“I’m flying into Malaga Airport and planning to visit Nerja for a few days. What’s the best way to get there? Should I rent a car, take a bus, or is there another easy option? I’m mainly looking for a fast and affordable way to reach Nerja from Malaga Airport.”
Nerja is one of the most charming towns on the Costa del Sol, known for its beautiful beaches and famous Nerja Caves. Fortunately, getting there from Malaga Airport is easy, as there are several transport options to suit your budget and preferences.
Here’s everything you need to know about how to get from Malaga Airport (AGP) to Nerja.
1. By Car (Driving Yourself)
Duration: 50 minutes – 1 hour
Distance: About 65 km (40 miles)
Best for: Convenience, flexibility, and scenic drive.
If you’re comfortable driving, renting a car is one of the most convenient ways to get to Nerja. The journey is straightforward and offers you the freedom to explore the area at your own pace.
Directions:
- From Malaga Airport, follow the A-7 highway (also known as the N-340) heading east towards Nerja.
- You’ll pass through Benajarafe and Vélez-Málaga before reaching Nerja. The road is scenic, with views of the sea and mountains along the way.
There are plenty of car rental agencies at Malaga Airport to choose from, and you’ll be able to find a rental car for as low as 20€ – 30€ per day depending on the season.
2. By Bus
Duration: 1 hour – 1 hour 15 minutes
Cost: Around 5€ – 7€
Best for: Budget-friendly option.
If you prefer a more economical option, taking the bus from Malaga Airport to Nerja is easy and affordable. The Malaga Bus Station is well connected to Nerja by the ALSA bus company, which operates direct routes between the two locations.
How to get the bus:
- The ALSA buses depart directly from the Malaga Airport terminal.
- You can purchase tickets at the bus station or online in advance.
- Buses leave regularly throughout the day, with a travel time of around 1 hour to 1.5 hours.
- The buses are comfortable and offer air-conditioning.
Timetable:
- ALSA buses run approximately every hour during peak seasons (spring and summer) but less frequently in the off-season. Check the ALSA website for the most accurate timetable.
3. By Private Transfer
Duration: 50 minutes
Cost: 50€ – 80€
Best for: Comfort, convenience, no stress.
If you’re looking for a hassle-free and comfortable experience, booking a private transfer is a great choice. A private transfer allows you to travel directly from Malaga Airport to your hotel in Nerja without any stops or delays.
How it works:
- You can book a private shuttle or taxi in advance online or at the airport. Many companies provide private door-to-door service, picking you up directly from the airport and dropping you off at your destination.
- Prices for a private transfer can vary depending on the type of service you choose, but generally, it will cost between 50€ – 80€ for a one-way trip.
4. By Taxi
Duration: 50 minutes
Cost: Around 70€ – 90€
Best for: Convenience and direct service.
Taking a taxi is another easy way to reach Nerja from Malaga Airport. Taxis are available 24/7 at the airport, and you can simply hop into one when you arrive.
Taxi Fare:
- The taxi fare to Nerja typically costs between 70€ and 90€, depending on traffic and time of day. This price is for up to 4 people, so it can be an affordable option if you’re traveling in a group or with family.
Journey Time:
- The journey takes around 50 minutes, and the driver will take the most direct route along the A-7 highway.
5. By Train (Limited Option)
While there is no direct train from Malaga Airport to Nerja, you could take a train from Malaga City to Vélez-Málaga and then transfer to a bus for the final leg to Nerja. However, this method is more time-consuming and less convenient than other options.
Duration: 2 – 2.5 hours
Cost: 10€ – 15€
Best for: Those who prefer train travel but are willing to transfer.
How to get the train:
- Take a train from Malaga’s Maria Zambrano Station (you can reach it from the airport by train or taxi).
- From Vélez-Málaga station, you can catch a local bus to Nerja (about 30 minutes).
Best Option for Getting to Nerja
The best option depends on your preferences and budget:
- For convenience and speed, renting a car or booking a private transfer is the most direct and comfortable choice.
- For a budget-friendly option, taking the ALSA bus offers an affordable and efficient way to get to Nerja.
- Taxis are also a good choice for those who prefer a direct route without worrying about driving or waiting for buses.
No matter which option you choose, getting from Malaga Airport to Nerja is straightforward, and you’ll be enjoying the beauty of the Costa del Sol in no time!