Compare Mijas holidays

What to do in Mijas

Mijas is a top pick if you’re looking for a tranquil getaway – you could easily spend days meandering and enjoying the café culture without ever having to look at your watch. And when you want to get moving, Mijas’ makes a great base to explore the wider local area, whether it’s trekking up the surrounding mountains, popping into Marbella for the day, or heading down the hill to laze on nearby beaches.

Relax in the main square

One of the greatest pleasures of Mijas, and its old town (Mijas Pueblo) in particular, is soaking up the sunshine and watching the town go about its daily life.

Head to the palm tree-dotted Plaza de la Constitución, where you’ll have your pick of bars to enjoy alfresco beers or local wine. It’s also a great place for impromptu live music from local guitarists.

Hike in the mountains

Strap on your hiking boots and make the most of Mijas Pueblo’s hilly location – there are plenty of hiking trails snaking across the surrounding mountains.

One of the most popular, an uphill trek through wildflower fields and Mediterranean pine forests, takes you to the peak of Mijas. Your reward, of course, is the spectacular view, a 360-degree panorama of the Costa del Sol. The hike is best suited to those in good physical condition, but you’ll also find a number of less-challenging strolls from the town.

Stroll between the churches

Mijas Pueblo is dotted with plenty of pretty little churches, which are well worth a peek on a quiet afternoon. Check out the Iglesia Inmaculada Concepción, with its ornate gold interiors and peaceful setting in a tree-lined square.

The hilltop La Ermita de la Virgen de la Peña de Mijas (Chapel of the Virgin of the Rock), meanwhile, grants stunning sea views. The small, rock-hewn chapel is dedicated to the patron saint of the town.

Dine out in Marbella

For a more lively evening out, you can get to Marbella by car (or taxi) in around half an hour. Home to swanky bars and restaurants, as well as one of the glitziest harbours in Europe, it’s a slick and sophisticated contrast to Mijas’ relaxed and down-to-earth atmosphere.

Highlights in Marbella include the Plaza de los Naranjos (Oranges Square) and Alameda Park.

Head to the beach

Whether you’re based in Mijas Costa or in Mijas Puebla, you’ll want to make a trip or two to the beach during your Mijas holiday.

Calahonda, a long stretch of sand lined with beach bars and restaurants, is one of the most popular in the area. Playa la Cala de Mijas, another long golden sweep of sand, offers a much more relaxed experience. Check the local bus schedules before you go (they run more frequently in summer), or hire a car.