South Access to Malaga Airport

The south access to Malaga Airport from the A-7 motorway (MA-20) has been fully operational for several years and now serves as an efficient alternative route to the terminals. This direct link, which joins the A-7 at Guadalmar, complements the traditional entry via the old N-340 and MA-21 (Avenida de Velazquez), providing smoother traffic flow without replacing the existing routes. Travellers can therefore choose the most suitable option depending on their starting point and current road conditions, particularly benefiting those arriving from the western Costa del Sol or returning hire cars.

This is especially useful for the many tourists who visit the Costa del Sol and hire a car at Malaga Airport. Before the south access opened, drivers on the A-7 had to reach Torremolinos, watch for the airport fork, then take an exit onto the old N-340 followed by another turn to reach the terminals.

Although not an insurmountable issue, it was hardly ideal when driving early in the morning to return a vehicle or if slightly distracted. The south access to Malaga Airport reduces the process to a single exit from the A-7 at Guadalmar, leading straight to the terminals.

Video of the South Access

The south access is fully available for arrivals at the terminals. However, departures from Malaga Airport continue to use the traditional route (MA-21) until the second phase of the project is completed, allowing direct incorporation onto the A-7 in both directions.

Map and Recommended Route

We recommend customers returning their hire vehicle use the former MA-21 (Avenida de Velazquez), especially when travelling from central Malaga or the eastern Costa del Sol.

Videos of the South Access Road to Malaga Airport

The following videos illustrate how to join the south access and how to exit the airport depending on direction:

Conclusion on Reaching the Airport

From Malaga / Eastern Costa del Sol to Malaga Airport: view route on Google Maps.

From Western Costa del Sol to Malaga Airport: view route on Google Maps.

When travelling on the motorway, you may exit to the airport via the MA-21 (Avenida de Velazquez), the traditional route, or via the MA-20 to enter through the south access.

How to Reach Malaga Airport by Car

Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport lies just 8 km from the city centre and enjoys excellent road connections. The A-7 (Mediterranean motorway) links the entire coastline from Algeciras to Almeria and provides direct access to the airport via the south access (MA-20) at Guadalmar. This route significantly shortens journey times from Torremolinos, Benalmadena or Fuengirola by bypassing the former detours along the N-340.

Travellers from the east (Malaga, Rincon de la Victoria, Nerja) join via the MA-21 (Avenida de Velazquez). From the west (Marbella, Estepona, Cadiz), the south access offers direct entry to the arrivals terminals and the car hire area.

Car Hire at the Airport

If you are returning our vehicle, follow this route. Our facilities are located very close to the airport exit; please check the booking confirmation email for full details.

Book car hire at Malaga Airport

Taxi or Private Transfer

If you are returning to the airport without a vehicle, a taxi or private transfer will take you directly to the departures or arrivals terminal. Local drivers know the shortcuts and the south access to minimise travel time.

Book taxi from Malaga Airport

*No credit card details or advance payment required. We recommend booking well in advance to secure the best rates and availability.

Alternative Routes and Tips

The MA-21 (Avenida de Velazquez) remains fully operational for arrivals and departures, proving especially handy if your destination is the industrial estate or Huelin district. During peak hours, using both accesses can help avoid congestion. Check live traffic conditions before setting off.

Useful Information for Malaga Airport