Forum Question:
“I’m planning to visit Marbella, and I’m wondering which is the closest airport. Is it easy to get from the airport to the city? Should I rent a car, or are there good transport options? Any advice on how to get there smoothly would be greatly appreciated!”
The closest airport to Marbella is Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP), which is located about 50 kilometers (31 miles) to the east of Marbella. It’s the main gateway to the Costa del Sol, and one of the busiest airports in Spain, handling both domestic and international flights.
Here’s everything you need to know about Malaga Airport, how to get to Marbella, and other nearby options.
1. Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP)
Location: The airport is located just outside the city of Malaga, approximately 50 km from Marbella. This makes it the most convenient and frequently used airport for travelers heading to the Costa del Sol.
Flight Connections:
- Malaga Airport is well-connected to many cities across Europe, making it a popular choice for international flights. It offers direct flights to cities in the UK, Germany, France, and Scandinavia, as well as several other global destinations.
Transport from Malaga Airport to Marbella:
- By car: The drive from Malaga Airport to Marbella takes around 40 to 50 minutes via the AP-7 highway or A-7 coastal road.
- By taxi: Taxis are available outside the airport terminals. A taxi to Marbella typically costs between 60€ – 80€, depending on traffic and the location of your hotel.
- By bus: There are regular direct buses from the airport to Marbella. The journey takes about 45-50 minutes, and tickets are usually around 6€ – 8€. The bus station is located just outside the arrivals terminal.
- By private transfer: Many companies offer private shuttle services, which can be booked in advance. This option may cost a bit more but offers comfort and convenience, especially for those with a lot of luggage.
2. Other Airports Near Marbella
While Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport is by far the most convenient, there are a few other airports in the region that can also be considered if you’re looking for alternatives.
Gibraltar International Airport (GIB)
Location: Gibraltar Airport is located around 85 km (53 miles) from Marbella, which makes it a bit further than Malaga, but still a viable option for travelers heading to the region.
Flight Connections: Gibraltar Airport primarily serves UK destinations and a few other European cities, so it’s ideal if you’re coming from or going to the UK.
Transport from Gibraltar Airport to Marbella:
- By car: It takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes to drive from Gibraltar Airport to Marbella via the A-7 coastal road.
- By bus: A direct bus service connects Gibraltar to Marbella, and the journey takes about 1.5 hours.
- By taxi: The taxi ride costs around 100€ – 120€.
Seville Airport (SVQ)
Location: Seville Airport is located about 200 km (124 miles) to the west of Marbella, making it further away but still an option for travelers who might be flying into the Sevilla region or looking for alternative connections.
Flight Connections: Seville Airport serves both domestic and international flights, with connections across Europe and major cities in Spain.
Transport from Seville Airport to Marbella:
- By car: The drive from Seville to Marbella takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic.
- By train: You can take a train from Seville to Malaga, and from there, a bus or taxi to Marbella.
- By bus: Bus services are available, but the journey may take around 3 to 4 hours.
Which Airport is Best for Visiting Marbella?
- Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) is definitely the most convenient and fastest option for most visitors to Marbella. It offers the most frequent flight connections, short transfer times, and plenty of transport options (taxis, buses, and private transfers).
- If you’re traveling from the UK or northern Europe, Gibraltar Airport might also be a good option, especially if you can find a suitable flight.
- Seville is further away, so it may be less convenient for visitors specifically heading to Marbella. However, it can be useful for those exploring southern Spain more generally.
Best Airport for Marbella
The best airport for visitors heading to Marbella is Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) due to its proximity, wide flight options, and easy access to the town. With just a 40-50 minute drive from the airport, it’s the most convenient way to start your trip to Marbella. Whether you’re flying in for a beach holiday or exploring the Costa del Sol, Malaga Airport offers the most straightforward and efficient option for your journey.