Plaza de la Mezquita
A vibrant social hub in Benalmádena, famous for its hearty XXL bocadillos and lively 'tardeo' atmosphere.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively atmosphere and dining
Plaza de la Mezquita
Best Time
Lively atmosphere and dining

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant social hub in Benalmádena, famous for its hearty XXL bocadillos and lively 'tardeo' atmosphere.
"Come hungry and ready to share the legendary XXL bocadillos at El Tapeo!"
🎯 Share the XXL Bocadillos
These giant sandwiches are meant for sharing! Perfect for groups or couples looking for a hearty meal.
⏰ Arrive for 'Tardeo'
Experience the popular afternoon social scene with drinks and tapas. Great for a relaxed break.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

XXL Bocadillos
El Tapeo Cafebar
Indulge in legendary, massive sandwiches perfect for sharing. A true taste of Benalmádena's hearty offerings.
Vibrant Evening Atmosphere
Throughout the plaza
Experience the lively buzz of locals and visitors enjoying tapas, drinks, and good company as the sun sets.
Sweet Crepes and Desserts
El Tapeo Cafebar
Don't miss out on delicious sweet treats like Nutella and banana crepes to end your meal on a high note.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Dining Delights Await
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Share the XXL Bocadillos
These giant sandwiches are meant for sharing! Perfect for groups or couples looking for a hearty meal.
⏰ Arrive for 'Tardeo'
Experience the popular afternoon social scene with drinks and tapas. Great for a relaxed break.
🎶 Check for Events
The plaza hosts various events, from Halloween celebrations to community fairs.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and enjoying the lively atmosphere, so comfortable footwear is key.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Share the XXL Bocadillos
These giant sandwiches are meant for sharing! Perfect for groups or couples looking for a hearty meal.
⏰ Arrive for 'Tardeo'
Experience the popular afternoon social scene with drinks and tapas. Great for a relaxed break.
🎶 Check for Events
The plaza hosts various events, from Halloween celebrations to community fairs.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and enjoying the lively atmosphere, so comfortable footwear is key.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Plaza de la Mezquita for its vibrant atmosphere and exceptional dining, particularly the legendary XXL bocadillos at El Tapeo Cafebar. The generous portions and lively 'tardeo' scene are major draws. While the plaza itself is a public space, the surrounding establishments offer a memorable culinary and social experience.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a train from Malaga to Arroyo de la Miel, which is a short walk from Plaza de la Mezquita. Alternatively, buses are available, offering a scenic route.
Parking can be challenging in the immediate vicinity, especially during peak hours. Consider public transport or arriving early if driving. Some street parking may be available further out.
Plaza de la Mezquita is a central point. From here, you can easily access local buses or walk to explore other attractions in Arroyo de la Miel and Benalmádena.
Yes, taxis are usually available in this central area, especially during evenings when restaurants are busy. You can also find taxi ranks nearby.
It's a pleasant walk from the nearest beaches to Plaza de la Mezquita, taking around 15-20 minutes. Enjoy the coastal views along the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Plaza de la Mezquita is a public square and is free to enter. You only pay for food and drinks at the surrounding establishments.
As a public space, the plaza is accessible at all hours. However, individual restaurants and bars have their own operating times, typically open from late morning through the evening.
Yes, the plaza frequently hosts events, including seasonal celebrations like Halloween and community fairs. Keep an eye on local listings for upcoming activities.
Entrance fees for events vary. Some community events might be free, while others, like specific festivals or organized entertainment, may have a ticket price.
It is highly recommended to book tables, especially for popular spots like El Tapeo Cafebar, particularly during evenings and weekends to avoid disappointment.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The plaza is famous for its generous tapas and 'bocadillos XXL' (extra-large sandwiches). El Tapeo Cafebar is particularly renowned for these.
Many restaurants offer a variety of dishes. While traditional tapas can be meat-heavy, you can often find salads, patatas bravas (ask for no meat), and vegetable-based options. It's best to inquire directly with the establishment.
Visitors rave about the XXL bocadillos, goat salad, and various gratin dishes with bacon and ham. They also serve delicious crepes for dessert.
'Tardeo' refers to the popular afternoon social gathering for drinks and tapas. Plaza de la Mezquita is a prime spot for this, with many venues offering a lively atmosphere from the afternoon onwards.
Prices are generally reasonable, especially considering the portion sizes. Expect to pay around €5-€10 for tapas and €10-€20 for the larger bocadillos, with drinks being standard bar prices.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant atmosphere of the plaza, especially during the evening when lights illuminate the area. The colorful facades of the buildings and the lively outdoor seating of the restaurants offer great shots.
For fewer crowds and softer light, consider visiting in the late morning or early afternoon on a weekday. Evenings offer a lively ambiance but will be busier.
While the plaza itself is the main attraction, look for interesting architectural details on the surrounding buildings and the lively street performers or decorations during special events.
Street photography capturing the local life, food photography of the generous dishes, and evening shots of the illuminated plaza are popular.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public urban areas due to privacy and safety regulations. It's advisable to check local ordinances before attempting to fly a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Culinary Heart of Arroyo de la Miel
The plaza's dining scene thrives on the concept of 'tardeo,' a popular Spanish tradition of enjoying afternoon drinks and tapas. This creates a vibrant and social atmosphere, especially on weekends, where locals and tourists mingle. The lively ambiance, combined with the hearty and affordable food, makes Plaza de la Mezquita a go-to destination for experiencing authentic Spanish social dining. It's a place where good food and good company come together.
Events and Community Spirit
Organizers like Eventos George and the Ayuntamiento de Benalmádena work to bring diverse experiences to the plaza, attracting families and individuals alike. Whether it's a seasonal festival, a local market, or a special performance, these gatherings highlight the dynamic spirit of Arroyo de la Miel. Checking local event listings before your visit can help you catch these special occasions and make your trip even more memorable.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit