Holy Week in Málaga and Fuengirola 2026: dates, processions and what to see on the Costa del Sol

The Holy Week in Málaga 2026 is one of the most important events of the year on the Costa del Sol. Thousands of national and international visitors travel every spring to experience one of the most impressive religious and cultural celebrations in Spain. If you are planning your trip, here you will find a complete guide to Holy Week 2026 in Málaga and Fuengirola, with dates, processions, what to see and tips to enjoy it to the fullest.

When Holy Week 2026 takes place

The Holy Week 2026 will take place from 29 March to 5 April, beginning with Palm Sunday and ending with Easter Sunday.

Holy Week 2026 Calendar

• Palm Sunday: 29 March

• Holy Monday: 30 March

• Holy Tuesday: 31 March

• Holy Wednesday: 1 April

• Maundy Thursday: 2 April

• Good Friday: 3 April

• Holy Saturday: 4 April

• Easter Sunday: 5 April

During these days, the streets fill with processions, marching bands, incense and thousands of visitors who come to experience this centuries-old tradition.

Málaga Holy Week 2026: one of the most famous in Spain

The Málaga Holy Week is considered one of the most spectacular religious celebrations in the country and is recognised as a Festival of International Tourist Interest. Every year dozens of brotherhoods participate and around 40 processions take place through the historic centre of the city. The processions follow a common route through emblematic areas such as:

• Calle Larios

• Plaza de la Constitución

• Alameda Principal

• Málaga Cathedral

One of the most distinctive elements are the large processional thrones, which can weigh several tonnes and are carried by hundreds of bearers known as hombres de trono.

Most important processions of Málaga Holy Week

Although several processions take place every day, some of the most well-known are:

• Palm Sunday. Holy Week officially begins with processions such as La Pollinica, which represents Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem.

• Holy Monday. The procession of Nuestro Padre Jesús Cautivo stands out, one of the most venerated images in Málaga.

• Holy Tuesday. The procession of La Virgen del Rocío takes place, popularly known as “The Bride of Málaga”.

• Good Friday. One of the most solemn days, with some of the most impressive processions.

A unique tradition: releasing a prisoner

One of the most curious traditions of Málaga’s Holy Week is the symbolic release of a prisoner, a custom that dates back to the reign of Charles III and is still celebrated today.

Holy Week in Fuengirola 2026

The Fuengirola Holy Week is also a very special celebration on the Costa del Sol. Although it is smaller than the one in Málaga city, it maintains a strong religious and cultural tradition with several local brotherhoods that walk through the streets of the town centre. The processions usually pass through emblematic places such as:

• Plaza de la Constitución

• Avenida Condes de San Isidro

• Calle España

• Historic town centre

During these days you can see thrones with images of Christ and the Virgin accompanied by nazarenos, marching bands and many devotees.

Highlighted processions in Fuengirola

Among the most important moments of Fuengirola’s Holy Week are:

• Procession of the Santísimo Cristo de la Expiración

• Procession of María Santísima de los Dolores

• Procession of Jesús Cautivo

• Procession of María Santísima de la Soledad

In addition, some processions also pass through emblematic neighbourhoods such as Los Boliches, where the atmosphere is very traditional.

What to do during Holy Week on the Costa del Sol

Besides watching processions, many visitors take advantage of these days to enjoy the pleasant spring weather and atmosphere. Some recommended activities are:

• Walk through the historic centre of Málaga

• Enjoy local gastronomy and tapas throughout the province

• Visit Fuengirola’s Sohail Castle and its beaches

• Walk along the seafront promenade of any town in Málaga

• Take excursions to Mijas, Frigiliana, Nerja or Marbella

At this time of year temperatures are usually very pleasant and the terraces are full of life. We leave you a guide to visiting Fuengirola here.

Where to stay to experience Málaga’s Holy Week

Holy Week is one of the periods with the highest tourist demand on the Costa del Sol, so it is advisable to book accommodation in advance. Many visitors choose to stay in apartments near the historic centre, homes close to the beach or quiet residential areas in Fuengirola or Mijas.

Staying in Fuengirola is an excellent option because it allows you to enjoy the local Holy Week while being only a few minutes from Málaga.

The Holy Week in Málaga and Fuengirola 2026 is a unique experience that combines tradition, art, culture and emotion. Whether you want to see the great processions of Málaga or enjoy a more local and intimate atmosphere in Fuengirola, these days are a perfect opportunity to discover the essence of Andalusia. If you are planning your trip for these dates, booking accommodation in advance is key to fully enjoying the Costa del Sol.

The GR Estates team - The best experiences in Fuengirola

Holiday rentals in Fuengirola and Mijas Costa
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