Bienvenido a Frigiliana, the most beautiful village in Andalusia, Spain.
Frigiliana stole our hearts in a blink of an eye. This charming little Spanish village, with only about 3000 habitants, is located on Costa del Sol in the province of Malaga. It’s located at 320 m a.s.l, squeezed between Mediterranean Sea and Parque Natural de Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara y Alhama (eng. Sierras of Tejeda, Almijara and Alhama Natural Park).
Frigiliana has a typical Mediterranean vibe and is one of the best-preserved villages in the whole province of Malaga. While wandering in the picturesque labyrinth of cobblestoned streets and white-washed houses decorated with bright flowers, it’s easy to understand why the Spanish Tourism Board named Frigiliana the most beautiful village in Andalusia.
You won’t need an agenda full of things to do and see. To be honest, there even aren’t many specific things there that you need to cross out from the list. The most important thing you need to do is to lose yourself in the maze of streets and absorb the village atmosphere. Believe us, wandering through Frigiliana streets is a true joy. So come, let’s discover what to see in Frigiliana.
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Frigiliana – the most beautiful village in Andalusia, Spain
Frigiliana Moorish Quarter
The old part of Frigiliana, the Moorish Quarter, due to its excellent state of preservation is a Historic-Artistic Site since 2014. While wandering through Frigiliana’s narrow cobbled streets, passing white houses adorned with pretty bright flowers and colorfully painted doors you can feel as if you have stepped back in time to Moorish times. One of the great things is the fact that there aren’t any cars on the streets so you can fully enjoy the experience of “moving back in time”.
Also, in the Moorish Quarter, you can spot 12 ceramic plaques. They tell the history behind the Moorish battles that once took place in the area.
We suggest visiting Frigiliana early in the morning – there are high chances that you’ll have village streets all to yourself.
Frigiliana Viewpoints
Thanks to the village’s higher position, at 320m a.s.l Frigiliana offers great views over the area. There are few viewpoints around the village, but we recommend visiting Vista Panorámic, and one on Plaza de las Tres Culturas.
Fuente Vieja in Frigiliana
While walking around the Frigiliana you’ll come across Fuente Vieja located on Plaza de la Fuente Vieja. It dates back to the 17th century and is believed to be the oldest fountain in the village. Around 1640, Don Íñigo Manrique de Lara, fifth Lord of Frigiliana and 1st Count of the village ordered to create this fountain. His coat of arms is visible at the top of Fuente Vieja. The fountain supplied everyone in Frigiliana with water, including the animals.
Church of Saint Anthony of Padua & Church Square
Church of Saint Anthony of Padua (es. Parroquia de San Antonio de Padua) is another place you’ll come across while exploring Frigiliana Moorish Quarter. Church, which once was a mosque, dates back to the 17th century. The Church of Saint Anthony is located in Calle Real, opposite Church Square where you can find plenty of restaurants.
Santa Fiora Botanical Garden
Closer to Plaza de las Tres Culturas, you can find Santa Fiora Botanical Garden (es. Jardín Botánico Santa Fiora) . Since 2010 this small garden is home to many plants that locals used throughout history. From Santa Fiora Botanical Garden you can also enjoy views over the Costa del Sol coast, and Old Town buildings.
Palace of the Counts of Frigiliana
Palace of the Counts of Frigiliana (es. Palacio de Los Condes de Frigiliana) is a 16th-century renaissance-style palace, which belonged to the Count and Countess of Frigiliana, the Manrique de Lara family. Nowadays it’s better known as the Sugar Mill (es. El Ingenio) and it’s the last remaining sugar cane honey factory in Europe.
Remains of the Lízar castle
Remains of the Lízar Castle (es. Restos del Castillo de Lizar) are located on a hill, right above the city. Castle was destroyed in 1569 when the Moors were expelled from the area. Currently, there are hardly any remains of it – only a wall of 4 meters long by 2.5 wide is left. Despite this, the remains are protected as they are a part of Spanish Historical Heritage.
Archeological Museum – Casa del Apero
If you’re into museums Casa del Apero may interest you. Museum was opened in 2009 and invites you to take a walk through the history of Frigiliana. Inside you can find 125 items displayed in chronological order, from the Neolithic era up to this day.
How to get to Frigiliana, Spain?
Frigiliana is located 90km from Mijas, 60km from Malaga, and 7km from Nerja. As always, the fastest way to get there is by car, from wherever you’re coming.
There is a large municipal parking lot (paid) at the entrance to the village, but you can also park in the free parking spots along the road leading into the village.
You can also try buses or taxis. If you want to travel by bus the easiest way is to get to Nerja, and then take a bus to Frigiliana. Here are your bus options to Nerja from Malaga, Mijas, and Marbella. Keep in mind that the journey will be quite long, about 2 hours. The trip from Nerja will cost you about 1€ and take just about 15 minutes.
Summing up
Hopefully, we’ve inspired you to pay a visit to Frigiliana, the most beautiful village in Andalusia, Spain. If so, drop everything for one day and go there just to be lazy for a bit. Enjoy the views, food, and drinks, and just slowly be.
Restaurants, accommodations, and map
Check out various recommended places below.
Where to eat in Frigiliana?
Here are your best, high-rated options in Frigiliana:
Where to sleep in Frigiliana?
Casa Loli
Casa Loli is a cozy B&B located in the heart of Frigiliana. The property features charming and individually decorated rooms with private balconies overlooking the picturesque streets of the village. Guests can enjoy a delicious breakfast and relax on the rooftop terrace with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and sea.
Hospederia El Caravansar
Hospederia El Caravansar is a charming guesthouse located in the heart of Frigiliana. The property features a traditional Spanish style with a touch of Moorish influence, and offers cozy rooms with modern amenities, including air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. Guests can relax in the rooftop terrace while taking in the stunning views of the mountains and the sea.
Casa Las Piedras
Casa Las Piedras is a beautiful vacation rental located in the picturesque village of Frigiliana. The property features a traditional Andalusian design with white-washed walls, exposed wood beams, and colorful tiles. The house also boasts a private pool and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.
Posada Morisca Hotel Boutique
Posada Morisca Hotel Boutique is a beautiful and cozy hotel located in the picturesque village of Frigiliana. The hotel features traditional Andalusian architecture and décor, with charming rooms and suites that offer stunning views of the village and the surrounding mountains. Guests can enjoy a peaceful stay in this tranquil setting, relax in the hotel's outdoor pool or Jacuzzi, and savor the delicious local cuisine at the on-site restaurant.
El Torreon 109 Charming B&B
El Torreon 109 is a beautiful accommodation situated in the heart of Frigiliana. This traditional Andalusian house has been lovingly restored and features stunning views of the town and surrounding mountains. Guests can relax in the peaceful atmosphere and enjoy the outdoor terrace.
