All the Possible Ways to Get to Marbella

Home to endless sunshine, a luxury lifestyle, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife, Marbella offers endless opportunities for those who visit. Whether you’re planning a relaxing getaway, an adventure-packed holiday, or exploring business and investment opportunities, your journey begins with reaching Marbella. In this guide, we’ll explore how to get to Marbella from Malaga Airport, including all the transport options available to help you reach this Mediterranean gem. Let’s dive in!

how to get to marbella from malaga airport
Río Real Golf & Hotel - Marbella

1. Arriving at Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP)

Marbella, crowned ‘Best European Destination’ in 2024, is the ultimate destination for those seeking a harmonious blend of sun, sophistication, and stunning landscapes, drawing visitors from across the globe.

For most travelers, the easiest way to get to Marbella is by flying. Although there aren’t direct commercial flights to Marbella, Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP), located about 50 kilometers (31 miles) away, is the closest and best-connected airport. As one of Spain’s busiest airports, it offers excellent international flight connections, making it a convenient entry point for visitors around the world. If you’re wondering how long is the transfer from Malaga Airport to Marbella, it’s typically around 45 minutes by car or taxi, depending on traffic.

You can book flights to Málaga from major hubs such as London, New York, Paris and Amsterdam through airlines like Iberia, United Airlines, Air Europa, Ryanair, or TUI Airways. Use platforms like Skyscanner or Expedia to compare deals or check directly with airlines for special promotions.

Transfer Options: How Do I Get From Malaga Airport to Marbella?

Once you land at Málaga Airport, several transport options make getting to Marbella simple and convenient. Whether you prefer taxis, private transfers, or public transport, here are your choices:

1. Getting to Marbella by Taxi or Ride-Hailing App

For a convenient and comfortable transfer, taxis are available just outside the arrivals hall at Malaga airport. Typically, a taxi from Malaga airport to Marbella takes about 45 minutes and costs between €60-€100, depending on factors like the time of the day and traffic. All taxis are metered, with fares based on the distance traveled. Keep in mind that additional fees may apply, such as surcharges for night services, public holidays, toll roads, and a special airport service fee for rides starting or ending at the airport. 

Alternatively, ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt are also available at Málaga Airport. You can book your ride in advance or once you arrive. Fares are competitive and subject to demand, making it a go-to option for many travelers. The Uber pick-up spot is near the train station at the airport—just follow the signs once you exit the terminal. For Bolt, head left from the Uber pick-up point into the parking lot at the end.  

2. Getting to Marbella by Private Transfer

For those seeking a luxurious start to their trip,  a private car transfer might be the perfect option. Companies like Autos Bahia Marbella offer premium chauffeur services, where your driver will greet you in the arrivals hall and monitor your flight to account for any delays. Private transfers provide a stress-free experience, avoiding taxi lines and offering a personalized service.

If you’re traveling with a group of 7, be sure to check out this Private Transfer Malaga Airport to Marbella option as well. It’s worth comparing this option to ensure your group is comfortably accommodated in a single vehicle.

3. Getting to Marbella by Car (Recommended!)

One of the best ways to travel from Málaga Airport to Marbella is by renting a car. This gives you the freedom to explore Marbella and its surroundings at your own pace, from hidden coastal gems to charming inland villages.

To get to Marbella, you can choose between two route options: the AP-7 toll road, which is faster, especially if you’re heading to Marbella Old Town or beyond, or the scenic A-7 highway, which offers lovely views but may take a little longer. The AP-7 toll road, which runs from Malaga to Estepona, costs €8.60 during the summer and €5.25 during the rest of the year, with a travel time of about 45 minutes.

Málaga Airport has several car rental companies, including recognized names such as Hertz, Avis, Europcar, and Sixt. Their desks are conveniently located in level -1 of T2, some like Goldcar also have desks in the  baggage claim area of T3, and if your chosen rental company is off-site, a free shuttle service will take you there in a few minutes. Use services like Discover Cars to compare rental prices and book in advance to secure the best rates.

RELATED READING  |  Parking in Marbella Old Town: Exploring the Best Places to Park

3. Getting to Marbella by Bus

If you’re wondering, “Is there a bus from Malaga Airport to Marbella?” The answer is yes! For those also curious about how to get from Malaga Airport to Marbella by bus, you’ll be pleased to know that there is a frequent and convenient service. The bus can be taken from the bus station located outside Terminal 3. This budget-friendly option runs regularly, taking you directly to Marbella bus station in about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and bus stops. Buses run frequently, with services from providers like Portillo and Avanza, departing every 30 minutes to an hour and a half. It’s highly recommended to book your bus ticket in advance to secure your spot. 

Unfortunately, if you’re asking, “Is there a train from Malaga Airport to Marbella?”, the answer is no; there is no direct train service to Marbella. While you can take a train from Málaga Airport, it only goes as far as Fuengirola. From Fuengirola, you’ll need to transfer to a bus to complete your journey to Marbella. To make things easier, taking the direct bus from the airport to Marbella is the quickest and most convenient public transport option available. 

For travelers wondering how to get from Malaga Airport to Marbella Old Town, the best option is to take the bus from the airport to Marbella’s bus station and then hop in a taxi for the short ride to the historic center of Marbella.

4. Getting to Marbella by Bus from Other Cities

Marbella is also well-connected by bus to various cities across Spain, such as Madrid, Seville, and Granada. If you’re traveling domestically, long-distance bus services like Avanza and ALSA are both comfortable and affordable options. The Marbella bus station is located north of the city center on Avenida del Trapiche, making it easy to access and start your adventure as soon as you arrive.

Use Omio to compare schedules and book tickets for your journey from other Spanish cities.

5. Getting to Marbella by Helicopter

For those seeking the ultimate in luxury and exclusivity, you can travel from Málaga Airport to Marbella by helicopter. Companies like Mach Helicopters, Heliair Marbella, and Marbella Copters offer personalized VIP helicopter transfers tailored to your specific needs. With flexible departure times and various landing zones, this option is ideal for both leisure and business travelers who wish to arrive on flights to Marbella via the nearby Malaga airport. The flight usually takes about 20 minutes, providing stunning views of the Costa del Sol and avoiding road traffic entirely. Prices vary, typically ranging from around €300 per person to over €1,500, depending on factors such as the length of the flight, the helicopter model, the number of passengers, and any extra services you choose to include.

Moving around Marbella

Once you arrive in Marbella, getting around the city is easy thanks to a variety of transportation options.

  • Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt are available and offer a convenient way to travel from place to place. Whether you’re heading to the beach, exploring the historic Old Town, or visiting Puerto Banús and Golden Mile, these services are reliable and easy to use. Just download the apps if you don’t have them yet and you’re good to go!

If you prefer a more eco-friendly option, biking is a fantastic way to explore the city. While Marbella doesn’t have a citywide bike-sharing program, you can easily rent bikes from local companies like Baja Bikes Marbella or Marbella Rent a Bike. They also offer guided tours, such as the popular Marbella Highlight Bike Tour, giving you a unique way to discover the city’s sights.

  • Scooters are also available for rent at various locations across Marbella and hotel lobbies, providing another convenient and sustainable option for getting around. You can browse options at Alquiloscooter.com or MotorFastRent.com for easy bookings and affordable rates.

With so many transport options, getting around Marbella is a breeze, whether you want to take in the sights by bike, zip through the streets on a scooter, or simply hop in an Uber.

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Final Thoughts on How to Get to Marbella from Malaga Airport

Now that you know how to get to Marbella from Malaga Airport, it’s time to start planning your trip! Whether you choose to fly, drive, or take the bus, reaching this Mediterranean paradise is just the start of your adventure. Happy travels, and embrace everything Marbella has to offer! 

Thank you for reading: How to Get to Marbella from Malaga Airport: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

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What are the Visa and Passport Requirements for entry?

When traveling to Marbella via Málaga Airport, visa and passport requirements vary depend on your nationality. If you’re from the EU or a Schengen country, no visa is needed for stays of up to 90 days, though a valid passport or national ID is required for entry.

Non-EU tourist visitors, such as those from the US, UK, Australia, and Canada, can also visit without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Just ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date from the Schengen area and was issued within the last 10 years. Proof of a return ticket and sufficient funds to cover your stay may be requested. Be sure to check with your country’s embassy or consulate for any specific visa requirements or travel restrictions.

For stays longer than 90 days or for purposes like work or study, you’ll need to apply for the appropriate visa. Starting in November 2024, Spain will introduce an Entry/Exit System (EES) to register non-EU/EEA/Swiss national visitors at all border crossings of the Schengen Area, so make sure to check any additional requirements before your trip.

RECOMMENDED LINKS AND RESOURCES IN ONE PLACE

Now that you’re fully equipped with all the details on how to get to Marbella from Malaga Airport, it’s time to book your trip and start your adventure. For everything else—accommodation, tours, and travel—be sure to explore these essential resources:

Accommodation

Hotels.com: Enjoy luxury and resort hotel properties with a rewarding loyalty program and price guarantee. Earn points with every booking, and enjoy complimentary hotel stays. 

Plum Guide: When it comes to indulgent stays, our top recommendation is Plum Guide. Their exclusive collection of high-end vacation home rentals undergoes stringent assessments for comfort, design, and functionality. 

Vrbo: Find a variety of vacation rentals, from beachfront properties to charming city apartments, with secure bookings.

Expedia: To find affordable flights and good travel deals from your home country, start by checking Expedia—a great place to begin your search. It offers a comprehensive range of options, including flights, hotels, and car rentals, making it a convenient one-stop shop for planning and booking your trip.

Tours & Guides

Get Your Guide: Discover top-rated tours and activities by fellow travellers for a memorable experience.

Viator: Easily book tours and experiences worldwide with just a few clicks, making your travel adventures simple and unforgettable.

Car Rental & Transportation

Discover Cars: Compare car rental prices and book with no hidden costs and the flexibility of free cancellation when you book your rental car through them.

Omio: Omio makes it easy to compare and book train, bus, ferry and flight tickets all in one place. With a simple and user-friendly interface, you can find the best travel options and prices, and book your tickets hassle-free.

Travel Insurance & Money

Wise: Use Wise when traveling abroad for a multi-currency account and debit card to spend and withdraw money in over 40 currencies, often cheaper than local banks. Get your Wise Card.

Revolut: With their card, you can pay and withdraw cash in multiple currencies without foreign transaction fees, making it an excellent choice for travellers. Order your free Revolut Card.

Travel Insurance: Protect your trip with Heymondo‘s comprehensive coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. Enjoy an exclusive 5% discount for our readers!

Mobile Internet: Stay connected and avoid roaming charges while traveling with Airalo, the world’s first eSIM store. Access digital data packs for over 200 countries and regions.

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