How to Get to Nerja

Nerja is located on the eastern end of the Costa del Sol (Málaga), about 50 km from Málaga city centre and 70 km from Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP). Getting there is straightforward: most visitors arrive by car via the A-7 motorway or by bus directly from the airport and Málaga's bus station. Here we explain, step by step, all the ways to get to Nerja.

How to get to Nerja by car

The car is the most convenient way to get to Nerja. The entire route runs along the Autovía del Mediterráneo (A-7), which is toll-free, and the turn-off is always exit 292 (Nerja / Frigiliana).

From Málaga (≈ 50 km, 55 min):

1. Take the A-7 heading towards Motril / Almería.
2. Continue for about 50 km along the coast (Rincón de la Victoria, Torre del Mar).
3. Take exit 292 towards Nerja/Frigiliana and follow the signs.

From Granada (≈ 85 km, 1 h 20 min): join the A-44 towards Motril and connect with the A-7 towards Málaga; exit at junction 292.

From Almería (≈ 170 km, 2 h): follow the A-7 towards Málaga for the entire journey and take exit 292.

🚗 Parking in Nerja: during peak season the town centre fills up quickly. Check our guide on transport and parking in Nerja to find the best options, both free and paid.

How to get to Nerja by bus

Nerja is very well connected by bus thanks to the ALSA company, which operates direct services from Málaga (city centre and airport) and many other cities. The Nerja bus station is right in the town centre, next to Avenida de Pescia.

• From Málaga city centre: frequent departures (approx. every 30–60 min) from the María Zambrano station. Journey time of 1 h to 1 h 30 min depending on whether it is direct or has stops.
• Buying tickets: at the station ticket office or in advance on the ALSA website (recommended in summer and on public holidays).

Towns with direct bus services to/from Nerja: Frigiliana, Torre del Mar, Vélez-Málaga, Málaga, Almuñécar, Granada, Motril, Marbella, Algeciras, Almería, Córdoba, Jaén, Sevilla and Madrid.

How to get to Nerja from Málaga Airport

Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) is the closest airport, about 70 km away. You have three options to complete the journey to Nerja:

By bus (the most budget-friendly option):

1. From the airport, first take the Cercanías commuter train (C1) or a taxi to Málaga's bus station.
2. From there, take the ALSA bus to Nerja.
3. The total journey takes around 1 h 20 min and the fare is usually between €7 and €11 per person.

By taxi or private transfer: there is a taxi rank at the exit of the terminals. The journey takes around 1 hour and costs approximately €80–100. Always confirm the price before setting off.

By hire car: there are offices for Hertz, Avis, Europcar, etc. at the airport itself. Head onto the A-7 towards Motril/Almería and take exit 292 (≈ 1 hour).

How to get to Nerja by taxi

A taxi is a comfortable option if you are travelling in a group or with a lot of luggage. You can pick one up at the airport taxi rank, at Málaga station, or book a private transfer in advance. Remember:

1. Make sure the taxi is properly identified and licensed.
2. Ask for an estimated price before departing (Málaga–Nerja is around €80–100).
3. Check whether they accept card payments or if you need cash.

How to get to Nerja by train

Nerja does not have a train station. The option is to travel by train (AVE or regional services) to Málaga María Zambrano station and then continue by bus or taxi:

1. Take a train to Málaga María Zambrano (AVE connections with Madrid, Córdoba, Sevilla, Barcelona…).
2. The bus station is right next door. Take an ALSA bus to Nerja (≈ 1 h 20 min).
3. On arrival in Nerja, a taxi will get you to your accommodation in just a few minutes.

How to get to Nerja by plane

If you are travelling from far away, the most practical option is to fly into Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP), which has domestic and international flights throughout the year. Once there, follow any of the options described above (bus, taxi or hire car). See the "How to get to Nerja from Málaga Airport" section for full details.

How to get to Nerja by boat

Nerja does not have a port, so it is not possible to arrive directly by sea. The nearest port is Málaga (≈ 60 km), which receives cruise ships and ferries. From there you can continue to Nerja by bus, taxi or hire car.

You've arrived in Nerja — what now?

Once in the village, getting around on foot is easy: the old town, the Balcón de Europa and the main beaches are all within easy walking distance. To get your bearings, use our Nerja map with all the points of interest, and discover what to see and do in Nerja during your visit.