Planning a trip to Malaga? See how to quickly and conveniently get from the airport to the city center and start exploring without stress!
If you're flying into Malaga, the good news is that the city center is really close. Even better, you have several convenient options for getting there. Train, bus, or taxi? Each has its pros and cons, and the choice often depends on whether you prioritize savings, time, or convenience.
How to get from Malaga Airport to the city center?
If you're wondering how to get from Malaga Airport to the city center, you have several convenient options to choose from, varying in price, travel time, and comfort. You can reach the city center by train in about 12 minutes, by bus in about 20-30 minutes, or by taxi in about 15 minutes, depending on traffic. The cheapest options for getting to Malaga from the airport are train and bus, while taxis are the most convenient, especially for late arrivals or larger luggage. Below, you'll find a quick comparison of these three methods.
Train from Malaga Airport to the City Center
Where is the train station located at the airport?
The train station is located right next to Terminal T3, making it very easy to reach after your flight. After exiting the arrivals area, simply follow the "Train" or "Cercanías" signs, which will take you to the walkway connecting the terminal to the station. The entire journey usually takes about 3-5 minutes, using convenient corridors and escalators. Trains on the C1 suburban line depart from Aeropuerto station, connecting the airport with the center of Málaga and towns on the Costa del Sol. If you're traveling to the city center, it's best to get off at Málaga Centro-Alameda station, from where you can walk to the historic center in just a few minutes.
Journey time and frequency
The C1 line to Málaga Centro-Alameda station takes an average of about 12 minutes, and to the main Málaga María Zambrano station in just 8 minutes. Trains usually run approximately every 20 minutes throughout most of the day, ensuring minimal waits for the next departure. The first trains arrive early in the morning, and the last ones depart late in the evening, making this one of the most convenient and predictable options for traveling from the airport to the city center.
Ticket prices and where to buy them
A standard single ticket costs around €1.80, and a round-trip ticket costs around €3.60, as the route between the airport and city center covers only two fare zones. Tickets can be purchased from ticket machines at the station (card or cash). There's no need to book a ticket in advance – simply arrive at the station and buy one just before your train departs.
Bus from the Airport to Malaga City Center
Airport Line – basic information
The airport bus departs directly from the terminal, so after exiting the arrivals area, simply follow the "Bus" signs. The most important connection to the city center is the A Express Aeropuerto line. The bus goes to Málaga city center and stops at Málaga María Zambrano train station, among others, as well as the Paseo del Parque bus stop, which is very close to the historic center and port. This makes the bus a convenient option for those who want to get off practically in the heart of the city.
Journey time and frequency
The bus journey from the airport to Malaga usually takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and the number of passengers at the stops. A Express Aeropuerto buses run quite regularly – usually every 25-30 minutes for most of the day. During peak hours, the journey time may be slightly longer, but the main advantage of this service is the direct connection to the city center.
Ticket cost
A ticket for the A Express Aeropuerto airport bus costs around €4 one-way. This is still a relatively inexpensive option, especially if you're traveling with luggage and want a direct connection to the city center. Tickets can be purchased directly from the bus driver (usually cash, although many vehicles also accept card payments).
Malaga Airport Taxi
Where to find a taxi rank
The taxi rank is located right outside the arrivals area of Terminal T3, so you can board immediately after collecting your luggage. Official taxis are cream-colored with a green and black stripe and have a prominent "TAXI" sign on the roof. It's important to avoid suspicious, private taxis parked outside the terminal – only vehicles at designated ranks guarantee a legal and safe journey. This will get you to the city center quickly and comfortably. Uber, Bolt, and Free Now also operate in Malaga, allowing you to order a car through an app.
How much does a ride to the city center cost?
A taxi ride typically costs around €20-25. However, the price can vary slightly depending on the time of day, traffic, and the amount of luggage – higher fares apply at night and on weekends, as do larger suitcases. If you use apps like Uber or Bolt, the price is pre-determined in the app and is often comparable to a city taxi fare, although it sometimes increases dramatically during peak traffic.
Which transportation option should I choose from Malaga Airport?
The choice of transportation from Malaga Airport depends mainly on the arrival time, the amount of luggage, and traveler preferences. We personally used a taxi once on our return trip because we had an early morning flight and there was no other option. Otherwise, we always choose the train and highly recommend it – it's cheap, fast, and convenient, although it can be quite crowded at times. The airport bus is a good option if you want to get directly to the city center and have a little more time.