Málaga may be globally known for its beaches, sunshine and Mediterranean lifestyle, but the city has much more to offer—especially during the summer months. From immersive art exhibitions to open-air flamenco performances and rooftop film festivals, Málaga’s cultural agenda in summer 2025 is more vibrant and diverse than ever. Check out this guide to find free activities to enjoy in Málaga so you don’t miss anything!
Whether you’re a resident at Leiro Residences or a visitor seeking refined experiences, this is your curated guide to the 10 best cultural activities in Málaga that go far beyond sun and sand.
1. Picasso Celebration 2025 – Legacy & Modernity
📍 Museo Picasso Málaga
In honor of the continued global centennial celebrations of Picasso’s legacy, the Museo Picasso Málaga presents a special summer program combining masterworks with contemporary reinterpretations by emerging international artists. This year’s theme, Legacy & Modernity, explores the evolution of abstract art from Picasso’s time to the present.
Must see: Exclusive night viewings and immersive audio installations.
Ideal for: Art lovers, collectors, design-conscious travelers.
2. Cine Abierto – Outdoor Film Festival
📍 Multiple Locations (Malagueta Beach, Gibralfaro Castle, etc.)
Every summer, Málaga transforms into an open-air cinema, with curated screenings of classics, indie films and Spanish favorites under the stars. Locations range from sandy beaches to historical rooftops.
Perfect for: Culture under the moonlight, with sea breeze and skyline views.
Leiro tip: Book a private picnic basket through your residence concierge.
3. La Noche en Blanco 2025
📍 Citywide – One night only in July
A city-wide celebration of art, music, and performance, La Noche en Blanco brings together museums, galleries, concert halls and public spaces for an all-night cultural marathon. Expect light installations, live jazz, silent discos and avant-garde theatre.
Don’t miss: Rooftop concerts in Soho and ARCO pop-up galleries.
Vibe: Electric, eclectic, unforgettable.
4. Flamenco Nights at La Malagueta Bullring
📍 Plaza de Toros La Malagueta
Experience authentic Andalusian flamenco in an epic setting. Summer 2025 sees the return of the Noches Flamencas series featuring renowned dancers, singers and guitarists in the atmospheric Malagueta bullring.
Emotional intensity meets open-air magic.
Pro tip: Opt for VIP seats for the best acoustics and local wine tastings.
5. CAC Málaga – Contemporary Art Centre Exhibitions
📍 Soho District
This summer, CAC hosts two major retrospectives: one dedicated to Latin American abstraction, and another spotlighting Spanish urban artists. The building itself is a modernist landmark and a hub for cultural dialogue.
Best for: Modern art enthusiasts and design-savvy visitors.
Afterwards: Stroll through Soho’s street art circuit.
6. Festival Terral – World Music at Teatro Cervantes
📍 Teatro Cervantes
A beloved summer tradition, the Terral Festival showcases a handpicked lineup of world music artists, fusing jazz, folk, flamenco, and global fusion. The setting—Teatro Cervantes—is a historic gem in itself.
Highlight: A special collaboration between Andalusian and North African musicians.
Atmosphere: Intimate, intellectual, globally inspired.
7. Alcazaba Nights – Guided Cultural Evenings
📍 Alcazaba of Málaga
Explore one of Spain’s best-preserved Moorish fortresses in a whole new light—literally. Night tours with dramatic lighting, live music and historical storytelling turn this landmark into an unforgettable cultural escape.
Perfect for: History lovers, couples, and photography fans.
Bonus: Panoramic views over Málaga Bay at dusk.
8. Pompidou Centre – Art, Architecture and the Avant-Garde
📍 Muelle Uno
The only branch of the Centre Pompidou outside of France, this architectural glass cube on Málaga’s waterfront is hosting “Fluid Identities”, a dynamic exhibit exploring gender, art and space in contemporary Europe.
What to expect: Interactive installations, sculpture, and performance art.
Plus: A stylish café perfect for sunset views and people-watching.
9. Rooftop Jazz Sessions – AC Hotel Málaga Palacio
📍 Calle Cortina del Muelle, 1
Every Thursday in summer, the rooftop terrace of this central hotel becomes a jazz lounge in the sky, featuring live performances by top Andalusian musicians. A chic setting with 360-degree views of the city, cathedral, and sea.
For Leiro guests: The concierge can reserve VIP sofas with champagne service.
10. Málaga Book Fair & Literary Salons
📍 Paseo del Parque & Carmen Thyssen Museum
Literature lovers will delight in Málaga’s open-air book fair, featuring stalls from local publishers, rare editions, and readings from national and international authors. Bonus: the Thyssen Museum’s Literary Salon Series is back with curated talks on art, feminism, and Andalusian identity.
Ideal for: Thoughtful afternoons, cultural networking, discovering Spanish authors.
Atmosphere: Intellectual, relaxed, and very local.
Living at Leiro Residences culture in every direction
One of the key benefits of living at Leiro Residences is the seamless access to all these cultural gems—without sacrificing tranquility, luxury, or privacy. Whether you’re enjoying a glass of wine after a night of flamenco or hosting an intimate gathering after a visit to the Pompidou, Leiro becomes the perfect starting and ending point for your summer days.
Your private concierge can arrange:
- Private art gallery visits and previews
- Personal guides to the Alcazaba or CAC
- Reserved seats at concerts, rooftop events, or exclusive dinners
At Leiro, you don’t just live in a residence—you live within the cultural rhythm of the Mediterranean.
Conclusion beyond the beach, into the soul of Málaga
This summer, step away from the obvious and dive into the creative, historical, and musical soul of Málaga. From ancient fortresses to cutting-edge galleries, from rooftop music to immersive theatre, the city offers a kaleidoscope of cultural experiences—each one elevating your sense of connection, beauty, and inspiration.
Explore deeper. Live with intention. Start from Leiro.Learn more about this lifestyle at the official website of Leiro Residences.