Is Málaga safe? Areas to avoid in Málaga as a resident

Is Málaga safe? Although the city is one of the safest places in Europe there’re certain areas where you should be more cautious. Read on to find out where.

Ivandzhelin

3 minute read

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Updated on 16 May 2024

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Living

Have you decided to live in Málaga? Congratulations, you’ve chosen wisely. The Andalusian city famous for its culture, beautiful beaches and cuisine's also one of the safest cities in Europe. Yet, as in any other city, there’re certain neighbourhoods (barrios) which have a notorious reputation amongst locals that expats might be unaware of.

Luckily for you, we did the research so you don’t have to. Read on to find out which are the 4 areas of Málaga where you should be more cautious.

Some reasons expats choose to live in Málaga are that it’s the cultural hub of Costa del Sol and has one of the healthiest economies in Spain. If those aren’t reasons enough, Málaga's one of the safest cities in Europe with a low crime rate of 22. The city mostly experiences petty crimes (e.g. pickpocketing), and drug dealing in certain areas.

Málaga is divided into 11 main districts comprised of several neighbourhoods. The areas we included in this article are located in the 1st, 2nd and 5th districts.

Palma-Palmilla

Located on the right bank of the Guadalmedina river in the north of Málaga, Palma-Palmilla's (or the 5th District) the home of the Málaga FC and the regional newspaper Diario Sur. The district consists of 13 barrios with mostly old buildings constructed in the 1960s as social housing.

If you’re browsing the area, be aware that Palma-Palmilla's known in Spain for its relatively high crime rate, mostly drug-related offences. Yet, as long as you’re respectful of the residents, you should be free to enjoy the vast and beautiful parks Palma-Palmilla is famous for: La Roca and Las Virreinas.

Some areas in La Trinidad

Located in the 1st district, La Trinidad's one of the largest barrios in the city. Wedged between the Mediterranean and the mountains of Málaga, La Trinidad is in the city centre of Málaga. The traditional architecture of the neighbourhood is marked by corralones or patio houses which were used as social housing.

There’re some places around tourist spots where you have to be attentive of your bags as there’re pickpockets (mostly around Calle Marmoles). Other than that, La Trinidad is a safe area to be in.

Some areas in Lagunillas

The neighbourhood's in the historic centre of the city, part of the 1st district of Málaga. Lagunillas is a safe neighbourhood but its proximity to famous historic sites makes it a prime spot for pickpockets. Be mindful of your belongings, especially around Calle Cruz Verde, which divides Lagunillas and El Ejido.

Some areas in El Palo

Located in East Málaga or District 2, El Palo's famous for being close to the shore. The architecture, culture and cuisine of the barrio reflect its relationship with the sea. You can enjoy idyllic walks along the shore, dining with fresh fish or the beautiful green and yellow houses El Palo's famous for.

The crime rate in the neighbourhood is very low but El Palo’s a popular tourist spot. In summer and spring, the barrio gets crowded and busy as people enjoy the beach and the annual festivities. Be aware of pickpockets especially during this time.

With a score of 64, Málaga's very safe at night. If you want to be extra safe, stick to populated streets. You’re free to let your hair down and explore Málaga’s nightlife without any worry.

But what should you do when you feel unsafe in Málaga? Being at the wrong place at the wrong time can happen to everyone. Like other European countries, the emergency number in Spain is 112 which connects you to the nearest emergency call centre.

They’re also local numbers which you can call. If you become a victim of a crime, you can report it to the Spanish national police at 091. To reach the local police force in Málaga, dial 092. Ambulance is 061 and the fire department is 080.

If you want to be extra safe, you can download Andalusia’s Emergency app which optimises care in case of an emergency.

1. Make sure your accommodation is safe by booking through a reliable party. You can check out our neighbourhood guide of Málaga to see which are the best neighbourhoods in the city.
2. If you want to be extra secure, you can invest in a sturdy lock or a portable lock which you attach to the door handle.
3. Knowing your neighbours is always a good idea. You never know when you’ll meet your new best friend or lock yourself out of the house.
4. Share your location with your friends or family if you feel unsafe.
5. While exploring one of the 40 museums in Málaga, keep an eye on your belongings.
6. If you’re coming home late at night, try to take public transport or Uber/taxi.