I want to rent a car at Málaga airport, is it worth it? Expert guide.

Searching for “car rental Malaga airport”, “car on the Costa del Sol” or “is it worth renting a car in Malaga”? You are in the perfect place. Below you will find the most complete, up-to-date analysis: how much it really costs, when it pays off, when it’s better not to do it and how to get a car for €15–35/day instead of €80–150.

Is renting a car at Málaga airport (AGP) worth it? Short answer

YES – in 96% of cases it is definitely worth it if:

• You plan to drive outside Málaga (Ronda, Nerja, Gibraltar, Caminito del Rey, Frigiliana, Setenil)
• You are 3–4 people (cost of car + fuel cheaper than bus tickets and tours)
• You stay longer than 4–5 days
• You want freedom and flexibility

It is NOT worth it if:

• You stay only in Málaga city (great public transport + Zona 30 + expensive parking)
• You plan only beach time in Torremolinos/Benalmádena (C1 commuter train every 20 min for €2–3)

Current car rental prices at Málaga airport

Small car (Fiat 500, Seat Ibiza, Toyota Aygo)

• Low season (November–March): €12–25/day
• Mid season (April–June, September–October): €25–45/day
• High season (July–August + Easter): €45–90/day

SUV / estate / 5–7 seats

• Low season: €35–60/day
• High season: €90–180/day

When is renting a car in Málaga the CHEAPEST?

• Booking 60–90 days before arrival
• Rental for at least 7 days (daily price can drop by up to 40%)
• Pick up and return at the same location (airport)
• Avoid booking “last minute” on site – 100–300% more expensive

Total cost for 7 days for 4 people

Class C car (VW Golf, Seat Leon) with full insurance and zero deposit

• Rental: €210–320
• Fuel (approx. 600–800 km): €70–90
• Parking and tolls: €30–50 (AP-7 free!)
• Total: €310–460 → €11–16 per person per day for freedom

Comparison with public transport and tours:

• Bus + tours to Ronda, Nerja, Caminito: €120–180/person Rental wins already with 2–3 people!

3 golden tips to avoid overpaying

1. Never take the basic insurance on site – excess €1000–2000
2. Always choose to return the same amount of fuel you received at the start and full insurance (SCDW + tires/windows/underbody)
3. Book directly on the rental company’s website (not via Rentalcars/DiscoverCars – they are 20–40% more expensive)

Summary – is it worth renting a car at Málaga airport?

YES – it’s the cheapest and most convenient way to truly discover Andalusia. For €20–40/day you have complete freedom, you save on tours and you see 10× more than “bus tourists”.

Save this article – it’s the most comprehensive guide in English on car rental at Málaga Airport.

Going to the Costa del Sol? A car is the best decision you will make!