Getting Around: Malaga

Public Transportation System

The city's main mode of public transport is buses, operated by EMT Málaga. An extensive network covers the entire city, extending to surrounding neighborhoods and some coastal areas. Buses are a reliable and cost-effective way to reach most parts of Malaga.

The Metro de Málaga is a modern system with two lines (Line 1 and Line 2). It runs underground in the historic city center and on the surface in outer areas, connecting districts like the university campus and major hospitals. Extensions are ongoing, with plans for further city center integration.

Transit Details

Bus Hub: Alameda Principal. Metro Hubs: El Perchel (train/bus station connection) and Guadalmedina (Line 1 & 2 transfer).
Single Bus Ticket: €1.40 (from driver). Single Metro Ticket: €1.35 (from machines).
Multi-trip Card (Tarjeta de Transporte): Rechargeable (€0.30 card cost), reduces fares significantly (e.g., bus: €0.83, metro: €0.33-€0.82). Multiple people can share one card.
Hours: Buses ~06:30-23:00 (some night lines on weekends). Metro ~06:30-23:00 (Mon-Thurs), ~06:30-01:30 (Fri), ~07:00-01:30 (Sat), ~07:00-23:00 (Sun/Holidays).

Bus Accessibility

Newer buses are low-floor and equipped with ramps for wheelchair users. Older bus stops may present less accessibility.

Metro Accessibility

All metro stations generally provide accessibility with lifts and escalators for mobility needs.

Navigation Apps

Use Google Maps for real-time directions. Download the EMT Málaga app for detailed bus routes and real-time locations.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

Identification: White cars with a blue diagonal stripe and a green roof light indicating availability.
Hailing: On the street if available, at designated taxi stands (airport, train station, major squares), or by phone call.
Fares: Metered (Tariff 1 daytime, Tariff 2 night/weekend/holiday). Minimum fare and surcharges apply. Most accept cash; credit cards are increasingly accepted.

Ride-Sharing Services

Recommended Apps: Uber, Cabify (popular in Spain), and Bolt operate in Malaga.
Benefits: Fixed prices before journey, cashless payment, driver and vehicle details for safety.
Airport/Station: Dedicated taxi stands. For ride-sharing, follow app instructions for pickup points.

Rental Options and Driving

Car Rental

Age 21-25+, full valid license (IDP for non-EU), credit card for deposit. Book in advance. Major and local companies available. DiscoverCars.com offers options.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Available from specialized shops. Requires specific license categories. Helmets are mandatory.

Bicycle Rental

Malaga Bici (public system) or private shops offer city, mountain, and electric bikes for various durations.

Driving Laws

Drive on the right. Seatbelts mandatory. Strict speed limits. No mobile phones while driving. Strict drink-driving laws.

Walking and Cycling

Exploring Malaga on foot or by bicycle offers unique perspectives and is often the best way to experience the city's charm.

Pedestrian Areas

Malaga's historic center is largely pedestrianized, ideal for walking.
Calle Larios: The main, elegant shopping street, entirely pedestrian.
Central squares: Plaza de la Constitución, Plaza de la Merced, Plaza del Obispo for strolling and people-watching.
Muelle Uno and Palmeral de las Sorpresas, and Malagueta Beach Promenade are excellent for leisurely walks with sea views.

Cycling & Safety

Bike Lanes: Dedicated lanes exist along the coast and towards the university, offering safer routes.
Road Cycling: Caution is necessary on main roads due to vehicle traffic. Awareness of surroundings and local traffic laws is .
Safety: Helmets are recommended, especially outside city limits. Always lock your bicycle securely.
No specific "no-go" areas for pedestrians or cyclists in terms of safety, but caution is advisable on busy roads without dedicated infrastructure.

Specialized Transport and Accessibility

Tour Buses

City Sightseeing Malaga offers hop-on hop-off bus tours covering major attractions. Audio commentary in multiple languages is available.

Double-decker buses for panoramic views.
Alight and re-board at your leisure.
A comprehensive city overview.

Unique Local Transport

Teleférico Benalmádena (Cable Car): Located in nearby Benalmádena, this cable car provides panoramic views ascending Mount Calamorro.

Easily accessible by Cercanías train from Malaga.
Offers stunning vistas of the Costa del Sol.
A popular day trip option.

Accessibility Services

Malaga strives to be an accessible city. Newer buses and the metro system are designed for accessibility.

Most modern museums and attractions have ramps or elevators.
Some historic sites may present challenges for full mobility.
Contact specific attractions in advance to confirm features.

Comparison of Rental Vehicle Types

Small Car Daily Cost: €25 - €60

Best for day trips, exploring beyond city, luggage flexibility.
Parking in city can be difficult/expensive. IDP needed for non-EU license.

Scooter/Motorcycle Daily Cost: €30 - €70

Best for shorter coastal trips, nimble city travel for individuals.
Requires specific license category. Less safe than car. Helmets mandatory.

Bicycle City Daily Cost: €10 - €20

Best for city exploration, coastal promenade, short distances.
Limited range. Heat in summer can be intense. Bike lanes are not always extensive.

E-Bike Daily Cost: €25 - €40

Best for longer city/coastal rides with less effort, tackling inclines.
Heavier than regular bikes. Requires charging. Similar considerations to regular bike.

Final Recommendation

Malaga's walkable city center and efficient public transport mean renting a car is only for exploring beyond city limits.

Consider guided walking tours to experience the city's charm. Numerous options cover history, culture, and local cuisine. Self-guided tours are also possible using maps or travel apps.

Getting Around Malaga