Malaga Airport Guide

Written by Joeri Van Overloop

Malaga-Costa Del Sol Airport (AGP)

Malaga-Costa Del Sol Airport (IATA: AGP, ICAO: LEMG), also known as Pablo Picasso Airport, is located 7 km southwest of Málaga's city center and plays a crucial role in Spain’s air travel network, particularly for the Costa del Sol region. Airlines with a base at the airport are Air Europa, Scandinavian Airlines, Ryanair, Vueling and Easyjet which operates on a seasonal base.

Opening Year and Major Milestones

As part of the Public Business Entity AENA, Aeropuertos Españoles y Navegación Aérea it opened in 1919, and has witnessed significant milestones over the years. It started with test flights and quickly transitioned to scheduled air service. The airport’s journey from a humble origin to becoming a busy hub includes key dates like the inauguration of its modern terminal in 2010, accommodating growing passenger numbers.

Significance in Spain’s Air Travel History

Malaga Airport is the fourth busiest in Spain, following Madrid, Barcelona, and Palma de Mallorca. Its position as a gateway to the Costa del Sol makes it vital for tourism. The airport’s importance is highlighted by its status as the primary airport for popular destinations such as Torremolinos, Marbella, and Fuengirola.

Recent Expansions and Renovations

The airport has undergone several expansions, including the renovation of its terminals and improved access routes via train, bus, and taxi. Recent enhancements aim to better manage the increasing passenger flow and provide improved amenities. Upgrades have included new parking facilities, additional gates, and modernized security systems.

Terminals Overview

Málaga Airport is a bustling hub with three main terminals: Terminal 1 (T1), Terminal 2 (T2), and Terminal 3 (T3). Each terminal is designed to cater to different types of flights and passenger needs.

Terminal 1

Terminal 1 (T1) is primarily used for domestic flights. This terminal includes essential services like check-in counters, baggage claim, and several dining options to ensure your journey starts smoothly.

Terminal 2

Terminal 2 (T2) is where you'll find many international flights. Popular airlines such as Ryanair and Vueling operate from here. T2 features spacious seating areas, duty-free shops, and various restaurants, giving you plenty of ways to pass the time before your flight.

Terminal 3

Terminal 3 (T3) is the newest and most modern part of the airport. It's equipped with advanced facilities, including fast-track security, free Wi-Fi, and a wide selection of shopping and dining options. T3 is designed to handle the increasing number of international travelers coming into Málaga.

The General Aviation Terminal is another key feature of Málaga Airport. It caters to private flights and offers a more exclusive and luxurious experience for those flying privately.

Live Departures & Arrivals

Public Transportation Options

Bus

Buses are an economical and convenient way to travel from Malaga Airport. The Express Line A bus connects the airport to Malaga city center. This service operates every 30 minutes and costs 4 euros when ticket is purchased on the bus, making it an affordable choice for budget travelers.

Several regional buses also serve other locations like Torremolinos, Benalmadena, and Marbella. The bus stops are at Terminal 3, right outside the arrivals. For schedules, tickets, and routes, check the official bus operator's website or the information desk at the airport.

Train

The Cercanías C1 train line provides a fast and efficient way to travel from Malaga Airport to nearby destinations. Trains run every 20 minutes and connect the airport with Malaga city center and Fuengirola, stopping at several key stations including Torremolinos and Benalmadena.

The underground train station at Malaga Airport is conveniently located under Terminal 3. Tickets can be purchased at the station or online, and the journey to Malaga city center takes approximately 12 minutes. Trains are a great option for those prioritizing speed and reliability.

Taxi

Taxis are available 24/7 at Malaga Airport and provide a flexible and comfortable way to reach your destination. The taxi rank is located outside Terminal 3. Fares to the city center typically range from 20 to 30 euros, while trips to tourist destinations like Marbella can cost around 60 to 70 euros.

Taxis operate on a metered basis, and rates may vary depending on time and day. For long distances, consider pre-booking to avoid surprises. Most taxi drivers speak basic English, easing communication for international travelers.

Car Rental

For those who prefer the freedom to explore, 9 car rental services are readily available at Malaga Airport. Leading companies like Hertz, Avis, and Europcar have desks in the arrivals area of Terminal 3. Other car rental companies have their offices outside the terminal but close to the airport (Alamo, Centauro, Delpaso, Flizzr, Keddy by Europcar, National).

Rent-a-Car Parking Area

This parking section is designated for the pick-up and drop-off of rental vehicles from various car hire companies operating at Malaga Airport. The areas allocated for these activities are as follows:

Vehicle Collection:

- Floors P0 and P-1 of car park P2.

Vehicle Return:

- Floors P-1 and P-2 of car park P1.

Parking is free for the pick-up and return of rental cars. Be sure to return your vehicle to the specific area designated for your rental car company to avoid incurring public parking rates. Unauthorized vehicles parked in these sections will be towed, and the owner will be responsible for paying the towing fee.

Parking at Malaga Airport

Malaga Airport offers six designated parking areas for public use, all conveniently located within the airport premises. These parking zones cater to different needs, including long-term, general, and short-term parking, as well as areas with height clearance above 2.10 meters and VIP parking options.

The six parking zones are strategically positioned near terminals T2 and T3, the General Aviation terminal, the aeronautical activities area, and the VIP section.

Short Term Parking

P1 CAR PARK - GENERAL PUBLIC PARKING

Located in front of Terminal T1, the P1 area features a 5-floor building and part of the first floor in the annex building P2, accessible via the first floor. It accommodates 1,471 parking spaces, with 57 reserved for Persons with Reduced Mobility (PMRs). This area is linked to Terminal T3 by a passageway on the second floor and connects to the check-in or arrivals area on floor P0. Availability of free spaces is indicated by a pilot light system.

P1 Tariffs:

• First minute: €0.8925
• Minutes 2 to 30: €0.024509 per minute
• From minute 31 onward: €0.046558 per minute
• Maximum per day up to 4 days: €19.00
• Maximum per day from the 5th day: €16.50

DEPARTURES CAR PARK - EXPRESS PARKING

The Departures car park, or "Parking de Salidas," occupies the first floor of building P2, directly across from the departures area of Terminal T2, with access to Terminal T3. This section includes 300 parking spaces, with 11 reserved for PMRs. It is recommended for short-term parking and offers 10 minutes of free parking for quick drop-offs or pickups.

Departures Tariffs:

• First minute: €1.9125
• Minutes 2 to 30: €0.050591 per minute
• From minute 31 onward: €0.099766 per minute
• Maximum per day: €58.00

ARRIVALS CAR PARK - ARRIVALS PARKING

The Arrivals car park, or "Parking de Llegadas," provides easy and direct access to the airport's Arrivals area. It offers 91 parking spaces, with 3 reserved for PMRs.

Arrivals Tariffs:

• First minute: €1.00
• Minutes 2 to 30: €0.052952 per minute
• From minute 31 to 61: €0.07733 per minute
• From minute 31 onward: €0.086464 per minute
• Maximum per day: €36.00

Long Term Parking

P3 CAR PARK - LONG-STAY PARKING AT MALAGA AIRPORT

This open-air parking facility with covered spaces is located in the aeronautical activities zone and offers an on-demand shuttle bus service that connects to the passenger terminals. There are 354 parking spots available, with 17 designated for Persons with Reduced Mobility (PMRs).

P3 Long-Stay Tariffs:

• Per day: €19.00

P7 CAR PARK - GENERAL AVIATION TERMINAL AT MALAGA AIRPORT

Positioned at the General Aviation Terminal, this parking area offers 47 spaces, including one reserved exclusively for PMRs.

P7 General Aviation Terminal Parking Tariffs:

• Rates are unavailable. For details, please contact 952 048 122 or 952 048 208.

MALAGA AIRPORT VIP CAR PARK

Located at Terminal T3, the VIP car park includes 5 spaces in the departures area and an additional 6 in the arrivals area. This facility provides a 24-hour driver service for vehicle collection and delivery at the departures terminal entrance. Reservations must be made at least 3 hours in advance. The customer service office for the VIP car park is situated in the arrivals area of Terminal T3.

VIP Car Park Tariffs:

• 1 day: €47.00
• 2 days: €49.00
• 3 days: €65.00
• 4 days: €84.00
• 5 days: €100.50
• 6 days: €117.00

Airport Services and Amenities

Malaga Airport offers a variety of services and amenities to ensure your travel experience is comfortable and convenient. Key highlights include extensive shopping and dining options, VIP lounges for a more relaxed experience, robust Wi-Fi availability, and comprehensive business services.

Shopping

At Malaga Airport, you will find a wide array of shops catering to multiple needs. Duty-free shopping is a major perk, offering tax-free products such as perfumes, cosmetics, and electronics.

You can also explore boutiques like Desigual, where you’ll find stylish clothing and accessories. Many stores operate with extended hours, making it convenient to shop regardless of your flight time. Whether you're looking for last-minute travel essentials or gifts, the shopping experience here won’t disappoint.

Dining

The dining options at Malaga Airport cater to various tastes and preferences. You’ll find an array of restaurants, cafes, and bars scattered throughout the terminal.

From fast-food outlets such as Burger King to sit-down eateries serving Spanish and international cuisine, there’s something for everyone. 24-hour food options are available for those arriving or departing at odd hours.

Some popular options include tapas bars for a taste of local flavor and global chains for those who prefer familiar meals. The diverse dining scene ensures you won’t go hungry while waiting for your flight.

VIP Lounges

For those seeking a more exclusive and tranquil environment, the airport offers several VIP lounges. These lounges provide a peaceful respite from the bustling terminal with comfortable seating, complimentary snacks and beverages, and high-speed Wi-Fi.

Access to the lounges can be gained through various means, including specific airline memberships, credit cards, or paid entry.

Wi-Fi

Staying connected is crucial, and Malaga Airport ensures you have access to Wi-Fi throughout the terminal. The service is free and relatively easy to access; you just need to connect to the airport's designated network.

Wi-Fi speeds are generally sufficient for email, browsing, and social media. However, if you need more bandwidth for activities like streaming or video calls, consider using the advanced Wi-Fi services available in VIP lounges or business centers. Having reliable internet makes it easier to pass time and stay in touch with loved ones or colleagues.

Smoking areas

There are no smoking areas in the airport. Smoking is only permitted in designated areas outside the terminal.

Fast Lane access

Priority access is open 24 hours. Children 5 and under will be able to access free of charge as long as they are travelling with adults entitled to use this service. Fast Track tickets, costing around 5.80€ to 10.41€ per person, are available online or at the airport to speed up this process.

Business Services

For business travelers, Malaga Airport provides a variety of business services to help you stay productive on the go. Facilities include meeting rooms, workstations, and charging points.

The airport's business centers are equipped with essential amenities such as printers and phones, ensuring you can manage work tasks without interruption. Some VIP lounges also offer dedicated business areas with added privacy and comfort.

Whether you need to conduct a meeting, handle urgent emails, or simply charge your devices, the business services at Malaga Airport cater to all your professional needs.

Passenger Facilities

Malaga Airport offers various passenger facilities to enhance your travel experience. These amenities include accessibility services, family-friendly spaces, and medical services to ensure comfort and convenience.

Accessibility Services

Malaga Airport is equipped to support passengers with reduced mobility. You will find dedicated assistance points throughout the terminal where you can request help. These points include features like ramps, elevators, and wheelchair access to ensure ease of movement.

The staff at Malaga Airport is trained to assist with boarding, deplaning, and navigating the airport. They work closely with airlines to provide seamless assistance from check-in to boarding gates. Pre-notifying the airline about your requirements can help streamline the process.

Family and Child-Friendly Amenities

Traveling with families and children is made easier with numerous amenities at Malaga Airport. There are designated play areas where children can unwind and have fun while waiting for flights. These areas are equipped with age-appropriate toys and activities.

Additionally, you will find family restrooms and baby care facilities equipped with changing tables and nursing areas. Airport restaurants and shops also cater to families with kid-friendly menus and items. Strollers are available on request to make navigating the terminal easier for parents.

Medical Services

Your well-being is a priority at Malaga Airport. The Medical Centre is located in Terminal T3, Floor 0. There is a pharmacy located in T3, Floor 1, Departures. There are first aid stations staffed with trained professionals ready to assist with minor injuries or illnesses.

For urgent medical situations, the airport has strategically placed defibrillators throughout the terminal. These devices can be crucial in handling cardiac emergencies. If you have any specific medical needs, it’s advisable to inform the airport staff or your airline in advance to ensure adequate preparations are made.

Security and Customs

Security Procedures

You should arrive at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international one. The airport operators target a 10-minute wait for passing through security, though this can vary during peak periods. 

Customs Regulations

For international passengers, particularly those traveling to or from non-EU countries:

• Ensure you declare items if required.
• Follow guidelines for prohibited items.
• Liquids in hand luggage must be in containers no larger than 100ml, and all containers should fit into a single transparent, resealable plastic bag.

Passport Control

If you are arriving from non-European Union countries, you will undergo passport control. EU citizens usually have a different, often faster line. Remember to keep your travel documents easily accessible.

Helpful Tips

• Locate the information booths on the ground floor of Terminal 1 and various levels of Terminal 2 if you need assistance.
• Be prepared for security checks with properly packed bags and current identification forms.

VAT Refund

If you are a non-EU resident and wish to claim a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund for purchases made in Spain, you need to follow certain procedures. First, present the purchased goods along with "tax-free" invoices at the airport's duty reduction office for stamping before checking in your luggage. This process is managed by the Civil Guard.

Tax Refund Office:

• Location: Terminal Level 1, Check-in Area
• Contact: (+34) 952 974 648

If you have a DIVA form to validate your purchases, you can skip the manual stamping process by using automatic machines or electronic readers available in the check-in areas for DIVA forms.

To receive your VAT refund after electronic validation or manual invoice stamping, you must either visit the tax-free management entities at the airport or send the sealed/validated invoices back to the respective establishment.

Airport Change Offices:

• Location: Terminal Level 1, Boarding Area
• Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 6:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.; Saturdays and Sundays, 7:00 a.m. - 12:00 a.m.

Lost & Found

If you find yourself missing personal belongings at Malaga Airport, there are several ways to get them back. The Lost and Found office is located in Terminal 3 (T3), in the Departures area behind the check-in desks 363-386.

You can contact the office by calling 952 048 837 or 952 048 851. For additional assistance, the central contact number is 913 211 000. Email queries can be directed to objetosperdidosagp@aena.es .

For efficient recovery, be ready with:

• Description of the lost item
• Date and flight number
• Your contact information

The more detailed your description, the better the chances of recovery.