Transport & Access

Airports & International Access

Benahavís is served by two international airports, making it practical for both full-time residents and second-home owners who travel regularly.

Málaga–Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) is the main hub, with year-round flights to the UK, Europe and major international cities. It’s the default choice for most residents and visitors.

Gibraltar Airport (GIB) is smaller and more limited, but can be convenient for certain UK routes, particularly if you live on the western side of the municipality.

Private transfers, taxis and hire cars are easy to arrange, and many homeowners use pre-booked transfers for hassle-free arrivals and departures.

Road Network & Driving

Living in Benahavís almost always means driving. The upside is that road access is excellent once you’re familiar with the routes.

The A-7 coastal road connects Marbella, San Pedro, Estepona and beyond, while the AP-7 toll road offers a faster alternative at busy times. From these, a network of well-maintained hillside roads leads up to the village and surrounding urbanisations.

Electric vehicle ownership is becoming more common, with charging points expanding at shopping centres, service stations and newer developments.

If you’re comparing areas, our Neighbourhoods & Urbanisations guide highlights how access differs between hillside estates and coastal-side communities.

Typical Drive Times

Drive times vary by exact location and time of day, but as a general guide from central Benahavís:

• Puerto Banús: around 15–20 minutes
• Marbella Old Town: around 25–30 minutes
• Estepona centre: around 20–25 minutes
• Málaga Airport: roughly 50–70 minutes
• Gibraltar Airport: roughly 50–70 minutes

When viewing homes, we always recommend testing routes at realistic times of day so you get a true sense of daily life, not just off-peak conditions.

Public Transport, Taxis & Transfers

Public transport exists, but it’s best viewed as a supplement rather than a replacement for a car.

Local buses link Benahavís village with San Pedro and Marbella, and regional routes run along the coast. Taxis are widely used for evenings out, airport runs and occasional trips when driving isn’t practical.

Ride-hailing apps are available in the wider area, although coverage can vary by time and season. Many residents rely on trusted local taxi firms or pre-arranged transfers.

Parking & Day-to-Day Practicalities

Parking in Benahavís is generally straightforward, with a few local nuances.

In the village, on-street parking is common, although it’s worth arriving earlier on busy dining nights or during festivals. At the coast and beaches, larger car parks and boardwalk areas make access easier.

Most modern urbanisations include underground parking and guest spaces, which becomes an important quality-of-life factor if you’re living here year-round.