Visiting Malaga without a car: how to get around Malaga?

Published Categorised as Getting there & Around Tagged

Planning to visit Malaga but don’t want to bother with a car? No problem! Malaga offers plenty of transport options that make it easy and convenient to explore the city and its surroundings.

In this article, we’ll explore how to get around Malaga without a car.

Using public transport

Malaga has an excellent public transport network, making it an ideal option for car-free travellers. Here are some of the most popular means of transport:

  • Metro: Malaga’s metro covers many areas of the city, offering a fast and affordable way to get around.
  • Bus: Bus routes serve most areas of Malaga and surrounding towns. Timetables are generally reliable.
  • Suburban trains: If you want to explore Malaga’s surroundings, suburban trains are a good choice for reaching towns such as Torremolinos, Fuengirola and Marbella.
    Taking a taxi or VTCIf you prefer a more private means of transport, taxis and VTCs are widely available in Malaga. Although more expensive than the bus or train, they offer greater flexibility and can be a good option if you’re travelling in a group or have a lot of luggage.
Pedestrian green crossing light illustrating the idea of walking in Malaga

Bike hire

For a more active experience, bike hire is a great option. Malaga has invested in cycle paths and bike hire stations, making it a cyclist-friendly city. You can easily explore the city centre and surrounding area by bike.

Walking

Malaga is a relatively compact city, making it ideal for walking. You can easily get around the historic city centre on foot, enjoying the picturesque streets and sights.

Frequently asked questions

How do I get from Malaga airport to the city centre?

You can take the suburban train (Cercanías), which links the airport to Malaga city centre in just 12 minutes. It’s a quick and convenient way to get to the centre.

Does public transport operate late at night in Malaga?

Yes, Malaga’s buses and metro run late at night, which is ideal if you want to enjoy the city’s nightlife without worrying about getting back to your accommodation.

Is it easy to travel outside Malaga to other towns on the Costa del Sol?

Yes, suburban trains and intercity buses connect Malaga with many other destinations on the Costa del Sol. You can easily explore the region without a car.

What are the public transport fares in Malaga?

Fares vary depending on the mode of transport, but in general, public transport in Malaga is affordable. You can buy single tickets or opt for rechargeable travel cards to save money.

Is it easy to get around Malaga on foot?

Yes, Malaga’s city centre is fairly compact and most tourist attractions are within walking distance. What’s more, the city is very pedestrianised, with many wide pavements and pedestrianised areas.

Are there bicycle hire services in Malaga?

Yes, Malaga has an excellent bike hire service called Málaga Bici. There are also several other companies that hire bikes for longer periods.

Can I use public transport to get to Malaga’s beaches?

Yes, several bus lines serve the beaches of Malaga. In addition, the C1 train line serves several beaches along the Costa del Sol.