Mountain Village of Mijas Spain: Top Tips For a Fun Afternoon Visit

Mijas Village

Visiting Spain’s famous Costa del Sol and looking to spend the afternoon away from the beach? Well, the beautiful village of Mijas is the perfect place to explore! Take a trip with us high into the mountains and visit this historic Spanish town. Recently we had the chance to visit this unique pueblo, enjoy the local food, and experience all Mijas Spain has to offer.

Spain Inspiration

Why Visit Mijas Spain?

Mijas has an amazing mix of architecture, history, and culture that every traveler exploring this part of Spain should see. While we love the stunning beach towns in the South of Spain, an afternoon in Mijas village was such a fun adventure!

Don’t get us wrong… the town is still fairly touristy. Yet, the shops, winding streets, and Mijas food give off a very authentic feel. It reminded us of our favorite village located just an hour away in Frigiliana!

Mijas Spain

Getting to Mijas Spain

Although Mijas is located high in the mountains, it’s still very easy to get to. There are buses available from most major beach towns along Costa del Sol and even the main city of Malaga.

On our trip, we caught the bus directly from Benalmadena where we were staying. It was a winding 45-minute ride into the mountains but dropped us off in the center of town for just a few Euros.

You can also drive to Mijas if you’ve rented a car in Spain! Just keep in mind the roads are tight in the mountains, and parking is limited in Mijas Pueblo.

Book a Full Day Tour of Mijas, Marbella & Puerto Banús From Málaga

Getting to Mijas Spain

Quick History of Mijas Spain

Before we get to our own afternoon in town, you should know that the history of Mijas Spain is quite fascinating. In fact, Mijas has been inhabited since back in prehistoric times! Some of the walls which are still intact were built by the Phoenicians who arrived in 800 BC.

From there, it would go on to be the home of Romans then the Moors, before going back under the rule of Catholic Monarchs. Not long after the transition of power in the 16th century, Ermita de la Virgen de la Pena Monastery was built on the cliffs of Mijas where it still stands today.

History of Mijas Spain

Exploring Mijas Pueblo

At first, we were surprised to learn that this small Spanish village was home to over 7,000 residents. However, once we started wandering around the endless side streets of Mijas Village it seemed much more possible!

Starting from the center of town, we worked our way through the white-washed houses. Mijas Pueblo is full of pretty little shops, cafes, and local bars. Honestly, it felt like each small street was more beautiful than the next!

As you get higher up into the houses you’ll be rewarded with epic views of Mijas village and the coastline. With plenty to explore, you can easily spend all day in Mijas Spain!

Mijas Spain Village

Flowers

Mijas Spain Donkey Rides

One of the most popular things to do in Mijas Spain is to have a donkey ride through the village. While we didn’t take one ourselves, we saw the friendly animals taking passengers up and down the small roads of town all day.

The animals are kept in the shade in the center of town, and horse carriage rides are also available if it’s something you’re interested in. 

Mijas Donkey Rides

Delicious Food & Drinks in Mijas Spain 

Our favorite part about exploring Mijas Spain was all the fun little bars and restaurants there are throughout town! It seemed like around every corner there was a different establishment to enjoy traditional Spanish food.

Near the main square, you will find some great tapa restaurants. Once you head further around Mijas Pueblo there are fancier places to have a drink or meal. Some even have incredible views of the mountains and ocean!

Best Mijas Food

Where to Eat in Mijas Spain 

Restaurante El Mirador hands down has one of the best views in town. You can sit overlooking the entire coast as you embrace a long leisurely lunch and local Mijas food. 

However, our favorite spot was a small bar called La Boveda del Flamenco! This is the perfect place to grab some drinks and Mijas food before the sunset. Chairs fill the sidewalk so you will have to watch out for trucks and donkeys that go past! 

Also! Make sure to look out for the street stands. Throughout the village of Mijas Spain there are small carts selling everything from candy nuts to buñuelos, and roasted chestnuts! 

Mijas Food

Sunset Walk At Parque La Muralla

If you’re lucky enough to be here for sunset head over to Parque La Muralla! This cute park is situated on the cliffs of town facing the ocean.

There is a pathway that takes you through various flowers, trees, and even a waterfall that lights up at night. We couldn’t believe the colors as they changed above the town and the coastline of Spain.

Parque La Muralla

Parque La Muralla Mijas

Overnight in Mijas Spain

While we decided to head back to our apartment on the beach, you can easily spend the night in Mijas Pueblo! Actually, we would recommend it and plan to when we return. 

Ultra Luxury – TRH Mijas– The most popular hotel in town is built in Andalusian style, has a beautiful pool, and is a quick walk to the village center. 

Fun VacationMijas Residence – These spacious apartments have sea views and are just a quick drive away from the center of town. Enjoy the pool and shared BBQ area in the mountains of Mijas.

Guest House – La Posada de Mijas – Set in the historic heart of Mijas Spain! Enjoy an apartment within walking distance of the best attractions and Mijas food.

Guide Mijas Spain

Have any questions on Mijas Spain or want to share your own experience in this charming mountain village? Leave us a comment below!

Safe Travels,
Brigitte & Jake

 Where in the world are we? Follow our daily adventures on Instagram @nothingfamiliar

PIN FOR LATER 

Mijas Spain Guide

Explore Spain

Best of Spain:  Visiting in WinterCosta Del Sol13 Best Drinks – 11 Cities in Southern Spain  – Vueling Airlines Tips

Granada: Best Tapas  – 15 Fun Things to Do – Alhambra de Granada 

Nerja: Best Tapas7 Beautiful BeachesPlaya BurrianaNerja Caves 

Small Towns: RupitCadiz – Ronda

Gran Canaria: 13 Food & DrinksAgaete Natural PoolsRoute of the TapasVolcano Hike

Fuerteventura: Travel Guide12 Best BeachesRenting a CarAguas Verdes Natural PoolKrabbenfelsen Natural PoolPopcorn Beach

Tenerife: 7 Best BeachesPlaya AmarillaMount Teide Volcano DriveBoat Tour

Spain Travel Planning 

 Flights: We always find the best flights using Skyscanner. Sometimes it’s cheaper to fly between cities in Spain than driving or taking the train! 

 Accommodation: Compare multiple sites to get to the best deal such as Booking.com and Agoda! Also,  Hostelworld should be your go-to source if you’re traveling on a budget. 

Rental Car: We use Discover Cars to explore when traveling. Consider renting a car in one city and dropping it off in another for an epic Spain road trip! 

 Tours: Check out Get Your Guide for thousands of activities around Spain. You can book a tour of the Madrid Royal Palace, skip the line and explore the Alhambra de Granada, or even jump on a Tenerife Dolphin cruise! 

 Travel Insurance: Never travel abroad without protection! We’ve been using SafetyWing for the last few years on the road and they are there when we need them.

 Packing Lists: Find all the inspiration you need with our Amazon packing lists. Including our electronics and camera gear, must-have medical items, and long flight essentials

Spain Travel

Spread the love
*We receive a commission for purchases made through links in this post. This allows us to continue our travels and keep providing great content to our readers! Also, as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Brigitte & Jake

We’re Brigitte and Jake! American travel bloggers currently based in Spain. If you can believe it, we started Nothing Familiar way back in 2015 on an Ipad in the Ecuadorian jungle. Ever since, we haven’t stopped traveling! We’ve now been to over 60 countries around the world, with our expertise being Europe and Southeast Asia. We love outdoor adventures, tasting local specialties, and island hopping through tropical destinations. Hopefully, our guides and authentic experiences will inspire you on your own travels!

Find me on: Web | Twitter/X | Instagram | Facebook

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *