Nerja is a quirky, unusual place. Just when you feel like you’re walking down a back street or away from the hub of the town you suddenly turn a corner and could discover a hive of activity.

Bars and restaurants line almost every street and in general the maximum length of time to walk anywhere is about 10 minutes. But if you’re walking that long you’ve definitely missed a shortcut.

A 30 minute beach walk will bring you the length of the whole town. There's a greenway/cycle path that runs along an old dried up canal which is there to be enjoyed by all fitness and outdoor types.

Some streets to visit (first three of which make a triangular loop in the middle of the town so it's hard to get lost!):

Calle de la Gloria

Calle Pintada

Calle del Almirante Ferrandiz

Then there is Calle de Carmen (which leads on to the Balcon de Europa)

This is where it’s at in Nerja- you’ll be guided by the smells of the food from the many many outdoor seating areas and don’t be surprised if you see staff crossing the street from one premises to the next- often restaurants are spread across a number of buildings! It’s great!

Don’t just stick to those streets though. You can find all kinds of interesting places and food and drink on practically every street. There are also deadly beach huts and bars that can hit the spot.

Street Location: In a small square just off the plaza between the main church and the Balcon.

Paparazzi, El Candil, Dona Lola, El Lagar and Bella Roma are all nice restaurants in the same small square located between the church and the large plaza. Bella Roma in particular is exceptional, great staff, accommodating for food allergies and they give you a free digestive liqueur at the end of your meal! A shared starter, 2 mains, 2 glasses of wine, 1 beer and 1 Irish coffee was €44!

Street Location: Calle Prta del Mar. (150metres from the Balcon)

You will walk past this place ten times without putting your head in the door. It's very near the Balcon and is part of such a busy place it can be easily missed.

It is well recommended for breakfast - Sitting out on the balcony looking at the Alboran sea, great choice on the menu, suitable for coeliac, it can be busy so don't wait until you are too hungry.

Street Location: Calle Hernando de Carabeo (350metres from the Balcon,

(can be easily missed when walking, so keep your eyes peeled)

Advised as being exceptionally efficient with knowledgeable and friendly staff, highest quality food and drink with arguably as good a view as the Balcon itself.

Street Location: Calle Ferrandiz (350metres from the Balcon).

It's in the middle of a busy pedestrian junction and it is a tapas bar and full restaurant. Avoid the full restaurant which is to the side and go for tapas which can be served outside on roof terrace. Staff generally very good. There are a few of these places around, all have generally good reviews.

Street Location: Calle Castilla Perez (650m from the Balcon and heading towards the outskirts of the centre of town.

Irish staff- Irish style food. Cash only. No wifi.

Great spot for good filling food and a chat. If you've had a couple of heavy nights and you need Barry's Tea and Brennans Bread this is where you will find it.

Street Location: Calle de la Gloria. (350metres from the Balcon)

Whether you’re just looking for a beer in the sun or a 5 course meal, Pacomari has it all. It’s a huge place with a courtyard/terrace that's decorated with lots of plants and flowers.