cerro Gordo. The latter is the park’s highest. 

Hikers will enjoy the reserve’s winding paths, many of which feature expansive views. For a short jaunt, take the walking path to Maro Tower, which should take about 15 minutes. Along the way, enjoy views of both Maro and Nerja and even the distant Maro Waterfall. Most of the park’s beaches are reached by hiking, so you’ll be able to stay active while enjoying the coast.

Other activities within the park include snorkelling, scuba diving and kayaking. Excursions can be booked with the many tour companies in nearby communities and can also include guided walking tours. The cliffs of Maro-Cerro Gordo are among the region’s natural jewels, so be sure to bring your camera and explore them thoroughly. 

Check out this Kayak Tour to discover the Maro-Cerro Gordo cliffs from the best vantage point.

5. Wander Around The Balcon de Europa

Nerja’s Balcón de Europa is its most iconic lookout and what should top your list of what to do in Nerja. Offering views of Calahonda Beach and Caletilla Beach on both sides and the Mediterranean horizon, the balcony is worth a sunset visit. A former fort site, the balcony is in the heart of Nerja, making it a great meeting point.

Street performers, ice cream shops and a lively atmosphere will keep you coming back, especially if you’re staying nearby. The balcony is within easy walking distance to Nerja’s restaurants and shops.

6. Admire The Eagle Aqueduct

Located just minutes from central Nerja, the Eagle Aqueduct is a 19th-century aqueduct that is still used for irrigation purposes today. Towering between two hillsides, the aqueduct is architecturally beautiful and offers great photo opportunities. There is visitor parking nearby.

7. Chill Along Chillar River

For another way to get to know Nerja’s natural landscape, take the forested river walk running along the Rio Chillar just north of town. This adventure is best for experienced hikers, as the terrain can be unpredictable. Hikers may find themselves wading through parts of the river, so proper shoes are essential. 

The walk is best done in the summer months when water levels recede. Set aside at least six hours for the journey and plan ahead. Along the way, visitors can enjoy natural swimming holes and a cascading waterfall. The river trailhead is accessible via a 30-minute walk from town. If you’re driving, you can find a parking space on nearby Calle Mirto.

Now That You Know What To Do in Nerja, What’s Next?

While there are clearly many things to do in Nerja, you may want to plan a few day trips to take full advantage of your Southern Spain getaway. The following destinations are some of the most popular and accessible day trips from Nerja.

Malaga

The closest large city to Nerja, Malaga is a must. The city is about an hour and a half away via public transportation or an hour by car. Once in Malaga, it’s easy to lose yourself in the bustle and charm of this historic coastal destination. 

The Moorish fortress of Alcazaba draws visitors from across the world and is a great way to spend an entire day. The complex includes ornate structures, as well as green, carefully manicured gardens. The Generalife gardens located just next door are an ideal place to recharge while surrounded by nature. 

Other tourist attractions include the local Picasso Museum, Playa de la Malagueta and the views from Gibralfaro Castle. The city’s historic centre is a great place to start wandering. Explore on your own or book a walking tour to learn about the city from an expert.

Granada

A similar distance away from Nerja, Granada is another sizable city to add to your itinerary. The city’s famous Alhambra complex features Moorish palaces, courtyards and more, transporting you to another era.

Historic churches, lively plazas and local restaurants fill the rest of the city, giving you plenty to do over the course of a day or even a weekend. If you prefer to discover a new city on foot, take a walk through the hilly Albaicin neighbourhood, which offers views of the city among its charming streets and squares.

La Herradura Bay

Located just 15 minutes from Nerja by bus, the resort area of La Herradura makes a short, calming day trip. La Herradura Bay Beach is known for its windswept beauty and is lined with various local eateries. If you’re up for a walk, check out the hike to the Punta de La Mona Lighthouse, located south of the beach.

Our Thoughts About Nerja Spain

Even if you hadn’t thought about visiting Nerja before, we’re sure that after reading Lucia’s guide on what to do in Nerja, you’re now eager to explore this sunny destination in Southern Spain. We know we are and we can’t wait to plan an extensive trip to Andalusia soon.

Before you go, have a look at our other Spain articles:

The Ultimate 4-Day Barcelona Itinerary & Guide
The Best 3-Day Madrid Itinerary
Madrid Tips & The Best Madrid Travel Guide
What To Do in Palma de Mallorca Spain All Year Round + Travel Guide
What To Do in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Or watch our videos about Spain here:

WORDS & IMAGES: Guest author
EDITING: Maria