Enjoying a scoop of gelato under the Andalusian sun isn’t just a sweet treat – it’s a whole experience. But not all gelato is created equal.
Gelato is Italy’s refined take on ice cream: less fat, less air, and much more flavor. It’s served at a slightly warmer temperature than traditional ice cream, giving it a smoother, creamier texture that lets the flavors truly shine. In other words, it’s made for slow afternoons in a sunny place like Málaga.
We’ve tracked down five of the absolute best gelaterias in the city – each one with its own charm, strengths, and a few minor drawbacks so you know exactly what to expect.
1. Casa Mira – Málaga’s Gelato Institution Since 1890
📍 Calle Marqués de Larios, 5
What we love:
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Ultra-creamy, traditional gelato
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Specialists in Spanish flavors like turrón (nougat), fig, and almond
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Prime location on the main pedestrian street – perfect for people-watching
Downsides:
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Very popular – long lines are common
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Menu leans classic rather than creative or trendy
Hidden gem status:
A must for first-time visitors to Málaga – full of old-world charm and quality craftsmanship
2. Mia Coffee & Gelato – Small-Batch, Big Flavor
📍 Calle San Lorenzo, 5
What we love:
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Everything is made on-site with local, often organic ingredients
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Inventive flavors like raspberry & rosemary or lavender & lemon
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Vegan-friendly, with multiple dairy-free options
Downsides:
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A bit off the tourist trail – but absolutely worth the walk
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Smaller selection due to small-batch production
Hidden gem status:
Perfect for foodies and flavor hunters who appreciate quality and care
3. Heladería Inma – A Local Favorite in Huelin
📍 Av. de Sor Teresa Prat, 84
What we love:
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Family-run with an authentic, local vibe
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Generous portions and great prices
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Tropical fruit flavors like mango and papaya taste like pure summer
Downsides:
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Not in the city center – you’ll need to walk or take a taxi
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Presentation is more traditional and less "boutique"
Hidden gem status:
A real local spot – worth going out of your way for the real deal
4. Amorino – A Rosy, Instagram-Friendly Treat
📍 Calle Marqués de Larios, 6
What we love:
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Gelato served in the shape of roses – beautiful and fun
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High quality despite being an international chain
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Large selection of gelato and sorbets, including vegan options
Downsides:
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Slightly impersonal atmosphere
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Among the pricier options in Málaga
Hidden gem status:
Great for first-timers or anyone looking for gelato that doubles as an experience
5. Yummy – Playful, Modern, and Flavorful
📍 Calle Granada, 27
What we love:
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Bold, creative flavors like mojito, salted caramel popcorn, or chili-chocolate
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Bright, fun interior – great atmosphere
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Appeals to both families and trend-savvy adults
Downsides:
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Not a purist’s gelato – traditionalists may scoff
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Flavors vary in intensity – some are incredible, others a bit mild
Hidden gem status:
Perfect for adventurous eaters and those looking for something a bit different
Quick Tips for Real Gelato Lovers:
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Avoid gelato piled high in fluffy “mountains” – it often means it’s full of air and additives
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Check the color – banana gelato shouldn’t be neon yellow, pistachio shouldn’t be bright green
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Try a fruit sorbet – it’s often the best way to judge ingredient quality
