Sprawled across a mountain slope some 1,475 feet (450 meters) above the Mediterranean Sea, the whitewashed village of Mijas Pueblo still looks much the same as it would have centuries ago. While the historic center retains its old-fashioned air, the Mijas Costa coastal area is dotted with golf courses and modern hotels.
Mijas offers a taste of traditional Andalucian life on the Costa del Sol. Stroll the streets independently or join a guided walking tour, which typically covers the town’s top attractions, such as the Chapel of the Virgin of the Rock (Capella Virgen de la Peña) and the Plaza de Toros (bullring).
Many experiences offer optional extras such as wine tastings, traditional tapas snacks, and live flamenco shows, while some tours include round-trip transportation from Malaga or Marbella. Save yourself the effort of walking the steep streets by opting for an electric tuk-tuk tour or a donkey taxi instead.
Mijas is a must for anyone who wants to experience authentic Andalucian flavor.
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes as you’ll spend a lot of time on your feet.
Because of its elevation, Mijas can be a little cooler than resorts at sea level. Even so, it is usually hot and dry in summer, so bring plenty of water, as well as sunscreen and a hat.
The streets of Mijas can be hilly in parts and are better suited to those with electric wheelchairs or mobility scooters than manual wheelchairs.
Mijas is 22 miles (35 kilometers) from Marbella and about the same distance from Malaga. The best way to get here from Marbella is by car, taxi, or organized tour. From Malaga, take the M112 bus or the train to Fuengirola, then transfer to bus M122 or M221.
The busiest time in Mijas is usually July–August. If you’re coming during these months, avoid visiting between 11am and 3pm as the heat and sun can make strolling difficult. Late afternoon is a good time to explore the village, as the midday heat wanes.
Mijas is just one of manypueblos blancos (white villages) in Spain’s Andalucia region. If you want to visit more towns and villages that have retained their rural Spanish character, consider taking a day trip to Ronda, a mountain village that straddles the El Tajo Gorge, and Casares, which sits dramatically atop a sheer cliff, about 9 miles (15 kilometers) inland from the Malaga coast.
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