Things to do in Frigiliana
Frigiliana is a charming little village nestled in the mountains of Malaga’s Axarquia region, less than 10 kilometers from Nerja. On clear days, you can even see the sea from here. Perched on a hillside, the village is full of steep, cobbled streets that wind their way through whitewashed houses.
It may be small, but Frigiliana is full of things to discover and enjoy. That said, if you plan your time well, you can easily see the highlights in just one day, since most of the main attractions are concentrated in the historic center.
Below, I’ll take you through the must-see spots in Frigiliana, one of those villages in Andalusia that you simply can’t miss. I’ll also share a few tips that made my own visit much easier.
1. Casa del Apero
What’s known as the Casa del Apero is home to Frigiliana’s Tourist Information Office, the municipal library, and the archaeological museum. There’s also a nearby viewpoint where you can enjoy some lovely views over the village and surrounding landscape.
The building that houses the Casa del Apero dates back to the 17th century. At the time, it was used in connection with the nearby sugar mill (El Ingenio), serving as a granary and storage space for farming tools.
After being restored in the late 20th century, it became the Casa del Apero Cultural Center, bringing together several services and key historical and cultural points of interest in the village.
Its central courtyard hosts a variety of events throughout the year, especially in summer, including concerts, talks, performances, and theatre shows.
🛏️ If you’re looking to enjoy a truly pleasant stay in Frigiliana, this former Moorish inn turned boutique hotel is a great option. Located on the outskirts of the village, it offers a privileged natural setting and views you’ll never get tired of. It features a seasonal pool and an on-site bar and restaurant. You’ll find more accommodation recommendations in Frigiliana below.<
2. Palace of the Counts of Frigiliana (El Ingenio)
After visiting the Casa del Apero and on your way to the mudejar quarter, you’ll come across the Palace of the Counts of Frigiliana, located in Plaza de El Ingenio.
This renaissance-style building was constructed in the late 16th century by the Manrique de Lara family, who had ruled over Frigiliana since 1508. Its interior offers a glimpse into what daily life was like back then, reflected in its grand halls, chapel, sweeping staircase, and ceilings that are over 400 years old.
It’s also known as El Ingenio, as it currently houses the only active sugarcane honey factory in Europe.
3. Corner of Calle Real and Hernando el Darra street
Once you step onto Calle Real, you’ll find right in front of you the most photographed spot in Frigiliana: the corner where Calle Real meets Hernando el Darra street. At this point, you’ll need to decide which way to go.
The steeper, right-hand path is Hernando el Darra street. The climb is worth it because this is where you’ll find the most charming houses in the village. Continuing along Calle Real is the other option, where you can explore art galleries, shops, and eventually reach the Church of San Antonio.
4. Calle Real, one of the main attractions to see in Frigiliana
Strolling through Frigiliana means walking up and down one of its most iconic streets, Calle Real. This is the main artery of the town, where much of the local life takes place.
From Calle Real, you’ll find alleys and side streets branching off and leading back to it. It’s lined with whitewashed, low-rise buildings with colorful doors, just as you’d expect in a traditional Andalusian white village. The cobblestone pavement and decorative mosaics add to its charm.
As you make your way along Calle Real, you’ll come across the old Reales Pósitos, a space that was once used to store the cereals produced in the area.
5. Santa Fiora Botanical Garden
Another thing to do in Frigiliana is to visit the Santa Fiora Botanical Garden You can enter it from Avenida Carlos Cano or from the old town via Callejón del Agua or Calle Las Huertas, both of which branch off from Calle Real.
Inside the garden, you’ll find a well-kept oasis of greenery featuring various local plant species. You’ll discover the plants that locals have used for centuries in their cooking, healing remedies, and even for making paper and perfumes.
6. Church of San Antonio de Padua
Strolling through the historic town center along Calle Real, you’ll come across the most iconic and beloved church for the locals: the Church of San Antonio de Padua. It fits perfectly into its surroundings with its large white facade and bell tower.
Today, it’s an active Christian place of worship that welcomes many visitors every day. Just outside, you’ll find a charming little square, lined with several bars and restaurants with terraces, perfect spots to relax and enjoy a drink.
7. Fuente Vieja (Old Fountain)
If I had to pick one spot in Frigiliana, it would be the Fuente Vieja. It’s tucked away in a small square that you reach by walking down a steep street. Nothing really signals that this special place is there, but once you arrive, you won’t be able to resist sitting on a bench in front of the fountain and taking a peaceful breath.
I always come back to this spot and spend a good while just relaxing, watching the fountain without any rush. I never leave without drinking some of its cool water straight from the spring. For me, it’s become a bit of a tradition.
The fountain was built in 1640 by Don Íñigo Manrique de Lara, the first count of the town. He placed his own coat of arms on it. The fountain is attached to the wall of a house built later on, which respected the fountain’s presence. something that makes it even more special.
8. Mudejar neighborhood, a must-see in Frigiliana in one day
Although many of the places we’ve mentioned so far are located in the Mudejar neighborhood, it’s worth saying that beyond the main sights, it’s essential to get lost in the streets of Frigiliana’s old town, which has Moorish origins.
Besides Calle Real, be sure to explore other charming little streets like Calle Hernando el Darra, Calle Amargura, Calle Zacatín, and Calle El Garral. Also, wander through the upper part of town along Calle de Santa Teresa de Ávila.
This stroll through the beautiful alleys lined with white facades and colorful doors will let you soak in the true essence of this lovely Andalusian village.
The Frigiliana Town Hall takes great care in preserving the town’s aesthetic, which is perhaps one of the key reasons why it attracts so many visitors and tourists. Everything is very well maintained and spotless.
9. Lizar Castle
There are few towns in our country without a castle. And if there’s a castle, I’m definitely going to see it. Frigiliana is no exception, and here you’ll find the well-known Lizar Castle. Its origins are somewhat uncertain, but it’s believed to have been built between the 9th and 11th centuries.
Originally, it was a Muslim fortress, and although it now lies in ruins, it still holds a special charm. It’s located in the upper part of the town, offering the best views of the entire valley. On clear days, you can even see the sea.
10. Its commemorative plaques
One of the most curious details about Frigiliana is its commemorative plaques. Many places have them, but it’s quite remarkable that a small village has no less than 12 of these plaques.
They are spread across the facades in the town center and tell different stories from the history of the Arab uprising. It’s a very unique and interesting way to learn about the area’s history.
🚗 If you’re driving, the hardest part is finding parking. You can try outside the village, especially if you arrive early or visit during the low season. There’s a large parking lot at the village entrance that’s perfect for leaving your car before starting your visit.
Where to stay in Frigiliana
When I go back to Frigiliana, I’d love to spend the night there. I really look forward to waking up to those views and the unique scents of the mountain close to the sea.
I also can’t wait to have breakfast again at this really special spot. Their menu is just my kind of thing: crêpes, homemade cakes, fresh fruit smoothies… It’s called Caravansar’s Coffee. The owner left everything behind to open this little place with her mom, and now it’s her passion and life.
If you decide to stay overnight in Frigiliana, my top recommendations are:
- Hospedería El Caravansar. This accommodation offers single, double, triple rooms, and a studio with a terrace. It also has a café (the one I just mentioned), so you’re guaranteed a delicious breakfast.
- Hotel Villa Frigiliana. This 3-star hotel is perfect for an unforgettable stay in Frigiliana. It offers various types of double rooms, some with balconies or terraces overlooking the town. The hotel has a pool, and a full breakfast is served every morning.
Map of things to do in Frigiliana
There’s very little chance of getting lost when visiting Frigiliana, one of the prettiest villages near Malaga. All you really have to do is walk up its streets. Still, to make sure you don’t miss anything, I’ve marked all the points of interest I mention on this map.
This wraps up our visit to this beautiful town. Make sure to take note of the best things to do in Frigiliana so you don’t miss a thing. I’m in love with this village and highly recommend it.
