Free walking tours in Fuengirola and what to see

Must-sees

Fuengirola is a flat beach town that is easy to explore on foot. Its promenade is several kilometres long and links the centre with Los Boliches and Carvajal, so it is the best place to start. In the centre are Plaza de la Constitución, with the church of Nuestra Señora del Rosario, and pedestrian streets with shops and tapas bars. The marina and fishing port is full of fish restaurants and is where boat trips leave from.

At the western end, by the mouth of the river, stands Sohail Castle, a restored fortress from the Moorish period that hosts concerts in summer and has good views of the bay. Bioparc Fuengirola, right in the centre, is a zoo with habitats that recreate tropical forests and one of the most popular visits. On Tuesdays a big market is held at the fairground and draws large crowds.

Free tours and guided visits

Fuengirola does not have many free walking tours. If you find one, it usually covers the centre, the promenade and the area around the castle, and you pay what you like. The most useful thing from here is guided day trips: Ronda, Granada with a visit to the Alhambra, Nerja and Frigiliana, the Caminito del Rey or Gibraltar. There are also boat trips from the port and guided tours in Málaga, half an hour away by train.

How long to spend

You can see Fuengirola in a day: the morning at the Bioparc or the castle, the afternoon along the promenade and the port. If you are here for a week, use it as a base. Keep three or four days for the beach and rest and the rest for trips to Málaga, Mijas Pueblo, Ronda or Granada.

Where to stay

The centre, between the train station and the port, is the most convenient area. The beach is a few steps away, there are restaurants, and the commuter line takes you to Málaga and the airport without a car. Los Boliches is a little quieter, also has a station and faces the sea. Carvajal, at the eastern end, suits you if you want calm and a less crowded beach.