Key Facts About Mijas, Spain

Mijas is a picturesque whitewashed town nestled in the mountains of southern Spain. With cobbled streets, sweeping sea views, and a peaceful vibe, it's one of the most charming pueblos blancos (white villages) in Andalusia — offering a tranquil alternative to the coast below.

8/5/20252 min read

📍 Location
  • Region: Andalusia

  • Province: Málaga

  • Elevation: ~430 meters (1,410 ft) above sea level

  • Divided Into:

    • Mijas Pueblo (historic village in the hills)

    • Mijas Costa (coastal urban area)

    • La Cala de Mijas (seaside village)

  • Nearest Cities: Fuengirola (~8 km), Málaga (~30 km)

🏘️ What Makes Mijas Special
  • 🏰 Traditional whitewashed houses and flower-filled balconies

  • 🐴 Iconic donkey taxis (burro-taxis)

  • 🌊 Breathtaking panoramic views of the Costa del Sol

  • 🧵 Artisan shops selling local pottery, leather, and crafts

  • 🕊️ Laid-back, romantic atmosphere perfect for couples and cultural travelers

🌦️ Climate
  • Summer (Jun–Sep): Warm and sunny, avg. 26–33°C (79–91°F)

  • Spring/Fall (Apr–May, Oct): Mild, avg. 18–25°C (64–77°F)

  • Winter (Nov–Feb): Cooler but pleasant, avg. 12–18°C (54–64°F)

  • Best Time to Visit: April–June and September–October

🏛️ Main Attractions
  • Old Town (Mijas Pueblo): Stroll winding cobblestone streets and plazas

  • Ermita Virgen de la Peña: Small chapel carved into rock with sea views

  • Mijas Bullring (Plaza de Toros): Uniquely oval and perched over the cliffs

  • Mijas Viewpoint (Mirador del Compás): Ideal for panoramic selfies

  • Museo Histórico-Etnológico: A small museum showcasing local history and traditions

  • La Cala de Mijas Boardwalk: A scenic seaside walk with cafés and bars

🐴 Unique Experiences
  • Donkey Taxis (Burro Taxis): Ride or snap photos with these local icons

  • Horse-drawn carriage rides: Romantic tours of the old village

  • Ceramic painting workshops and artisan shopping

  • Evening flamenco shows in local bars and squares

🏖️ Nearby Beaches

While Mijas Pueblo isn’t on the coast, Mijas Costa and La Cala de Mijas are just a short drive away:

  • Playa de La Cala: Family-friendly and clean with calm waters

  • Playa El Bombo: Great for sunbathing, fewer crowds

  • Playa Riviera: Quieter spot, ideal for long beach walks

🏨 Where to Stay
  • In Mijas Pueblo:

    • TRH Mijas – Classic style hotel with mountain and sea views

    • La Posada de Mijas – Budget-friendly and centrally located

  • In Mijas Costa or La Cala:

    • VIK Gran Hotel Costa del Sol – Beachfront and family-friendly

    • El Oceano Beach Hotel – Adults-only luxury escape

🍽️ What to Eat
  • Churros con chocolate – A morning staple

  • Espetos de sardinas – Grilled sardines, best by the coast

  • Salmorejo – Cold tomato soup topped with jamón

  • Local tapas: Try “berenjenas con miel” (eggplant with honey)

  • Sweet wine from local bodegas

🚗 Getting There
  • From Málaga Airport: ~25 minutes by car

  • By Bus: Direct buses from Fuengirola and Málaga

  • By Car: Follow A-7 or AP-7, then drive up the winding mountain road

🧠 Fun Facts
  • 🐴 Donkey taxis were originally used by farmers — now a symbol of the town

  • 🎨 Famous for local arts and crafts – especially hand-painted ceramics

  • 🎥 Mijas has served as a filming location for Spanish and international productions

  • 🐐 The surrounding hills are popular for goat cheese and olive production

📸 Instagram-Worthy Spots
  • 💙 Bright flower pots on white walls in Calle San Sebastián

  • 🐴 Donkey Taxi stand

  • 🌄 Sunset from the Mirador del Compás

  • ⛪ Rock-carved Hermitage Virgen de la Peña

  • 🍷 Tapas in a scenic plaza

🎟️ Travel Tips
  • 🚶‍♀️ Wear comfy shoes – the old town is hilly and cobbled

  • ⏰ Visit early morning or sunset for the best light and fewer crowds

  • 📸 The Mirador and bullring area offer excellent panoramic photos

  • 🎭 Look out for local events and flamenco nights, especially in summer

  • 🛍️ Support local artists – ceramics and leather goods make great souvenirs

✨ Final Thoughts

Mijas is where Andalusian charm meets mountain serenity. Whether you're admiring views from a cliffside café or exploring artisan shops in whitewashed alleys, this village offers peace, beauty, and authentic Spanish culture.