If you're planning a sunny getaway filled with golden beaches, panoramic views and vibrant culture, Spain's Costa del Sol is the perfect destination for you. With its Mediterranean climate, historic charm and wide range of activities, it's a place that attracts travellers from all over the world. In this article, we'll provide you with valuable tips on how to get to the Costa del Sol and make the most of your experience in this coastal paradise from GR Estates.

Málaga Airport (AGP)
The Costa del Sol has one of the most important international airports in Spain, which will allow you to conveniently access this beautiful region. This is Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP), with a wide variety of domestic and international flights, making it very easy to plan your trip. Malaga airport has three terminals, so it would be advisable to know the correct terminal for your flight beforehand, as they can be quite far apart. You can check this information on your ticket or with the airline.

If you arrive with plenty of time to spare, you can enjoy a variety of duty free shops, cafes and even restaurants as exclusive as that of celebrity chef Dani Garcia or British chef Jaime Oliver. Explore the options to do some shopping or enjoy these wonderful restaurants before your flight.

Málaga airport is well connected to the city centre and other nearby areas. You can opt for taxis, buses or even shared transport services, so we advise you to research the options in advance to find the most convenient for your trip.

Transport from the airport
Once you land on the Costa del Sol, you will have several transport options to get you to your final destination and back to the airport at the end of your holiday. Renting a car is a popular and convenient option, as it gives you the flexibility to explore the surrounding area at your own pace. In addition, there are efficient public transport services that allow you to travel between coastal towns and enjoy the scenery along the way. Let's take a look at all the transport options from Malaga airport:

• Bus: The airport is connected to the city's bus network. The A Express line connects the airport directly to the centre of Malaga in approximately 15-20 minutes. There are also other bus lines that connect the airport with different areas of the city and nearby towns that you can find there.
• Train: The airport has a train station in terminal T3. The Cercanías C1 train connects the airport with the centre of Malaga, as well as with other stations and destinations on the Costa del Sol. The journey to Malaga city centre takes about 12-15 minutes.
• Taxi: You can find taxi ranks in the airport terminals. Taxis are a convenient option, but they are also usually more expensive than public transport.
• Shared and private transport services: There are shared and private transport services available at the airport, which can be booked in advance via apps or transport companies. This can be convenient if you are travelling with a group or if you prefer a more personalised option.
• Car rental: If you prefer to have your own means of transport, there are several car rental companies available at the airport. You can book in advance or book directly at the airport.

Scenic routes from the road
If you are an adventure lover and want to enjoy a scenic drive, consider taking some scenic routes that will take you through breathtaking natural landscapes. The Autovía del Mediterráneo (A-7) is a coastal road that will allow you to travel through various towns and villages while enjoying panoramic views of the sea and mountains. Undoubtedly, the best way for those who prefer to use their own vehicles to spend their holidays in Malaga. In addition, the province has different motorways to make the journey faster. Some of these routes are:

• From the north (Madrid). Motorway: A-4 to Cordoba, then A-45 to Malaga. Another option would be the A-92 motorway to Antequera and then the A-45 to Malaga.
• From the east (Granada). Motorway: A-92 to Antequera, then A-45 towards Malaga.
• From the west (Seville). Motorway: A-92 to Antequera, then A-45 towards Malaga.
• From the Costa del Sol (Marbella, Estepona). Motorway: A-7 (also known as Autovía del Mediterráneo) which runs along the Costa del Sol to Malaga.
• From the airport. Motorway: A-7 and MA-21 are the main roads connecting the airport with Malaga and other areas of the Costa del Sol.

Plan your stops
Before arriving on the Costa del Sol, do your research and plan the stops you want to make along the way. This region is full of hidden gems, from charming white villages in the mountains, such as Ronda, Mijas or Frigiliana, to cosmopolitan towns along the coast. Marbella, Fuengirola and Nerja are just some of the towns that should be on your must-see list on your trip to Malaga.

Use your mobile phone
Before and during your trip, take advantage of online resources for up-to-date information on routes, transport schedules, accommodation options and local attractions. The GR Estates website, the local real estate agency, can be an excellent source of information to help you plan your trip and, if you want to make sure you don't miss out on any Costa del Sol experiences, follow us on our social media channels and make a note of all the events we share... there's something for everyone!

Arriving on the Costa del Sol is the first exciting step to an unforgettable experience in this sun-drenched region. With a variety of transport options, stunning scenic routes and exciting activities, your trip promises to be a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Plan ahead, explore the local wonders and immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Costa del Sol to create memories that will last a lifetime...happy travelling!

The GR Estates Team