Calle Cortina del Muelle 1, Malaga, Spain | (251) 219-4428
Convenient, central location within walking distance of attractions
Bright, minimal rooms (some on higher levels have great water views)
Generously sized rooftop pool with lounge chairs and city views
Rooftop restaurant with floor to ceiling glass
On-site fitness center with cardio and free weights
Airport bus stops directly in front of the hotel
Fee for Wi-Fi in smaller rooms
Expensive parking
Pool adjacent to bar gets little privacy
Some expected amenities (pool towels, in-room coffeemakers) absent
A 214-room hotel on a busy corner in central Malaga, the AC Hotel Malaga Palacio by Marriott is an excellent anchor for exploring the city's vibrant street life. With a location near the port and attractions, this is a popular pick for tourists and large groups (it also accommodates meetings and conferences frequently). Rooms are bright and minimal with minibars and flat-screen TVs. The rooftop restaurant, bar, and pool offers spectacular views of the city (it is sometimes closed for parties) but parking is expensive and the pool lacks privacy.
Scene
Big, bustling downtown hotel
AC Hotel Malaga Palacio is part of the AC Hotel group, a European subsidiary of the Marriott chain that focuses on design flair within a set of city hotels. The lobby is modern with comfortable couches of mixed textures including velvet and leather. Lighting is low throughout the property. There is an extra attention to design in the public spaces, including the rooftop restaurant and bar. Just note that amenities are often in use by outside groups who have booked the hotel for functions.
Location
In the center of the city action, near the port and shopping districts
One of the great advantages of this hotel is its location: it is a 20-minute walk from the train station, and at least one airport bus stops near the hotel. A large number of the city’s main attractions -- including the Picasso museum, the port, and the cathedral -- are within walking distance; several shopping centers are within a 20-minute walk. The hotel stands on a busy traffic intersection. Water views from upper floors and the rooftop bar, restaurant, and pool are striking.
Rooms
Simple, minimal rooms
Rooms with sleek wood accents and furnishings in vague imitation of mid-century modern style are clean and bright. The minibars are free of charge. Wi-Fi is included in the price of the larger rooms and suites and is available for a fee in the smaller rooms. The hotel can get a lot of traffic noise; some guests have commented that higher floors are significantly quieter. Some rooms have great harbor views.
Features
A rooftop pool, bar, and restaurant
A rooftop pool and bar is one of the big draws here, but don’t expect a quiet swim: this outdoor space is popular both with people staying in the hotel and Malgueños hosting a party. The space offers truly spectacular city views. A modest fitness center downstairs has several cardio machines, a weight machine, and free weights.