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Easter Week in Malaga is much more than a religious celebration; it is a cultural, artistic and emotional experience that attracts thousands of visitors every year. Its processions, the aroma of incense, the saetas and the passion that permeates every corner of the city make this festivity an unforgettable date.
But Malaga and the Costa del Sol offer much more: from paradisiacal beaches to charming white villages and gastronomic routes that will delight any traveller. Renting a car with Record go Mobility Malaga will allow you to discover all this at your own pace, without transport limitations and making the most of your time.
In this article, we tell you about the most outstanding traditions, we suggest incredible plans to enjoy with your hire car and we give you practical tips to get around Malaga and its surroundings during Easter Week.
Holy Week in Malaga, Spain. Procession of the Dulce Nombre
Essential traditions of Easter Week in Malaga
Easter Week in Malaga has been declared a Festival of International Tourist Interest, and with good reason. Every year, the streets of the old quarter become the setting for a tradition that blends art, faith and popular culture.
1. The majestic processions
The brotherhoods and sisterhoods of Malaga take to the streets with their impressive thrones, true works of art decorated with flowers and gold. Accompanied by bands of music and followed by thousands of the faithful, the most emblematic processions are:
- Palm Sunday: The Pollinica procession kicks off Holy Week, full of joy and fervour.
- Easter Monday: The departure of the Cautivo is one of the most emotional moments of the week.
- Maundy Thursday: The parade of the Cristo de Mena together with the Spanish Legion is spectacular and awe-inspiring.
- Good Friday: The procession of the Santo Sepulcro and the Virgen de la Soledad mark the end of Holy Week with a unique solemnity.
2. The tradition of the saetas
If there is one sound that characterises Holy Week in Malaga, it is that of the saetas. These heart-wrenching flamenco songs are performed in the street, from balconies or among the public, addressing the sacred images. The voice of the saetero, accompanied by the silence of the crowd, creates an atmosphere full of emotion.
3. The release of a prisoner by Jesús El Rico (Jesus the Rich)
This tradition, unique in Spain, has its origins in the 18th century and takes place on Holy Wednesday. The image of Jesus El Rico walks through the streets of Malaga while the symbolic act of freeing a prisoner is carried out, as a sign of forgiveness and redemption.
4. Art and detail
Each procession is a visual spectacle in itself: from the images carved by renowned sculptors to the details of the embroidered cloaks and the candles that light the way. Holy Week in Malaga is also an open-air exhibition of sacred art.
Holy Week in Malaga, Spain. Procession of the Dulce Nombre
Must-do’s with your rental car in Malaga and surroundings.
Renting a car with Record go Mobility will not only allow you to enjoy the most important processions, but will also give you the opportunity to explore other unique places and plans in Malaga and the Costa del Sol.
1. A tour of the beaches of the Costa del Sol
Spring in Malaga brings with it sunny days ideal for enjoying the beach. Just minutes away from the historic centre, you can visit:
- Malagueta Beach: Perfect for relaxing after a day of processions.
- Beaches of Nerja (Burriana and Maro): Golden sand and crystal clear waters less than an hour’s drive away.
- Marbella and Puerto Banús: Enjoy luxury, exclusive restaurants and the most famous beaches on the Costa del Sol.
2. White villages route
The white villages of Malaga are a jewel that you cannot miss. Renting a car will allow you to explore them at your own pace:
- Frigiliana: Its cobbled streets and whitewashed houses are one of the most beautiful postcards of Andalusia.
- Ronda: An hour and a half from Malaga, its Puente Nuevo bridge and old town will leave you speechless.
- Mijas Pueblo: Traditional Andalusian charm with panoramic views of the Mediterranean.
3. Discover the local gastronomy
Easter in Malaga is not complete without trying its typical dishes. With a hire car, you can move between bars, restaurants and chiringuitos:
- Tapas in the centre of Malaga: Try the boquerones en vinagre (anchovies in vinegar), ajoblanco and tortas locas.
- Espetos de sardinas (sardine skewers): Available in beach bars such as those in El Palo and Pedregalejo.
- Traditional Easter sweets: Don’t miss the torrijas, pestiños and roscos de vino.
4. Adventure and nature plans
If you want a break between processions, make the most of your car to discover Malaga’s nature:
- Caminito del Rey: An impressive route of footbridges 100 metres high, book your ticket in advance!
- El Torcal de Antequera: A unique karst landscape less than an hour’s drive away.
- Parque Natural Montes de Málaga: Ideal for hiking routes and picnics with sea views.
5. Experience the processions from different perspectives
Thanks to the freedom that a rental car gives you, you can enjoy the processions from unique places:
- Gibralfaro viewpoint: A spectacular panoramic view of Malaga illuminated by the processions.
- Nearby towns: Processions in Vélez-Málaga, Antequera or Alhaurín el Grande, where the Holy Week is lived with great fervour.
Nerja Beach. Province of Malaga, Costa del Sol, Andalusia, Spain.
Tips for enjoying Malaga at Easter with a rental car
- Book your car in advance with Record go Mobility to ensure the best availability and price.
- Take advantage of the park and ride facilities to avoid the traffic in the historic centre.
- Plan your routes and schedules in advance, as some streets will be closed during the processions.
- Combine car and walking: park in areas close to the centre and explore the streets on foot to enjoy Holy Week in all its splendour.
Semana Santa in Malaga 2025 promises to be an unforgettable experience, where devotion, art and culture come together in a vibrant and welcoming city. Renting a car with Record go Mobility will allow you to experience this celebration with total freedom and discover all that Malaga and the Costa del Sol have to offer.
From impressive processions to beach getaways, charming villages and gastronomic routes, your trip will be a real pleasure for the senses. Don’t hesitate any longer and start planning your Easter Week in Malaga 2025!
