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Retro Málaga – join Claudia Peifer & all the other classic car buffs at Southern Spain’s best old-timer car show

Retro Málaga: A High-Octane Guide to Southern Spain’s Premier Classic Car Show

If, like us, you have a weakness for the scent of aged leather, the gleam of perfectly polished chrome, and the roar of a vintage engine, then there is only one place to be every January: Retro Málaga.

As the most important classic car event in Andalucia and a true highlight of the Southern Spanish event calendar, Retro Málaga isn’t just a show, it’s a celebration of automotive history. So, you know that TA-DAH.TV just had to be there!

But, honestly, even if you aren’t a “car person,” the sheer beauty of these marvellous machines is enough to make anyone a fan.

Catch all the engine-revving action in our exclusive tour of the latest edition below!

What is the Retro Málaga?

If you’ve been following our Travel Channel for a while, you’ll know we love our auto events – from the Geneva International Motorshow to the NEC Classic Motor Show to the wild Sotogrande GP.

But Retro Málaga is a giant, shiny time machine of an event! Every year, over 15,000 enthusiasts descend on the sun-soaked city to celebrate everything on wheels. It’s a wonderful mix of museum-quality masterpieces and “passion projects” that people have spent years tinkering with in their garages.

It’s also the ultimate “treasure hunt.” We spent ages exploring the stalls, it’s a total heaven for spare parts where you can find anything from a tiny vintage badge to a whole new engine. We even spotted some gorgeous Vespas that made us want to ride off into the golden Málaga sunset… Sorry, we drifted off there for a second.

But, there’s more going on in this incredible space than the stunning motors. Even the venue itself is an attention-grabber!

What is the Palacio de Congresos y Ferias?

The show takes over the Palacio de Congresos y Ferias (FYCMA), and it is a huge space. It’s one of those cool, modern buildings that merges gorgeous architecture with engaging spaces, which all helps make Málaga feel so vibrant.

If the venue looks familiar, it might be because it also hosted the very first Andalucia BIG Festival! From rock concerts to classic cars, this place knows how to throw a party. Plus, it’s super easy to get to, which is perfect when you’ve got a busy day of car-spotting ahead.

So, What Quality Classic Cars Did We See?

Oh, where do we even start? The lineup this year was absolutely “chef’s kiss.” Here are the ones we’re still dreaming about:

1961 Aston Martin DB4: A true show-stopper in spectacular condition. With its Italian-designed bodywork, it’s got that effortless 007 elegance that never goes out of style.

  • 1960 Mercedes-Benz 190SL: The epitome of mid-century cool, a car that looks just as good today as it did on the road 60 years ago.
  • Mercedes-Benz 200 Series Family: We saw a beautiful collection of the 200 series, including the 220S, 250SW, and 280SE. The 250SE with its dark blue interior was definitely one of our faves.
  • Moroccan Marvels Stealing the Spotlight: A big shout-out to the Moroccan contingent, who dazzled with their menagerie of immense motors, including the gorgeous Chevrolet Corvette C1 and a stunning 1959 Peugeot Sedan 403 designed by Pininfarina. A collection every bit as elegant as the stunning Jardin Majorelle in Marrakesh.
  • De Lorenzo Prototype: A futuristic, hand-built supercar that looks like something out of a 007 film.
  • 1970 Volkswagen T2 (The Winner): Luis Linares’s incredible restoration, which deservedly took home the “Concurso de Elegancia” award.

Who is Luis Linares and Volkstuning?

If you want a Volkswagen restored to “better than new” condition, you go to Luis Linares. Based in Estepona, his workshop, Volkstuning, is legendary among V-Dub fans.

Luis is a bit of a magician. He found that winning 1970 T2 in the Arizona desert. Because the air there is so dry, the car was perfectly preserved, no rust, just lots of dust!

But what’s his secret to winning? Apparently, getting your engine so clean you could “eat your dinner off it”. We believe him!

Luis Linares

About Xuan de Lorenzo: Creator of the De Lorenzo Prototype

One of the most inspiring people we met was Xuan de Lorenzo. You wouldn’t know it by looking at the motoring masterpiece he created, but he’s actually a musician and a physiotherapist!

Xuan had a dream (literally!) of building his own car. So, he spent six years and about 20,000 hours in his garage making it happen. He didn’t have an engineering degree; he just watched a lot of YouTube tutorials and got to work.

The result is the De Lorenzo, a hand-built supercar made of metal and pure persistence. Talk about goals!

De Lorenzo

About the Automobile and Fashion Museum

You can’t talk about cars in Málaga without mentioning the Museo Automovilístico y de la Moda.

This world-class museum, located in the historic “Tabacalera” building, usually brings a stunning list of “toys” to Retro Málaga.

One of the most unique museums in the world, the team here pairs a collection of nearly 100 luxury vintage cars (including Rolls-Royces, Ferraris, and Bentleys) with high-fashion displays from the likes of Chanel, Dior, and Prada.

Whether you love the delights of the catwalk or the race track, this museum is perfect for you – quirky, stylish, and very “Málaga.”

Incidentally, if you do love yourself some haute couture, then slide on over to our Fashion Channel for all the very latest from the world of gorgeous garmentary events.

Other Things to Do in Málaga

Málaga is having a huge moment right now! It’s actually the most visited city in Spain after Madrid and Barcelona.

When you know about the breadth of things to do here, coupled with the fact that most major airlines fly down to the Costa del Sol, it’s easy to see why it’s so popular!

Once you’ve finished at the car show, there is so much to see:

  • The Picasso Museum: Celebrating the city’s most famous son in a beautiful palace.
  • The Alcazaba & Roman Theatre: Walk through centuries of history with stunning views over the port.
  • Muelle Uno: A modern waterfront area perfect for shopping and dining by the yachts.
  • Gastronomy: Don’t leave without trying the “Espetos” (sardine skewers) at a beachside Chiringuito.
  • Caminito del Rey: Thrillseekers looking to raise their pulse while in Malaga might like to check out one of the world’s scariest pathways. The Caminito del Rey is a 7km+ hiking trail complete with hanging bridges and suspended walkways over a staggering drop.

Alternatively, if you want to see more of the stunning Costa del Sol (and why wouldn’t you) then why not extend your stay and spend 24 hours in Seville, like we did! Highly recommend it!

Head to Our Travel Channel for More Engine-Revving Fun

Whether you’re a gearhead or just love a bit of vintage glamour, Retro Málaga is such a fantastic way to spend a weekend.

It’s all about the stories behind the cars and the amazing people who keep them running. We had a blast, and we hope our guide helps you plan your own visit!

We travel across Europe and beyond to bring you the best events, hidden gems, and cultural spectacles. Visit our Travel Channel for your next dose of inspiration!

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Join Claudia Peifer in London during the Festive Season: Chelsea Winter Village’s Immersive Light Walk

What’s it Like at the Chelsea Winter Village and Illuminations?

Is there anything quite like London at Christmas? From the glowing shop windows on Regent Street to the cosy markets popping up on every corner, the city truly comes alive.

Well, this year there’s something new, enchanting and illuminated to get excited about – and we went to check it out!

This year, we were lucky enough to visit the Chelsea Winter Village. Nestled in one of London’s most beautiful neighbourhoods, this debut event is the perfect mix of historic charm and modern “wow” factor.

If you’re looking for a festive evening stroll that feels both grand and intimate, this is definitely the place to be.

Want to see the magic for yourself? Grab a hot chocolate and take a virtual walk with us in our cover of this great event below!

What is the Chelsea Winter Village?

So, what exactly is the Chelsea Winter Village? Think of it as a festive “two-for-one.” An enchanting combination of a lively, free-to-enter Christmas market and a ticketed “Illuminations” trail that is honestly breathtaking.

Even though it’s the new kid on the Christmas block, it’s been a massive hit, with over 85,000 people having already walked the trail!

Whether you’re there to grab a bite with friends or take the kids on an enchanted walk, it’s designed to be a full evening of festive fun. You’ve got the ‘Village’ area for chilling with friends and the Illuminations for that immersive, “lost in the lights” feeling.

When can you visit?

The 2025 version of the Chelsea Winter Village ran from late November to the end of December and it looks like it’s going to be occupying a similar time slot in the future!

  • The 2026 season will run from 25th November to 28th December.

The Illuminations and Village usually open their gates from 4:30pm. The light trail closes around 10:00 pm, while the Village and the Curling Club often keep the party going until 11:00 pm.

The Winter Village area (home to the delicious food and curling) is actually free to enter! However, if you want to experience the 1.5km Illuminations trail, you’ll need to book a ticket. They even offer special neuro-inclusive evenings on select dates, which is a lovely, thoughtful touch.

Where is the Chelsea Winter Village?

If you’re wondering where to find all this festive sparkle, you’ll head over to the stunning, 66-acre grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea in West London. But this isn’t just any park; it’s a stunning piece of heritage right by the River Thames.

It’s a great location because you’re just a short stroll from the trendy shops of the King’s Road and right across the bridge from the iconic Battersea Power Station.

The Heart of the Village: The Chelsea Pensioners

What really gives this event its heart is its home. The Royal Hospital Chelsea is the world-famous residence of the Chelsea Pensioners. The iconic British Army veterans are adorned in their scarlet coats and tricorn hats.

The Hospital was actually founded by King Charles II back in 1682 and designed by Sir Christopher Wren (the genius behind St Paul’s Cathedral). For over 300 years, it has been a place of rest and community for veterans. Today, around 300 pensioners live here, and you might even spot them around the grounds! To them, it is a place of belonging, since they mostly don’t have any family, which is why this famous refuge takes on such an important role.

What to do at the Chelsea Winter Village and Illuminations

This might be the event’s debut year, but there’s so much to get stuck into! Here are our personal highlights:

  • The 1.5km Light Trail: Enter through an “enchanted archway” into a world of giant glowing deer and light tunnel that is a total dream for photos.
  • Festive Feasting: Head over to the Market Square for some classic German sausages. Our favorite part? The open fire pits where you can toast marshmallows. The perfect wholsesome festive family activity!
  • The Curling Club: Going as a group? You have to try this! It’s basically “Apres-Ski” meets Chelsea – ideal for stoking the fires of friendly competition.

More Festive Magic to Explore

If you’ve still got some festive energy left – and you’ve been following our Travel Channel – you’ll know that’s not all London has to offer at the most magical time of the year!

  • Ice Skating at Somerset House: For that classic London feel, you can’t beat ice skating in the gorgeous courtyard at Somerset House. With food, skate schools, exhibitions and superstar DJs all all available in the glow of the humongous Christmas Tree – it’s a real winner! And perfect for date night.
  • Christmas at Kenwood: Want to pack more light trails and festive projections into your Christmassy London experience? Then head up to Hampstead Heath and drink in the wonder of Christmas at Kenwood, with areas like the Astral Avenue, Fairy Path, Laser Garden and mesmerising Rainbow Walk.
  • Open-Top Bus Light Tours: A brilliant way to see the lights of Oxford Street and Regent Street in all their glory, without the legwork!
  • Nomadic Dinners: If you’re a foodie looking for something truly unique, you have to check out Nomadic. Located in a hidden woodland clearing just a short hop from London, they host immersive, “off-grid” feasts that are pure magic.

Discover More Top Events Happening Across Europe on Our Travel Channel

We think the Chelsea Winter Village is such a fantastic addition to London’s Christmas lineup. It manages to feel grand and spectacular while still paying homage to the wonderful history of the venue and the Chelsea Pensioners.

Whether you’re there for the “gram-worthy” light tunnel or just a warm drink by the fire, it’s a beautiful reminder of the magic of the season.

Ready for your next adventure? We’re always on the hunt for the best festivals and hidden gems across Europe.

If you enjoyed this guide, come and explore more with us on our TA-DAH.TV Travel Channel. We can’t wait to see you there!