How to Get from Fuengirola to Benalmádena: Ferry vs Train vs Taxi

If you're planning a holiday on the Costa del Sol, one of the most common questions visitors ask is how to get from Fuengirola to Benalmádena.

Both destinations are among the most popular resorts in southern Spain, attracting millions of visitors every year with their beaches, marinas, restaurants, and family-friendly attractions.

Fortunately, travelling between Fuengirola and Benalmádena is easy, with several transport options available.

In this guide, we'll compare the ferry, train, taxi, and bus so you can decide which option is best for your holiday.

Distance Between Fuengirola and Benalmádena

Fuengirola and Benalmádena are located along the Costa del Sol coastline in Malaga Province.

The distance between the two resorts is approximately 12 kilometres (7.5 miles), making them ideal destinations for a day trip or sightseeing excursion.

Because the journey is relatively short, visitors often travel between both towns to explore different beaches, attractions, marinas, and activities during their stay.

Option 1: Ferry from Fuengirola to Benalmádena

For many visitors, the ferry is the most enjoyable way to travel between Fuengirola and Benalmádena.

Rather than viewing transport as simply getting from one place to another, the ferry transforms the journey into part of the holiday experience.

Passengers can relax on deck while enjoying panoramic views of the Mediterranean coastline, beautiful beaches, and the surrounding mountains. The route offers a unique perspective of the Costa del Sol that simply isn't possible by road or rail.

Benefits of Taking the Ferry

• Stunning coastal scenery

• Relaxing atmosphere

• No traffic or crowded roads

• Excellent photo opportunities

• Family-friendly experience

• Direct access to Benalmádena Marina and Fuengirola Marina

• One of the most scenic boat trips on the Costa del Sol

Many visitors choose the ferry not only as transport but also as one of the highlights of their holiday.

Perfect for Sightseeing

The ferry is particularly popular with tourists who want to combine transportation with sightseeing. As you cruise along the coastline, you'll enjoy views of beaches, waterfront promenades, marinas, and local landmarks that are often missed when travelling by train or car.

Option 2: Train from Fuengirola to Benalmádena

The Cercanías train is one of the most practical transport options on the Costa del Sol.

The train service connects Fuengirola and Benalmádena with regular departures throughout the day. Journey times are typically around 20 minutes, depending on your departure and arrival stations.

Benefits of the Train

• Fast journey time

• Frequent departures

• Affordable tickets

• Air-conditioned carriages

• Easy connections to Malaga Airport

Drawbacks

While the train is efficient, it lacks the scenic experience offered by the ferry. Stations are also located inland compared to the marinas and beachfront areas many tourists visit.

For visitors focused purely on speed and convenience, the train is an excellent option.

Option 3: Taxi from Fuengirola to Benalmádena

Taxis provide a comfortable and direct route between the two destinations.

Travel times vary depending on traffic conditions but are generally around 20 to 30 minutes.

Benefits of Taking a Taxi

• Door-to-door service

• Convenient for families

• No waiting for schedules

• Comfortable travel

Drawbacks

• Higher cost compared to train or ferry

• Traffic delays during busy periods

• No sightseeing experience

Taxis are often the preferred option for visitors carrying luggage or travelling in groups.

Option 4: Bus Services

Local buses also connect Fuengirola and Benalmádena.

Although generally affordable, buses tend to be slower than trains and less comfortable during busy summer periods.

For tourists on holiday, buses are usually not the most popular choice compared with trains or ferries.

Which Option Is Best?

The best option depends on what type of experience you're looking for.

Choose the Ferry If You Want:

• A memorable holiday experience

• Beautiful coastal views

• A relaxing journey

• A family-friendly activity

• Great photo opportunities

Choose the Train If You Want:

• The fastest journey

• Regular departures

• Budget-friendly transport

Choose the Taxi If You Want:

• Maximum convenience

• Direct travel

• Door-to-door service

For many holidaymakers, the ferry offers the best balance between transportation and sightseeing, making it one of the most enjoyable ways to travel along the Costa del Sol.

What to Do in Benalmádena

Once you arrive in Benalmádena, there are plenty of attractions worth visiting.

Popular activities include:

• Exploring Puerto Marina

• Dolphin watching tours

• Sea Life Benalmádena Aquarium

• Beaches and waterfront promenades

• Shopping and restaurants

• Cable Car Benalmádena

• Boat excursions and watersports

Many visitors spend a full day exploring the marina before returning to Fuengirola later in the afternoon.

What to Do in Fuengirola

If you're travelling in the opposite direction, Fuengirola also offers a fantastic range of attractions.

Popular experiences include:

• Dolphin watching cruises

• Jet ski rental

• Parasailing adventures

• Private yacht charters

• Fuengirola Marina

• Beachfront restaurants

• Local markets and shopping

The town remains one of the most popular holiday destinations on the Costa del Sol thanks to its combination of beaches, activities, and family-friendly atmosphere.

Why the Ferry Is One of the Best Things to Do on the Costa del Sol

While trains and taxis simply get you from A to B, the ferry provides a unique sightseeing experience that allows visitors to enjoy the beauty of the Mediterranean coastline.

For travellers looking to make the most of their holiday, the ferry between Fuengirola and Benalmádena offers much more than transportation. It provides stunning scenery, a relaxing atmosphere, and a memorable experience that many visitors consider one of the highlights of their trip.

If you're planning to explore both destinations during your holiday, the ferry is undoubtedly one of the most enjoyable ways to travel along the Costa del Sol.