Things to do in 

Motril

Stroll through the streets of Motril and feel its unhurried rhythm, balanced ideally between sun-kissed beaches and verdant agricultural fields. With an endless list of things to do in Motril, the city reveals a blend of Andalusian history, sugarcane heritage, and tropical charm. Here, wander around unspoiled shoreline spots, rummage through the local market, or trace the intricate lanes of old neighborhood, stirred by the fragrances of traditional tapas. Seasons stirring the city's vibe, local festivals spilling into where you least expect, and common folks living their daily life, the real Motril welcomes you with open arms.

Explore Motril off the beaten path

If you want alternative things to do, wander Motril’s quieter corners, where rum stills, sugar stories, wetlands, and little galleries invite slow visits and easy conversations with locals.

Cultural experiences: Tour Ron Montero Distillery in the late afternoon and taste a sip straight from the cask. Pair it with Motril’s sugar past at the Preindustrial Sugarcane Museum in Casa de la Palma, then see what’s on stage at Teatro Calderón after dark.

Small museums and galleries: The Museo Preindustrial de la Caña de Azúcar lays out presses, tools, and a sweet-smelling history you can follow at your own pace. Pop into the Centro de Arte José Hernández Quero for a quiet look at bright, coastal-inspired works. Check the Casa de la Condesa de Torre-Isabel for rotating local exhibitions in a handsome old house.

Less crowded scenic viewpoints: Hike or drive up Cerro del Toro for breezy, open views over town and the orchards, best in late afternoon. At sunset, slip into a hide at Charca de Suárez to watch egrets and herons settle in.

Shop for local products & souvenirs: Browse the Mercado Municipal in the morning for chirimoya, mangos, and avocado from nearby fincas. On Friday, the mercadillo by the fairgrounds is great for baskets, espadrilles, and work shirts. Before dinner, swing by Ron Montero’s shop for a bottle to take home.

Popular neighbourhoods

Your trip to Motril, an exquisite city on Spain's Costa Tropical, would not be complete without a visit to its unique neighbourhoods. Here are the top five neighbourhoods that emit a kaleidoscope of authentic Andalusian life.

Centro: Discover the heart of Motril's rich culture in the Centro neighbourhood. Meander through the maze of narrow, white-washed streets. Inhale the heady mix of fresh blooms, Spanish cuisine, and mild salt air.

Playa Granada: Reward yourself with pure relaxation at the pristine Playa Granada. Spend lazy afternoons basking in the sun, with the distant chatter of beachgoers and rhythmic splash of waves accompanying you.

Playa Poniente: Collect memories by the azure Andalusian sea in Playa Poniente. Spot cheerful families building sand castles, watch groups engaging in beach volleyball, or simply luxuriate in the pleasantly warm Mediterranean water.

Varadero: Unearth rich historical relics in Varadero, from the remnants of old sugar factories to historic landmarks. Feel the whispers of history swirl around you as you saunter down streets brimming with heritage.

Puerto de Motril: Let the gleaming marina of Puerto de Motril enchant you. Spot luxury yachts moored in perfect harmony, and catch a glimpse of the day's fresh catch hauled in by diligent fishermen. The tantalizing aroma of local seafood dishes from nearby restaurants completes the coastal experience.

Things to do in Motril by season

Spring: Walk quiet beaches under soft light, follow Holy Week processions through the centre, and take short coastal hikes for wide sea views. Families spread towels on calm sands while cafés ease into longer evenings.

Summer: Swim off Playa Granada, try a paddle at first light, and join the Virgen del Carmen maritime procession in July as boats and fireworks fill the harbour. Nights roll on with chiringuito grills, local concerts, and the late-August fair.

Fall: Keep swimming in warm water, browse markets piled with mangoes and avocados from the Costa Tropical, and sip new-season wines on nearby countryside outings. Seniors and couples enjoy quieter promenades and clear views to the Sierra Nevada.

Winter: Count on mild sun for marina strolls, watch Christmas lights flicker, and catch the Three Kings parade on 5 January. Clear days open trails in the Sierra de Lújar and easy seafood lunches without a rush.

The year brings easy-to-catch moments: the Motril Airshow over the bay in June, San Juan bonfires on 23 June, the seafaring Virgen del Carmen festivities in mid July, and August celebrations for the Virgen de la Cabeza, with Semana Santa and the January Cabalgata de Reyes framing the cooler season.