Inhabited since ancient times, Mijas has grown from a humble farming and fishing village into one of Andalusia’s most charming destinations. Today it blends its traditional whitewashed beauty with a modern, welcoming atmosphere—offering travelers a perfect mix of heritage, coastal scenery, and authentic Spanish culture.
If the COVID-19 pandemic taught us one thing, it’s to appreciate the little things in life… like Mijas. Similarly, in the travel industry, there is a clear trend toward travelers longing to find “Hidden Gems” and spend quality time. Sometimes in places, most of their friends never heard of. Like Cadaqués, or Cudillero.
Some villages are so tiny, you’re almost out of it as fast as you got into it! However, in each of them is a gem waiting to be discovered.
In the words of the Dalai Lama, “Once a year, go somewhere you’ve never been before.” I’ll take you on a discovery of some of Spain’s hidden gems…
About thirty minutes by car from the popular tourist destination, Marbella, lies one of Spain’s beautiful hidden gems.
Picture geraniums, charming white buildings with red tile roofs, archways, the occasional chirping canary, stunning coastal views, and superb seafood! All of this is waiting for you at Mijas, and more!
The lovely town is perched on the hillside above Fuengirola and Mijas Costa and still has a village air from years gone by.
June, July, and August are the ”silly season” months in Europe. That’s when schools close, and everyone is in holiday mode. It is also the time when the weather is at its best.
The long, hot summers call for sunseekers to enjoy the beaches (about 9 km away), which have public showers and toilets.
There are plenty of touristy things to do, like donkey taxis and great seafood, especially shellfish. By the way, there is even a bronze statue of a donkey at the tourist office!
Go to Museo del Vino. Yes, in a museum of all places! This little museum has some of the best wines in the area. And their tapas are super tasty, too!
Another winning combination is a food and wine tasting (half-day) tour. This one is great fun!
To start, book a private or small-group walking tour. The tour guides have tons of information and interesting stories about the history that will make you see Mijas in a whole different light. This little hidden gem has an interesting history. Afterward, you can visit places and spend more time there if you wish.
Another benefit of such a tour is that you get to find out (first-hand) about the latest spots to experience traditional food and authenticity at its best.
The closest airport is Málaga–Costa del Sol Airport (AGP), and Mijas sits roughly:
25–30 minutes by car from the airport
About 25 km distance, depending on where in Mijas you’re heading (Mijas Pueblo vs. Mijas Costa)
Taxi / Uber / Bolt: ~€30–€40
Private transfer: widely available
Bus: possible but slower, usually requiring a change in Fuengirola
If you’re flying into Málaga, reaching Mijas is easy, fast, and straightforward — one of the reasons it’s such a convenient hidden gem.
Now that you have a taste of Mijas, don’t miss these hidden gems:
>> Cudillero is not only one of the most beautiful villages in Spain, but it’s also what you dream of at the office. The great escape!
>> Cadaqués is another charming coastal town in northeastern Spain. Experience the surreal world of Salvador Dalí, indulge in fresh seafood, and soak up the sun on stunning beaches. With winding cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and crystal-clear waters, Cadaqués is a quirky, unforgettable destination worth being on your travel bucket list.
Tracking down Spain’s glorious holiday gems. – Alexandra ♡