Last updated: July 2026
Fuengirola, Mijas and Marbella are three of the most popular destinations on the Costa del Sol. From Malaga Airport (AGP) you can reach all of them by train, bus, taxi, private transfer or rental car. This guide compares the main options so you can choose the best one for your trip.
Quick comparison from Malaga Airport
- Fuengirola: ~25 km · C1 train 35–40 min · taxi 25–35 min
- Mijas Costa / La Cala de Mijas: ~30–40 km · train to Fuengirola + taxi/bus · or direct taxi 30–45 min
- Mijas Pueblo: hill village above Fuengirola · train + bus/taxi, or direct transfer
- Marbella: ~45–55 km · coach, taxi or rental car (no direct train)
Malaga Airport to Fuengirola by train
Fuengirola is one of the easiest destinations to reach from AGP thanks to the coastal Cercanías C1 train. For most travellers with normal luggage, the train is the best mix of price, speed and reliability.
1. Cercanías C1 (best for most travellers)
- Line: C1 (Málaga Centro Alameda – Fuengirola) with a stop at Aeropuerto.
- Journey time: around 35–40 minutes from the airport to Fuengirola station.
- Frequency: roughly every 20 minutes during the day.
- Distance: about 25 km along the coast via Torremolinos and Benalmádena.
- Pros: cheap, reliable, avoids A‑7 traffic — especially useful on busy Saturdays.
Follow the train / Cercanías signs from arrivals inside Terminal 3. Buy a ticket at the machines (card and cash usually accepted). If you are staying near the seafront or town centre, Fuengirola station is walking distance from many hotels and apartments.
Track your landing time on our live arrivals board so you know when to head for the train.
2. Taxi or private transfer
Taxis and private transfers are more expensive than the train but give you a direct door‑to‑door trip — useful with heavy luggage, late arrivals, or hotels far from the station. Typical journey time is 25–35 minutes depending on traffic.
3. Rental car
Driving from the airport to Fuengirola is straightforward: follow signs for the A‑7 towards Cádiz/Algeciras and exit for Fuengirola. Allow 30–40 minutes. This is a good option if you plan to explore more of the coast — see our car rental guide.
How far is Malaga Airport from Fuengirola?
About 25 kilometres (roughly 15–16 miles). By train it is usually faster than driving in summer peak traffic. By taxi, expect 25–35 minutes; by train 35–40 minutes including the walk to/from platforms.
Malaga Airport to Mijas (Pueblo & Costa)
Mijas is split into two main areas: Mijas Pueblo (the white hilltop village) and Mijas Costa (coastal resorts such as La Cala de Mijas).
1. Via Fuengirola (train + bus/taxi)
- Take the C1 train from Malaga Airport to Fuengirola.
- From Fuengirola, connect by local bus or taxi to Mijas Pueblo or Mijas Costa / La Cala de Mijas.
This combination is often cheaper than a direct taxi from the airport, especially for solo travellers or couples.
2. Direct taxi or private transfer
For groups or families with luggage, a direct taxi or pre‑booked transfer from AGP to Mijas Pueblo or Mijas Costa is usually the most convenient choice (about 30–45 minutes).
Malaga Airport to Marbella
Marbella lies further along the coast and has no direct train connection, so your main choices are bus, taxi/transfer or rental car.
1. Direct bus (budget option)
There is usually a direct coach service from Malaga Airport to Marbella bus station. Check the latest timetables and stops, as schedules change seasonally. Journey time is typically around 45–60 minutes depending on traffic and stops.
2. Taxi or private transfer (most convenient)
A taxi or private transfer is the simplest way to reach Marbella, especially if you are staying in Puerto Banús or further west. Allow 45–55 minutes in normal traffic; longer on Saturday changeover days.
3. Rental car (best for exploring)
Driving gives you maximum flexibility for beach hopping and visiting nearby towns. From AGP, follow the A‑7 or AP‑7 towards Marbella. The AP‑7 is a toll road but can be faster in peak season.
Which option is best?
- Fuengirola: train is usually best (C1 line direct from the airport).
- Mijas / La Cala: train to Fuengirola + local bus/taxi, or direct taxi/transfer.
- Marbella: direct coach, taxi/transfer or rental car depending on budget and comfort.