Day trip · 22 minutes
Nerja from Torre del Mar
Cliffs, caves and coves — the easiest day trip from Torre del Mar, and how to do it without the bus-tour script.
Nerja is the next town east — cliffier, whiter, more obviously postcard. Most visitors do it backwards: arrive late, see the Balcón, leave. Here's the local order.
- · 09:00 — Park at Cuevas de Nerja, do the caves first (1.5 hr, €15).
- · 11:00 — Drive 10 min to Playa de Maro for a swim. Cleanest water in Málaga.
- · 13:30 — Lunch at Chiringuito Ayo on Playa Burriana — paella cooked in giant pans over open fire.
- · 16:00 — Balcón de Europa for the cliff view and the old town wander.
- · 18:30 — Cocktail at El Salón de Nerja, then drive back to Torre del Mar for dinner.
FAQ
How far is Nerja from Torre del Mar?
22 km / 22 minutes east on the A-7 motorway. Or 45 minutes by ALSA / M-250 bus, every 30 minutes, €2.50 one way.
What is Nerja famous for?
The Balcón de Europa (a cliff-top viewpoint), the Cuevas de Nerja (huge prehistoric caves with cave paintings), and quiet coves like Playa de Burriana and Playa Maro.
Is Nerja or Torre del Mar better?
Nerja is prettier and more touristy — cliffs, white houses, hotels. Torre del Mar is flatter, longer beach, more local, better food. Stay in Torre del Mar and day-trip to Nerja.