Upscale resort city on the Costa del Sol, about 50 km west of the airport.

About Marbella

Marbella has been synonymous with luxury Mediterranean living since the 1950s when Prince Alfonso von Hohenlohe opened the legendary Marbella Club Hotel. The town draws an international jet-set crowd to its upscale beach clubs, designer boutiques, and Michelin-starred restaurants, particularly in summer when the population swells with wealthy European and Middle Eastern visitors.

The contrast between old and new Marbella is striking. The Casco Antiguo (old town) is a charming labyrinth of whitewashed streets, flower-draped balconies, and intimate plazas centered around the Plaza de los Naranjos (Orange Square). Here, traditional tapas bars and family-run restaurants offer authentic Andalusian cuisine far removed from the glitz.

Puerto Banús, Marbella\'s famous marina 6 km west of center, is where the luxury lifestyle is most visible — superyachts line the harbor while Ferraris cruise the waterfront boulevard. The Golden Mile between Marbella and Puerto Banús is flanked by five-star hotels, exclusive villas, and the palatial King Fahd compound. Beyond the glamour, Marbella offers 27 km of beaches, world-class golf courses, and the dramatic Sierra Blanca mountains as a backdrop.

Nearby Landmarks

Puerto Banús Plaza de los Naranjos Golden Mile Sierra Blanca Funny Beach

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost €55-€75
Time 40-55 minutes

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost €45-€65
Time 40-55 minutes

Outside arrivals

Step-by-Step Directions

Take the Avanza direct bus from the airport bus stop (outside Terminal 3 arrivals) to Marbella bus station.

Avanza Bus

Cost €8
Time 45-60 minutes
Frequency Every 30-60 minutes

Outside Terminal 3 arrivals

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi €55-€75 40-55 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare €45-€65 40-55 minutes Budget-conscious, app users
Bus/Shuttle €8 45-60 minutes Cheapest option

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

After midnight, a taxi from Malaga Airport to Marbella costs EUR 65-85 (fixed rate, confirm before departing). Pre-booked private transfers are popular and can be arranged online (EUR 55-75). There is no public transport option after midnight for this route. Many Marbella hotels offer private airport transfers.

Luggage Tips

Given the 50 km distance and motorway driving, ensure your transfer vehicle is comfortable. Standard taxis handle 2-3 large suitcases. For golf bags or extra luggage common with resort stays, book a minivan transfer in advance. Luggage storage is available at Malaga Airport if needed before heading to Marbella.

Accessibility

Pre-booked accessible transfers between Malaga Airport and Marbella are available from several companies. Marbella's Paseo Marítimo (seafront promenade) is flat and wheelchair accessible. The old town has narrow cobblestone streets that can be challenging. Puerto Banús waterfront is accessible. Most five-star Marbella hotels meet international accessibility standards.