Published in 2023, Málaga: A Comprehensive Guide to Spain’s Most Hospital City is not a typical tourist guide. Far more than a list of bars, restaurants and visitor attractions, this book is a deep dive into the history and culture of the capital of the Costa del Sol.

For many years in the shadow of its neighbours Torremolinos, Fuengirola, Benalmádena and Marbella, Málaga is attracting a new kind of traveller keen to drink in its millennia of history, beautiful streets, elegant gardens, relaxed bars and exciting food scene.

Thomas Martin has written a guide that takes a walk through this fascinating city, which thrived as a Phoenician trading post, a Roman municipum, Moorish taifa and engine house of Spain’s Industrial Revolution. Local gastronomy is covered in detail, as is the production of wine once enjoyed by Samuel Pepys and Catherine the Great.

Other chapters cover the annual week-long feria (fair), concurrent bullfighting fair and the colourful and solemn ceremonies of Semana Santa (Holy Week). There are also sections with ideas for day trips and excursions to other towns and villages in the region.

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