Discovering Frigiliana: What do see and the Best Restaurants

Spain's Costa del Sol is renowned for its sun-soaked beaches, vibrant culture, and historic towns. Among its many treasures, the picturesque village of Frigiliana stands out for its unique charm, stunning landscapes, and rich history. If you're planning a visit to this beautiful region, here's your guide to exploring Frigiliana: what to see and where to find the best restaurants.

Whether you're captivated by its winding streets, whitewashed Ostuni-like architecture, or seeking the finest local cuisine, Frigiliana offers a memorable experience for every traveler; definitely one of the best places to visit near Malaga.

We often visit the area since we live in Málaga, and these spots are must-sees for our guests. All the activities in Nerja are fantastic, and with Frigiliana just minutes away, it's the perfect destination for a summer or shoulder season day trip. Plus, everything is easily accessible and affordable by bus. We’ll share all the details to make sure your trip goes off without a hitch.

Getting There: Your Journey to Frigiliana

Frigiliana is conveniently located near some of the major towns on the Costa del Sol, making it easily accessible whether you're traveling from Málaga or the nearby coastal town of Nerja. Here's how you can make your way to this beautiful whitewashed village.

How to Get from Málaga to Frigiliana

Málaga, the capital of the Costa del Sol, is the main gateway for most visitors to the region. Here’s how you can get from Málaga to Frigiliana:

1. By Car:

• Duration: Approximately 50 minutes
• Route: The most direct way to reach Frigiliana from Málaga is by car. Take the A-7 highway eastbound towards Motril/Almería. After about 50 kilometers, take exit 292 for Nerja/Frigiliana. Follow the signs to Frigiliana, which is around 7 kilometers inland from the coast. The drive is straightforward and offers scenic views as you approach the village.
• Parking: Frigiliana has several parking areas, but during peak tourist season, it's advisable to arrive early to secure a spot, especially in the more central parking lots.

2. By Bus:

• Duration: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
• Route: If you prefer public transportation, you can take a bus from Málaga’s main bus station (Estación de Autobuses de Málaga) to Frigiliana. First, you’ll need to take a bus from Málaga to Nerja, which takes around 1 hour. Several companies, including ALSA, operate this route frequently throughout the day. Once in Nerja, you can catch a local bus (run by the Nerja-Frigiliana Bus Service) or a taxi to Frigiliana. The bus ride from Nerja to Frigiliana takes about 15-20 minutes.

3. By Taxi or Private Transfer:

• Duration: Approximately 50 minutes
• For a more comfortable and direct option, you can take a taxi or arrange a private transfer from Málaga to Frigiliana. Taxis are readily available at Málaga Airport and in the city center. This option is more expensive than taking the bus but offers the convenience of a door-to-door service.

How to Get from Nerja to Frigiliana

Nerja, being just a short distance from Frigiliana, offers a quick and easy journey to the village. Here’s how you can make the trip:

1. By Car:

• Duration: Approximately 15 minutes
• Route: The quickest way to get from Nerja to Frigiliana is by car. Take the MA-5105 road, which is well-signposted from the center of Nerja. The road is winding but well-maintained, offering stunning views of the countryside as you ascend towards Frigiliana. Once you arrive, follow the signs to the designated parking areas.

2. By Bus:

• Duration: Approximately 20 minutes
• Route: There is a local bus service that connects Nerja with Frigiliana. Buses run several times a day, and the journey takes around 20 minutes. The bus departs from the main bus station in Nerja and drops you off in the center of Frigiliana, making it a convenient and cost-effective option for travelers.

3. By Taxi:

Taxis are a quick and convenient option for getting from Nerja to Frigiliana. The journey is short, and taxis are readily available in Nerja. This is a good option if you're traveling with luggage or prefer not to wait for the bus.

Duration: Approximately 15 minutes

4. By plane:

Looking for an airport close to Frigiliana? You have two options: Granada Airport (Federico García Lorca Airport, code: GRX) and Málaga Airport (Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport, code: AGP). Both are approximately a 1-hour and 5-minute drive from Frigiliana.

Exploring Frigiliana: A Whitewashed Wonderland

Frigiliana, often hailed as one of the most beautiful villages in Spain, is a quintessential Andalusian town perched on a hillside overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. The village is renowned for its narrow, winding streets, whitewashed houses adorned with vibrant flower pots, and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. So let's give you some ideas about what to see and what to do in Frigiliana during your next visit.

1. The Historic Center

The heart of Frigiliana is its historic center, also known as the Mudejar district. As you stroll through the labyrinth of cobblestone streets, you'll encounter beautiful mosaics that tell the story of the town's past, dating back to the Moorish period.

The steep streets are lined with traditional Andalusian houses, each with a story to tell. Be sure to visit the Church of San Antonio, a 16th-century church that stands as a symbol of the town's rich heritage.

2. The Palacete de los Condes

Another must-see in Frigiliana is the Palacete de los Condes, also known as the Palace of the Counts of Frigiliana. This 16th-century Renaissance palace is a testament to the town's historical significance. Although the interior is not open to the public, the building's exterior, with its intricate stonework and beautiful courtyard, is worth admiring.

3. El Ingenio: The Old Sugar Mill

El Ingenio is one of the most iconic landmarks in Frigiliana. This large, white building was once a sugar cane factory and now serves as the headquarters of the town's local sugarcane honey (molasses) production. This unique product is a must-try when visiting Frigiliana, as it's a nod to the town's agricultural past. You can purchase this sweet treat in many local shops, making for a perfect souvenir.

4. The Views from El Fuerte

For nature lovers and hikers, a trek to the summit of El Fuerte is a rewarding experience. This mountain, standing at 963 meters, offers panoramic views of the village, the Mediterranean Sea, and the surrounding mountains. The hike is moderately challenging, but the breathtaking views from the top are well worth the effort.

The Best Restaurants in Frigiliana

After a day of exploring the beauty of Frigiliana and Nerja, you'll surely want to indulge in the local cuisine. Frigiliana, in particular, offers a range of dining options that showcase the flavors of Andalusia. Here are some of the best restaurants in Frigiliana where you can enjoy a memorable meal.

1. Restaurante El Jardín

Located in the heart of Frigiliana, at Calle Santo Cristo. El Jardín offers a delightful dining experience with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The restaurant specializes in traditional Spanish cuisine with a modern twist. Popular dishes include grilled meats, fresh seafood, and locally sourced vegetables. The outdoor terrace is the perfect spot to enjoy a meal while taking in the picturesque scenery.

We loved the BBQ banana dessert, the zucchini cake and the Buñuelos de calabacín.

2. Restaurante La Taberna del Sacristán

La Taberna del Sacristán is a charming restaurant situated in a beautiful square near the Church of San Antonio, at the Plaza de la Iglesia (Church Square). The menu features a variety of Andalusian dishes, including tapas, grilled meats, and fresh salads. The restaurant's warm and welcoming atmosphere, combined with its delicious food, makes it a favorite among both locals and visitors.

We loved that they have plenty of veggie options like the classic Gazpacho Andaluz, the Eggplants with sugar cane molasses, capresse and Greek saald, and varied toasts made wither with tomato, garlic, or different selection of cheeses.

They also have the Vegetarian Couscous, falafel burger with fries, spinach lasagna with mascarpone cheese.

Their homemade tiramisú was really good and they also make crepes with your choice of fillings.

3. La Bodeguilla

For a more casual dining experience, head to La Bodeguilla, a cheap and cozy tapas bar that offers a wide selection of small plates bursting with flavor. Located at Calle Real, this restaurnant is the perfect place to sample a variety of local dishes in a relaxed setting. The bar's friendly staff and lively ambiance add to the overall experience.

Although they don't have vegetarian mains, they do have plenty of veggie appetizers and tapas, which are quite good. We liked their garlic and tomato salad, tomate soup, gazpacho (cold Spanish soup), ajoblaco (a classic Andalusian cold soup made with almonds), patatas a lo pobre, pisto, and Spanish omelette, enough to try and be full with a good array of southern Spain delicacies.

4. Restaurante El Casino

Also located in Calle Real and with a stunning view, Restaurante El Casino is a family-run establishment known for its hearty portions and authentic Andalusian cuisine. The restaurant's menu features classic dishes such as paella, slow-cooked stews, and grilled meats.

The rustic interior, complete with traditional decor, creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for a leisurely meal.

We didn't like that they have a very limited vegetarian options menu, but they do have "raciones"; tapa style food you can enjoy like fried cheese with blueberry sauce, the classic Andalusian fried eggplants with sugar cane molasses and a crunchy goat cheese with Frigiliana honey, which is quite famous.

Where to stay

Since we live very close, we don’t often stay in the area. However, there’s an apartment hotel where we stayed the first time we visited both Nerja and Frigiliana, in one trip; we really liked it. The hotel is called Casa Joya, and the rooms are fantastic. They offer great views, the service is excellent, and it's quite centrally located. Highly recommended.

If you’re heading back to the coast and wondering where to eat in Málaga, check out our top recommendations for delicious, ethical, and plant-based dining options.

Frigiliana and Nerja offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making them ideal destinations for travelers seeking an authentic Andalusian experience. Whether you're exploring the narrow streets of Frigiliana, taking in the stunning views from the Balcony of Europe in Nerja, or indulging in the culinary delights of the region, these towns promise unforgettable memories. So pack your bags, and get ready to discover the enchanting world of Frigiliana and Nerja!