The importance of Málaga Airport and its tourist environment

Málaga–Costa del Sol Airport is not just the air gateway to the provincial capital, but the major hub that supports tourism along the Costa del Sol. Located about 8 km southwest of the city of Málaga and 5-8 km from coastal municipalities such as Torremolinos, its position makes it a strategic resource for millions of travelers who arrive in Andalusia each year for leisure or business.

Why the location is key
The airport’s proximity to the coastline and the motorway network (A-7/AP-7) enables rapid transfers to the main tourist destinations: beaches, golf courses, marinas and historic centres. In addition, the suburban train connection (line C-1) links the terminal with Málaga city centre and nearby coastal towns, adding flexibility for travelers without a car. For those who prefer to rent a vehicle, pick-up at the airport ensures the first transfer does not depend on public transport which, despite its advantages, requires adaptation to fixed routes and timetables. This mix of road and rail accessibility explains why Málaga Airport is one of Spain’s busiest airports and a cornerstone of regional tourism.

Towns within an approximate 25 km radius
Here are the most relevant towns in the surroundings (especially those with the highest tourist interest), along with a brief reference to their size (official sources) and their relation to the airport:

• Málaga (city). The provincial capital and a cultural hub (museums, port, historic centre). It lies about 8-12 km from the airport, depending on the point of arrival in the city.
• Torremolinos. A well-established sun and beach destination with a lively nightlife, hotels and seafront promenades. Approximate distance to the airport: 5-8 km.
• Benalmádena. Another leading tourist city on the Costa del Sol with a strong family-oriented offering. Located about 12-15 km from the airport by road.
• Fuengirola. Known for its beach, seafront promenade and large accommodation capacity. Road distance: roughly 24 km, within the 25 km circle.
• Mijas (Mijas Costa / Las Lagunas / La Cala). A large municipality with both coastal and inland “white village” character. Distance to the airport ranges from 20–26 km (certain parts of Mijas Costa fall just inside the 25 km radius).
• Rincón de la Victoria. Although smaller than the above, it is relevant in the eastern corridor of Málaga. It falls within a functional travel distance from the airport, especially via the A-7.
• Alhaurín de la Torre / Alhaurín el Grande / Cártama. Inland nuclei located northwest of the airport; many travellers seeking rural accommodation or second-homes use these municipalities as a base. They are less than 25 km by car from the airport.

Places such as Marbella or Estepona, although premier tourist centres, lie beyond the 25 km range from the airport (Marbella is about 50 km and Estepona around 80 km) and are thus considered part of the wider Costa del Sol coastal strip but not within the immediate 25 km environment.

Tourist and economic implications
The fact that important hubs such as Málaga, Torremolinos, Benalmádena, Fuengirola and Mijas fall within the 25 km circle enables:

• Reduced time and cost for transfers, favouring short stays (week-ends, occasional leisure escapes in those cities) and increasing hotel turnover capacity.
• The attraction of both beach and cultural tourism: a visitor can land, drop luggage at the hotel and spend the afternoon in Málaga city centre or on the beach in less than 40 minutes.

The rental car awaits at the airport
If you are travelling to Málaga Airport and prefer the convenience of a vehicle on arrival, remember that Cafisa Rent a Car offers direct delivery service at the airport, facilitating immediate pickup and mobility throughout the Costa del Sol. With a rental car, the 25 km limit ceases to apply, especially given the Costa del Sol’s excellent road network.