Historic fortress views, craft cocktails and a laid-back yet elegant rooftop vibe
La Terraza de la Alcazaba sits atop the Alcazaba Premium Hostel on Calle Alcazabilla, offering one of Málaga's most photogenic vantage points with the ancient Alcazaba fortress and Gibralfaro Castle as your backdrop.
The rooftop is completely open to the public, no hotel reservation required.
This is one of those rooftops we keep in our back pocket for visiting friends or a spontaneous sunset drink.
It's not the fanciest terrace in town, but the fortress views are genuinely spectacular, and the atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between lively and relaxed.
Best For
- Couples looking to share a cocktail with fortress views and golden hour light
- Culture lovers who want a front-row seat to the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro
- First-time visitors easing into Málaga's rooftop scene without the crowds
- Locals looking for an easygoing rooftop that never feels too polished
Not Ideal For
- Guests expecting a pool or full dining experience on the terrace
- Families with small children (especially after sunset, when it skews adult)
- Large groups wanting bottle service or a full-on party vibe
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The Vibe
Step out of the elevator and you're immediately surrounded by fortress walls and skyline silhouettes. The atmosphere is busy, loud, and upbeat, a local favourite that draws a mixed crowd of travellers and Malagueños alike. At night, the castle is beautifully lit with floodlights, creating a magical backdrop for your evening drinks.
The terrace has a laid-back yet elegant energy. During the day, it's relaxed and family-friendly. As the sun sets and the lights come on, the mood shifts to something more romantic and adult-oriented. There's no pretence here, just good drinks, great views, and an easygoing crowd.
Nearby Hotels & Accommodation
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Opening Hours
- Monday - Thursday: 15:00 - 02:00
- Friday - Saturday: 13:00 - 02:00
The terrace gets particularly busy around sunset, so arrive early if you want to secure a prime viewing spot for golden hour.
Menu & Prices
Drinks
The bar offers an extensive cocktail menu with creative concoctions and classic favourites. Expect to pay around 8-12 euros for signature cocktails, with wine and beer options available at lower price points.
Food
A selection of snacks and light bites are available to accompany your drinks. For a more substantial dining experience, guests can visit Batik restaurant located one floor below, which serves Mediterranean cuisine with international influences.
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The View & Seating
From La Terraza de la Alcazaba, the view is pure postcard material: terracotta rooftops at your feet, the Alcazaba fortress rising just across the way, and Gibralfaro watching from the hillside beyond. It's one of those rare spots where history feels close enough to touch.
Seating options include:
- Tall stools at the bar for couples
- Low-slung sofas for groups
- Edge-facing benches for sunset gazing
- Scattered tables throughout the terrace
The layout wraps around the terrace in cosy zones, so there's usually a spot that suits your mood, whether you're after an intimate corner or a social perch near the action.
How to Make a Reservation
Bar area: No reservations needed. The terrace operates on a walk-in, first-come-first-served basis. Arrive early if you want a front-row sunset spot.
Restaurant (Batik): Reservations are recommended for dinner at the restaurant one floor below, especially on weekends when it can get busy.
Sunrise at Gibralfaro Castle
Watch the sun rise over Malaga from the highest point in the city. The views stretch from the bullring to the port and beyond.
“The castle opens at 9am, but staying at the Parador gives you access to the terrace at dawn - before anyone else arrives.”
Parador de Malaga Gibralfaro - The only hotel with direct castle access. Wake up and walk straight onto the terrace for sunrise.
Check AvailabilityDress Code
What works:
- Smart casual in the evenings
- Relaxed daytime wear
- Summer dresses and linen shirts
What doesn't work:
- Swimwear or beachwear
- Overly formal attire (you'll feel out of place)
Access & Getting There
How to find it: Enter through the main door of Alcazaba Premium Hostel on Calle Alcazabilla. Head to the elevator just past reception, and it takes you straight up to the rooftop. There's no cover charge.
Parking: Street parking is limited in this historic area. The nearest public car park is Parking Alcazaba on Calle Alcazabilla.
Public transport: The location is very central and walkable from most parts of the old town. Bus lines 1, 3, and 11 stop nearby.
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Location & Map
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C/ Alcazabilla, 12. 29015 Málaga
Our Verdict
La Terraza de la Alcazaba is one of those rooftops that punches above its weight. The views are genuinely world-class, the vibe is welcoming, and it never feels too polished or exclusive. It's become one of my personal favourites in Málaga.
Best for: A low-key evening with visiting friends, sunset drinks with a view, or easing into Málaga's rooftop scene without the crowds or high prices.
Skip if: You're after a pool, full dining experience on the terrace, or bottle service party vibes.
We keep coming back because it strikes that rare balance: impressive enough to feel special, relaxed enough to feel like home.
Contact Information
- Phone
- (+34) 952 22 98 78
- Website
- Visit website
Information last verified: 22/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, the rooftop is open to the public, you don't need to be a hotel guest to enjoy the terrace.
No reservation is needed for the rooftop bar. It's first-come, first-served. For dinner at Batik (the restaurant one floor below), reservations are recommended.
Casual during the day; smart casual is recommended in the evening. Swimwear and beachwear are not appropriate.
Yes, children are welcome, especially during the day. In the evenings, the atmosphere becomes more adult-oriented.
Yes, there is an elevator inside Alcazaba Premium Hostel that takes you directly to the rooftop.
Have another question about La Terraza de Alcazaba Rooftop Bar in Malaga? Feel free to contact us.
About the Author
Heidi Hein
South African travel writer living in Málaga, Spain. I personally visit and review every rooftop bar and pool featured on this site.
- Based in Málaga since 2020
- Visited 100+ rooftop venues across Andalusia
- All content personally verified and updated seasonally
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you book or purchase through them, we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend places we genuinely love and believe are worth your time.
Note: I personally visit every rooftop featured on this site, and all opinions are based on my own firsthand experience. If, in the case of private hostels where I can't get access, I will make a note of it. Any external images or details sourced from others are always clearly credited.
