Millions of holidaymakers know Malaga only for its airport, which is a shame because this interesting city can be a destination in its own right. Picasso was born in Malaga and locals are rightly proud of the Malaga Picasso Museum and the Centre of Contemporary Art. The Picasso Museum is in a 16th century palace in the heart of the city. The Moorish Alcazaba Palace and the 14th century castle, Castillo de Gibralfaro, look down on Malaga from the Gibralfaro hill. The handsome cathedral is outstanding and well worth visiting. On the outskirts of Malaga you’ll find delightful seaside restaurants at the fishing villages of El Palo and Pedregalejo. Malaga has a week-long carnival in August and spectacular processions for Easter and for the Three Kings festival on January 5.

Interesting sightseeing

Contemporary art lovers

Waving a red flag. There’s a bullring in Marbella that animal lovers will want to avoid

You are required by law to have your passport with you at all times and you may be asked to produce it when you use a credit card.

In summer there are daily highs of around 35°C/95°F. Winters are mild with daily highs of around 20°C/68°F.

Flights to Malaga take about two and three quarter hours from the UK. Malaga airport is eight kilometres (five miles) to the west of the city.

It is a legal requirement in Spain to carry two red triangles, one of which must be placed in front and one behind the vehicle if there’s an accident. Spanish law also prohibits talking on a mobile phone when you are driving unless you have a hands-free phone.