Fantastic comparison, I've never been to any of these so it was great to see what they were like. The beauty of Málaga is it's an interesting city with beaches as well, so I think the only one that would tear me away for a day trip would be Benalmádena, just to ride that fantastic cable car! Cheers Scott.
OMG!! At 9:28 there was the street where my parents had owned a house in Benalmádena for more than 30 years! We spent every single summer break there ever since I was a little toddler. So many fond memories came back watching your footage. Sadly, my dad had to sell the house back in 2011. Feeling nostalgic now… thank you for the great work!!
I've had a holiday in Benalmadena and while there, got the bus up to Mijas, then got a bus back down to Fuengirola and then back to our hotel, good day out.
oh it's a good day indeed, Literally just finished watching Steve Marshes Canada trip video and refreshed and up your video popped, always a good start to the day when Scott pops up!
Fuengirola is great. There’s an indoor market just along from the station. There’s a museum and art gallery, the park is great, there’s loads of interesting things to see and do. That food court you were in is superb. Personally I love Malaga but a wee trip down the coast is great. Good video Scott, thanks.
I loved Benalmadena when we visited there a few years ago. You missed an amazing park with a special cactus garden. We found the bus that runs along the coast very convenient vs. the train.
Torremolinos is the best town of the three Scott. I was staying in Torremolinos in January. The RENFE Cercanías (C) 1 station is centrally located allowing for ease of travel into Málaga Ciudad, Málaga airport station and also to Málaga Maria Zambrano station for high-speed services to many destinations. A day trip to Seville is possible. I also used the bus from Torremolinos to Ronda and returned by three different trains on the same day. It's also possible to fly on a day trip to Melilla if you book up in advance. Accommodation is marginally cheaper in Torremolinos than Màlaga Ciudad also. For me, the geography of Benalmádena turned me off the place because the C1 line veers too far inland away from the coast. As for Fuengirola, the station isn't nice and there was nothing in the town that I liked. Give me Torremolinos any time!!!
It’s a complete dump! Dirty and nasty. Ok if all you want to do is drink as there’s nothing to actually see or do there. It’s exactly what Scott said only food and drink but nothing to see or do there. ✌️👍✌️
Torremolinos is physically the ugliest of the three. Benalmádena is more upscale. Fuengirola is a bit more authentically Spanish. Buildings need an update in Torremolinos. But it’s probably the most vibrant nightlife, especially for LGB community.
One of the nicest things I find is just the walk between Torremolinos and Benalmadena on the costal path, and it's easy to get a bus back. The Parque de la Paloma in Benalmadena is lovely too, just a short walk down from the Arroyo de Miel station. The castle in Fuengirola is worth a visit, if just for the views. Lots to do down there and all within easy reach of Malaga which these days has become one of the best cities in Spain to visit.
Been to all three many times, last time being last March. You missed the best bit of all, La Carihuela on the paseo between Torremolinos and Benalmadena. Strictly still in Torremolinos. Very Spanish and a village-like chilled feel. You must go back!
Yes! You missed the best of Torremolinos. My daughter and I were there this June and we had a blast. They have excellent Flamenco shows, you can choose among many excellent restaurants to eat at the shore, after a day at the beach. "Hamacas" with umbrellas are decently priced at 6 euros for the full day, and having the train station in the middle of town, while seamless, is extremely convenient to head to Malaga or any other town/stop for the day. The local bus station/stops are also very conveniently located, walking distance within town, and many tours to relevant historic places, such as Granada, Sevilla, Cordoba, etc. pick up tourists close to Torremolinos train station. Also, Torremolinos is a shot away from Malaga's airport. Something we always consider, as we travel from the US. Oh... and I was forgetting more... Some of the best icecream and shopping we have enjoyed. And hotels are excellently priced in the center of town. We loved Torremolinos!!
We`re heading to Benalmadena in June next year and this video has been extremely helpful! I never knew there was a cable car but it`s now on my hit list. A very concise comparison to all three towns with very helpful tips. Thank you so much for the video and hope to watch more of your work. Also, great to hear the accent!
Oh gosh, I love this area! Thanks for bringing back some lovely memories. You are definitely right to pick Benalmadena. Next time you are there you must visit Paloma Park and the fabulous marina. Parque de la Bateria in Torremolinos is also lovely.
We have been to Benalmadena twice and took a day trip to fuingerola and then the next day to Toromolinos.We really liked Toromolinos but didn't like Fuingerola at all.
I've been to all three of these resorts as well as Malaga and I agree with your choice. Just behind the Sealife you showed is a fantastic marina full of boats and fish, with many bars and restaurants that are buzzing at night and quieter during the day but a great place to pass an hour or so. There is also a nice park with a lake full or terrapins and a dedicated cactus garden. The two centres can be reached by buses if you don't fancy a walk.
You missed the best of Torremolinos. My daughter and I were there this June and we had a blast. They have excellent Flamenco shows, you can choose among many excellent restaurants to eat at the shore, after a day at the beach. "Hamacas" with umbrellas are decently priced at 6 euros for the full day, and having the train station in the middle of town, while seemless, is extremely convenient to head to Malaga or any other town/stop for the day. The local bus station/stops are also very conveniently located, walking distance within town (we rode a bus to visit some friends in Estepona), and many tours to relevant historic places, such as Granada, Sevilla, Cordoba, Nerja and Frigiliana, etc. pick-up tourists close to Torremolinos' train station. Also, Torremolinos is a shot away from Malaga's airport. Something we always consider, as we travel from the USA. Oh... and I was forgetting more... Some of the best icecream and shopping we have enjoyed. And hotels are excellently priced in the center of town. We loved Torremolinos!!
I have been to all three, my favourite to stay long term is Fuengirola as there are more locals than the two others to interact with, other than British and Dutch tourists. Benalmadena is pretty good, aside from the trek from the sea to the city center and train station. Torremolinos is not bad if you are looking for casual shopping and dining, but I agree with your overall assessment. You seem to have missed the Caruehela part of Torremolinos which is a bit classier than up the cliff near San Miguel.
I flew from Edinburgh to Torremolinos with an ex girlfriend in 2014. We walked along the coast towards Benalmadena and the seafront with lots of lovely yauchts sitting in the harbour. It was quite pleasant there I thought although we never went to the cable car! Sadly, I share the same sentiment as you, I didn't find there was a lot to do there and it certainly wasn't as pleasant as visiting S'illot, Majorca a few years before that. We were that bored, we decided to take the train across to Málaga for the day, which was far nicer. I wished we booked a stay there instead! I don't think I would go back to Torremolinos but then again I'm not in a great state to travel far anymore, especially by myself, so I enjoy those many travel videos that you post!
I stayed in Fuengirola on a 2 week holiday back in 2007. I was only 17 at the time and travelled with my family. My aunt, uncle and cousins were on holiday in Torremolinos at the same time so we caught the train to visit them. Public transport is good in the Costa Del Sol. I was on the cable car during the holiday too. Another nice place to visit in Fuengirola is the castle, great views from the top, Gary
That brought back some lovely memories of a holiday in Benalmadena a few years ago. Loved the marina and the Parque de la Paloma where I spent many hours, but never made the cable car unfortunately. Next time!
Been to all three, Stay every year at Hotel Costa Del Sol in Benalmadena (Near Torromulle railway station) right on the edge of Benalmadena, lovely quiet end of Benalmadena. So much so we have stayed there now for the last 7 years, So my vote goes to Benalmadena.
That was excellent! It made a fascinating comparison to those places when I lived in Malaga for several years around the turn of the century. Back then you went by train if it was necessary to visit Torremolinos because you always felt that, if you took a car, you’d return to find it up on bricks and with the battery missing. Nice to see the Islamic tower still doubling as a telegraph pole. Benelmadena was always the quietest resort even when the hilltop funfair was open. There are some interesting prehistoric cave dwellings in that hill with ‘cup and ring’ engravings. There are Roman remains, too as well as at Fuengirola including unused pillars on the beach and some structures protected by having new buildings on stilts over them. Fuengirola is far enough from Malaga to need to provide all services, hence its larger size. All the stations seem to have been vastly improved. The towers are interesting - square are Moorish, round are Christian. Used to look out for raiders from N Africa, hence Arroya de la Miel being inland for protection. There is also a castle at Fuengirola. Many thanks for reviving possibly slightly flawed memories.
I've been to all three and prefer torremolinos as a base. i walk out to the marina in benalmadena and sometimes get the train to fuengarola to market. The way of life put on the coast is brilliant
Great vid Scott of all the years going to Malaga I never knew of the cable car. Now Fuengirola is another story. Was walked around that bloody market with sun burned feet and legs in 30 odd degree heat. I can still feel the pain but the wife was happy buying her tat that day
From where you were on the beach at Torremolinos you could have walked ten minutes into Benelmadena instead of having to walk all the way back up through the old town to get a train. You also missed out on visiting Benelmadena old town
You should have walked along La Carihuela from Torremolinos into Benalmádena Marina. It’s a lovely mile long walk . Pity you missed some of the best walkways in that area
I think all three resorts would look different in the full tourist season. Handy that you can easily get along the coast though. Been to Torremolinos and Belalmadena but not Fuengirola. Nerja is attractive with some caves nearby. Look forward to next video. Thank you.
We have stayed in Benalmadena twice now a few years ago, there are also a couple of nice parks away from the main areas, one has a lake and a library building and lots of greenery think its called parc de las palomas and the other lots of trees etc, we tend to walk around the local areas and its surprising what you come across. One visit we walked to Fuengirola which I think is about 8km and it was definitely more built up from previous visit and you pass a massive holiday complex think tui own it. but its a pleasant if longish walk along the front. In Fuengirola did you spot the monument on the beach front as you enter which has a large pesetas coin symbol in it. (assuming its still there ). We walked to Torremolinos and found it quite built up and seemed alot busier in what seemed like a smaller area than Benalmadena although I did read somewhere that Benalmadena has the largest social housing for ex-pats and locals in Europe. Perhaps someone else may know if this is true or not. We will definitely re-visit this are since we were last there in 2015.
I live in Calahonda, and often catch the train to all of these places. Benalmadena has a lovely port, beautiful butterfly park ,also you can catch a boat and go on a two hr trip to see the dolphins . Torremolinos nice but very hilly, you can always catch the lift from the bottom back up to the top, cost 50c well worth it. Fuengirola good for food and night life, also they have a small harbour,with lovely restaurants and cafes not expensive. I love Benalmadena Bonanza square , great place with lots of tapa’s bars.
Well we are thinking of a relaxing week on the Costa Del Sol next year. Torremolinos is mostly just for relaxing. Spots all along that cost, Marbella etc and possible on to Gibralta. Actually prefer it when it's busy, Do a spot of people watching.
You should have walked up to arroyo via Parque Paloma. It's beautiful, and if it has gone back to how it was prior to covid, ther will be ducks, rabbits and peacocks roaming around. Benalmadena is my favourite go to for a holiday and the flight duration is relatively short. Advise buying a card for bus travel.
We had a place in benalmadena and visited several times a year and while there we would visit both Torrremolinos and fuengerola. All good spots for different reasons but for us Benalmadena comes out on top. They have a fantastic marina with wonderful restaurants. You also have La Carihuela which is just wonferfull.
I can't comment on your Spanish pronunciation but the way you pronounced Adidas made me smile, in fact, I had to wind back a couple of times to listen again. Which town would I like best? Well, to be honest, I didn't like any of them all that much because in my opinion they are touristy and what puts me off are all those British pubs and restaurants. When I go abroad I like to enjoy and experience the local food and drinks and I don't want a kind of "home from home" vacation. Apart from all that, Scott, another good and informative video.
I didn’t like Torromolinos either. I prefer Fuengirola it’s got a more authentic Spanish feel, lovely shops and I loved the zoo. Great video Scott. I love the variety 9f your trips.
I absolutely love that whole coastline….Fuengirola market is fantastic, such a shame you weren’t there on the day it was on! A beautiful part of the world!
In May 2000 my sister-in-law and I took my 6 year old daughter on a cheap 5 day package deal to the Costa del Sol where we didn't know where we were staying till we got there. We ended up in Mijas Costa, in a hotel right next to the motorway. There was no beach and no amenties apart from a few restaurants so we asked the Thompson rep about what to do and she suggested getting the local bus that went along the motorway. It was a 2 minute walk to the bus stop so we visited Fuengirola and Marbella, both of which we enjoyed. We also went on an organised bus trip to Gibraltar. It wasn't until we'd been back home a couple of weeks that I watched a holiday programme on TV that mentioned Mijas. Apparently the village of Mijas was 10km away from where we stayed and is a great place to visit. I've googled it since and it looks like the kind of place I'd love. The rep never even mentioned it.
I was in benalmadena at the same time as u and was 100% was my favourite I loved the marina. With the sealife being worth it. There's alot more to torremolinos than what you showed also. And fuengirola was OK I haven't stayed there in about 10 years.
Just as a matter of interest, that sign you pointed out, 'Paseo Marítimo' doesn't refer to to the garden behind the wall. It means the seafront promenade...
I stayed in benalmadena for a week about 15 years ago was nice and did manage to walk to fuengirola along the beach. I liked both places in their own way. Where I was staying had loads of elephant Statues.
Visit the coast there about 3 times a year, mainly stay in Benalmadena but occasionally in La Carihuela area of Torremolinos. It’s a shame you missed the award winning Marina, also in February/March before the heat haze of the summer builds up, from the top of the hill at the cable cars, you can get a clear view of the coast of North Africa, stunning view.
My first ever foreign holiday was to Torremolinos! I was 16 years old and had just finished taking my O Levels, so it was a special time! But the thing is, we didn't stay in the main town, but in a suburb just to the west called La Carihuela, which was lovely. I did venture into the town myself one day (I've always had wanderlust, so left everyone else sitting by the pool while I went off to explore), and remember not being that keen on it! 😄
A wonderful place to visit 15 minutes walk on the promenade from Torremolinos is the town of La Carehuela. We have stayed a few times. Lovely bars and restaurants not as built up as Torremolinos.
Agree with your assessment. I've been to all three and I agree. Benalmadena is the best. Granted, I visited a long, long time ago, and things have changed a lot. Torremolinos used to be a hippie town after a bunch of people read The Drifters.
That cable car looked amazing with incredible views. The walk to the top after looked, wellll, a bit dodgy at least to my poor old knees. When you said "Should we climb those stairs to the top?", Greg and I said to each other "If this was a @steve-marsh video, that answer would be a definite yes." And, of course, you said "yes", too. :) Hey, did we miss you requiring a coffee for cruising altitude in today's video? #youtuberbingocard
Great video mate.. if you like cable cars like me there’s a fantastic one in turkey oludeniz can watch the paragliding takeoffs from the top 2000 feet up unbelievable scenery too overlooking the blue lagoon.
I visited Torremolinos once, got a couple of hundred metres from the station and it was all loud Brits getting wasted and turning pink. Got the next train back to Malaga.
Some years ago I stayed at Torremolinos for an off season short break, railway station is very conveniently located and overall was happy with the place. Didn't go to the beach, but did hire a car and day trip to Gibraltar. Not visited the other two, but do feel Benalmedena's cable car would be a great attraction on one of the super hot summer days that do occur in Andalucia. Shame could not see the African coast, too far I guess.
5:48 I always found it interesting: in catholic or protestant churches men should take your hat off, in orthodox churches women should cover their hair and in synagogues men should wear a kippah or a hat. It can sometimes be a little confusing. Add on for orthodox churches: I've seen it often in Romania or Russia, that women had a scarf ready in their handbag, and just put it on before entering the church.
I have spent a full winter and two Christmas holidays in Benalmádena, and visited the two other places. I definitely prefer Benalmádena to stay. You missed Benalmádena Pueblo, the old center further inland, with Castillo Colomares, a butterfly center and a Tibetan stupa. About the transport issue: there are busses along the coast. 110 goes all the way from Malaga past Torremolinos station to Benalmádena coast. 120 goes from Torremolinos station to Benalmádena coast to Fuengirola. 121 goes from Torremolinos station to all three centers of Benalmádena and on to the lovely old town Mijas. Finally Torremolinos has an elevator (Ascensor a la playa on Google maps) between the high up center and the beach that qualifies as public transport (you buy a ticket).
Fantastic comparison, I've never been to any of these so it was great to see what they were like. The beauty of Málaga is it's an interesting city with beaches as well, so I think the only one that would tear me away for a day trip would be Benalmádena, just to ride that fantastic cable car! Cheers Scott.
Boys trip away needed!
OMG!! At 9:28 there was the street where my parents had owned a house in Benalmádena for more than 30 years! We spent every single summer break there ever since I was a little toddler. So many fond memories came back watching your footage. Sadly, my dad had to sell the house back in 2011. Feeling nostalgic now… thank you for the great work!!
Nice property!
It’s the other way round, Malaga makes the best day trip from all of the resorts.
Benalmadena for me. Love the beaches, the traditional restaurants in Arroyo and the whitewashed pueblo😍
I've had a holiday in Benalmadena and while there, got the bus up to Mijas, then got a bus back down to Fuengirola and then back to our hotel, good day out.
So which of these three you would choose for 3-4 days stay?
oh it's a good day indeed, Literally just finished watching Steve Marshes Canada trip video and refreshed and up your video popped, always a good start to the day when Scott pops up!
I'm glad to hear I start your day off well!
Fuengirola is great. There’s an indoor market just along from the station. There’s a museum and art gallery, the park is great, there’s loads of interesting things to see and do. That food court you were in is superb. Personally I love Malaga but a wee trip down the coast is great. Good video Scott, thanks.
I loved Benalmadena when we visited there a few years ago. You missed an amazing park with a special cactus garden. We found the bus that runs along the coast very convenient vs. the train.
I'm really enjoying watching your videos
and the places that you visit take care and thank you.🇬🇧🫡🫡🇬🇧
Thanks
Boabaloab - what a great name. Many thanks for your support.
Torremolinos is the best town of the three Scott.
I was staying in Torremolinos in January. The RENFE Cercanías (C) 1 station is centrally located allowing for ease of travel into Málaga Ciudad, Málaga airport station and also to Málaga Maria Zambrano station for high-speed services to many destinations. A day trip to Seville is possible. I also used the bus from Torremolinos to Ronda and returned by three different trains on the same day. It's also possible to fly on a day trip to Melilla if you book up in advance.
Accommodation is marginally cheaper in Torremolinos than Màlaga Ciudad also.
For me, the geography of Benalmádena turned me off the place because the C1 line veers too far inland away from the coast.
As for Fuengirola, the station isn't nice and there was nothing in the town that I liked.
Give me Torremolinos any time!!!
There is also another Cercanías train station in Benalmádena at Torremuelle
It’s a complete dump! Dirty and nasty. Ok if all you want to do is drink as there’s nothing to actually see or do there. It’s exactly what Scott said only food and drink but nothing to see or do there. ✌️👍✌️
Torremolinos is physically the ugliest of the three. Benalmádena is more upscale. Fuengirola is a bit more authentically Spanish. Buildings need an update in Torremolinos. But it’s probably the most vibrant nightlife, especially for LGB community.
One of the nicest things I find is just the walk between Torremolinos and Benalmadena on the costal path, and it's easy to get a bus back. The Parque de la Paloma in Benalmadena is lovely too, just a short walk down from the Arroyo de Miel station. The castle in Fuengirola is worth a visit, if just for the views. Lots to do down there and all within easy reach of Malaga which these days has become one of the best cities in Spain to visit.
Mijas Pueblo is a beautiful village/town a bit inland . Easy to get there from Malaga . Lovely day trip 😎
Get the bus from Fuengirola to Mijas €1.20 single.Worth it but only once.
Scott, if what you saw of Benalmadena ticked your boxes then you can only get more inpressed by the marina area which you may have missed!
Yeah he really should have gone to the marina for the wow factor. A really nice place to wander round if you've not seen it.
Been to all three many times, last time being last March. You missed the best bit of all, La Carihuela on the paseo between Torremolinos and Benalmadena. Strictly still in Torremolinos. Very Spanish and a village-like chilled feel. You must go back!
yeah paseo! and the beautiful park de la paloma! 🌞and puerto deportivo! benalmadena has it all! scott ! it`s
your favorite! but you missed👆go back👍
The Beach walk (and back) between the two resorts is stunning for sure
Yes! You missed the best of Torremolinos. My daughter and I were there this June and we had a blast. They have excellent Flamenco shows, you can choose among many excellent restaurants to eat at the shore, after a day at the beach. "Hamacas" with umbrellas are decently priced at 6 euros for the full day, and having the train station in the middle of town, while seamless, is extremely convenient to head to Malaga or any other town/stop for the day. The local bus station/stops are also very conveniently located, walking distance within town, and many tours to relevant historic places, such as Granada, Sevilla, Cordoba, etc. pick up tourists close to Torremolinos train station. Also, Torremolinos is a shot away from Malaga's airport. Something we always consider, as we travel from the US. Oh... and I was forgetting more... Some of the best icecream and shopping we have enjoyed. And hotels are excellently priced in the center of town. We loved Torremolinos!!
Very interesting video, Scott! I would definitely prefer Benelmadena. I love cable cars, and the splendid views you get from the top!
We`re heading to Benalmadena in June next year and this video has been extremely helpful! I never knew there was a cable car but it`s now on my hit list. A very concise comparison to all three towns with very helpful tips. Thank you so much for the video and hope to watch more of your work. Also, great to hear the accent!
Oh gosh, I love this area! Thanks for bringing back some lovely memories. You are definitely right to pick Benalmadena. Next time you are there you must visit Paloma Park and the fabulous marina. Parque de la Bateria in Torremolinos is also lovely.
Cool vid! Thanks for the Benalmadena Cable Car review - will try that for sure now when I'm there!
thankyou i enjoyed you video and i guessed which one you would pick and i would agree
We have been to Benalmadena twice and took a day trip to fuingerola and then the next day to Toromolinos.We really liked Toromolinos but didn't like Fuingerola at all.
Why didn't you like fuengirola?
I think that, like the majority of Mediterranean resorts, if it’s sunny and you enjoy the beach, you will have a great time in any of the three.
I've been to all three of these resorts as well as Malaga and I agree with your choice. Just behind the Sealife you showed is a fantastic marina full of boats and fish, with many bars and restaurants that are buzzing at night and quieter during the day but a great place to pass an hour or so. There is also a nice park with a lake full or terrapins and a dedicated cactus garden. The two centres can be reached by buses if you don't fancy a walk.
I was in Fuengirola two weeks ago, lovely spot. The castle is nice and there's some good mountains for a hike.
You missed the best of Torremolinos. My daughter and I were there this June and we had a blast. They have excellent Flamenco shows, you can choose among many excellent restaurants to eat at the shore, after a day at the beach. "Hamacas" with umbrellas are decently priced at 6 euros for the full day, and having the train station in the middle of town, while seemless, is extremely convenient to head to Malaga or any other town/stop for the day. The local bus station/stops are also very conveniently located, walking distance within town (we rode a bus to visit some friends in Estepona), and many tours to relevant historic places, such as Granada, Sevilla, Cordoba, Nerja and Frigiliana, etc. pick-up tourists close to Torremolinos' train station. Also, Torremolinos is a shot away from Malaga's airport. Something we always consider, as we travel from the USA. Oh... and I was forgetting more... Some of the best icecream and shopping we have enjoyed. And hotels are excellently priced in the center of town. We loved Torremolinos!!
I think it be had spent a full day in each place it would be better. If you're only somewhere for a few hours I don't see the point.
The market area had an international food fair on two weeks before your visit.
I have been to all three, my favourite to stay long term is Fuengirola as there are more locals than the two others to interact with, other than British and Dutch tourists. Benalmadena is pretty good, aside from the trek from the sea to the city center and train station. Torremolinos is not bad if you are looking for casual shopping and dining, but I agree with your overall assessment. You seem to have missed the Caruehela part of Torremolinos which is a bit classier than up the cliff near San Miguel.
I flew from Edinburgh to Torremolinos with an ex girlfriend in 2014. We walked along the coast towards Benalmadena and the seafront with lots of lovely yauchts sitting in the harbour. It was quite pleasant there I thought although we never went to the cable car!
Sadly, I share the same sentiment as you, I didn't find there was a lot to do there and it certainly wasn't as pleasant as visiting S'illot, Majorca a few years before that. We were that bored, we decided to take the train across to Málaga for the day, which was far nicer. I wished we booked a stay there instead!
I don't think I would go back to Torremolinos but then again I'm not in a great state to travel far anymore, especially by myself, so I enjoy those many travel videos that you post!
Thanks Scott, are they cork trees?
I stayed in Fuengirola on a 2 week holiday back in 2007. I was only 17 at the time and travelled with my family. My aunt, uncle and cousins were on holiday in Torremolinos at the same time so we caught the train to visit them. Public transport is good in the Costa Del Sol. I was on the cable car during the holiday too. Another nice place to visit in Fuengirola is the castle, great views from the top, Gary
My choices
1. Torremolinos
2. Fuengirola
3. Benalmadena
Thanks Scott for sharing your adventures. Really inspiring.
That brought back some lovely memories of a holiday in Benalmadena a few years ago. Loved the marina and the Parque de la Paloma where I spent many hours, but never made the cable car unfortunately. Next time!
Should have walked from Torremolinos to Benalmadena
Torremolinos is excellent for walking and as I was recovering from illness I got up every morning walking along the prom. Brilliant.
Been to all three, Stay every year at Hotel Costa Del Sol in Benalmadena (Near Torromulle railway station) right on the edge of Benalmadena, lovely quiet end of Benalmadena. So much so we have stayed there now for the last 7 years, So my vote goes to Benalmadena.
That was excellent! It made a fascinating comparison to those places when I lived in Malaga for several years around the turn of the century. Back then you went by train if it was necessary to visit Torremolinos because you always felt that, if you took a car, you’d return to find it up on bricks and with the battery missing. Nice to see the Islamic tower still doubling as a telegraph pole.
Benelmadena was always the quietest resort even when the hilltop funfair was open. There are some interesting prehistoric cave dwellings in that hill with ‘cup and ring’ engravings. There are Roman remains, too as well as at Fuengirola including unused pillars on the beach and some structures protected by having new buildings on stilts over them.
Fuengirola is far enough from Malaga to need to provide all services, hence its larger size. All the stations seem to have been vastly improved. The towers are interesting - square are Moorish, round are Christian. Used to look out for raiders from N Africa, hence Arroya de la Miel being inland for protection. There is also a castle at Fuengirola.
Many thanks for reviving possibly slightly flawed memories.
I've been to all three and prefer torremolinos as a base. i walk out to the marina in benalmadena and sometimes get the train to fuengarola to market. The way of life put on the coast is brilliant
Great vid Scott of all the years going to Malaga I never knew of the cable car. Now Fuengirola is another story. Was walked around that bloody market with sun burned feet and legs in 30 odd degree heat. I can still feel the pain but the wife was happy buying her tat that day
Toramelinos shopping, fuengarola the beaches, benalmadena chilling in the evening .
Great video. I really like benalmadena it's the best place I've been there a few times
From where you were on the beach at Torremolinos you could have walked ten minutes into Benelmadena instead of having to walk all the way back up through the old town to get a train.
You also missed out on visiting Benelmadena old town
You should have walked along La Carihuela from Torremolinos into Benalmádena Marina. It’s a lovely mile long walk . Pity you missed some of the best walkways in that area
He certainly did!😂
Yep. you can easily walk along the front from Torremolinos to Benelmadena.
That was an amazing cable car ride! 👍👏😁😬😳
Great video, i love all 3, my parents lived in Fuengirola for 20 years, you cant judge it in a few hrs, need a couple of days in each place.
I think all three resorts would look different in the full tourist season. Handy that you can easily get along the coast though. Been to Torremolinos and Belalmadena but not Fuengirola. Nerja is attractive with some caves nearby. Look forward to next video. Thank you.
The bioparc in Fuengirola is AMAZING I would say its worth the trip to Fuengirola just to go there
Belemadena was nice we stayed there couple years back in globeles just texted to the beach awesome content scott
We have stayed in Benalmadena twice now a few years ago, there are also a couple of nice parks away from the main areas, one has a lake and a library building and lots of greenery think its called parc de las palomas and the other lots of trees etc, we tend to walk around the local areas and its surprising what you come across. One visit we walked to Fuengirola which I think is about 8km and it was definitely more built up from previous visit and you pass a massive holiday complex think tui own it. but its a pleasant if longish walk along the front. In Fuengirola did you spot the monument on the beach front as you enter which has a large pesetas coin symbol in it. (assuming its still there ). We walked to Torremolinos and found it quite built up and seemed alot busier in what seemed like a smaller area than Benalmadena although I did read somewhere that Benalmadena has the largest social housing for ex-pats and locals in Europe. Perhaps someone else may know if this is true or not. We will definitely re-visit this are since we were last there in 2015.
I totally agree with you about your choices as I like Benalmadena and Fuengirola especially with its wide choice of restaurants and food.
Great video Scott just wondered how Spanish trains compare to ours price wise. Also loved the cable car was that expensive
I live in Calahonda, and often catch the train to all of these places.
Benalmadena has a lovely port, beautiful butterfly park ,also you can catch a boat and go on a two hr trip to see the dolphins .
Torremolinos nice but very hilly, you can always catch the lift from the bottom back up to the top, cost 50c well worth it.
Fuengirola good for food and night life, also they have a small harbour,with lovely restaurants and cafes not expensive.
I love Benalmadena Bonanza square , great place with lots of tapa’s bars.
Well we are thinking of a relaxing week on the Costa Del Sol next year. Torremolinos is mostly just for relaxing. Spots all along that cost, Marbella etc and possible on to Gibralta. Actually prefer it when it's busy, Do a spot of people watching.
Cable car place looked nice😊
Arroyo de la Miel is Benalmadena's stop. Our house is near the El Pinillo station, so halfway between Torremolinos' downtown and Arroyo de la Miel.
You should have walked up to arroyo via Parque Paloma. It's beautiful, and if it has gone back to how it was prior to covid, ther will be ducks, rabbits and peacocks roaming around. Benalmadena is my favourite go to for a holiday and the flight duration is relatively short. Advise buying a card for bus travel.
It has gone back to how it was. Not sure how if survived the recent bad weather though.
Love Fuengirola/Los Boliches.Spend a couple of months of the year there.
Fuengirola is my favourite
Fantastic vlog, thanks for sharing! My 1st choice is Fuengirola followed by Benalmádena a close 2nd. Both places have great restaurants & hotels!
Not been to any...but Benelmadena would get my vote simply for the cable car. Can't beat some great views. Great video.
Fuengirola has a zipline from the castle to the beach ;)
We had a place in benalmadena and visited several times a year and while there we would visit both Torrremolinos and fuengerola. All good spots for different reasons but for us Benalmadena comes out on top. They have a fantastic marina with wonderful restaurants. You also have
La Carihuela which is just wonferfull.
Yep correct answer Benalmadena is a fantastic place,particularly the bottom end on the way out to Fuengirola,past the sail roundabout!
I can't comment on your Spanish pronunciation but the way you pronounced Adidas made me smile, in fact, I had to wind back a couple of times to listen again.
Which town would I like best? Well, to be honest, I didn't like any of them all that much because in my opinion they are touristy and what puts me off are all those British pubs and restaurants.
When I go abroad I like to enjoy and experience the local food and drinks and I don't want a kind of "home from home" vacation.
Apart from all that, Scott, another good and informative video.
Can't stand that myself really annoys me. Why get away from home just to 'go home' again. Spain has some of the best food in Europe.
I didn’t like Torromolinos either. I prefer Fuengirola it’s got a more authentic Spanish feel, lovely shops and I loved the zoo. Great video Scott. I love the variety 9f your trips.
Fuengirola is my favourite. Flat ground.the town is beside the beach..unlike the other 2
I absolutely love that whole coastline….Fuengirola market is fantastic, such a shame you weren’t there on the day it was on! A beautiful part of the world!
Market
News to me, I've been to Fuengirola loads of times and never seen a market
Mind you there's a big one in Algeciras
@@chriscoughlan5221 it’s along towards Los Boliches Station…would say about half way between the two…great place!
@@DeborahMcGregor-w2f what day/s of the week?
@@chriscoughlan5221market on Tuesday, car boot type market on Saturday same place.
Benalmadena wins hands down for me, so excellent decision. You should have visited the marina which is very impressive
Did you have the chance to visit Benahavis? Lovely mountain village between Marbella and Estepona
Wow beautiful. I love them all. So nice. Thank you Scott
In May 2000 my sister-in-law and I took my 6 year old daughter on a cheap 5 day package deal to the Costa del Sol where we didn't know where we were staying till we got there. We ended up in Mijas Costa, in a hotel right next to the motorway. There was no beach and no amenties apart from a few restaurants so we asked the Thompson rep about what to do and she suggested getting the local bus that went along the motorway. It was a 2 minute walk to the bus stop so we visited Fuengirola and Marbella, both of which we enjoyed. We also went on an organised bus trip to Gibraltar. It wasn't until we'd been back home a couple of weeks that I watched a holiday programme on TV that mentioned Mijas. Apparently the village of Mijas was 10km away from where we stayed and is a great place to visit. I've googled it since and it looks like the kind of place I'd love. The rep never even mentioned it.
Fuengirola for me, the restaurants on the beach were just the best.
Estepona is lovely.
The C1 doesn't go there.
I was in benalmadena at the same time as u and was 100% was my favourite I loved the marina. With the sealife being worth it. There's alot more to torremolinos than what you showed also. And fuengirola was OK I haven't stayed there in about 10 years.
Just as a matter of interest, that sign you pointed out, 'Paseo Marítimo' doesn't refer to to the garden behind the wall. It means the seafront promenade...
The cable car was pretty cool. Going over the highway was nuts. I have to remember to visit Spain in May.
I stayed in benalmadena for a week about 15 years ago was nice and did manage to walk to fuengirola along the beach. I liked both places in their own way. Where I was staying had loads of elephant Statues.
I was at Benalmadena, hence my profile pic lol, I found it really nice and tranquil 👍
Love Malaga and I live in Arroyo de la Miel Benalmádena. Best place.
Not quite butlins Filey in the 70s on the gondola but amazing views 🙈👍👍
Busters bar in Fuengirola is owned by a Scottish lady, (and her English husband).
Yep Scottie, I agree with your choice of the three also. Thanks for another great video mate. Keep 'em coming!
Visit the coast there about 3 times a year, mainly stay in Benalmadena but occasionally in La Carihuela area of Torremolinos. It’s a shame you missed the award winning Marina, also in February/March before the heat haze of the summer builds up, from the top of the hill at the cable cars, you can get a clear view of the coast of North Africa, stunning view.
From what I’ve seen here it looks really nice YES but I still prefer Portugal 🇵🇹🇪🇺 which I hope you will visit again in the future mate. 👍
My first ever foreign holiday was to Torremolinos! I was 16 years old and had just finished taking my O Levels, so it was a special time! But the thing is, we didn't stay in the main town, but in a suburb just to the west called La Carihuela, which was lovely. I did venture into the town myself one day (I've always had wanderlust, so left everyone else sitting by the pool while I went off to explore), and remember not being that keen on it! 😄
Nice review, surprised by lack of sun at the beginning, and not many people about .
A wonderful place to visit 15 minutes walk on the promenade from Torremolinos is the town of La Carehuela. We have stayed a few times. Lovely bars and restaurants not as built up as Torremolinos.
Another great video, well done😊
The best day trip is surely Torremolinos due to the location of the train station - not everyone likes to walk for miles Scott lol
Love the area having stayed in them all my favourite is Fuengirola and Mijas but Málaga is a Stunning city great vid keep them coming.👏👏👏
I remember taking my 7 year old daughter to Tivoli World in 1990, nobody else there but she had a lovely time. Pity about the old place really
My fav channel for travel
Agree with your assessment. I've been to all three and I agree. Benalmadena is the best. Granted, I visited a long, long time ago, and things have changed a lot. Torremolinos used to be a hippie town after a bunch of people read The Drifters.
Great video. I have been to all 3 places myself and enjoyed them all. Thanks for sharing.
Cheers 🍻
That cable car looked amazing with incredible views. The walk to the top after looked, wellll, a bit dodgy at least to my poor old knees. When you said "Should we climb those stairs to the top?", Greg and I said to each other "If this was a @steve-marsh video, that answer would be a definite yes." And, of course, you said "yes", too. :) Hey, did we miss you requiring a coffee for cruising altitude in today's video? #youtuberbingocard
Great video mate.. if you like cable cars like me there’s a fantastic one in turkey oludeniz can watch the paragliding takeoffs from the top 2000 feet up unbelievable scenery too overlooking the blue lagoon.
I visited Torremolinos once, got a couple of hundred metres from the station and it was all loud Brits getting wasted and turning pink. Got the next train back to Malaga.
The same as you then🤡
@@douglasgreen437 Apart from the "loud", "getting wasted" and "turning pink" parts, yep.
Some years ago I stayed at Torremolinos for an off season short break, railway station is very conveniently located and overall was happy with the place. Didn't go to the beach, but did hire a car and day trip to Gibraltar. Not visited the other two, but do feel Benalmedena's cable car would be a great attraction on one of the super hot summer days that do occur in Andalucia. Shame could not see the African coast, too far I guess.
Ooooh nooooo
In the Caribbean we also do have baked beans for breakfast. 🤣🤣🤣🤣
I'd say Benalmadena, as I did own a bar there in Arroyo
5:48 I always found it interesting: in catholic or protestant churches men should take your hat off, in orthodox churches women should cover their hair and in synagogues men should wear a kippah or a hat. It can sometimes be a little confusing.
Add on for orthodox churches: I've seen it often in Romania or Russia, that women had a scarf ready in their handbag, and just put it on before entering the church.
Really enjoyed this Scott.
I have spent a full winter and two Christmas holidays in Benalmádena, and visited the two other places. I definitely prefer Benalmádena to stay. You missed Benalmádena Pueblo, the old center further inland, with Castillo Colomares, a butterfly center and a Tibetan stupa.
About the transport issue: there are busses along the coast. 110 goes all the way from Malaga past Torremolinos station to Benalmádena coast. 120 goes from Torremolinos station to Benalmádena coast to Fuengirola. 121 goes from Torremolinos station to all three centers of Benalmádena and on to the lovely old town Mijas. Finally Torremolinos has an elevator (Ascensor a la playa on Google maps) between the high up center and the beach that qualifies as public transport (you buy a ticket).