Best for
Aviation enthusiasts, families with plane-loving children, anyone with time near the airport
Time needed
1–1.5 hours
Worth it?
Yes if you have an interest in aviation — it's free, well-run, and genuinely interesting
Skip if
Skip if you have no particular interest in planes or aviation history
About Museo Aeronáutico de Málaga
The Museo Aeronáutico de Málaga is a gem for anyone with an interest in aviation history. Located adjacent to Málaga Airport in the beautifully preserved original 1948 passenger terminal — a charming mid-century building that served as the gateway to the Costa del Sol during the early years of package tourism — the museum traces the history of aviation in Málaga and Spain from the 1930s to the present day.
The collection includes more than a dozen restored aircraft displayed both inside the terminal and on the apron outside — ranging from a de Havilland Dragon Rapide biplane (the type that flew Franco from the Canary Islands to Morocco at the start of the Civil War) to military jets, training aircraft, and a section of a Douglas DC-3. The indoor galleries contain engines, instruments, uniforms, model aircraft, and an extensive photographic archive documenting the transformation of Málaga Airport from a grass strip to one of Europe's busiest.
Read the full storyShow less
For children, the highlights are the flight simulators — several are available for visitors to try — and the chance to sit in the cockpits of some of the displayed aircraft. The museum is volunteer-run and the guides (often retired aviation professionals) are knowledgeable and enthusiastic.
The museum is small but well-presented and makes an excellent visit if you have time before a flight — it is literally on the airport perimeter — or as a dedicated trip for aviation enthusiasts. Free parking is available at the museum.
What to See: Highlights
- 1Housed in the original 1948 airport terminal — a historic building in its own right
- 2Dozen+ restored aircraft including a de Havilland Dragon Rapide
- 3Flight simulators available for visitors to try
- 4Cockpit access on several aircraft — children love it
- 5Extensive photographic history of Málaga Airport
- 6Knowledgeable volunteer guides — often retired aviation professionals
Insider Tips
Perfect activity if you have a few hours before a flight
Free parking at the museum
Best for children aged 6+ with an interest in planes
Check opening times — staffed by volunteers, hours can vary
Combine with a nearby visit to the airport viewing area
Where to stay
Hotels in Málaga
Compare prices across hundreds of hotels near this attraction — from budget hostels to luxury stays. Free cancellation on most rooms.
Affiliate disclosure — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Powered by Booking.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before you visit.
Is Museo Aeronáutico de Málaga worth visiting?+−
How long does a visit to Museo Aeronáutico de Málaga take?+−
Who is Museo Aeronáutico de Málaga best for?+−
Do I need to book anything in advance to visit Museo Aeronáutico de Málaga?+−
Is Museo Aeronáutico de Málaga included with the Málaga city pass?+−
Should You Visit?
Visit if...
- You're an aviation enthusiast — this is a must
- You have children who love planes
- You have a few spare hours near the airport before a flight
- You enjoy niche museums run by passionate volunteers
Skip if...
- You have no interest in aviation
- You're tight on time in Málaga — the city centre attractions should come first
More to See in Málaga
Caminito del Rey
One of the most spectacular walkways in the world — a breathtaking boardwalk pinned to vertical cliff faces 100 metres above the El Chorro gorge, an hour northwest of Málaga. Once the world's most dangerous path, now safely rebuilt.
Alcazaba de Málaga
Málaga's stunning 11th-century Moorish palace-fortress — one of the best-preserved in Spain, set into the hillside above the city centre with beautiful gardens and panoramic views.
Picasso Museum Málaga
The definitive Picasso museum in his birthplace city — 200+ works across all periods of his career, housed in a stunning 16th-century Andalusian palace in the heart of the old town.
Automobile & Fashion Museum
Málaga's most unexpected museum — a dazzling collection of vintage cars and haute couture fashion displayed together in a beautifully restored 1930s building, with exhibits spanning from 1898 to the 1980s.