Málaga Begins Christmas Preparations: 18-Metre Tree in Plaza Constitución

Málaga has officially started welcoming the holiday season. In late October, work commenced in the heart of the historic quarter to set up the city's celebrated seasonal decorations, transforming the provincial capital into one of southern Spain's premier winter wonderlands.

The centrepiece of the setup, a colossal 18-metre-tall Christmas tree structure, is now being erected in Plaza de la Constitución. Once the seasonal celebrations kick off and the display is lit, visitors will be able to stroll directly underneath the luminous branches. Simultaneously, crews have begun building the renowned tunnel of lights along pedestrianised Calle Larios, bringing festive anticipation to early winter travellers. While the official switch-on date and detailed winter programme are yet to be announced, early winter visitors are already treated to a sneak peek of the massive urban transformation.

A Spectacular Winter Show Near Nerja

For travellers staying in Nerja or along the eastern Costa del Sol, Málaga's holiday displays offer an unmissable afternoon or evening excursion. Each year, thousands journey into the city centre to marvel at the architectural light installations. Calle Larios becomes an open-air spectacle with its synchronised light and sound displays, anchored right at its northern end by the giant walk-through tree in Plaza de la Constitución.

Walking underneath the 18-metre structure offers a unique, immersive vantage point of the historic square, surrounded by traditional cafés and bustling side streets. It marks the festive focal point where locals and tourists gather to soak up the Mediterranean holiday atmosphere.

Planning Your Excursion from Nerja

Reaching central Málaga from Nerja is straightforward, making it an easy seasonal outing:

• By Car: Drive west via the A-7 motorway. The journey typically takes around 45 to 50 minutes. Given the heavy crowds that visit the light displays, parking in one of the central public car parks (such as near the port or Plaza de la Marina) early in the afternoon is strongly advised.
• By Public Bus: Direct ALSA buses run regularly throughout the day from Nerja bus station straight to Málaga's central station and port, saving you the stress of finding parking during the busy holiday period.
• Exploring: Take advantage of your trip to wander through nearby historic sights like the Alcazaba, visit the tapas bars of the old quarter, or finish holiday shopping along Calle Larios.

Good to know

• Event timing: Preparations began in late October; the full holiday lighting programme and official switch-on dates are not yet confirmed.
• Key venues: Plaza de la Constitución (giant 18-metre walk-through tree) and Calle Larios (tunnel of lights), central Málaga.
• Travel time: Approximately 45–50 minutes by car or around 1 hour by direct bus from Nerja.
• Tip: When visiting central Málaga during the festive season, aim to arrive ahead of sunset to avoid the heaviest pedestrian and road traffic.