How to Get to Marbella by Plane
To reach Marbella by plane, Málaga-Costa del Sol International Airport (AGP) is the best option. Located about 50 km from Marbella, this airport is one of the most important in Spain, offering both domestic and international flights year-round. You can also reach Marbella via Gibraltar Airport.
Steps to get from the airport to Marbella:
Private Transfer or Taxi: It is the most comfortable and fastest option, with a journey of approximately 40-50 minutes.
Direct Bus: There are bus services operated by Avanza that connect the airport directly with the Marbella bus station. The journey takes around 45 minutes.
Car Rental: If you prefer to explore the Costa del Sol at your own pace, renting a car is an excellent option. From the airport, take the AP-7 or A-7 towards Marbella.
Getting to Marbella by plane is easy, and the transport options ensure a comfortable start to your experience in this luxury destination.
How to get to Marbella by boat
Although Marbella does not have a large commercial port, it is possible to reach the city by boat via its exclusive marinas and yacht ports, which are ideal for private boats and yachts. If you arrive on a cruise, the nearest commercial port is the Port of Málaga, about 60 km from Marbella. From there, you can travel to the city by car, bus, or taxi.
Sports Harbours in Marbella
Puerto Banús: One of the most prestigious harbours in Europe, ideal for yachts and luxury vessels.
Puerto Deportivo de Marbella: Located in the city centre, perfect for smaller vessels.
Puerto de Cabopino: With a more tranquil atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a smaller and more welcoming harbour.
Marbella offers a unique experience for sea lovers, combining the glamour of its harbours with the beauty of the Mediterranean.
How to get to Marbella by train
Although Marbella does not have its own train station, you can easily reach it by combining the train with other forms of transport. The nearest train station is María Zambrano Station in Málaga, which is connected to major cities in Spain through the high-speed train (AVE) network and regional trains.
Steps to get to Marbella by train:
Arrival in Málaga by train: From cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Sevilla, or Valencia, you can take a direct AVE train to Málaga.
Transfer from Málaga to Marbella:
Bus: From the Málaga bus station, located next to the train station, there are direct buses to Marbella, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour.
Car or taxi: You can rent a car or take a taxi, which will take about 45 minutes via the AP-7 motorway.
Aunque no exista una conexión ferroviaria directa a Marbella, el trayecto es cómodo y está bien integrado con otros servicios de transporte.
How to get to Marbella by car:
Reaching Marbella by car is a convenient and versatile option, with excellent connections from various points in Spain. This city on the Costa del Sol is well-connected by modern motorways and scenic roads, ideal for those who enjoy a peaceful and picturesque journey.
Main routes to Marbella:
Reaching Marbella by car is a comfortable and versatile option, with excellent connections from various parts of Spain. This city on the Costa del Sol is well-served by modern motorways and scenic roads, ideal for those who enjoy a peaceful and picturesque journey.
From Málaga (60 km, 45 minutes)
- AP-7 Motorway (toll): The fastest and most direct route.
- N-340 Road: A free option with sea views, though it can be more crowded.
From Madrid (580 km, 5 hours and 30 minutes)
- Take the A-4 towards Despeñaperros and connect with the A-45 and AP-7 to Marbella.
From Sevilla (260 km, 2 hours and 45 minutes)
- Follow the A-92 to Antequera, then take the AP-7 to Marbella.
From Gibraltar (80 km, 1 hour)
- Direct access via the N-340 or the AP-7 motorway, both convenient and quick.
Useful tips:
- Rent a car: It’s the best way to move freely and explore the Costa del Sol.
- Avoid peak hours: Especially in summer, to enjoy a smoother journey.
- Check road conditions: Use an updated GPS to avoid construction or traffic jams.
Travelling to Marbella by car gives you the opportunity to admire stunning Mediterranean landscapes and enjoy a relaxed arrival at this iconic luxury destination.
Here’s the table with the ways to get to Marbella:
| Mode of transport | Approximate time | Additional details |
|---|---|---|
| Car (from Málaga) | 45 minutes | The AP-7 motorway is the fastest and most direct route. |
| Train (from Fuengirola) | 45-50 minutes (with transfer) | Marbella does not have its own train station, so you need to take a train to Fuengirola and then a bus or taxi. |
| Boat | 1-2 hours (from Málaga) | The nearest port is Marbella’s Puerto Deportivo or Puerto Banús, for private boats only. |
| Car (from Madrid) | 5-6 hours | Take the A-4, then the A-45, and continue on the AP-7 (toll road). |
| Car (from Gibraltar) | 1 hour | Take the N-340 or the AP-7 to reach Marbella quickly. |
| Car rental | Varies depending on starting point | Offers greater flexibility and is ideal for exploring the Costa del Sol. |
Frequently Asked Questions about how to get to Marbella
Is it advisable to rent a car to get to Marbella? Yes, renting a car is ideal for greater flexibility and comfort, especially if you want to explore other areas of the Costa del Sol during your visit.
What is the fastest way to get to Marbella from Málaga? The fastest way is by car via the AP-7 motorway, which is a toll road and directly connects Málaga with Marbella in about 45 minutes.
Are there direct trains to Marbella? No, Marbella does not have its own train station. The nearest station is in Fuengirola, from where you can continue by bus or taxi.
Is it possible to get to Marbella by boat? Yes, although there is no large commercial port, you can reach the Puerto Deportivo of Marbella or Puerto Banús by private boats. Alternatively, you can take ferries to Málaga and then continue by road.
Which road is the best to get to Marbella from Madrid? The best option is to take the A-4 to Despeñaperros, connect with the A-45, and continue on the AP-7, which is faster though it has a toll.
How long does it take to get to Marbella from Gibraltar? The journey by car from Gibraltar to Marbella takes about one hour via the N-340 road or the AP-7 motorway.