The White Village of Mijas Pueblo, Costa del Sol, Malaga Spain | Why You Should Never Ride a Donkey in Mijas Pueblo

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We are lucky enough to be based just 30 minutes drive from this amazing town!

Mijas Pueblo is the very picture of a traditional Spanish lifestyle. Its narrow streets are decorated with blue flower pots, cute cafes, local bars and shops selling handmade ceramics, leather goods, jewellery and wine.

Mijas Pueblo is 24.1 km from Malaga airport, a 20 minute drive. 

Tucked away at 430 metres above sea level in the heart of Costa del Sol, Mijas Pueblo, known as Andalucia's white village, offers absolutely breathtaking views and is the perfect place for a day trip!

Our family often visits Mijas Pueblo on cool evenings or weekends to enjoy our favourite flavours of chocolate from the Mayan Monkey Mijas Chocolate Factory (the smallest chocolate factory in the world) while strolling through the botanical gardens of La Muralla. We have the advantage of living in Benalmadena, which is only 20 minutes away. 

In this article, we'll share our insider tips and local expertise to give you the ultimate travel guide to Mijas Pueblo, ensuring you experience the best this enchanting village has to offer.

Early settlers, along with the Phoenicians in 800 BC and the Romans in the 2nd century BC, greatly influenced trade, communication and architecture. 

From the 8th century, Muslim rulers introduced advanced farming methods and cultural changes that shaped the development of the village. 

The Catholic Monarchs took over in 1487, bringing challenges such as pirate raids, but also stability and growth. In the 17th and 18th centuries, marble quarrying flourished and agriculture changed from figs to grapes. 

The 19th century focused on agriculture and paper mills, while the 20th century saw a shift to tourism, making Mijas a popular destination.

• Handicrafts: The Mijas Handicrafts Association preserves traditional handicrafts and has earned the town the title of "Area of Interest for Handicrafts".
  
  
• Vibrant arts scene: Local artists produce a wide variety of work and cultural events are held in the Municipal Auditorium.
  
  
• Festivals and events: In summer there is live music, dance shows and a weekly night market, culminating in the annual parade on 8 September in honour of the Virgen de la Peña, the village's patron saint.

Each time we visit, we find a different side of this amazing village, but we have finally crystallized a list of 5 truly captivating attractions that you won't want to miss:

This charming former bullfighting arena offers a unique atmosphere with stunning views and a quaint bar. Its historic charm and picturesque setting make it well worth a visit. Entrance price: 4 EUR (£3,38)

Carved into the rock, this small Catholic church offers a serene spiritual experience and panoramic views. It houses relics blessed by Pope Francis, which adds to its significance.

For art lovers, this small museum displays works by famous artists such as Picasso, Dalí and Gaudí. With an entrance fee of just €3 and free entry for children, it's a cultural gem.

This tranquil garden is perfect for nature lovers. With a wide variety of plants from all over the world, it offers beautiful views and a peaceful escape. 

For a small fee of €1, you can access the park's viewpoints.
Each one offers a unique insight into the cultural and natural beauty of Mijas Pueblo.

These lovely steps lead from Plaza Virgin de la Peña up to Calle de los Caños. They can be a little tricky to spot from the top as they're only accessible through nearby shops, but they're well worth the effort!

Donkey rides in Mijas Pueblo may seem charming, but they're best avoided. See why:

Locals view it as a tourist trap, not part of their culture, and no local would ride a donkey on the village’s rocky paths. 

The ride can be uncomfortable and dangerous, with risks of injury. Additionally, the donkeys often suffer from being tied up for long hours with limited movement and poor bedding.

Recent campaigns with nearly 50,000 signatures have called for a boycott to protect the animals. Just because you can do something doesn’t mean you should.

Discover Mijas in a fun, eco-friendly way with a Tuk-Tuk ride. These three-wheeled, open-air vehicles are 100% electric, silent, and offer a unique transportation experience.

Enjoy a live tour guide in your choice of four languages: English, Spanish, French, or Dutch. 

Tours last between 25 and 45 minutes and cost around £25 for two people. 

Experience Mijas’s beauty and history in a charming, environmentally friendly way.

At around £25 for up to four people, the ride is more comfortable and less painful for the strong horses.

Mijas Pueblo's mountainous landscape and commitment to preserving its authentic charm means that the hotel options are limited, especially when compared to neighbouring towns such as Benalmádena or Fuengirola.

We couldn't leave without mentioning the amazing 5-star resort La Zambra Resort GL, part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt.

For a two-week stay, the cost is £4,929, which we think is a great deal! 

Highlights: 

📍Location: Just a short 10-kilometre drive (about 15 minutes by car) from the village centre of Mijas Pueblo

🪩Amenities: two swimming pools, a spa and wellness center, and a fitness suite, two restaurants, kids' club, airport transfers, and pet-friendly accommodation

🏨Rooms: King room with terrace/garden or golf view, air conditioning, soundproof walls, minibar, hairdryer, tea and coffee maker, as well as a flat-screen TV with cable channels.

It’s the perfect choice for those seeking luxury and relaxation just a short drive from Mijas Pueblo.

Link to the hotel here. 

TRH Mijas: The TRH Mijas Hotel is a charming 4-star Andalusian-style hotel.

For £1790, you can enjoy 13 nights from 1-14 August 2024 for two people.

Highlights: 

📍Location: Easy access to local buses and attractions like Fuengirola (7.5 km) and Malaga (30 km)

🪩Amenities: outdoor pool, tennis court, sauna, and beautiful patios

🏨Rooms: Free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, minibars, terraces with pool views, and suites available.

Link to the unit here. 

While the area might not be known for its rental accommodations, there are still some great finds on Airbnb.com. 

If you're looking for a place to stay in August, you can expect to pay between £99 and £133 per night for a condo.

When travelling with young children, space and location are key factors in choosing accommodation. As a family with two toddlers, we really understand these needs firsthand. 

If you're looking for a family-friendly stay in Mijas Pueblo, we highly recommend a two-bedroom rental unit that offers two separate bathrooms, a dedicated workspace, and is pet-friendly. 

It's priced at £1,729 for a 13-night stay, which we think is great value for money!

The rental's central location provides easy access to local attractions, while the stunning views and homely atmosphere make it a perfect little haven for your family in Mijas Pueblo.

Link to the property here.

Mijas Pueblo villas are the best rental option for those seeking privacy and a unique stay.

They offer the perfect blend of comfort and exclusivity, especially for groups travelling together. 

Villas can also be surprisingly affordable when shared.

Mijas Pueblo may not have as many luxury villas as Marbella, but it still offers unique stays. 

Our top pick is the Diamante Villa Mijas, a spectacular 600 m², 8-bedroom villa that accommodates up to 15 people for £11,299 for a 13-night stay.

Just 10 km from Plaza de España and 17 km from Benalmádena Puerto Marina, this villa boasts a private pool, garden, barbecue facilities, free WiFi, and parking.

Highlights: 

📍Location: Malaga Airport is 27 km away

🪩Amenities: Two living rooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and six bathrooms with walk-in showers. The terrace and balcony offer unparalleled sea and mountain views, with a private entrance for added privacy.

🏨Rooms: streaming services on a flat-screen TV, and soundproof rooms.

Link to the property here. 

True to its name, which means "The Beautiful House" in English, Casa Bonita offers a charming and picturesque stay in Mijas.

This peaceful detached villa, located in Las Lagunas, Mijas, promises a delightful getaway with stunning scenic views.

For a 13-night stay, Casa Bonita is available at a rate of £1977 (£247 for 8 people).

The spacious 240 m² villa is perfect for families and groups, featuring four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven. 

Highlights: 

📍Location: Just 2.7 km from Fuengirola Beach and 25 km from Malaga Airport (AGP)

🪩Amenities: outdoor seating area, swimming pool, and garden, balcony and a terrace

🏨Rooms: streaming services on a flat-screen TV, and soundproof rooms.

🐩 Pet-friendly, making it an ideal choice for those traveling with furry friends

Link to the property here.

Open from noon to 23:00, closed on Sundays and Mondays, Tomillo Limón offers attentive service and an excellent location just 2 minutes from Plaza de la Paz. 

The restaurant's website makes it easy to book a table and offers a glimpse of what to expect on quieter days. 

Don't miss the unique salmorejo with egg and serrano ham, mini grilled chorizo and the delicious homemade Guinness cake - because, as they say, "a meal without dessert is like a suit without a tie".

We simply adore this restaurant! It's right in the heart of Mijas, on Plaza Virgen de la Peña. 

The views from the terrace are simply stunning, and the sangria is so refreshing! It's the perfect place to enjoy a drink with friends.

i: Is unfortunately closed on Saturdays. 

If you're a fan of tapas, you'll absolutely love Oscar’s Tapas Bar!  It's just a short 2-minute walk from Plaza de la Constitución. 

We were blown away by their incredible aubergines with olive oil, garlic potato salad, and the classic Fabada (beans with chorizo, tomato, onion, and ham). 

The amazing service just adds to the welcoming atmosphere of this popular spot.

The journey starts at Malaga María Zambrano station. Take the metro to Fuengirola, which takes about 28 minutes and has 10 stops (to Arroyo De La Miel).

After arriving at Estación de tren Benalmádena/Arroyo De La Miel, there's a short 3-minute walk to the bus stop.

From there, take the Bus M-112 or M-121 to Mijas Pueblo, which takes approximately 41 minutes with 23 stops.

Finally, there's a 5-minute walk of about 400 meters from La Fuente de Mijas to reach Mijas Pueblo.

As mentioned above, from Benalmadena - Estación de tren Benalmádena/Arroyo De La Miel you can take the M-112 or M-121 bus to Mijas Pueblo, which takes approximately 41 minutes with 23 stops.

• From & To Malaga Airport

Follow the same route as from Malaga Centrum, but take the train directly from the airport (Aeropuerto, Churriana, Malaga): Metro C1 and then connection with one of the buses in Benalmadena, M - 112 or M - 121.

Link to the route on Google Maps.

• Fuengirola - Mijas Pueblo

The journey from Fuengirola to Mijas Pueblo takes about 37 minutes. From Fuengirola train station, walk 650 metres to Ajolí V. Take bus M-221 or M-122 to Mijas Pueblo. This takes 18 minutes and stops 12 times. Walk 450 metres from Molino Del Cura V to Mijas Pueblo.

Link to the route on Google Maps.

i.: A taxi (Cabify, Uber or Local Taxi) is the best option for two or more people. It costs about £10–12. The wait is usually 5 minutes and the ride is about 18 minutes.

• Torremolinos - Mijas Pueblo

The most convenient way is to take the train from Torremolinos station to Fuengirola. It takes about 24 minutes. Walk for about 11 minutes to Ajolí V, then take the M-122 bus to Mijas Pueblo. The last part of the journey is a 9-minute walk to Mijas Pueblo.

Link to the route on Google Maps.

Parking in Mijas Pueblo is very convenient and we'd recommend the public car park on the 10th floor as the exit is right on level 0 of the town centre.

Google Maps Location here.

• Only €1 for the whole day
• With plenty of space 
• Saves time

Just 20 minutes from Mijas village (Mijas Pueblo) and 20 km from Marbella, it boasts excellent bus connections and convenient access to Málaga Airport, 27 km away.

Mijas Costa offers the ideal blend of relaxation and activity, making it a prime destination on the Costa del Sol. This 12-kilometre coastal stretch is renowned for its pristine beaches and includes:

1. La Cala de Mijas: A charming town part with beautiful beaches, water sports, and the best seafood at beachside chiringuitos. A complete guide to La Cala de Mijas you can find in the article 

2. Las Lagunas: An urban centre connected to Fuengirola, featuring Parque Comercial Miramar, Teatro de Las Lagunas, and the Aqua Mijas water park.

3. Calahonda: A vibrant area with a plethora of tourist services and the renowned Calahonda Beach, replete with amenities and leisure activities. The 7-kilometre Paseo Litoral offers breathtaking vistas for walking, running, or cycling.

Mijas Pueblo enjoys mild weather year-round, without a doubt. 

🧣January is the coldest month, with an average temperature of 11°C (52°F) and five rainy days. 

☀️ July is the hottest month, with average temperatures of 24°C (75°F) and no rain. You can expect 11 hours of sunshine daily.

🌡️August is the warmest month, with sea temperatures reaching 23°C (73°F).

🌧️November is the rainiest month, with an average of 18°C (64°F) and 5 rainy days.

The climate remains pleasant through spring and autumn, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 26°C and minimal rainfall.

If you love the sun, the best time to visit Mijas Pueblo would be between June and August with temperatures around 22-24°C, so it's the perfect time to soak up the sun. 

If you're looking for a fun-filled vacation, this high season is perfect for you! There are so many exciting tourist activities to choose from, like water sports, buggy rides, horse rides, golf, and even parasailing! 

If you're looking for a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds, September or October are great times to visit Mijas Pueblo. 

You can explore the village’s beauty and architecture at your leisure, and enjoy significant discounts on accommodation and cheaper flights. 

* It's a well-kept secret that during the autumn you can find accommodation up to 40% cheaper than during the summer season.

Plus, if you visit in early September, you can experience the vibrant celebration of the village's official holiday on 8 September, which honours the Virgin of La Peña with a festive floral offering.

There's so much to love about this village and we enjoy it every time we visit, with or without the kids! Whether you're strolling through its picturesque whitewashed streets, exploring its rich cultural sites or enjoying the stunning views from a luxury villa, there's something for everyone.

It's really easy to get to Mijas Pueblo! You can drive from Malaga, Marbella or Benalmadena - it's easy and convenient.

Mijas Pueblo offers a wonderful escape with its authentic atmosphere, beautiful scenery and friendly hospitality - perfect for any traveller looking to experience the heart of Andalusia. We'll definitely be back next weekend to indulge in the amazing sweets from the 'happiness laboratory'!

This charming village is the picture of traditional Spanish life. Its narrow streets are decorated with blue flowerpots, cute cafes, local bars and shops selling handmade ceramics, leather goods, jewellery and wine. 

A visit to Mijas Pueblo is a must for anyone who wants to experience the best of Andalusian culture. 

¡Adiós hasta la próxima!