Private car transfer from Lisbon to Malaga

Various transportation options can take you from Lisbon to Málaga, but the best in terms of flexibility is driving a car. Unlike taking the train or booking a flight, one of the advantages of choosing a car as your mode of transport is the opportunity to stop by notable landmarks.

For instance, you can stop by Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its well-preserved medieval architecture. You may also ask your driver to stop in Seville, a historic Spanish city where you can watch flamenco dances and marvel at Gothic cathedrals.

Málaga has something for every beach lover, as it grants access to 16 sunny beaches. It’s also the birthplace of Cubism co-founder and Spanish painter Pablo Picasso. This city is also the ultimate place to try some of the world’s best tapas, visit neighborhoods like Soho, and learn about the region’s history.

This Andalusian port city is one of the oldest in the world. The Phoenicians founded it in the eighth century. Later, it thrived under the rule of the Roman Empire, naming it Malaca. Also during that century, the Moors conquered Málaga, leaving a lasting architectural legacy, notably the Alcazaba fortress and Gibralfaro Castle.

In the 15th century, the Catholic Monarchs seized Málaga from the Moors and transformed it into a significant trade hub in the Mediterranean. This history is still reflected in the architectural and cultural scenes of this city today.

Once you reach Málaga, be sure to visit these places:

• Alcazaba
• Cathedral of Málaga
• Mercado Central de Atarazanas
• Museo Picasso Málaga
• Castillo de Gibralfaro
• Jardín Botánico - Histórico La Concepción
• Museo Carmen Thyssen Málaga
• Teatro Romano de Málaga
• La Malagueta urban beach

Málaga is also a driving force of the economy as it exports high-quality products such as dried fruits, almonds, olive oil, canned anchovies, oranges, lemons, and the renowned Málaga sweet wine.

Lisbon to Málaga by plane

If you want the fastest option, you can fly from Lisbon to Málaga. There are direct flights from Lisbon with each ticket costing between $52 and $226 (€49-€211). The flight time is about an hour and a half, or 3.5 hours if you count your wait time at the airport.

Lisbon to Málaga by train

If you prefer not to fly, as it is the more expensive option, you can ride the train instead. There are no direct trains from Lisbon to Málaga. You’ll need to take a train from the Portuguese capital to Madrid and then transfer to another train heading to the port city. The whole transit lasts up to around 12 hours. Fares are from $63 to $149 (€59-€139).

Lisbon to Málaga by bus

Another option is traveling by bus. Buses are the most economical alternative, with prices ranging from around $56 to $80 (€52-€75). The journey takes approximately nine to 10 hours. However, while buses are budget-friendly, they may not be the most convenient option.

Lisbon to Málaga by car

Driving from Lisbon to Málaga is a more flexible choice. The drive typically takes six to seven hours, depending on speed and traffic. This option also allows for stops along the way, such as in Évora and Seville, making the trip more personalized. However, long drives can be tiring and require navigating through different road conditions, which brings us to the next option.

Lisbon to Málaga by Daytrip

Choosing to travel with Daytrip offers convenience and freedom rolled into one. This private shuttle service has English-speaking drivers who will not only bring you to your destination safely but also offer insights about your stops. Daytrip’s cars have child-friendly seats, making them ideal for families.

Stroll through the narrow streets of Málaga’s historical center

One of the best things about this port city in Spain is that it’s pedestrian-friendly, so you can easily navigate it on foot and see its famous attractions. You can find many shops, cafés, tapas, vino bars, and stores that sell turron, a sweet Andalusian specialty made with almonds.

It’s quite a visual spectacle, as you’ll also see architecture featuring Spanish and Arab influences. Be sure to keep your camera ready!

Visit Alcazaba and the Castillo de Gibralfaro

The Alcazaba and the Castillo de Gibralfaro should always be part of your Málaga itinerary. They’re among the best-preserved legacies of Muslim rule in Spain. The Alcazaba (which is an Arabic word for “citadel”) was both the residence of Muslim governors and a fortification for this city. As for the castle, you won’t miss it, as it’s conspicuous from the top of a hill.

Buy local products at the Atarazanas market

No Málaga experience will be complete without a visit to the Atarazanas market. Interestingly, this building used to be a shipyard where boats were constructed and repaired during the Islamic period. When the Christians arrived, the yard fell into disuse but was revived in the late 1800s. That was when it was converted into a food market, as you see it today, where you can buy local products or taste-test tapas.

Experience Málaga’s nightlife

The city’s charm shines even more at nightfall. The historical monuments along its pedestrian streets are beautifully illuminated. During the Christmas season, the town offers joy with various sound and light shows. For those who fancy clubbing, the best clubs are Sala Gold and Sala Wenge.

The city has its most pleasant climate during spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). In these months, temperatures range from 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C), making it comfortable to explore the town on foot.

The summer months (July to August) can be quite hot, with temperatures reaching 86°F (30°C). It’s also the most crowded season. Additionally, winter in Málaga isn’t too cold compared to northern European destinations.