Both tourists and business travelers are drawn to the Vincci Seleccion Posada del Patio. The property is classic Mediterranean on the outside, befitting its location on top of ancient Roman and Arab ruins. Step inside, however, and guests are greeted by a modern and luxe interior -- and a welcome glass of local wine. Rooms exude understated luxury, with wide plank wood floors, recessed lighting and handy reading lights, and enormous flat-screen TVs in pretty frames made of light wood. Bathrooms have striking bronze tiles, double sinks, and glassed-in showers or, in the case of some suites, freestanding bathtubs located just off the bedrooms. Some rooms have balconies. The hotel lacks a spa, but has a rooftop pool with a pretty wooden deck from which guests can enjoy 360-degree views of the city below.

Hotel La Chancla is a nine-room budget boutique hotel on the Malaga seafront with a relaxed vibe and prime location a 10-minute drive from downtown. Rooms are bright and upbeat, with free Wi-Fi and air-conditioning, although bathrooms are generally small and amenities are otherwise limited. The hotel’s casual restaurant overlooks the water and serves a generous continental breakfast complete with accompanying musical entertainment every morning. A modern bar draws crowds and buzzes with energy into the night. For a respite from the social scene, there’s a rooftop terrace with excellent views of the water and a hot tub. 

The 38-room Parador de Malaga Gibralfaro on top of Mount Gibralfaro is good option for tourists and families who want something outside the bustling city, yet still close enough to its historic attractions. It’s 10 minutes by car from the beach and historic city center, making it a nice respite from the busier pace in town. The air-conditioned rooms have a classic Mediterranean look, and some include balconies overlooking Malaga. Upgraded rooms have nice additions like Nespresso machines and Wi-Fi is free throughout. The rooftop pool is a highlight, with a cozy patio area and beautiful views. An on-site restaurant serves mostly well-liked Mediterranean and Andalusian cuisines and has a terrace that looks out onto the sea.

The three-pearl Room Mate Lola is a 50-room boutique in Malaga, located a 10- to 15-minute walk from the town center and beach. Guest rooms and common areas throughout the hotel are stylish and modern, many with a monochromatic color scheme. All rooms are equipped with marble bathrooms, minibars, and flat-screen TVs, though they suffer occasionally from noise. The property lacks most standard features, as there's no pool, full restaurant, gym, or bar. Amenities are limited to a quality breakfast buffet served late, a meeting room, and free Wi-Fi throughout. With little-to-no entertainment features, the clientele here is predominantly adults and couples rather than families with children.

Outwardly homey surroundings make the Malaga Hotel Picasso a cozy pick for those who don't mind being removed from the center of Malaga. This 13-room, mid-range property is a 10-minute walk from the beach, and a 15- to 20-minute drive from historic central Malaga. The air-conditioned rooms have antique and traditional details, and all include free Wi-Fi, coffeemakers, and air-conditioning, though some of the bathrooms are cramped. A generous breakfast spread is served daily, overlooking the hotel’s best amenity: its outdoor pool, which is set in a sweet little garden.

The 11-room Villa Guadalupe has the feel of a Moorish-influenced villa with whitewashed Mediterranean style. The unbeatable views are the star here. The work of renowned artist Irene van Vlijmen hangs throughout the common areas and guest rooms; her paintings, ceramics, and sculptures are vibrant and bold, often featuring mythological or Spanish subjects. The artwork gives the entire hotel a contemporary, creative feeling. The decor -- wooden ceilings, white beams, and gorgeous picture windows -- echoes this creative vibe, along with the artistically presented gourmet food in the Restaurante Amador. Families with young kids may not find enough to do on the grounds, but couples looking for a romantic place to stay will be happy.