The ABC's of Driving in Malaga

Nestled along the southern coast of Spain, the Province of Malaga is a sought-after holiday destination, and it's easy to see why. Its beaches, basking in the sun on the famous Costa del Sol, are just the beginning. The vibrant city of Malaga is brimming with cultural gems waiting to be discovered. To truly experience the diverse beauty of this remarkable region, consider renting a car. This allows you to journey through the stunning landscapes, from picturesque sandy shores to lush, green mountains.

Hiring a car in Malaga

If you're heading to Malaga, renting a car at Malaga Airport is a smart choice, as it's the primary gateway to Costa del Sol. Be sure to book your car in advance to ensure a smooth and speedy pickup. Having your own vehicle right from the start will provide you with the ultimate freedom to explore. Additionally, it simplifies the journey to your hotel or vacation rental, which is particularly beneficial if you're traveling with children, a lot of luggage, or both!

Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport, or Aeropuerto de Malaga-Costa del Sol as it's known in Spanish, is conveniently located just a short drive from the city center, typically taking around 15-20 minutes during non-peak hours. Notably, major car rental companies like Avis, Europcar, Hertz, and Sixt have their offices situated on level -1 of the terminal. Beyond the car rental options available at the airport, you'll find additional offices in downtown Malaga, including at the Malaga María Zambrano Train Station. This location offers easy access to some of the city's key attractions, such as the Malaga Popular Art Museum and the birthplace of Pablo Picasso.

To assist you in making the best choice, utilize our advanced booking engine to discover the perfect vehicle and the most convenient pick-up location for your needs. An interactive map is also available, showcasing all the car rental spots throughout Malaga.

Driving around Malaga Province

Driving in Malaga is quite similar to navigating the roads in other parts of Spain, so it's essential to familiarize yourself with the local driving customs compared to the UK. One of the main points to keep in mind is that Spaniards drive on the right side of the road, reserving the left lane primarily for overtaking. Additionally, be prepared for a more aggressive driving style, which might catch you off guard if you're not expecting it.

Watch out for toll roads, known as autopista de peaje, which are typically indicated by a 'peaje' sign. You'll need to be prepared to use these routes, as they require payment either by card or cash, either manually or electronically.

The AP-7, also known as the Autopista del Sol, runs southwest from Malaga along the coast, passing through popular areas like Fuengirola and Marbella. If you'd prefer to avoid tolls, you can opt for the busier A-7, which runs parallel to the AP-7. Similarly, the AP-46, which heads north from Malaga towards Córdoba, also has tolls, but you can bypass these by taking the A-45 instead.

Driving within the city of Malaga

The streets in and around Malaga can become quite congested, particularly due to the surge in tourist activity during the summer. While having a car is undoubtedly the most convenient way to explore all that the Costa del Sol presents, be prepared for potential delays during peak season. In addition to the usual morning and evening traffic, it's wise to steer clear of the A-7 coastal route and the A-45 (Las Pedrizas) in July and August, as many locals flock to the beaches during this time.

Parking in Malaga's city center can be quite a challenge, with limited street options and a slim chance of finding free spots. To make your visit smoother, it's wise to check out the locations of municipal parking facilities before you head out. You can find a detailed list on the city's tourism website. Consider parking at Cervantes (Calle Cervantes, 2), Camas (Calle Cama, 20), or Tejon (Calle Tejon y Rodriguez, 5), all conveniently situated near many of Malaga's popular attractions. The key is to plan ahead and have a few backup parking options in mind, just in case your first choice is full.