As one of Spain’s top holiday destinations, Fuengirola is a must-stop on any getaway to the iconic Costa del Sol.
Sitting just down the coast from the city of Malaga, Fuengirola puts you within reach of the region’s best attractions – and steps from the Mediterranean. Calmer and quieter than its larger neighbors, the town makes an ideal headquarters for exploring this corner of Andalusia.
Like any destination, Fuengirola has several districts to get to know, each with its own special qualities.
Districts of Fuengirola
Fuengirola has seven main districts.
Small and straightforward, the town is relatively easy to get around on foot, by bus, or via local taxi.
The El Centro district is likely where you’ll start exploring, as it’s home to the popular Plaza de la Constitucion. From there, branch out to coastal Los Boliches, quaint Pueblo Lopez, the northern neighborhood of El Boquetillo, or hillside Torreblanca.
If you’re heading up to nearby Benalmadena, be sure to stop by Carvajal – this is Fuengirola’s easternmost district, and it leads into Benalmadena. The last district to keep on your radar is Los Pacos, which is located on the outskirts of town.
Don’t be fooled by its slightly removed location – this neighborhood is highly popular with locals and especially expats thanks to the location of international schools.
El Centro
El Centro is Fuengirola’s central district and a great place to start exploring the city on foot The district’s Plaza de la Constitucion is its main square.
The square is filled with restaurants and cafes that serve drinks and local cuisine, meaning you can easily enjoy breakfast or lunch before heading out. The streets and alleyways along the seashore are known for serving fresh seafood, so keep them in mind for dinner.
Many restaurants offer outdoor patios, meaning you can sit back and people watch as you wait for your meal.
The Plaza Bar is one of the area’s many nightlife destinations and the district comes to life when the sun goes down. Located on the Plaza Reyes Catolicos, the town’s monument to the Catholic Kings offers a serene spot to rest while strolling.
For live drama performances, check out the nearby Salon Varietes Theatre, a local venue just steps from the central plaza.
Pueblo Lopez
Just east of El Centro, the Pueblo Lopez neighborhood is an easily walkable residential area.
Low-lying homes and charming cobblestone streets give this district an intimate feel, making for a great morning walk. In terms of local dining, the family-run Restaurante Pueblo Lopez offers a classic Andalusian welcome.
Home to generations of locals, this neighborhood gives you a glimpse into daily life in Fuengirola. There are also plenty of small spots to grab a quick bite to eat or a drink while enjoying the fresh air.
Pueblo Lopez is likely what you imagine when you think of an inviting Spanish village, so be sure to experience this easygoing part of Fuengirola.
Los Boliches
Located a few minutes up the coast from central Fuengirola, the Los Boliches district overlooks the Mediterranean coast.
This breezy neighborhood is tucked between Torreblanca and La Sirena beaches, meaning you can spend all day enjoying the sand and the surf in the area. There are many seaside lodging options nearby, along with a number of restaurants. Los Boliches was once a fishing village, and hints of it maritime past can be found throughout the district.
The church of Carmen and Santa Fe is one of the neighborhood’s notable sites, along with the Yacimiento archaeological site, which preserves Roman ruins. The Los Boliches train station makes it easy to reach central Fuengirola and other destinations on the way to Malaga.
EL Boquetillo
Built around the Avenida de Mijas, the El Boquetillo district is a bustling residential area that reflects Fuengirola’s soul.
The neighborhood feels tight-knit, with a popular indoor food market and many shops lining its main thoroughfare. Every June, the area hosts a San Juan celebration, complete with live music, children’s activities, fireworks, and more. This is a great time to visit and partake in the festivities along with locals.
The district is also a great walking destination, and you’re bound to come across one of its many murals along the way.
Torreblanca
Perched on a hill east of town, the Torreblanca district is a short bus or taxi ride away from Fuengirola’s center. Home to manicured residences, new housing, and shops, the neighborhood is a mix of contemporary living and regional aesthetics, making it great for a long-term stay.
Since the district is elevated, it offers great views. Set apart from the bustle of central Fuengirola yet still easy to reach, Torreblanca makes an ideal home away from home. If you’re looking for lodging in the area, consider staying at the landmark Torreblanca hotel, which puts you just minutes from the Mediterranean.
Los Pacos
Located outside of Fuengirola’s main districts, the Los Pacos neighborhood has flourished in recent years.
It is a popular home-buying destination, meaning it offers plenty of shops, restaurants, and other services for residents. If you’re just visiting, the neighborhood is great for a longer stay in Fuengirola, as it feels like a comfortable residential community. Despite being a little further from the town center, the area is still a short drive from beaches and other attractions.
This part of Fuengirola is especially popular with the Finnish expat community since the local Finnish primary school is located in Los Pacos. That naturally translates into higher demand for housing, but also a very difficult time driving around the neighbourhood during the school dropout times.
Carvajal
Home to the popular Playa de Carvajal, this district is great for those who want to get away from it all and just relax on the sand.
The neighborhood merges with western Benalmadena, making it a perfect middle ground between the two communities. Along with the beach, you’ll find a walkable promenade, seaside restaurants, and a convenient train station on the line between Fuengirola and Malaga.
With Malaga just a train ride away, Carvajal offers the best of both worlds when it comes to easy access and serenity.
There are several lodging options in the area, including holiday apartment rentals. Children will love the nearby Holiday World Beach Club Water Park, while adults can indulge in the district’s vibrant nightlife.
Where to Stay
All of the districts listed above have something to offer if you’re a first-time visitor to Fuengirola.
If you’re looking for a slower-paced stay, consider Los Pacos, Los Boliches Torreblanca or Carvajal, as these keep you slightly off the beaten path and immerse you in residential Fuengirola. Most of the hotels in Fuengirola are centered around the coastline, and the lower-budget accommodation options can be found closer to the other side of town near Sohail Castle.
Keep in mind that busier neighborhoods are likely to be packed during the peak season, which runs from June to August.
Consider traveling in late spring or early fall to miss the crowds but still catch some of that famed Costa del Sol sunshine. If you do travel during the peak season, quieter residential neighborhoods will likely help you save money on accommodations- and treat you to calmer nights.
Questions About Fuengirola Districts
What is the Centre of Fuengirola?
The centre of Fuengirola is Plaza de la Constitution, a small square with a church near the old town.
Does Fuengirola have an old town?
Yes, Fuengirola does have an old town, but it’s not very big. You can find it if you venture to Plaza de la Constitution, and explore the small streets nearby.
Is Fuengirola a nice place to live?
Yes, Fuengirola is a nice place to live, especially if you have kids as it offers plenty of good schools, even international ones. One downside to living in Fuengirola is the fact that it’s also a popular holiday destination, so it gets extremely busy in the summer months.
Which region is Fuengirola?
Fuengirola belongs to the region of Andalusia, and sits on Costa del Sol, within the province of Malaga.
Where is the old part in Fuengirola?
The old part of Fuengirola is around the Plaza de la Constitución, where you will also find shops, bars and restaurants as well as the bus and train station.
What day is the big market in Fuengirola?
The big market in Fuengirola is held each Tuesday and Saturday, from 9 am to 2 pm. On the Tuesday market, you will find mostly local produce and some clothing, while the Saturday market is a flea market and it is very popular with the locals and tourists alike.
What area is best to live in Fuengirola?
The best areas to live in Fuengirola are Los Boliches and Torreblanca, as they offer proximity to the sea and services while offering a variety of different accommodation options and very convenient locations. Torreblanca is elevated up in the hills, so stunning views are almost always guaranteed.
Is Fuengirola full of Brits?
There are many Brits living in Fuengirola, but there are also other nationalities like Finns, Swedes or people from other Nordic countries. British expats are certainly not the majority, and in my experience, you’re more likely to hear Spanish or Finnish on the streets.
How many Finns live in Fuengirola?
There are 5,500 Finns living in Fuengirola, according to the official population register.
Which is better Fuengirola or Benalmadena?
Both Fuengirola and Benalmadena are great places to visit or stay for a holiday, and whether one or the other is better depends on your preferences. Fuengirola is much more Spanish and authentic, there are many Spanish people staying here for the summer holidays, while Benalmadena is more popular with British tourists.
Fuengirola boasts over 7km of sandy beaches with coastal promenades lining the whole length of the city, while Benalmadena’s beaches are limited in comparison. On the other hand, you will find much more to do and more attractions in Benalmadena.
Is Fuengirola expensive?
No, Fuengirola is not expensive at all. It is one of the most affordable destinations on Costa del Sol.
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