About Málaga Airport
Málaga — Costa del Sol airport serves the city of Málaga and the entire Costa del Sol region. As a result, it is the 4th busiest airport in Spain, used by 19 million passengers each year. First opened in 1919, it has expanded over the years to reach its current size, with three terminals handling traffic from all over Europe and beyond.
Part of the reason for Málaga airport's growth has been the rise of package vacations. The hot and sunny weather of the Costa del Sol, combined with its natural beauty, have made it a popular place for all-inclusive holidays from around Europe, particularly from the UK. Tourism remains a big part of the Andalusian economy, and the airport has expanded further since budget airline Ryanair chose it as a Spanish base.
Málaga airport sits to the southwest of the city itself. Approximately seven miles from the center of Málaga, the airport is easily reached by taxi as well as by public transit. It doesn't take long for your Spanish adventure to begin from the moment you touch down in Málaga airport. This gateway to the Costa del Sol is where millions of fun vacations begin each year.
Things to do near Málaga Airport
Usually, the airport is a means to an end. A place that exists to get you as quickly as possible to somewhere better. Once you arrive in Málaga airport, chances are you'll want to head straight into town or to your resort. But you don't have to go too far from Málaga airport to find some fun things to do. Before you even reach Málaga itself, there are lots of attractions to check out in the area. For instance, you could:
- Explore the underwater world at Sea Life Benalmadena. This aquarium allows you to get up close and personal with the creatures that call the coastal waters of Andalusia home, including jellyfish, stingrays, turtles, and other aquatic creatures.
- Have some fun at Tivoli World. This amusement park offers rides such as roller coasters, bumper boats, a jungle train, and more. It also provides shows for both kids and adults to keep the whole family entertained.
- Do some shopping at Málaga Factory Outlet. This outlet mall close to the airport is home to brands such as Desigual, Spagnolo, Mango, and more. Whether you forgot to bring something you need or just feel like picking up some stylish souvenirs, this is a great place to scratch your retail itch.
- Marvel at the opulence of the past at the Palacio de Valdeflores. This 18th-century building was once the home of a Marquis, a member of the Spanish nobility. Its well-preserved arches and marble columns speak to this history, along with the original ceilings that remain in the upper rooms.
- Spend some time relaxing at the Playa de los Alamos. This developed Beach offers a huge stretch of sand where you can rent chairs and umbrellas and take in views over the Mediterranean. The water is warm in the summer months, and there is no shortage of bars and restaurants to keep you refreshed while you soak up the Spanish sunshine.
Transit options at Málaga Airport
- Terminal 3 has a station for Málaga’s suburban train line. Trains run to the city every 20 minutes.
- An underground bus station in Terminal 3 connects the airport to the city. Bus M110 takes around 24 minutes to reach the city from the airport.
- The city can also be reached by taxi in approximately 20 minutes.
Luggage storage near Málaga Airport
Málaga is by no means the largest city in Spain, but with the amount of tourists it gets, the place can seem overrun with foreigners, particularly in the summer months. Thanks to its southerly location, warm weather, and tranquil seas, Málaga draws visitors from all over Europe and beyond looking to soak up the sun and enjoy the culture of Andalusia.
Taxis, trains, and buses are no place to be carrying heavy bags. Nor are the narrow streets of Málaga's Old Town. Make your trip easier on yourself by dropping off any unneeded luggage at a Bounce location near Málaga airport. Spare your back by leaving any size of luggage for as little or as much time as you need, knowing it will be safely looked after until you return.
Attractions and activities near Málaga Airport
- Málaga Cathedral: Málaga's impressive cathedral is nicknamed La Manquita, or the one-armed lady. Its planned 2nd tower was never completed because the funds raised to build it were instead sent to the British colonies in North America to help them achieve independence. Even with just one tower, the Baroque façade of this church is magnificent, and so are the priceless artworks inside.
- Jardin Botánico Histórico La Concepción: This botanical garden was built in 1855 and hosts the largest collection of subtropical plants in Europe. The black bamboo forest is a particular highlight, as are the purple wisteria flowers of spring. And that's to say nothing of the sweeping views over the city and the sea beyond. Enjoy your time at the botanical garden thoroughly by leaving any heavy bags at a convenient luggage storage near Málaga airport so you can explore at your leisure.
- Muelle Uno: The seafront promenade stretches along the coastline by Málaga's port and is bursting with unique stores and restaurants. If possible, try to visit on the 2nd Sunday of the month to check out El Zoco, a local market of gourmet food and handmade products you won’t find anywhere else. This bustling area is no place for heavy bags, so make sure to drop yours off at a Málaga luggage storage shop before you visit.
