How to Get to Marbella from Abroad: Airports, Trains and Transfers
Getting to Marbella from abroad is easier than many imagine. The city boasts an extensive network of international connections combining airports, high-speed trains, modern highways, and ferries to North Africa. In this guide, you will discover how to get to Marbella from abroad in the fastest and most comfortable way, whether you are coming for a season or considering investing or relocating permanently.
Which is the closest airport to Marbella?
The closest airport to Marbella is the Málaga–Costa del Sol International Airport (AGP), located about 52 kilometers from the city center. It is the fourth busiest airport in Spain and a true gateway to the Mediterranean.
From there, more than 150 international destinations operate, with direct flights to London, Paris, Amsterdam, Brussels, Zurich, Stockholm, Copenhagen, and Dubai, among others. During the summer, additional connections are added to Northern European and Middle Eastern cities, allowing for easy travel year-round.
In summary:
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✈️ Main airport: Málaga–Costa del Sol (AGP)
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🚗 Distance to Marbella: 45–50 minutes via AP-7 motorway
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🚌 Direct transport: bus, taxi, or private transfer
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🌍 Frequent flights: United Kingdom, France, Netherlands, Scandinavia, and the UAE
Additionally, the Gibraltar Airport (GIB), about 75 km from Marbella, offers regular flights to the United Kingdom (London, Manchester, Bristol). It is an interesting option for those living or investing on the western side of the Costa del Sol, especially between Estepona and Sotogrande.
What other airports are near Marbella?
If your flight doesn’t arrive directly to Málaga or Gibraltar, there are other nearby alternatives that connect to Marbella by road within a few hours.
| Airport | Distance to Marbella | Approx. travel time | Main destinations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Málaga (AGP) | 52 km | 45 min | London, Paris, Dubai, Brussels |
| Gibraltar (GIB) | 75 km | 1 h | United Kingdom |
| Jerez de la Frontera (XRY) | 160 km | 2 h | Germany, northern Spain |
| Seville (SVQ) | 200 km | 2 h 30 min | Western Europe |
This network of airports makes the Costa del Sol a highly accessible destination for international buyers, entrepreneurs, and families who travel frequently.
How to get to Marbella from abroad by train or AVE?
Although Marbella does not have a train station, the AVE (Spanish high-speed train) reaches Málaga María Zambrano, located about one hour away by car.
This station connects directly with Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Valencia, and Córdoba, offering a fast and comfortable journey.
Main travel times:
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🚄 Madrid – Málaga: 2 h 40 min
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🚄 Barcelona – Málaga: 5 h 45 min
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🚄 Seville – Málaga: 1 h 55 min
From Málaga station, you can continue to Marbella by direct bus or private transfer.
Companies such as Avanza or Flybus operate frequent routes throughout the day, and it is also possible to book a chauffeur service with personalized pickup — a popular choice among international second-home owners.
Can I get to Marbella by ferry?
Yes. If you are traveling from North Africa or looking to explore new routes, the ports of Málaga and Algeciras offer regular maritime connections.
From Algeciras, daily ferries depart for Ceuta and Tangier (Morocco) with trips lasting between 1 and 1.5 hours.
From Málaga, there are connections to Melilla, Tangier Med, and international cruise routes across the Mediterranean.
Most relevant nearby ports:
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⚓ Port of Málaga: international ferries and cruises.
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⚓ Port of Algeciras: fast ferries to Morocco.
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⚓ Puerto Banús: recreational use and private yachts.
If you own your own boat, the marinas of Puerto Banús and Marbella offer luxury moorings and exclusive services all year round.
How to get from Málaga Airport to Marbella?
Getting from Málaga Airport to Marbella is very simple.
There are several options depending on your budget, level of comfort, or travel frequency.
| Means of transport | Approx. duration | Estimated price | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🚗 Private transfer | 40–50 min | €80–120 | Comfort and discretion |
| 🚕 Taxi | 45 min | €70–90 | Direct ride without waiting |
| 🚌 Bus (Avanza) | 60 min | €9–12 | Budget option |
| 🚗 Rental car | Flexible | From €30/day | Long stays |
The AP-7 motorway is the fastest and most scenic route, offering sea views for almost the entire journey.
Many international residents choose to hire private chauffeur services or recurring transfers — a practical solution for those who frequently travel between Marbella and abroad.
What advantages does Málaga Airport offer as an international hub?
The Málaga–Costa del Sol Airport has become a true Southern Europe hub, with more than 18 million passengers per year and daily connections to over 100 cities.
Its three modern terminals offer top-tier services: fast track, VIP lounge, private jet rentals, and direct transport to the AVE train station.
Main advantages:
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Daily connections with Europe and the Middle East.
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Wide range of direct flights throughout the year.
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Exclusive services for frequent or business travelers.
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Excellent connection via the AP-7 motorway to Marbella.
Moreover, Málaga has established itself as an innovative and technological city, with a growing international community.
Its airport not only facilitates tourism but also boosts the mobility of those who choose to live or do business on the Costa del Sol.
Are there exclusive options such as private jets or helicopters?
Yes, and they are increasingly common among luxury villa buyers and business travelers.
Málaga Airport features several private terminals (FBOs) — including Signature Flight Support and Gestair — offering private jet flights with total discretion.
There are also private heliports in Marbella and Benahavís, as well as charter services that connect within minutes to other Andalusian cities or North Africa.
Companies such as Helity and HeliAir Marbella offer personalized flights and fast transfers for international clients.
How to travel between towns on the Costa del Sol?
The Costa del Sol is perfectly connected by road. The AP-7 motorway links all coastal towns — from Málaga to Algeciras — in under two hours.
This makes it easy to move between areas such as Benahavís, Estepona, Mijas, and Fuengirola without long journeys.
| Route | Average time | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Málaga – Marbella | 1 h | every 30–60 min |
| Marbella – Estepona | 40 min | hourly |
| Marbella – Benahavís | 25 min | local services |
| Marbella – Fuengirola | 45 min | hourly |
There are also plans for the coastal train project, which will connect Málaga with Marbella and Estepona in the future, further improving mobility and the area’s value.
Dont miss our Costa del Sol town's guide.
Why does good connectivity influence real estate investment?
An excellent transport network not only enhances quality of life but also increases property value.
International buyers appreciate being able to fly easily from their home country and reach their residence within just a few hours.
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From London: 2 h 45 min
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From Amsterdam: 3 h
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From Dubai: 7 h (direct flight)
This accessibility ensures a strong international demand, making Marbella a stable and secure real estate market for investment.
The best-connected areas — such as the Golden Mile or Nueva Andalucía — tend to maintain stable prices and high long-term profitability.
What makes Marbella so comfortable to live in all year round?
Beyond its beaches, climate, and gastronomy, Marbella offers a globally connected quality of life.
Its strategic location allows you to travel for work or leisure without sacrificing well-being.
Many foreign residents highlight how they can maintain their international professional activity while enjoying the Mediterranean lifestyle.
At FM Properties, we have been accompanying families, entrepreneurs, and retirees for over 30 years as they choose to settle on the Costa del Sol.
The combination of accessibility, modern infrastructure, and residential exclusivity makes Marbella an ideal destination both for living and investing.
Conclusion: Getting to Marbella from abroad has never been easier
If you are wondering how to get to Marbella from abroad, the answer is simple: in many ways — and all of them comfortable.
International airports, high-speed trains, safe highways, and regular ferries make Marbella closer to the world than ever before.
This connectivity not only makes holidays easier but also promotes a fulfilled and global lifestyle, where work, leisure, and home blend effortlessly.
At FM Properties, we help you take the next step — finding your ideal home on the Costa del Sol, matching your dreams and the excellent connections that make them possible.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Which is the closest airport to Marbella?
Málaga–Costa del Sol Airport (AGP), about 45 minutes by car.
2. Is there a direct train to Marbella?
No. The AVE goes to Málaga, and from there, there are direct buses and transfers to Marbella.
3. Can you reach Marbella by ferry?
Yes, from the ports of Algeciras or Málaga to North Africa.
4. How much does a transfer from the airport to Marbella cost?
Between €70 and €120, depending on the service.
5. Which countries offer direct flights to Málaga?
From the United Kingdom, France, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Scandinavia, and Dubai.
