Nerja is the resort town in the province of Malaga, Spain. This resort town is popular to tourists for their beaches, a balcony known as Balcon de Europa and an ancient aqueduct, Aqueduct Eagle.
Accommodation
A resort town would mean a challenge in finding affordable accommodations? Great news! There are several charming 1-star and 2-star options available around the area, making a visit to Nerja more accessible than ever!
The charming 2-star Hostal Azahara Nerja was our getaway base, and boy, were we in for a treat of bittersweet! Nestled along Carr. de Almeria, just 950m from the beach (yes, we counted the steps), this place comes with its very own stairmaster—who needs a gym membership? The accommodation provides only breakfast – complimentary breakfast featuring assorted beverages, toasts, eggs, savory breads, cheese, ham, and fruits. The owner of the hostel also permits the use of their microwave, electric kettle, and dining area at other times of the day. All the rooms are on the same level, you won’t need to pull a muscle gallivanting around. Our spacious Triple Room had 3 single beds, a city view, and a private bathroom where we could plot our beach takeover in comfort!
Right by the doorstep, the Nerja bus station and Alsa ticketing booth are practically begging you to hop on and explore. The ticketing booth opens daily from 0800hrs to 1400hrs and 1615hrs to 1900hrs with weekends closing at 2045hrs.
Getting to Nerja
We flew from Zagreb to Malaga via Amsterdam. This does sound like a round-the-world trip?
Malaga has a huge airport. Interesting fact is that there was no custom checks after collecting luggage. It was almost passed the check-in time when we landed. We did not have sufficient time to look around. It took more than an hour from Malaga airport to Nerja even by the highways.
Tips:
- If you’re heading to Nerja from Malaga airport or Malaga itself, it’s a good idea to catch the Alsa bus earlier in the day. Just a heads up, you gotta buy your bus tickets in advance! The bus driver won’t sell you a ticket on the spot, and you’ll need one to hop on. A taxi from Malaga airport to Nerja will set you back about €84. Renfe trains run from the airport to Malaga Maria Zambrano station, which is right next to where the Alsa buses pick up and drop off for Nerja. For the latest info and updates, check out the Malaga airport official site.
- For those preferring to travel by road, Alsa will be your best choice apart from hefty taxi charges.
Balcon de Europa
Balcon de Europa is a popular platform and landmark in Nerja. This is a must-see in Nerja!
This platform, situated on a cliff between two beautiful beaches – Playa el Salón and Playa Calahonda. The platform provides tourists with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. Formerly a fortress, this platform was renamed by King Alfonso XII in 1884 after an earthquake.
Plaza de Cavana is a hub for locals and tourists – there are many cafes, bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops next to Balcon de Europa.
Tourists looking to explore on a budget, rejoice! You’ll find a delightful array of up to 10 supermarkets just a short walk away. I would suggest that you bring your own backpack, as shopping bags may incur a charge.
Tip:
- Access to the beach is by descending the stairs from the Balcony.
- The best way to explore this Hub is on foot.
- Be ready with good walking shoes, a camera and backpack to place purchases.
- It can take up to a full day in exploring the Hub.
Architectural design
Nerja’s architecture is so fantastic it could make even a brick blush! It’s like Porto decided to throw a party and invited all its buildings to show off their dazzling tile outfits. Honestly, even the pavements are decked out like they’re ready for a runway show—who knew sidewalks could have such a flair for fashion?
Nerja will be our base for the next few days when we go on the Caminito de Rey tour to explore Caminito de Rey.