Activities in Nerja: The Balcony of Europe

Not far from Malaga lies Nerja, a coastal town famous for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich cultural history. Alongside its vibrant atmosphere and seaside charm, there are plenty of activities in Nerja to keep visitors entertained, making it the perfect complement to the serene beauty of Frigiliana.

Nestled along the Costa del Sol, Nerja embodies the quintessential charm of Spain's famous "pueblos blancos," or white towns, much like the picturesque Ostuni in Italy, and Frigiliana and Mijas in Andalusia. These towns captivate visitors with their dazzling whitewashed buildings, which gleam under the Mediterranean sun, creating a striking contrast against the deep blue skies.

These enchanting destinations share a timeless beauty, where wandering through their narrow, winding streets feels like stepping back in time. If you've enjoyed exploring the whitewashed wonders of Ostuni, you'll find Nerja's allure equally captivating.

Getting There: Your Journey to Nerja

Nerja is conveniently located on the Costa del Sol, making it easily accessible whether you're traveling from Málaga or nearby coastal towns. Here’s how you can make your way to this charming seaside destination.

How to Get from Málaga to Nerja

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

1. By Car:
   • Duration: Approximately 45 minutes
   • Route: The most direct way to reach Nerja from Málaga is by car. Take the A-7 highway eastbound towards Motril/Almería. After about 50 kilometers, take exit 292 for Nerja. Follow the signs to the town center, which is just a few minutes from the highway. The drive is straightforward and offers scenic views of the Mediterranean coast as you approach Nerja.
   • Parking: Nerja has several parking areas, especially near the town center and popular spots like the Balcón de Europa. During peak tourist season, it’s advisable to arrive early to secure a spot.
2. By Bus:
   • Duration: Approximately 1 hour
   • Route: If you prefer public transportation, you can take a bus from Málaga’s main bus station (Estación de Autobuses de Málaga) to Nerja. Several companies, including ALSA, operate this route frequently throughout the day. The bus ride is direct, offering a comfortable and affordable way to reach Nerja.

3. By Taxi or Private Transfer:

Duration: Approximately 45 minutes

For a more comfortable and direct option, you can take a taxi or arrange a private transfer from Málaga to Nerja. Taxis are readily available at Málaga Airport and in the city center. While more expensive than the bus, this option offers the convenience of a door-to-door service.

4. By plane:

Looking for an airport close to Nerja? You have two options: Granada Airport (Federico García Lorca Airport, code: GRX), which is about a 1-hour drive from Nerja, and Málaga Airport (Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport, code: AGP), which is approximately a 50-minute drive from Nerja.

What do do

Stroll through the center of Nerja and walk in la Plaza de la Ermita the head to have the best views at the Balcony of Europe.

1. The Balcony of Europe

One of the most iconic landmarks in Nerja is the Balcony of Europe (Balcón de Europa). This stunning viewpoint is situated on a rocky promontory that juts out into the sea, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean coastline. The name "Balcony of Europe" was coined by King Alfonso XII, who was captivated by the view during his visit in 1885. Today, it's a popular spot for both tourists and locals to take in the scenery and enjoy a leisurely stroll.

2. Nerja Caves

A visit to Nerja wouldn't be complete without exploring the Nerja Caves (Cuevas de Nerja). Discovered in 1959 by a group of local boys, these caves are now one of Spain's major tourist attractions.

The caves are home to some of the world's oldest prehistoric cave paintings and feature vast chambers with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Guided tours are available, allowing visitors to delve into the fascinating history and geology of this natural wonder.

3. Beaches of Nerja

If going to the beach is your thing, don't miss the opportunity.

Nerja boasts some of the most beautiful beaches on the Costa del Sol. Located 6 minutes by car and 2.2 Km (1.37 miles), Playa Burriana is the largest and most popular beach, known for its golden sands, clear waters, and vibrant beachside restaurants.

Playa de Calahonda

The most accesible one is just right below the Balcón de Europa, called Playa de Calahonda; you just need to go down using the stairs next to the panoramic view and you are right there.

It is a small beach and can get very crowded during the warm months, but you if you got by car to the center of Nerja and feel like having a short bath without too much planning, it is a good option.

Playa de Maro

For a more secluded experience, head to Playa de Maro, a hidden gem surrounded by cliffs and lush vegetation. This small beach is perfect for snorkeling and escaping the crowds.

Playa de Cantarriján

If you decide to head to the beach, we recommend packing a great selection of fresh fruit, hummus, and veggies, and pairing it with a nice assortment of natural wines.

We always stock up on some beach-friendly orange wines from the online shop Sublime Wine. The Orsi, San Vito Sui Leiviti, is one of our go to options for picnics.

For more beach destinations in the south of Spain, don't forget to check our post about the Best beaches in Cadiz.

4. The Aqueduct of El Aguila

The Aqueduct of El Aguila is another fascinating sight in Nerja. Built in the 19th century to supply water to the local sugar refinery, this impressive structure features four tiers of brick arches and is an excellent example of industrial architecture from that era.

The aqueduct is located just outside the town and can be admired from several viewpoints along the road to Maro.

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, and 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.

The Best Restaurants

Nerja is not only known for its breathtaking beaches and cultural sites but also for its vibrant dining scene. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot to enjoy traditional Spanish dishes.

Although most of the places cater for people who eat meat and fish there are some restaurant where you can find vegetarian options.

1. Oliva

While not exclusively vegetarian, Oliva offers some well-crafted vegetarian options that stand out, like the beet tartare. With a focus on Mediterranean flavors, and seafood, the dishes are prepared with fresh, local ingredients, making it a must-visit for food lovers in Nerja.

It has been featured in the Michelin guide back in 2016. We like that they have a large terrace overlooking Plaza de España, with very nice views.

They have a tasting menu, but also offer an à la carte menu, that changes four times during the year, with each change of season.

Also, enjoy their food pairing wine menu as they have quite an extensive selection of local wines.

2. Bakus

Offering a fusion of Mediterranean and international cuisine, Bakus provides a selection of vegetarian dishes that are both creative and satisfying. With its stylish ambiance and stunning sea views, it's the perfect place for a relaxed dining experience.

3. Restaurante Mesonera de Nerja

They don't feature a huge menu but they have a nice vegetarian paella which you can enjoy with a nice view.

4. El Mirador de Guilche

Offers a nice view with some dishes that are worth trying like their vegetarian paella, their braised asparagus, and very nice salads like the spinach and goat cheese, and the tomato with mozzarella.

As your day in Nerja comes to a close, take a moment to soak in the last rays of sunlight over the Mediterranean and reflect on the vibrant experiences this charming coastal town has offered.

After a day of adventure, why not make a stop in Málaga to experience its vibrant food scene? Discover where to eat in Málaga and indulge in a fantastic plant-based meal.

Whether you’ve explored the stunning caves, relaxed on its picturesque beaches, or enjoyed the local cuisine, Nerja leaves you with memories that will linger long after your visit. As you head back, don’t forget to carry a piece of this Andalusian gem in your heart, until your next adventure calls.