Day trip tip from Nerja: See the magical light show on Calle Larios in Málaga
A day trip from Nerja to Málaga in December is highly recommended. You can start, for example, at the Christmas market on Muelle Uno and then go and see the famous light show on Calle Larios. Every year, the city's elegant main street transforms into a glittering spectacle with music, lights, and a fantastic atmosphere. It's incredibly beautiful and creates a wonderful mood.
Light show in Málaga - what is it, exactly?
Each Christmas, Málaga installs one of Europe's most impressive light decorations on Calle Larios. It features stunning light installations, a music show, and a festive ambiance. If you're on the Costa del Sol in December, it's definitely worth a visit.
Times and dates for the light show in Málaga 2025
This year's Christmas lights in Málaga will be switched on Friday, November 28, 2025, and illuminate the city center until January 6, 2026. The light show on Calle Larios offers three performances every evening, at 6:30 PM, 8:30 PM, and 10:00 PM.
Information about the light show in Málaga 2025
The theme for 2025 is “Natividad de Luz” and replaces the iconic angels that have graced Larios in recent years. This year's show will be something entirely new: large illuminated medallions depicting scenes from the Nativity, surrounded by 16 stars, 32 light pillars, and 32 light strips that synchronize with the music to create an immersive and magical experience. In total, more than 2.7 million light points will illuminate the center and nearby streets, including Alameda, Calle San Juan, Puerta del Mar, and the area around the Cathedral.
Getting from Nerja to Málaga
It's easy to get to Málaga, whether you have a car or travel by public transport.
By car
Travel time: approx. 45–50 minutes
We recommend parking in parking garages, as it's difficult to find street parking in Málaga city center, though you might get lucky sometimes :)
-
Parking Alcazaba
-
Parking Cervantes
-
Parking Plaza de la Marina
These are close to the city center, making it easy to walk to Calle Larios.
By bus
Departure from: Nerja bus station
Travel time: approx. 1 hour
Bus company: ALSA (download the app for easier booking)
Get off at Málaga Bus Station and walk for about 8 minutes
Tips for making the most of your evening
-
Arrive early. The street quickly fills up before the show begins.
-
Book a table if you want to eat in Málaga. In December, the city center is very crowded, especially on weekends.
-
Combine with a bit of shopping. Málaga has a wide selection of shops and Christmas markets that complete the excursion. Calle Larios has many shops to stroll through.
-
Visit the port (Muelle Uno). It's also beautifully decorated for Christmas here, with a Christmas market and sometimes "snow" from foam cannons at selected spots - perfect for an evening stroll.
Restaurant tips near Calle Larios
La Taberna del Pintxo Larios - perfect for a quick stop with pintxos and wine. Once you get a table and order something to drink, you can either browse the tapas selection at the bar or wait for the waiters who will bring freshly made tapas of all kinds. You pay per "toothpick" you have left on your plate (each tapa comes with a "toothpick" in it; different toothpicks - different prices).
Perfect excursion for those staying in Nerja
For residents of Nerja or those vacationing here over Christmas and New Year, a visit to Málaga for the light show on Calle Larios is well worth it. It’s easy to get to, family-friendly, and creates a fantastic Christmas atmosphere – plus it's completely free.
To summarize...
Nerja is wonderful during Christmas and New Year, and a trip to Málaga during the Christmas period is truly magical. The light show on Calle Larios is an experience you won't soon forget and a perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit. Whether you go by car or bus, it's an excursion suitable for everyone – families, couples (quite romantic, actually :)), and friends.
Do you have your own tips or photos from the light show? Feel free to share them with us!