Chinitas Urban Hostel Rooftop Bar & Terrace

Terraza Chinitas sits atop Chinitas Urban Hostel in Málaga's historic center, just steps from Calle Larios.

It's a hidden gem tucked away on Pasaje Chinitas, offering some of the most intimate cathedral views you'll find on any rooftop in the city.

The bar is open to the public, so you don't need to be staying at the hostel to enjoy a drink.

This is a locals' favourite with an eclectic mix of travellers, and it's usually one of my first stops when I'm in Málaga.

The Vibe

The rooftop at Chinitas Urban Hostel has an effortlessly social atmosphere. You'll meet all sorts of people here, from backpackers staying at the hostel to local Malagueños who've discovered this tucked-away spot. The vibe is eclectic and welcoming.

It's made for close, personal groups rather than large parties. The space is intimate, the drinks are cheap, and the service is consistently excellent. There's no pretence here, just good drinks and great company.

When the sun starts to set, the roof of the cathedral begins to glow, and the whole terrace takes on a golden warmth. It's the kind of place where strangers become friends over a shared bottle of tinto de verano.

Nearby Hotels & Accommodation

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Menu & Prices

Drinks: This is a budget-friendly spot with drinks priced well below the tourist average. Beers start around 2-3 euros, cocktails from 5-7 euros, and wine by the glass is equally affordable. The bar is simple but well-stocked.

Food: There's no formal menu at Chinitas. This isn't the place for gourmet dining or curated cocktail pairings. However, the bar always serves up free bar snacks and even jars of sweets, a generous touch that adds to the hostel's charm.

The View & Seating

What truly sets this rooftop apart is the view. You're close to the top of the cathedral, almost eye-level with its ornate stonework. When the sun starts to set, the rooftops of the city begin to glow in shades of amber and rose.

Seating is arranged across two tiers:

• Upper level: Bar stools and high tables perfect for soaking up panoramic views with a cocktail in hand
• Lower level: Cushioned benches and low tables better suited to groups wanting to relax and linger
• The layout creates distinct zones for different moods, from lively perches to cosy corners

The space is compact but cleverly designed, making the most of every square metre.

How to Make a Reservation

No reservations needed. Seating is first-come, first-served, so it's a good idea to arrive early, especially around sunset or during special events. The terrace fills up quickly on warm evenings.

Dress Code

What works:

• Casual and relaxed attire
• Comfortable summer clothes
• Anything you'd wear for exploring the old town

What doesn't work:

• There's really no dress code here. Come as you are.

This is a hostel rooftop, so the vibe is deliberately laid-back. You'll fit in whether you're in sandals and shorts or dressed for dinner.

Access & Getting There

How to find it: Enter through the main entrance of Chinitas Urban Hostel on Pasaje Chinitas. Head through the hostel lobby and take the stairs or small elevator up to the rooftop bar. Signage is minimal, but the staff are friendly and happy to point the way.

Location: The hostel is in Málaga's historic city center, just steps from Calle Larios and a short walk from the cathedral. It's easy to find once you know where to look.

Getting there: The old town is pedestrianised, so you'll be arriving on foot. The nearest parking is at Plaza de la Marina or along the port. Public buses stop at Alameda Principal, a five-minute walk away.

Photos of Chinitas Urban Hostel Rooftop Bar & Terrace

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Location & Map

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Pasaje Chinitas, 3, 29015 Málaga, Spain

Our Verdict

Chinitas Urban Hostel is a local favourite for good reason. It's the kind of place you stumble upon once and then keep coming back to. The views are intimate and up-close, the drinks are cheap, the staff are warm, and the vibe is wonderfully laid back.

Best for: Budget travellers, social butterflies, anyone seeking an authentic local atmosphere, sunset drinks with new friends.

Skip if: You're looking for upscale cocktails or formal dining. This is a hostel bar through and through.

It may be small and unassuming, but Terraza Chinitas punches well above its weight.

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