Just flew into Malaga Airport and took a trip to Granada, so I wanted to share the different ways to make this journey. After all, many people’s first stop after landing in Malaga is Granada to see the Alhambra, so knowing your transport options in advance can save a lot of hassle.
Direct Bus is the Most Convenient
You can see the ALSA bus ticket office right when you exit the airport, with frequent direct services to Granada. I took the afternoon departure and it took about 1 hour 45 minutes. The one-way ticket costs around 13 euros, and you can buy it in advance on their official website - during peak season you might not get a seat if you buy on-site. The buses are modern with WiFi and charging ports, spacious seating, though they do stop at a few stations along the way.
Shared Transfer for Those in a Hurry
If you have lots of luggage or traveling with family, a shared transfer is much more comfortable. There are several shared transfer company counters in the airport arrivals hall, prices range from 25-35 euros per person, and they depart once they have 4 passengers. The advantage is door-to-door service, dropping you directly at your hotel, and it’s about 20 minutes faster than the bus. However, note that some companies may detour to pick up other passengers, so it’s best to ask about this in advance if it matters to you.
Self-Drive Route Reference
If you’re renting a car and driving yourself, take the A-7 then switch to the A-92 highway, about 125 kilometers total. The road conditions are excellent, with tolls just over 6 euros. A friend who drove this route said the scenery along the way is beautiful, just watch out for the many speed cameras. Parking in Granada city center is a bit tricky, there’s basically nowhere to park in the old town, so I recommend staying at a hotel with parking.
Here’s a comparison table of the three options to help you choose based on your situation:
| Transport | Duration | Price | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|
| ALSA Bus | 1h 45min | 13€ | Cheap and punctual | Need to go to station |
| Shared Transfer | 1h 20min | 25-35€ | Door-to-door | May have detours |
| Self-Drive | 1h 30min | Car rental + fuel + tolls | Freedom and flexibility | Difficult city parking |
If you’re traveling alone or on a budget, take the bus; if traveling with family or lots of luggage, choose a shared transfer; if you want to explore some towns along the way, rent a car. Also, a quick reminder - make sure to book your Alhambra tickets in advance, I almost couldn’t get tickets when I went. Hope this information helps everyone!
