Marbella is a popular location for internationally acclaimed celebrities and followers and is only half an hour’s drive from Malaga Airport. In the heart of the Costa del Sol, picturesquely set on the slopes of the Sierra Blanca Mountains, Marbella has hosted distinguished guests for decades, drawn year-round by its mild climate and its initial seclusion from the crowds and the media. Much has changed since then, and those heading to Marbella may find everything but seclusion. Marbella is Malaga’s main tourist destination throughout the year. It has a wide variety of cultural programmes and events to suit all tastes and is a holiday destination for many internationally renowned celebrities. Some of Marbella’s most outstanding places include the historic centre and Plaza Naranjos, the Golden Mile, Puerto Banus, San Pedro de Alcantara, Nuevo Andalusia and Las Chapas.
What is the best and cheapest way to get there?
The cheapest way to make a Malaga to Marbella transfer is to first take the Cercanias Madrid local train operated by RENFE, from María Zambrano station to Fuengirola which is in between, then take a bus (by Movelia, Avanza Grupo or ALSA) from there. Trains run every half hour and take about 42 minutes, and the bus from Fuengirola (a necessary stop since Marbella has no train station) takes an extra hour without waiting. Admittedly, this option is the cheapest as train tickets start at around $3 and bus tickets start at $3. 50 – Faster by bus (about an hour, 10 minutes).
Train and bus tickets can be purchased at the train station. There are two direct ways to Marbella from Malaga Costa del Sol Airport; taxi or bus. Unfortunately, intercity trains do not go to Marbella. Taxis and buses are available from Terminal 3.
A Malaga airport taxi will cost around 59€ for the journey on the metre and will take around 54 minutes to reach Marbella. In comparison, the bus takes approximately 45 minutes, with a cost of around 9. 20€ one-way. Welcome Pickups offers meet and greet services and a friendly introduction to Malaga at the same price as a regular taxi.
Could you just take an Uber?
The Uber service in Marbella is for licensed drivers, which means those who already have an SP licence. With 200 licences issued, you can now order an Uber (using the Uber app) anywhere along the coast from Malaga to Marbella for a distance of 60 km. Will it be cheaper than a regular taxi? Not necessarily, but it’s much easier to open an app that already has your location. It’s also good to know the price before starting. Uber cars offer free water and air conditioning for the perfect new car.