The Most Interesting Museums in Málaga's Historic Center

Málaga has become one of southern Europe’s most vibrant cultural cities, and much of its charm lies in its rich variety of museums, especially those located in the heart of the city. From classic to contemporary art, archaeology to music, there’s something for every taste.

In this guide, we highlight the most recommended museums to visit in Málaga’s city center, with tips based on your interests.

1. Picasso Museum Málaga

Located in the Palacio de Buenavista, this museum showcases over 200 works by Málaga’s most famous artist. A must-visit to understand Picasso’s life and influence.

👉 We visited it in depth during our cultural tour about Picasso.

2. Carmen Thyssen Museum

Focused on 19th-century Andalusian and Spanish painting, this museum is perfect for lovers of romantic and costumbrista (folk-style) art. The building itself is also a gem.

3. Málaga Museum

Housed in the Palacio de la Aduana, this museum offers a stunning collection of archaeology and fine arts. Entry is free for EU citizens and well worth the visit.

👉 We'll show you this as part of our guided tour of the historic center, perfect for discovering lesser-known treasures.

4. Centre Pompidou Málaga

The colorful glass cube at Muelle Uno is home to this modern art museum, a branch of the Paris original. It features both permanent and rotating exhibitions.

5. Russian Art Museum (Colección del Museo Estatal de San Petersburgo)

Located in Tabacalera, a short bus ride from the center, this museum presents a wide view of Russian art from the 15th to 20th centuries in a peaceful, spacious setting.

6. MUPAM – Municipal Heritage Museum

This museum offers insight into Málaga’s evolution through historical documents, maps, and works that trace the city’s identity from Islamic times to the present day.

7. Interactive Music Museum (MIMMA)

Great for families and curious minds, MIMMA allows you to touch and play instruments from around the world in an interactive, engaging environment.

👉 Highly recommended if you're traveling with children, as explained in our article on Malaga for families.

Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, Málaga’s museums offer a unique opportunity to connect with the city’s soul. Choose your route based on your interests, or join one of our tailor-made cultural tours to explore them with expert guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are any museums free to visit?
Yes, the Málaga Museum is free for EU citizens. Others may offer free entry at specific times or days.

How much time should I plan for each museum?
Typically, 45–90 minutes per museum. We recommend visiting no more than 2–3 per day for a relaxed experience.

Are the museums family-friendly?
Yes, many include interactive areas or activities for kids, like MIMMA or the Automobile Museum (also near the center).

Can I visit several museums in a guided tour?
Definitely! We offer cultural routes that include combined museum visits with a knowledgeable local guide.