Brazil
Argentina
Chile
Colombia
Peru
Uruguay
Germany
Belgium
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Ireland
Italy
Portugal
the United Kingdom
Switzerland
Observation deck · Málaga, Andaluzia
Balcón de Europa
Seafront viewpoint in the center of Nerja, on the site of an old watchtower, with views over the coves, the cliffs and the Sierra de Almijara.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Balcón de Europa
The Balcón de Europa is the viewpoint that juts out over the sea in the center of Nerja, a town of the Axarquía, at the eastern end of the province of Málaga, about 52 km from the capital. Nerja lies between the Mediterranean and the Sierra de Almijara, which covers most of the municipality.
On the site of the viewpoint there was the Torre de los Guardas, a defensive tower from the Muslim period, where cannons were later installed to protect the coast from pirate attacks. The settlement formed around it. There are still old cannons along the promenade.
Under Muslim rule the town was called Narixa, which means abundant spring, the origin of the current name. Next to the viewpoint stands the Iglesia de El Salvador, whose first phase was completed in 1697.
From the Balcón you can see the dark-sand coves on both sides, the coastal cliffs and, on clear days, the mountains in the background. Since the 1960s Nerja has been one of the Costa del Sol's beach destinations, with a mild climate that allows the cultivation of tropical fruits such as avocado, mango and cherimoya.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
30 minutes to 1 hour, including a walk through Nerja's center.
Best time
In the late afternoon and at sunset, when the promenade fills with people and the low light illuminates the cliffs. Early in the morning the viewpoint is calmer.
How to get there
It's in the center of Nerja, about 52 km from Málaga. There are buses from Málaga to Nerja, with a journey of around one to one and a half hours. From the Cueva de Nerja it's about 4 km.
Tip
Combine it with the Cueva de Nerja on the same day: cave in the morning and Balcón de Europa at sunset. Go down to the beaches next to the viewpoint via the promenade stairs.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Balcón de Europa
What is the Balcón de Europa?
It is the viewpoint over the sea in the centre of Nerja, built where the old Torre de los Guardas stood, a watchtower for coastal defense.
Can you do Nerja as a day trip from Málaga?
Yes. Nerja is about 52 km away. In one day you can see the Cueva de Nerja and the town centre with the Balcón de Europa.
What is the best time to go to the Balcón de Europa?
Late afternoon, when the low light illuminates the cliffs and the promenade becomes lively. Early in the morning, the viewpoint is quieter.