The New Guadalmedina: A River That Will Bring Málaga Together Again

Málaga is getting ready for one of its most ambitious urban transformations: the renewal of the Guadalmedina River. The project aims to turn the riverbed —until now an underused space— into a green urban corridor that connects neighborhoods, creates new walking areas, and offers open-air spaces to enjoy right in the heart of the city.

The plan includes over 76,000 m² of green areas, five bridge-plazas linking both sides of the river, and wide tree-lined boulevards where cars used to pass. The idea is to transform what once divided Málaga into a place of connection, nature, and urban life.

Beyond its environmental value, the new Guadalmedina will improve walkability, strengthen links between neighborhoods, and reinforce Málaga’s image as a modern, sustainable and people-focused city.

Although the project will be developed in several phases and take years to complete, its impact will be profound — changing how people live and move through the city.

For those already living here —or considering making Málaga their home— the new Guadalmedina represents a greener, more connected and more walkable city.

At Welcome Málaga, we celebrate initiatives like this that make the city ever more open, sustainable, and pleasant to live in.