TLDR
Benalmádena is one of the easiest resort towns on the Costa del Sol to reach. Málaga airport (AGP) is only 20km away, and you have three reliable options: the Cercanías C-1 train, the M-103 bus or a taxi. This guide walks through each, with prices in EUR, journey times, and the option we use ourselves depending on luggage and arrival time.
You can be on the terrace at Puerto Marina 30 minutes after landing at AGP. Here is the route that works best for the way you are traveling.
Insider Tip
The Cercanías train station at the airport is inside the T3 terminal. Follow the signs for “Cercanías Renfe” as soon as you exit baggage claim. The walk is under 5 minutes on flat ground.
Planning your trip? Check current rates at Hotel Marina Benalmádena. A handy base for exploring the Costa del Sol with Puerto Marina right outside the door.
From Málaga Airport (AGP) to Benalmádena
Cercanías C-1 Train (Best Value)
The C-1 train runs from Málaga airport to Benalmádena Arroyo de la Miel station in about 20 minutes. Trains leave every 20 minutes during the day. A one-way ticket costs 2.05 EUR. Buy it at the machine in the station using coins or a contactless card. This is the option we recommend for anyone with normal-sized luggage.
From Arroyo de la Miel station, Hotel Marina Benalmádena at Puerto Marina is a 10-minute taxi (around 7 to 9 EUR) or a 25-minute walk downhill. You can also take local bus M-103 or M-220, but a taxi at that hour is usually easier.
Airport Bus M-103
The M-103 bus runs directly from the airport to Benalmádena Costa and Puerto Marina. It takes around 35 to 45 minutes depending on traffic and stops along the way. A one-way ticket is 2.50 EUR. Buy it from the driver with exact change. This is the best option if your hotel is on the coast and you have a lot of luggage, because it skips the Arroyo de la Miel transfer.
Taxi
A taxi from Málaga airport to Puerto Marina is a fixed tariff of around 27 to 35 EUR depending on time of day. The ride takes 20 to 30 minutes via the AP-7 motorway. Taxis are well regulated, and there is a rank right outside arrivals. For late arrivals (after 22:00) or families with children and buggies, a taxi is often the sanest choice.
Private Transfer
Private transfers cost 35 to 55 EUR for a sedan or 65 to 85 EUR for a minivan. Worth it if you are traveling with six or more people or if you want to guarantee a specific pickup time. Book before you land.
Getting Around Benalmádena Once You Are There
Benalmádena spreads across three main areas: Benalmádena Pueblo (the old town on the hillside), Arroyo de la Miel (the central residential area with the train station), and Benalmádena Costa including Puerto Marina (the coastal strip). They are connected but too spread out to walk between.
Local Buses
Avanza and Consorcio de Transporte operate the M-103, M-110, M-220 and other routes linking the three areas. Single ticket 1.55 EUR. Buses run from around 06:30 to 23:00. You can check live times on the Consorcio website or in Google Maps.
Cable Car (Teleférico)
The Teleférico from Arroyo de la Miel climbs to the summit of Mount Calamorro at 771m. It is a 15-minute ride and runs most of the year, except closed days in January. Tickets around 18.50 EUR return. The summit has a restaurant and panoramic walking trails.
Bicycles and E-Scooters
The Paseo Marítimo runs from Benalmádena through Torremolinos all the way to Málaga city, about 18km of flat seafront. Bike and e-scooter rentals cost 15 to 25 EUR per day. A scenic and free way to explore without a car.
Day Trips: Trains, Buses and Car Rentals
The Cercanías C-1 line runs east to Málaga and west to Fuengirola. Trains every 20 minutes, tickets 1.80 to 2.70 EUR. For Marbella, Estepona, Ronda or Gibraltar you need a bus or a car. Avanza buses leave from Arroyo de la Miel station. Car rental at Málaga airport starts from around 25 EUR per day in shoulder season.
If you plan to do two or more day trips beyond the C-1 line, a rental car for just those days is often cheaper and faster than buses. Park & ride works well at Arroyo de la Miel if you want to go into Málaga city and leave the car behind.
Stay Right on Puerto Marina
Hotel Marina Benalmádena sits steps from Playa Malapesquera and the famous Islamic-inspired marina designed by Álvaso Sáenz. Walk to over 100 bars and restaurants, ride the Cercanías C-1 train to Málaga in 20 minutes, and watch sunsets from the rooftop with Mount Calamorro in the background.
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“How clean this hotel is! And def worth it for the price even if it is a cozy room. Very nice stay before a flight back. Beautiful decor in the room. Very nice friendly customer service and staff.”
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Frequently Asked Questions
“How clean this hotel is! And def worth it for the price even if it is a cozy room. Very nice stay before a flight back. Beautiful decor in the room. Very nice friendly customer service and staff.”
See More Reviews →What is the cheapest way from Málaga airport to Benalmádena?
The Cercanías C-1 train at 2.05 EUR one way. It runs every 20 minutes and takes about 20 minutes to Arroyo de la Miel. You will still need a short taxi or local bus to reach Puerto Marina.
Is Uber or Bolt available in Benalmádena?
Bolt operates in Málaga and the Costa del Sol. Regular white-and-blue taxis are more reliable and have fixed airport tariffs. Uber coverage is patchy outside Málaga city.
Do I need a car for a week in Benalmádena?
Not if you are staying at Puerto Marina and doing day trips by train or bus. A car is helpful for Ronda, Nerja and the white villages, but often easier to rent just for those days.
How late does the Cercanías C-1 train run?
Roughly 05:30 to 23:30 every day. Check the Renfe Cercanías app for the exact last train from your direction on your travel date.
Can I walk from Arroyo de la Miel station to Puerto Marina?
Yes, in about 25 minutes downhill, or 35 minutes back up. With luggage a taxi (around 7 to 9 EUR) is much easier, especially in summer heat.
Hotel Marina Benalmádena Photos
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