Malaga

✈️

Airport Transfers

Sections

1. Taxis

Taxis are a convenient and widely used option for airport transfers in Malaga. They are readily available outside the arrivals terminal.

Key Details:

  • Location: Taxi ranks are located just outside Terminal 3 (Arrivals).
  • Cost:
    • To Malaga city center: €20–€25 (depending on traffic and time of day).
    • To nearby towns (e.g., Torremolinos or Benalmádena): €15–€30.
    • To Marbella: €60–€80.
    • Night rates (10:00 PM–6:00 AM), weekends, and public holidays may incur a surcharge.
  • Duration:
    • Malaga city center: 15–20 minutes.
    • Marbella: 40–50 minutes.

How to Book:

  • No pre-booking is required; taxis are available on demand at the airport.
  • If you prefer to pre-book, apps like Cabify or local taxi services (e.g., Taxi Malaga) allow reservations.

Tips:

  • Ensure the taxi uses the meter. It’s standard practice in Malaga.
  • Confirm the approximate fare with the driver before starting the journey.
  • Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated (rounding up to the nearest euro is common).

2. Buses

The airport is well-connected to Malaga and nearby towns via public buses, making this an affordable option.

Key Details:

  • Airport Express Bus (Line A):

    • Route: Malaga Airport to Malaga city center (stops include the main bus station and Alameda Principal).
    • Cost: €4 per person (one-way).
    • Duration: 15–25 minutes, depending on traffic.
    • Frequency: Every 20–30 minutes from 7:00 AM to midnight.
    • Tickets: Purchase directly from the driver (cash only).

  • Intercity Buses:

    • Routes connect the airport to towns like Marbella, Estepona, and Nerja.
    • Cost: Varies by destination (e.g., €8–€10 to Marbella).
    • Tickets: Purchase at the airport bus station or online via the Avanza website.

How to Book:

  • Tickets for the Airport Express Bus are not pre-bookable; pay the driver directly.
  • For intercity buses, book online in advance (especially during peak tourist seasons).

Tips:

  • Have small change ready for bus tickets.
  • Check the bus schedule in advance, as intercity buses may not run frequently.

3. Trains

The Cercanías C1 commuter train is a fast and efficient way to travel between Malaga Airport and the city center or nearby towns.

Key Details:

  • Route: Malaga Airport (Aeropuerto station) to Malaga city center (Maria Zambrano station) and Fuengirola (via Torremolinos and Benalmádena).
  • Cost:
    • To Malaga city center: €1.80.
    • To Fuengirola: €2.70.
  • Duration:
    • To Malaga city center: 12 minutes.
    • To Fuengirola: 35 minutes.
  • Frequency: Every 20 minutes from 6:30 AM to 11:30 PM.
  • Tickets: Purchase at ticket machines in the station (cash or card accepted).

How to Book:

  • No pre-booking is required; tickets are available at the station.

Tips:

  • The train station is a short walk from Terminal 3 (follow the signs for "Tren").
  • Keep your ticket until the end of the journey, as you’ll need it to exit the station.

4. Private Transfers

Private transfers are a comfortable and hassle-free option, especially for groups or travelers with a lot of luggage.

Key Details:

  • Cost:
    • To Malaga city center: €25–€40.
    • To Marbella: €70–€100.
    • Prices vary depending on the provider and vehicle type.
  • Duration: Similar to taxis (e.g., 15–20 minutes to Malaga city center).
  • Providers: Companies like Suntransfers, Malaga Airport Transfers, and Welcome Pickups offer pre-booked services.

How to Book:

  • Book online in advance through the provider’s website or app.
  • Provide your flight details so the driver can monitor delays and adjust pickup times.

Tips:

  • Look for your driver holding a sign with your name in the arrivals hall.
  • Private transfers are ideal for families or those traveling with bulky luggage.

5. Car Rentals

If you plan to explore the Costa del Sol or Andalusia, renting a car can be a practical option.

Key Details:

  • Cost:
    • Economy cars start at €20–€40 per day (depending on the season and rental duration).
    • Additional costs may include insurance, fuel, and tolls.
  • Rental Companies: Major providers like Hertz, Avis, Europcar, and local companies like MalagaCar operate at the airport.
  • Location: Rental desks are located in the arrivals area of Terminal 3.

How to Book:

  • Book online in advance for the best rates and availability.
  • Provide a valid driver’s license, passport, and credit card for the deposit.

Tips:

  • Check if your accommodation offers parking, as spaces in Malaga city center can be limited.
  • Familiarize yourself with Spanish road rules and toll systems.

6. Ridesharing Services

Ridesharing apps like Uber and Cabify operate in Malaga, offering an alternative to traditional taxis.

Key Details:

  • Cost: Similar to taxis, but prices can vary based on demand.
  • How to Book: Use the app to request a ride upon arrival.
  • Pickup Location: Confirm the exact pickup point in the app (usually outside the arrivals terminal).

Tips:

  • Ridesharing services may have surge pricing during peak hours.
  • Cabify often offers fixed rates, which can be more predictable than Uber.

Local Tips and Considerations:

  1. Language: While many drivers and service providers speak basic English, learning a few Spanish phrases (e.g., "¿Cuánto cuesta?" for "How much does it cost?") can be helpful.
  2. Currency: Ensure you have euros (€) in small denominations for taxis and buses.
  3. Peak Times: During summer and holidays, Malaga Airport can be very busy. Pre-book transfers to avoid delays.
  4. Luggage: If traveling with large luggage, confirm with your chosen transport option (e.g., some buses may have limited storage space).
  5. Safety: All official taxis and transfer services are safe and regulated. Avoid unlicensed drivers offering rides in the arrivals area.

By considering your budget, destination, and preferences, you can choose the best airport transfer option for your needs. Enjoy your time in Malaga!