Air Canada Vacations

Before you leave Canada

Entry requirements

A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit Spain. The passport should be valid for at least the expected duration of stay in the country. For all other nationalities, consult your consulate or tourist board for details. You can also visit www.voyage.gc.ca for up-to-date information.

Baggage

Please refer to aircanada.com for baggage information.

Airport check-in

It is recommended that you present yourself at the airport counter of the airline indicated on your voucher 3 hours prior to departure. Air Canada or Air Canada Vacations representatives will be available starting at 5 a.m.

City highlights

Costa del Sol

The 161 kilometres of Malaga province’s Mediterranean coastline is mostly beach; most of the hotels in the province are built close to the beaches; most of the finest restaurants are within shouting distance of the beaches; and the region has one of the best climates in Europe. It really is all about the beaches.

Cleaned every day and with services like bars, restaurants, showers, beach umbrellas, beach beds, palm trees, children’s parks, access for the disabled, lifeguard services, policing, water sports and much more, these is a truly great destination.

Malaga

The port city of Malaga is the capital of Costa del Sol in Andalusia and is a major holiday town. Its lively neighbourhoods of El Perchel, Lagunillas and La Trinidad are surrounded by the mountains of the Axarquia hills, the Guadalhorce rivers and the Guadalmedina.

The city is not only well known for its sandy beaches but for its rich history, especially as the birthplace of the famous painter Pablo Picasso. The Picasso Museum opened in 2003 and has been highly praised.

Torremolinos

Torremolinos is located 7 km west of Malaga airport and was the first Costa del Sol resort town to be developed back in the early sixties when it was little more than a sleepy village. Today, the town still reflects its heritage with several of the original fresh fish bars located right in the shopping centre, incongruously flanked by exclusive boutiques and gift shops.

Over the years, Torremolinos has evolved into an attractive resort town, noted for its clean sandy beaches, wide choice of hotels and restaurants, and unparalleled variety of entertainment, activities and nightlife. At the height of summer, the town has quite a reputation for its hectic nightlife. Out of season, however, it takes on a different, softer character.

Marbella

Marbella's motto is "A Way of Life" and, certainly, this luxurious resort town seems to have it all. Not too long ago, Marbella received a considerable investment, initiated by the town's colourful and controversial late mayor, Jesus Gil, which resulted in a massive landscaping drive that revitalized the city.

But Marbella has a down to earth side as well, an air of individuality, which can be best appreciated by exploring back streets in the old part of town. One of the prettiest places is the fabled 'Orange Square' just off the main street in the older district. The ‘Square’ is home to the 16th century town hall and tourist office where you can pick up a detailed map and visitor information.

Getting around

Taxi

There are a huge number of taxis in Costa del Sol. In major towns and cities, they operate 24 hours a day; in small towns and villages, operating hours vary. Taxi stands are common but you can also simply hail a taxi on the street. When taxis are available, they show a green light on the roof or a sign on the windscreen that reads “Libre.”

By car

The main road, Autovia del Mediterraneo or A-7, is a highway that runs along the 161 km coastline, parallel to old highway N-340. The A-7 links coastal towns from Guadiaro to Maro.

The toll road AP-7 is another fast thoroughfare that enters the province in Guadiaro and reaches Fuengirola.
 
To leave the coast, take the A-45 north from Malaga City. This motorway links Malaga City with Cordoba. The A-92 or Autovia de Andalusia passes through Fuente de Piedra and runs along the northern region of the province to Salinas, where it heads for Granada.

The A-357, or Autovia del Guadalhorce departs from Malaga City and links the Guadalhorce Valley with the Sierra de las Nieves. To get to the Serrania de Ronda, you have to follow the A-397, starting at San Pedro de Alcantara.

Buses

Malaga’s bus station (Paseo de los Tilos, tel.: 952 350 061, www.estabus.emtsam.es) serves all the cities, towns and villages in the province and many other locations in Andalusia.

With Malaga City’s more than 40 bus lines, you can easily travel around the city. Buses are blue, and they display the journey start and end points on the front and the bus line number on the sides.

Real-time bus arrival information (obtained from satellite and GPS data) is provided at bus shelters. Maps and route information, timetables, fares and travel cards can often be purchased at nearby retail outlets.

Rail

The launch of the Madrid-Malaga high-speed train (AVE) has revolutionised travel between the Spanish capital city and Malaga Province. At present, it takes only three hours to get from Madrid to Malaga City.

From Maria Zambrano Station, Malaga, other long-distance rail lines reach the towns and cities of Andalusia, the north of Spain and the Mediterranean coastal area. From this terminal, passengers can take commuter trains like the C1 (Malaga-Fuengirola) and C2 (Malaga-Alora).

Shopping

Malaga

Malaga’s city centre is not only the perfect place to explore the many historical monuments and atmospheric café culture of the little streets and squares, it is also a wonderful shopping centre. The main street to head for runs perpendicular to the stunning tree lined avenue, the Alameda, and starts at the Plaza Marina, near the port. Calle Marques de Larios (often simply referred to as ‘Larios’) was made pedestrian in 2002. The result is a busy chic area with many boutiques, designer shops and classy cafés; all surrounded by beautifully restored buildings.

Torremolinos

Packed with tantalising shops, teeming with people of every nationality and located right at the heart of town is Calle San Miguel, the town’s main artery. This smartly paved pedestrian-only street is lined with boutiques and shops offering a great variety of goods. The Cuesta del Tajo, at the end of San Miguel, leads down a steep flight of steps through the old fishing district of El Bajondillo. This is a popular, picturesque area lined with restaurants and market-style kiosks selling souvenirs. Down at the bottom is the beach of El Bajondillo.

Marbella

Marbella is a wonderful shopping centre with several large shopping complexes, as well as supermarkets, specialty food shops, designer boutiques, interior decor stores and much, much more.

Unless you are in a hurry, the best way to explore Marbella's shops is by simply strolling through the streets. The Orange Square, or "La Plaza de los Naranjos," offers stately buildings, small shops, art galleries, bars and bistros and is a hub of activity day and night.

Be sure to explore the honeycomb of surrounding narrow streets where homes and shops intermingle to create the atmosphere of a small village. There is also a rambling market on Saturday mornings next to the bullring of Puerto Banus where you can find everything from a wooden elephant to a woolly jumper. Prices are good but you may need to haggle.

Dining

Malaga

In Malaga there is no shortage of places to eat and drink: from top-notch, Michelin-rated restaurants to the most humble tapas bar and everything in between. If you find yourself in a Malaga chiringuito (beach bar) then the traditional espeto (sardines on a skewer) is not only delicious, but also an integral part of the healthy Mediterranean diet. There are many other delicious fresh fish dishes to choose from on most menus and generally at very reasonable prices.

Torremolinos

There is plenty of choice in Torremolinos. For a good price/quality relationship on tapas, head for Calle Quintana Rosado in the old part of town where bars like Mi Carro and Casa Pacos serve tapas like boquerones en vinagre (fresh anchovies in oil and vinegar) and slices of tortilla for about €1.

For a more substantial meal, the Restaurante Nuevo Lanjaron on nearby Calle Europa is kitchen table informal and serves basic local fare. A more upmarket choice, although equally popular with locals, is Meson Galego Antoxo at Calle Hoyo 5, which specialises in Galician cuisine and is fronted by a cosy dark wood bar. Fussy families may prefer La Boveda, halfway between the beach and town on Cuesta del Tajo 22. This 14th century former mill still has its original barrel vault roof, stone floor and woodwork and has a vast menu, including duck and orange, curry, seafood and grilled meats with main courses starting at about €8.

For good value seafood, including fritura malagueña (fried fish), the regional speciality, La Carihuela has the best restaurant choice and a bustling Spanish atmosphere. Sit on a bar stool with sand between your toes at chirinquito Antonio Jaime, on Playa Miguel which dishes up superb tapas, like gambas pil-pil (prawns in chilli sauce). Nearby, Restaurante El Roqueo, Calle Carmen 35 is owned by a former fisherman and is a favourite for locals, serving up a three-course menú del día for about €6.

Marbella

There are numerous excellent restaurants to choose from in Marbella, ranging from those specialising in the predictably pricey exclusive cordon bleu, to the gritty individuality of a backstreet Spanish bar where the Serrano ham is gently cured by tobacco smoke and the tapas are both tasty and filling. Avenida del Mar is arguably one of the most delightful promenades on the Costa del Sol and is flanked by many classy restaurants.

From Guadalmina to Cabopino, the Marbella coastline stretches along some 26 kilometres; enjoy traditional fish and seafood favourites like sardines on a spit, fried fish and incomparable paella.

Sightseeing

Malaga

Major sights in the centre include the cathedral and several churches, each with its own distinctive style. There are also some excellent museums. These are all located within a small area, the highlight being La Alcazaba and the Castillo de Gibralfaro with their fantastic views of the town and bay.

Spain's celebrated painter, Pablo Picasso was born in 1881 in the corner house of an elegant yellow-toned block on Plaza de la Merced. His birthplace was declared a historic-artistic monument in 1983, and in 1991 it became the headquarters of the Picasso Foundation. The foundation fosters cultural activities including the promotion of contemporary art with a special emphasis on Picasso himself.

A short walk up from the Plaza de Aduana are the solid fortified walls of La Alcazaba, a major landmark of the city. This fortress dates back to the 700s, although much of the structure belongs to the mid 11th century. The entrance is through the gateway known as the Puerta del Cristo (Christ's Door), where the first mass was celebrated following the Christian victory over the town.

Just below the entrance to La Alcazaba are the ruins of a Roman amphitheatre, dating back to the second century AD. Above this is a steep path that leads to the castle, which crowns the Gibralfaro Hill.

Malaga's colourful market, the Mercado de Atarazanas, is one of the most appealing in all Andalusia. The stalls sell fresh fish, meat, spices, deli items, fruits and vegetables. Part of the surrounding wall incorporates the exquisitely crafted 14th-century Moorish gate that once connected the city with the port.

The Palacio Episcopal (Bishop's Palace), which faces the cathedral's main entrance, has one of the most stunning facades in the city and makes an evocative setting for temporary art and sculpture exhibits.

Torremolinos

Tivoli World, Costa del Sol's biggest theme park, is located in Arroyo de Miel, 3 km northwest of Torremolinos. There are two dozen rides to choose from, including those geared towards tiny tots, as well as regular concerts, flamenco shows and a choice of restaurants and bars. It's open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Sea Life, situated at the entrance of Benalmadena Port, is an excellent aquarium with a "touch pool" educational section where young children can handle crabs and starfish, as well as see tiny sharks and rays. Opening hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
 
Aquapark, a ten minutes walk north of Calle San Miguel near the Palacio de Congresos, is a typical family-fun water park with more than 30 rides, including the exhilarating Kamikaze chute. The park is open from May until September, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Then there’s the Equestrian Show, "Ritmo a Caballo" (equestrian ballet). The Andalusians are arguably the most skilful horsemen in Europe and this weekly show, held at El Ranchito riding stables in La Colina is very professional with explanations in English and Spanish. Seating is limited, so reserve first.

Marbella

At the heart of old town is Orange Square, which dates back to 1485 and, according to Christian urban design, is surrounded by whitewashed houses and three historical buildings:  the town hall, the old governor's house and the Chapel of Santiago. The gardens are full of brightly coloured flowers and orange trees, and in the centre stands a bust of King Juan Carlos I.

Dominating the square is the most important building in the town, The Church of Saint Mary, whose construction began in 1618. The main facade of the building is adorned with a beautiful red stone entrance worked in Baroque style while the interior consists of three sections, which underwent restoration after the 1936 Civil War.

Roman Villa Mosaics: Located next to the beach in the Guadalmina well-preserved mosaic floors dating from the 1st and 2nd centuries can be appreciated here. The room that faces north contains a splendid mosaic of a Medusa's head with four snakes among the strands of her hair and another two around her neck. There are also Roman baths that date back to the 3rd century and were first discovered in 1926.

Marbella Mosque: This beautiful temple overlooks the golden mile just to the west of the city centre. It was the first mosque to be constructed since the re-conquest in the 15th century.

Entertainment & nightlife

Malaga

The nightlife is fantastic, and many of the city’s nightclubs and music bars are among the best in Spain.  From the main Larios centre all the way down to the port area and beyond, Malaga comes alive at night. Whether you like to relax in a piano bar, dance the night away at one of the city’s many clubs or sip cocktails at the port side, there is a bar here for you.

Torremolinos

Torremolinos has evolved into one of the most sought after holiday destinations on the Costa del Sol. Not only does this modern town offer great bars and restaurants, but it is also famous for its nightlife.  Most of the clubs are situated on the main street of Calle San Miguel, which runs through the middle of town in the area known as La Nogalera. Torremolinos also has a thriving gay scene and attracts clubbers from all over Andalusia.

Marbella

Marbella is famous throughout the world for its glitzy image and glamorous nightlife. The most exclusive and classy venues are located in Puerto Banus and on the Golden Mile, which is also home to many celebrities and members of the Saudi Royal Family. Visitors who come to this stylish resort come to party, and there is no shortage of late night bars, clubs and restaurants to keep them entertained.

Your departure from destination

Hotel checkout

Hotel checkout times may vary depending on the property but generally you must vacate the room by 12 p.m. (noon).

Duty-free shopping

After an absence of 7 days or more, Canadian residents are permitted to return with a maximum of 750 CAD of merchandise per trip without paying duty. Each time you leave Canada for at least 48 hours, you are eligible to declare up to 200 CAD of merchandise. A written declaration may be requested. Each adult is allowed 1.1 litres (40 oz.) of liquor, 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or cigarillos, 200 tobacco sticks and 200 grams (7 oz.) of manufactured tobacco. To calculate the number of days absent, do not count the day you left Canada but include the day you return. If you include cigarettes, tobacco sticks and loose tobacco in your personal exemption allowance, only a partial exemption will apply. You will have to pay a minimum duty on these products unless they are marked “Canada-Duty paid.” Canadian made products sold at duty-free shops will be marked this way.

Customer care

For inquiries relating to extension of stay or change or hotel changes, please e-mail us at: prevoyageclientele@vacv.com We are at your service seven days a week; from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. EST and from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST Saturday and Sunday.