Last Updated on 18 February 2026 by Vanessa

Discover the best spot to see cats in Málaga. Meet the friendly stray cats near the Alcazaba and along the scenic Camino de Gibralfaro.

Málaga is one of my all-time top travel destinations to spot cats and one of my favorite cities in general. I’m not sure if it’s the cats of Málaga themselves, the fact that they’re so well cared for, or the city’s overall atmosphere, but Málaga feels like home to me.

The best spots to spend time with the cats of Málaga are in and around the Roman Theater and along the Camino de Gibralfaro, the walkway that connects the Alcazaba to the Castle of Gibralfaro. I’ve heard plenty of tourists refer to it as the “cat street,” and the name couldn’t be more perfect.

Ready to meet this friendly stray cat community and explore the beautiful place they call home?

Let’s meet the cats that live near the Alcazaba of Málaga

About the Alcazaba of Málaga

Archaeological and historical records in Málaga’s official resources note that the Alcazaba fortress first appears in written sources in the 8th century as an early stronghold or mosque site.

However, the palace we see today stems from the 11th century. Building started during the Muslim rule of Andalusia by the Hammudid dynasty, and King Badis expanded and fortified it extensively in the mid‑11th century. Later dynasties (Almoravids, Almohads, and Nasrid) added even more enhancements, residential quarters and defensive upgrades.

The Alcazaba blends military function with refined Moorish architecture. It has horseshoe arches, interior courtyards, and traditional Islamic irrigation systems that mirror the design principles later seen in the Alhambra in Granada. Winding stone paths, shaded archways, and open-air terraces make the Alcazaba feel more like a palace than a fortress.

One of the best views of Málaga

The Alcazaba of Málaga is built against the Gibralfaro mountain and towers high above the city, which means that the views from atop the walls and gardens are stunning. From here, you can see the Old Town of Málaga, the port, and the scenic peer Muelle Uno on one side, and the Montes de Málaga and the old center on the other.

However, you’ll soon forget about these views once you see the number of cute and friendly cats that live here.

Cats of Málaga

For strays, the cats of Málaga are surprisingly friendly, healthy, and well-fed.

Around the Roman Theater and the Alcazaba, volunteers from Málaga Felina come by twice a day to feed the local cat communities. The cats know exactly when their caregivers will arrive. They often appear right on time, tails high and ready for a meal.

These volunteers make sure every cat, including the shy ones that usually get pushed aside, receives food. They monitor each cat closely, and because they know them so well, they quickly notice when one is sick or in need of help.

All the cats in this community are also spayed or neutered, which keeps the colony stable and healthy.

Thanks to the work of Málaga Felina, these cats are thriving. They live their days lounging in the sun, greeting visitors, and enjoying the safety and care that every stray deserves.

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Where to find the cats of Málaga?

You can find the majority of the cats near the lowest roads leading up to the Alcazaba, also known as the Camino de Gibralfaro.

These cats are not afraid of people. However, during the tourist season and on busy weekends, they prefer to nap in the bushes where you can’t easily see them.

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On quieter days, however, the cats are everywhere you look.

Some of them remain shy, but many cats are sociable and seek out human company.

Good practices

• Don’t feed the cats unless you’re a registered caregiver

• Avoid disturbing shy or resting cats

• If you notice a sick or injured cat, try to contact Málaga Felina or inform local volunteers

Practical information

Getting there

The Alcazaba of Málaga and the Camino de Gibralfaro are located in the heart of Málaga’s historic center, just a short walk from the city’s port and main shopping streets.

Tickets & pricing

The entrance to the Alcazaba costs 3,50 euros. For 5,50 euros, the ticket also includes a visit to the higher located Castle of Gibralfaro, where even more cats will be waiting for you.

However, you can visit the Camino de Gibralfaro and the cats without buying a ticket.

It’s possible to book your tickets to the Alcazaba Castle and the Roman Theater in advance. This way, you can rest assured you won’t miss out on any of the cats of Málaga.

Free admission: Sundays after 2:00 PM (for both sites)

Opening hours for the Alcazaba and the Castle of Gibralfaro

• April–October: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM

• November–March: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Closed from January 1st to December 25th

✅  It’s still possible to visit the cats of the Camino de Gibralfaro, even though the Alcazaba and the Castle are closed.

Final thoughts

Have you ever visited the Alcazaba of Málaga? Did you meet the friendly cats?

If these photos of the stray cats of Málaga have warmed your heart, please consider sharing them with your friends or on social media. You might just inspire someone else to care for stray cats in their own community—and show that with a little kindness, even street cats can live safe, happy lives.

Text and photos: Vanessa Morgan

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