MileHacker Logo
Getting There & Away

Getting There & Away

Andalucia, Spain

Air Travel

Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport AGP

This is the main airport for Nerja. It sits approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) west of Nerja. AGP ranks as Spain's fourth busiest airport and a major international gateway for the Costa del Sol.

Transfers to Nerja

  • Bus: Most economical. Take Airport Express to Málaga city center, then ALSA bus to Nerja.
  • Taxi: Direct outside terminal, ~€75-€90 one-way.
  • Private Transfer: Pre-booked, door-to-door service.

Federico García Lorca Granada-Jaén Airport GRX

Located about 100 kilometers (62 miles) north of Nerja. Smaller, mainly domestic flights. Less direct transport links.

Transfers from GRX

  • Bus to Granada city center, then another bus to Nerja.
  • Fewer direct routes to Europe.
  • Longer travel time to Nerja.

Europe Flights

Widely available from major European cities.

Price Fluctuations

Higher prices during summer high season.

Airport Facilities

Duty-free shops, restaurants, car rental, free Wi-Fi.

Explore by Car

Car Rental Companies

  • Major international companies (Hertz, Avis) at Málaga Airport.
  • Book in advance for better rates.
  • Drive to Nerja is straightforward via A-7 motorway.
  • IDP (International Driving Permit) for non-EU citizens.

Find Your Ride

Border Crossings

EU Citizens

If traveling from Portugal or France by land, border crossings are typically seamless due to the Schengen Area agreement.

Non-EU Citizens

Standard passport control procedures apply when crossing international borders into Spain. You need your passport and any required visa documentation.

Documentation

Keep your passport and visa documentation ready for inspection at all times when crossing international borders.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Nerja does not have its own train station. The nearest major train station is Málaga María Zambrano.

From Málaga Station

  • High-speed AVE trains connect Málaga to Madrid, Barcelona, Seville.
  • Transfer to a bus for the journey to Nerja.
  • Purchase tickets online or at station.

Long-Distance Buses

ALSA is the main intercity bus provider for Nerja and the surrounding region.

ALSA Network

  • Regular direct services from Málaga, Granada, and Seville.
  • Buses run frequently throughout the day.
  • Book online via ALSA website or app.

Self-Driving: Requirements

Renting a vehicle offers freedom and flexibility for exploring Nerja and the wider Andalusian region.

Needs

  • International Driving Permit (IDP) for non-EU citizens.
  • Credit card in main driver's name for deposit.
  • Most companies require drivers to be 21+, young driver surcharge for under 25.

Self-Driving: Road Conditions

Roads in Andalucían are generally well-maintained and in good condition.

Navigating Spain

  • Drive on the right side. Seatbelts mandatory.
  • Speed limits clearly posted.
  • Parking in town center challenging, paid garages available.

Sea/River Arrivals

  • Nerja does not have a large commercial port or direct ferry services.
  • Nearest major cruise port is Málaga.
  • No significant river transportation options for public transport.
  • Immigration procedures at Málaga port are similar to airports.
  • From Málaga port, taxis and local buses take you to María Zambrano station for Nerja.
  • Local rivers are mainly for recreational activities like the Rio Chillar walk.

Departure Information

Airport Departures Málaga AGP

Spain does not impose specific departure taxes for air travel. These costs are typically included in your flight ticket price.

Timing Recommendations

  • International flights outside Schengen: arrive 2-3 hours before departure.
  • Domestic flights or within Schengen: 1.5-2 hours.
  • Time for check-in, baggage drop-off, security screening.

Bus Station Departures Nerja

The Nerja bus station (Estación de Autobuses de Nerja on Calle Pescia) handles bus departures.

Timing Recommendations

  • Arrive at least 15-30 minutes before scheduled departure time.
  • Allows time to locate your bus and load luggage.
  • Confirm your bus schedule 24-48 hours before departure.

Málaga Airport Facilities

Departure areas offer duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, bars, and lounges.

Nerja Bus Station Facilities

Basic facilities, ticket counters, waiting areas, and often a small cafe or vending machines.

Pre-Departure Check

Confirm your flight or bus schedule 24-48 hours before departure. Check for any delays or changes.

Departure Check

Confirm your flight or bus schedule 24-48 hours before departure. Check for any delays or changes, especially during adverse weather conditions.