Nerja has kept its village shape despite being popular: low white houses, a palm-lined lookout point over the sea and a string of small beaches below the cliffs.
It is one of the Costa del Sol’s favourite towns for retirees and long-stay winter visitors.
Climate: Subtropical: mild winters, warm summers, avocado and mango farms on the hills.
Visiting Nerja
How long: 1 to 2 days
Don’t miss
- Balcón de Europa
- Burriana beach
- Nerja Caves
- Frigiliana village
- River walk at Río Chíllar
What to eat
- Grilled sardines
- Local avocados and tropical fruit
- Frigiliana sugar-cane honey
Tip: The Río Chíllar walk is in the riverbed: wear shoes that can get wet.
Plan a visit
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A perfect first day
- Morning: the Balcón de Europa viewpoint, then down to Burriana beach.
- Afternoon: the Nerja Caves, a short bus or car ride east.
- Evening: drive or bus up to Frigiliana, a whitewashed hill village, for dinner.
Easy day trips
Where to stay as a visitor
For walking to beaches and bars.
For the main family beach.
More of Nerja
Fiestas
Living in Nerja
Best for: Retirees and winter residents.
Neighbourhoods and areas
Walkable, busy in summer.
Hillside urbanisations with sea views and pools.
Pros
- Pretty and walkable
- Mild climate
- Easy to live in English
Cons
- Crowded in August
- Few jobs
- Limited public transport
Cost tiers compare places within Spain (€ = among the cheapest, €€€€ = among the most expensive). Rents change quickly: check current listings for the exact area before you decide.
Thinking of moving?
Get your personal paperwork list for visas, NIE, padrón and more.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Nerja?
1 to 2 days is enough for the main sights: balcón de europa, burriana beach, nerja caves. The Río Chíllar walk is in the riverbed: wear shoes that can get wet.
Is Nerja expensive to live in?
On our scale it is high (€€€). Rents are above the Spanish average.
How do I get to Nerja?
By air: Málaga (AGP), about 1 hour. By rail: No train; buses to Málaga.
Have you been to Nerja?
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