Museums
Collección del Museo Ruso
Getting there is half the fun. Unlike the tourist-heavy spots in Málaga’s old town, the museum’s location gives you a chance to see a more authentic side of the Costa del Sol.The museum itself is housed in a former tobacco factory, a building that’s been beautifully repurposed. As I stepped inside, I couldn’t help but admire the grandeur of the space—it’s vast, airy, and full of character. Fun fact: it shares its home with the Museo Automovilístico, so car enthusiasts might find even more reason to visit. But for me, it was all about the art. The museum offers a sweeping look at over 500 years of Russian art. Imagine stepping into a world filled with names like Kandinsky, Chagall, and Malevich—and yes, plenty of lesser-known artists who are equally fascinating. It’s like taking a cultural flight to Russia without leaving sunny Spain. How often do you get a chance like that?
Before heading out, I wandered into the museum shop, which turned out to be a delightful surprise. Alongside exhibition catalogs, they had a great selection of Russian literature translated into Spanish
The Museum of Malaga
If you’re in Málaga and love museums that blend history, art, and a dash of architectural charm, let me tell you about the Museo de Málaga. It’s not just a place to visit; it’s an experience that takes you through centuries of culture. Located right in the heart of the Old Quarter, this gem is housed in the grand Palacio de la Aduana (Customs House), a Neoclassical masterpiece dating back to the 18th century. But let’s rewind and start from the beginning of my visit.
The first thing that caught my eye was the setting. Nestled between the lush Parque de Málaga and the impressive Ayuntamiento de Málaga (City Hall), the museum’s location is postcard-perfect. Did you know it was built in 1787 to accommodate Málaga’s booming maritime trade? Just standing outside made me wonder about the stories this building must have witnessed over the years.
After paying the ridiculously reasonable fee of €1.50 (around $1.63), I stepped inside. The ground floor introduces you to the Almacén Visitable (Visitable Warehouse). Imagine a storeroom where ancient vases, marble fragments, and 19th-century paintings are carefully laid out on wooden shelves and drawers. Everything is organized by time period, making it easy to trace the evolution of art and culture. Have you ever seen ancient artifacts displayed in such an intimate, almost behind-the-scenes way? It felt like being in the backroom of history.
The museum’s central courtyard is a showstopper. With its palm and orange trees, a charming fountain, and informational panels, it’s the kind of place where you want to linger. The courtyard also has a story to tell: Queen Isabella II visited this very spot in 1862, and terracotta busts honoring her son, Alfonso XII, have graced the gallery’s upper balustrade since his visit in 1885. Can you imagine what it must have been like to witness royal footsteps echoing through this space?
Moving through the museum, I was struck by how well everything was presented. The archaeological artifacts—think marble column fragments, ancient pots, and sculpted torsos—were fascinating, but the 19th-century oil paintings were equally captivating. It’s like the museum is telling two stories at once: one about ancient civilizations and another about the creative spirit that thrived in later centuries. The bilingual labels in English and Spanish made it easy to follow along, even if you’re not a history buff. What kind of art draws you in more—ancient artifacts or classic paintings?
Museum: Pompidou Centre
If you’re looking for a museum in Málaga that’s as much about the building as it is about the art, let me introduce you to the Centre Pompidou Málaga, affectionately known as El Cubo. I visited yesterday, and honestly, this place is a feast for the eyes, inside and out. Want to know what makes it so special? Let me take you along.
Have you ever seen a building that feels like it’s inviting you to play? That’s what El Cubo does. Its most striking feature is the vibrant cube of colored glass panels that crowns the structure. Standing there in the marina’s sunshine, the colors practically glow, casting incredible shadows below. It immediately reminded me of a Mondrian painting brought to life. Isn’t it amazing how architecture can be art in itself?
The building spans over 6,000 square meters, with permanent and temporary exhibitions thoughtfully arranged across two levels. At ground level, you’ll find a spacious area dedicated to temporary exhibitions. It’s a public space, so even if you’re just passing through, you can get a taste of what the museum offers. But the real magic happens below ground.
Descending to the lower level feels like stepping into an artistic labyrinth. The galleries are designed in an interlocking pattern, each focusing on a different theme. It keeps you guessing and engaged, like a treasure hunt for the senses. And the art? A clever mix of international pieces from the 20th and 21st centuries. Do you prefer thematic displays, or are you more drawn to chronological ones? Here, it’s all about themes, and they’re done so well.
One piece that completely captivated me was Thomas Schütte’s Great Spirit. I’d seen it before at London’s Saatchi Gallery, but encountering it here felt fresh and different, like catching up with an old friend in a new setting. The permanent collection is small but mighty, with each piece feeling like it has a purpose within the space. What’s your favorite kind of art? Modern? Abstract? This museum has a bit of everything to spark your curiosity.
Situated right by the marina, the museum’s location couldn’t be better. It’s perfect for a cool escape from the midday sun—a refreshing pause before heading out to enjoy the waterfront. After my visit, I strolled down the marina, letting the sea breeze mix with my thoughts about the art I’d just seen. Can you imagine a better way to end a museum visit than with a drink overlooking the water?
Museum: Carmen Thyssen Museum
If you’re an art lover or just someone who appreciates a good cultural experience, let me tell you about my visit to the Carmen Thyssen Museum in Málaga. This place is more than just a museum; it’s a celebration of Spanish and Andalusian life through art. From the moment I walked in, I felt like I was stepping into a storybook of 19th-century Spain. Let me take you through it.
Before even diving into the art, let’s talk about the museum itself. Named after Baroness Carmen Thyssen-Bornemisza, a passionate art collector and advocate for Spanish culture, the museum opened its doors in 2011. It’s housed in a beautifully restored building in the heart of Málaga, and there’s something so inviting about its atmosphere. Have you ever been somewhere that instantly feels like it’s worth your time?
One thing that stood out right away was how easy everything was. No long queues, a quick bag scan at the entrance, and there are even lockers (only a refundable €1) if you’re lugging around a day’s worth of travel essentials. They’ve really thought of everything, even bathrooms on every floor!
The heart of the museum is Baroness Thyssen’s private collection, which focuses on 19th-century Spanish and Andalusian art. If you’re wondering why that’s special, it’s because this period often doesn’t get the spotlight it deserves. The Costumbrismo paintings here are a real highlight. These works capture everyday life with stunning detail—like Washerwomen and Fishermen in a Coastal Landscape by Andrés Cortés y Aguilar or Washing in the Courtyard by Manuel Wssel de Guimbarda. Don’t you love art that feels like a window into the past?
But it’s not all about rural life. The museum also showcases pieces by Spanish Realists like José Moreno Carbonero and early Modernists who paved the way for 20th-century Spanish art. There’s a little something for everyone, and the variety keeps you engaged throughout. Which style do you think you’d enjoy more—the realism of day-to-day life or the bold brushstrokes of modernism?
One of the things that makes the Carmen Thyssen Museum so unique is how it blends art with other cultural experiences. They’ve started hosting Candlelight concerts, a global phenomenon where live music performances are set in candlelit spaces. Imagine sitting in a historic gallery, surrounded by stunning art, while soft music fills the air. Doesn’t that sound magical?
A few practical tips: download the guide onto your phone before you go—it’s super handy for navigating the exhibitions. And don’t miss the small rooftop terrace. It’s tiny, with room for only 11 people, but it’s a lovely spot to pause and take in the views. Feeling peckish? The café serves excellent coffee and delicious cakes, perfect for a mid-visit break. I also spent way too long in the gift shop, which is packed with books, posters, and unique gifts.
