Cheap Flights to Malaga (AGP)

Malaga is the largest city on the Costa del Sol. A flight to Malaga from the UK is the gateway to the whole Costa del Sol, which has long been a popular tourist destination for us Brits after a little relaxation in the sun.

Malaga and the Costa del Sol have a reputation for being great value holiday destinations, and that's partly thanks to the sheer number of cheap Malaga flights that are available all year round. But all too frequently, Malaga is seen simply as somewhere to fly into, and then travel onwards from. But that needn't be the case, and 2012 has set a trend that's sure to continue into 2013 and 2014 for more people booking themselves into a Malaga hotels.

There's much to recommend staying put in Malaga after your flight arrives. The city boasts a great mix of historic sights and pretty beaches, has an up-and-coming nightlife, and once you arrive into Malaga from the UK on flights, you won't have to travel much more, instead you can get on with your holiday straight away.

Flights to Malaga

It's possible to get a flight to Malaga from more airports across the UK than ever before, which has made this destination more accessible and driven flight prices down. Expect to be in the air for around three to four hours, depending on your departure point.

All flights to Malaga are direct, which is great news! To save money, look for airline sales and of course use our flight search. If you can be flexible about when you fly then expect to be able to get a pretty good price that won't eat into your holiday budget too much - meaning more to spend on food, partying, visiting the sights or whatever you want!

There are a range of choices when it comes to onward travel from Malaga Airport after your flight arrives. But before you go ahead and book any of these, check whether you holiday includes transfers, or whether your hotel offers them for free!

Car Hire - Getting a hire car can be a great way to discover the Costa del Sol after you arrive into Malaga on your flight. Be aware some roads are toll roads, but past concerns like using the correct side of the road and working out directions, you'll be fine!

Private Transfer - Like a taxi, but booked in advance this is a good cheap option if you just want to be ferried to your hotel and left to enjoy the weather and the surroundings.

Taxi - Most taxis are now metered, but be sure to ask for a quote before embarking as well. You will find a rank outside the arrivals.

Bus - There are buses that take you to Marbella Coach station as well as to Malaga Bus Station, but there is no comprehensive service from here. Onward travel to a whole range of Costa del Sol destinations is perfectly achievable from these hubs.

Train - Direct to Malaga centre, this is the easiest option on a budget. From there, you can head to your hotel on foot or catch a train along the coast to other destinations, as well as the high-speed services across Spain.

When to visit Malaga and the Costa del Sol

Peak demand for flights to Malaga Airport is, unsurprisingly, during the summer. At this time of year, average highs are around 30°C in the shade, so you can expect to have plenty of opportunities to top up your tan. Unfortunately, this is not the cheapest time of year to get a bargain price on your Malaga flights, as everyone else also wants to travel at this time!

Instead, visit in May, June, September and October when the mercury will still reach the high 20°Cs - choose the later dates to enjoy a particularly warm sea as it will have been warmed up all summer long. Cheap Malaga flights are easier to find at this time, although it's still a good idea to book them well in advance.

If you're after the more cultural side of this area, of which there is plenty, why not go for a flight to Malaga that's even further away from the peak periods? Thanks to the number of expats, Malaga and the other resorts are pretty much functional throughout the winter, and with temperatures around 17°C in winter you'll find it very pleasant to see the sights, and maybe enjoy a coffee or a beer in a streetside café.

What to do in Malaga and the Costa del Sol

The beaches are the main attraction in this part of the world, with miles and miles of sandy beaches alongside the beautiful warm Mediterranean sea. You will find that many of the resorts still centre around an old town, and here is where you will find charming streets and ancient attractions.

Malaga is a prime example of this and the cathedral and the Alcazaba, a Moorish fort, are the highlights. If you're after a night of revelry, be warned that the nightlife starts late so expect that you won't return to your hotel until after the dawn!

Why not look out for festivals, such as the Feria de Malaga, to add an extra partying edge to your 2013 or 2014 holiday - you'll need to book early when the party comes to town! For more inspiration head to our Malaga guide.