If you’re spending your holidays in Marbella and want to explore a more authentic side of the Costa del Sol, Mijas is one of the best day trips you can take. Just 35–40 minutes by car from Marbella, this charming town in the province of Málaga offers a perfect blend of tradition, history, nature, and local culture. Whether you’re into scenic walks, cultural landmarks, or traditional Andalusian food, here’s a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Mijas in just one day.
Mijas and Mijas Pueblo: are they the same?
Before planning your excursion, it’s important to clarify one thing: when we talk about “Mijas”, we’re referring to the entire municipality, which is made up of three main areas:
- Mijas Pueblo: the historical centre, perched on the mountainside at around 400 metres above sea level. It’s the quintessential Andalusian pueblo blanco, with cobbled streets, whitewashed façades, and viewpoints offering breathtaking views over the Mediterranean. This is the most traditional and cultural part of Mijas—ideal for a one-day visit.
- Mijas Costa: over 12 km of Mediterranean coastline, featuring tourist developments, peaceful coves, beach bars (chiringuitos), and family-friendly beaches such as La Cala de Mijas or Calahonda.
- Las Lagunas de Mijas: the most modern area, located next to Fuengirola. It’s mainly residential and commercial, with shopping centres, local services, and everyday life.
In this article, we’ll focus on what to see in Mijas Pueblo in one day, as it’s one of the most popular day trips from Marbella and where you can truly experience the Andalusian essence.
A stroll through the historic centre of Mijas Pueblo
The charm of Mijas lies in its old town, with narrow lanes, whitewashed houses, and balconies overflowing with flowers. Wandering through these streets feels like stepping back in time—past artisan shops, traditional taverns, and lively squares.
- Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes: the streets are cobbled and uneven, but the reward is a photogenic corner at every turn.
Plaza de la Virgen de la Peña and the viewpoint
Plaza de la Virgen de la Peña is one of the most popular meeting points in the village. Here you’ll find the viewpoint, with one of the most spectacular panoramic views on the Costa del Sol—stretching from Fuengirola to the Mijas mountain range.
- The square is also home to the Tourist Office and several cafés and bars—perfect for a short break and to soak in the local atmosphere.
The Hermitage of the Virgen de la Peña
Carved into the rock in the 17th century, the Hermitage of the Virgen de la Peña is one of the most unique religious sites in Andalusia. According to tradition, it was built by shepherds who discovered the image of the Virgin following a miraculous apparition. It’s a place of great spiritual significance, set in a privileged location right next to the viewpoint.
The walls and gardens of Mijas
One of the most scenic walks in Mijas is through its ancient Arab walls. Today, these have been transformed into a series of gardens with flower-lined paths, benches for resting, and sea-facing viewpoints. It’s an ideal spot to enjoy the peace and quiet, take photos, or watch the sunset if you decide to extend your visit into the evening.
The Bullring
The Mijas Bullring, built in 1900, is one of the few in Spain with an oval shape. While nowadays it’s used more for cultural events than for bullfighting, it remains one of the most visited landmarks in the village. Its unusual architecture and the views from the top make it a unique and memorable stop.
Museums in Mijas: small-scale culture
For those who enjoy a dose of culture, Mijas offers several small but interesting museums:
- Historical-Ethnological Museum: a great way to learn about traditional village life through agricultural tools, old costumes, and everyday utensils.
- “Carromato de Max” Miniatures Museum: a fascinating collection of tiny works of art, including a Bible written on the head of a nail and sculptures carved into a grain of rice.
- CAC Mijas (Contemporary Art Centre): hosts an important collection of works by Picasso, Dalí, Miró, and other notable artists.
The charm of the donkey taxis
The donkey taxis are one of Mijas’s most iconic sights. Originally started in the 1960s as a practical means of transport for locals, they gradually became a tourist attraction. Today, the service is regulated to ensure animal welfare, and although opinions are divided, they remain a part of the village’s identity.
Local gastronomy: what to eat in Mijas
No visit is complete without trying the local cuisine. Mijas’s traditional cooking, influenced by the bounty of the sea and the simplicity of the Andalusian countryside, offers a rich and authentic experience. Among the typical dishes you can enjoy at local restaurants and ventas are:
- Gazpachuelo: a traditional seafood soup from Málaga, made with fish broth, mayonnaise, potatoes, and sometimes rice or hake. Its creamy texture and delicate flavour make it a comforting dish, especially on cooler days.
- Migas a la malagueña: a hearty, flavourful dish made from crumbled stale bread fried with garlic, olive oil, and chorizo. It’s often served with grapes, sardines, or even melon, creating a delicious contrast between salty and sweet.
- Pescaíto frito: a beloved Andalusian classic. Anchovies, squid, dogfish, or red mullet are deep-fried in olive oil until golden and crispy on the outside and tender inside. Typically served with a squeeze of lemon and a cold beer or local white wine.
- Tortas de aceite and borrachuelos: among the local desserts, these treats stand out. Tortas de aceite are thin, crispy, and mildly sweet, flavoured with anise and sesame. Borrachuelos are small pastries filled with angel hair or sweet potato and soaked in wine or anise—perfect with a coffee after your meal.
Our tip: for a truly authentic experience, look for a restaurant with a terrace offering views of the sea or the mountains.
Hiking routes in the Sierra de Mijas
For those seeking a more direct connection with nature, Mijas offers the chance to explore its mountainous surroundings via a network of signposted hiking trails. These routes, starting right from the village, reveal the natural beauty of the Sierra de Mijas, a landscape of great ecological and scenic value.
- Hermitage of El Calvario Route: perfect for beginners or those who prefer a gentle walk, this low-difficulty trail leads to the Hermitage of El Calvario, a small sanctuary perched on the hillside with panoramic views of the village and the Mediterranean Sea. A short but rewarding route, it’s ideal for a peaceful morning outing.
- Viewpoints route: a slightly longer but still accessible option, this route takes around 2 to 3 hours and passes several elevated points with stunning views over the coast, the valley, and—on clear days—even the African shoreline. It’s a great choice for those who want to combine light exercise with landscape photography.
Practical tips for your visit to Mijas
Planning your visit well can make the difference between a nice day out and a truly memorable experience. Here are a few practical tips to help you get the most out of your trip to Mijas:
- Getting there from Marbella: by car, the journey takes around 35–40 minutes. You can also take a bus to Fuengirola, then connect with local lines that go up to Mijas Pueblo.
- Recommended time: a full day is ideal to see the main sights without feeling rushed.
- Best time of year: Mijas is a great destination all year round, but spring and autumn offer the most pleasant temperatures for walking and exploring.
Mijas is the perfect day trip from Marbella, combining everything a traveller might look for: tradition, history, scenic landscapes, delicious food, and the unmistakable charm of Andalusia’s white villages. The key is to distinguish between Mijas Pueblo, the traditional heart set in the mountains, and the rest of the municipality (Mijas Costa and Las Lagunas), which complement the experience with beaches and urban life.
From Marbella, visiting Mijas Pueblo is a unique opportunity to take a break from the cosmopolitan pace of the coast and immerse yourself in the most authentic side of the province of Málaga. If you’re planning your holiday on the Costa del Sol, Banus Rentals offers ideal accommodation in Marbella and Puerto Banús, allowing you to enjoy your stay in comfort—and take unforgettable day trips like this one to Mijas.