How to get to Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport
Getting to Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport is easy because it is connected by Cercanías commuter train, city bus, intercity bus, taxi, ride-hailing services and private car. The best option depends on whether you are travelling from Malaga city centre, from the Costa del Sol or from another nearby town, and whether you prioritise price, speed or comfort.
In this guide we explain how to get to Malaga Airport by train, how to get there by bus, where the airport train station is, whether there is a direct Metro connection, how much a taxi usually costs and how the airport is organised so that you can choose the best route.
How many terminals does Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport have?
Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport has three terminals: T1, T2 and T3, although most passenger operations are currently concentrated mainly in T2 and T3.
How the terminals are arranged
- T1: it does not currently have the same operational importance as T2 and T3.
- T2: one of the airport’s main passenger terminals.
- T3: the main terminal and the most widely used at the airport.
What stations and transport connections does Malaga Airport have?
Train at Malaga Airport
- Aeropuerto: the airport’s Cercanías station on the C1 line.
- It connects the airport with Málaga Centro-Alameda, María Zambrano, Torremolinos, Benalmádena and Fuengirola.
Bus at Malaga Airport
- The city bus line A Express Airport connects the airport with Malaga city.
- There are also intercity transport lines that stop in the airport area.
Metro at Malaga Airport
- There is no direct Metro connection to the airport.
- If you use the Malaga Metro, you will need to complete the journey by another means of transport.
How to get to Malaga Airport by train
The train is one of the most convenient ways to reach the airport. The airport station is part of the C1 Cercanías Malaga line, which runs between Málaga Centro-Alameda and Fuengirola.
Malaga Airport train station
The station is called Aeropuerto and gives access to the airport from different points along the Costa del Sol and from Malaga city.
Which stations are most useful for getting to the airport?
- Málaga Centro-Alameda
- Málaga María Zambrano
- Torremolinos
- Benalmádena-Arroyo de la Miel
- Fuengirola
Advantages of taking the train to the airport
- It is a fast option from Malaga city and much of the coast.
- It often avoids road traffic.
- It is especially practical if you start near a well-connected station.
Train timetable and frequency to the airport
The C1 line runs for much of the day, although it does not operate all night. Frequency may vary depending on the time and day, so it is worth checking the timetable before you travel.
How to get to Malaga Airport by bus
The bus is another very useful option, especially if you are travelling from Malaga city or if you prefer a direct road connection without relying on the train.
Malaga Airport Express Bus
The best-known city bus route is the A Express Airport, which links the airport with Malaga.
Useful bus stops for the airport
This route connects the airport with central points in Malaga, such as the Paseo del Parque area, making it a practical choice if you are travelling from the city centre.
Airport bus price
A single ticket on the A Express Airport bus costs 4 euros.
Airport bus timetable
The airport bus has a wide operating schedule, but you should not assume it runs throughout the whole night. If your flight departs very early or lands very late, check the exact timetable for that day in advance.
Intercity buses to the airport
In addition to the city bus, there are intercity lines from the Malaga Metropolitan Transport Consortium that stop in the airport area or near the Airport Junction, which can be useful if you are travelling from towns on the Costa del Sol.
Useful intercity lines
- M-110: Malaga - Torremolinos - Benalmádena Costa.
- M-112: Malaga - Torremolinos - Benalmádena - Fuengirola.
- M-113: Malaga - Mijas - Fuengirola.
With these lines, it is important to check the exact stop carefully, because in some cases they do not reach the terminal area in the same way as the city bus or the train.
How to get to Malaga Airport by Metro
There is no direct Metro line to Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport. If you use the Malaga Metro, the usual solution is to combine it with Cercanías, bus or taxi.
What to do if you are travelling by Metro
- You can connect with Cercanías in well-connected parts of Malaga.
- You can also complete the trip using the Airport Express Bus.
- If you are carrying luggage, switching to a taxi or ride-hailing service may be more convenient.
How much does a taxi from Malaga Airport to the city centre cost?
The taxi is one of the most comfortable options if you are carrying suitcases, travelling in a group or arriving at a time when public transport suits you less well.
How the taxi fare is calculated
- The fare depends on the route, the time of day and the current tariff.
- Surcharges may apply depending on local regulations.
- You should not assume there is a fixed flat fare unless it is expressly stated in the official rules or at the taxi rank.
When taking a taxi makes sense
- If you are travelling with a lot of luggage.
- If you leave very early in the morning or arrive very late at night.
- If you are heading to an area without a convenient direct train or bus connection.
- If you prioritise comfort over price.
How to get to Malaga Airport by car
Reaching Malaga Airport by car is straightforward because it is very well connected by road with Malaga city and the Costa del Sol.
Advantages of going by car
- Greater flexibility in terms of departure time.
- More comfort if you are travelling with family or several suitcases.
- The option to use the airport car park.
What to keep in mind if you go by car
- At peak times there may be heavier traffic on the access roads.
- If you plan to park, it is worth checking prices or booking in advance.
- Make sure you know whether you need the departures or arrivals area.
How to move between terminals at Malaga Airport
The airport terminals are located within the same complex, and most operations are centred in T2 and T3, which are much easier for passengers to move between than at other airports where terminals are widely separated.
What you should check before leaving
- Your exact terminal.
- Your airline and check-in area.
- Whether train, bus or car gives you the easiest access depending on your terminal.
What is the best way to get to Malaga Airport?
The cheapest option
In most cases, the cheapest option is usually the Cercanías train or the bus, depending on where you start your journey.
The most comfortable option
If you are carrying luggage, travelling with children or want to avoid transfers, the most comfortable option is usually taxi, ride-hailing service or private car.
The best option from Malaga city centre
From central Malaga, the C1 Cercanías is usually one of the most direct and reliable options, although the A Express Airport bus can also be very practical.
The best option from the Costa del Sol
If you are travelling from coastal towns such as Torremolinos, Benalmádena or Fuengirola, the C1 Cercanías is often especially convenient.
The best option at night
During the night, when the train is not operating, the most practical alternative is often taxi or a private car service. It is wise to check whether the bus covers your exact time slot before relying on it.
Useful tips for getting to Malaga Airport
- Always check your exact terminal before leaving home.
- If you are travelling from the Costa del Sol, check whether the Cercanías train is more convenient than driving.
- Do not plan your journey expecting a direct Metro, because it does not reach the airport.
- If your flight leaves very early, confirm the first train or first bus of the day.
- With heavy traffic, travelling by car or taxi may take longer than expected.
Frequently asked questions about getting to Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport
Which train goes to Malaga Airport?
The C1 Cercanías line connects with the Aeropuerto station.
Is there a train station inside the airport?
Yes. The airport has its own Cercanías station.
Which Metro line goes to Malaga Airport?
None. There is no direct Metro connection to the airport.
Which bus goes from Malaga city centre to the airport?
The main route is the A Express Airport.
How much does the bus to Malaga Airport cost?
A single ticket on the airport bus costs 4 euros.
What terminals does Malaga Airport have?
It has T1, T2 and T3, although most passenger operations are concentrated mainly in T2 and T3.
Can you get to Malaga Airport by train from Torremolinos or Fuengirola?
Yes. The C1 line connects the airport with Torremolinos, Benalmádena and Fuengirola.
What is the most comfortable way to get to the airport?
If comfort is your priority and you have luggage, taxi or a ride-hailing service are usually the easiest options.
Summary: how to get to Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport
If you want a fast and direct option, the C1 Cercanías train is usually the main reference point, especially from Malaga city and the Costa del Sol. If you are travelling from the city centre, the A Express Airport bus is also very practical. If you are travelling at night or with a lot of luggage, taxi and private car become more attractive options. And it is worth remembering that there is no direct Metro connection to the airport.