Metro of Malaga

Metros in Spain: Málaga

Málaga, with a population exceeding 580,000 inhabitants, is the sixth largest city in Spain and the second most populous in Andalusia.

During the 19th century, Málaga experienced significant industrial growth, becoming one of the first industrialized cities in the country. However, the city later suffered the devastating effects of the Spanish Civil War.

After the conflict, Málaga began a new modernization process throughout the 1960s and 1970s, largely supported by its strategically located port – ideal for Mediterranean trade – and the tourism boom during those years, which transformed the region.

These factors helped consolidate Málaga as a top-tier tourist destination, boosting the development of the service sector and the local economy.

As a result, local authorities in Málaga started considering ways to improve public transportation, especially in the always congested city center.

As part of efforts to enhance public transportation, local authorities began considering ways to reduce congestion in the city center. In the 1990s, the need for a mass rail transit system arose. However, construction of the Málaga Metro, a light rail project, did not begin until 2006. The system officially opened in 2014.

The Málaga Metro initially opened with 11.3 kilometers of track and 17 operational stations. Since its inauguration, the network has expanded, and it now covers more than 13 kilometers and 19 stations across two main lines, connecting key areas of the city.

Málaga Metro

Lines and Stations

The Málaga Metro currently operates two commercial lines, covering a total of 13.5 kilometers of track with 19 stations. Since its launch, the system has continued to grow in popularity among both local residents and tourists. In 2022, the metro system transported more than 7 million passengers, a notable increase from the 5.6 million recorded in 2017.

The construction of both lines was based on the demand in high-traffic areas, helping to ease congestion on Málaga’s main thoroughfares, particularly in the city center. While there have been rumors of a possible third route in the future, no official announcements have been made by the authorities.

Below are the lines of the Málaga Metro.

Line 1

Line 1 of the Málaga Metro was inaugurated on July 30, 2014, and features 13 stations over an 8.5-kilometer route that connects the center of Málaga to the University City in Teatinos, serving key areas such as El Perchel and the Cruz de Humilladero district. The stations along this line include:

El Perchel: This station, named after the neighborhood it’s located in, is situated in Málaga's Centro District and opened in 2014. It also serves Line 2 and connects to the María Zambrano train station.

La Unión: Located in the Cruz de Humilladero District, this station sits at the end of La Unión street, from which it gets its name, and opened in 2014. It is a key stop for those traveling toward the city center.

Barbarela: Also located in the Cruz de Humilladero District, this station is on Juan XXIII Avenue, near the San José Obrero Specialty Center, known locally as "Barbarela."

Carranque: Opened in 2014, this station is located near the Carranque Sports City and the Hospital Carlos Haya, on Virgen de la Cabeza street.

Portada Alta: Located where the Portada Alta and La Barriguilla neighborhoods meet, this station is near José Bergamín Square, at the end of Cómpeta street.

Ciudad de la Justicia: Located in the Teatinos-University district, on Louis Pasteur Boulevard, the station is near the City of Justice administrative complex.

Universidad: Also located in the Teatinos-University district, this station provides direct access to the Teatinos University Campus, home to several centers of the University of Málaga and some of its facilities.

Clínico: This station is in the Puerto de la Torre district, near the Virgen de la Victoria Hospital and Louis Pasteur Boulevard.

El Cónsul: This stop is in the Teatinos-University district, near Louis Pasteur Boulevard, and is part of the first section built for the Málaga Metro.

Paraninfo: Initially set to be named "Rectorado," this station’s name was changed just before its inauguration. It is located in the Teatinos-University district.

Andalucía Tech: Situated in the Teatinos-University district, this stop is near the Soliva and Los Asperones neighborhoods, marking the end of the Málaga Metro Line 1 route.

Line 2

Line 2, like Line 1, opened to the public in 2014, featuring 5.7 kilometers of track and 9 commercial stations. It serves areas such as the Alameda Industrial Estate, passing through the Centro District and District 7. Line 2 crosses the Carretera de Cádiz District and connects the city center with the western side of Málaga. The average distance between stations is 680 meters, and with an average speed of 30 km/h, trains typically complete the full route in just 9 minutes. There are plans to extend the route by at least four more stations, although no opening dates have been defined.

Guadalmedina: Named after its proximity to the Guadalmedina River, in the El Perchel neighborhood, Centro District. Although it was initially planned for 2016, it is the most recent station, inaugurated in 2022, and connects the metro to the heart of the city. This stop serves both Line 1 and Line 2.

El Perchel: Although the station is located between the Explanada de la Estación and RENFE neighborhoods, its name comes from its proximity to the El Perchel area, in the Centro District. Opened on July 30, 2014, it serves both Lines 1 and 2.

La Isla: Located in the Carretera de Cádiz District, at the intersection of Juan Pablo II Bridge and Héroe Sosotoa Street, specifically in the La Princesa neighborhood, it is also near the northern areas of Jardín de la Abadía and Parque Ayala.

Princesa-Huelin: Situated in the La Princesa neighborhood, the station is near Juan XXIII Bridge and the Huelin and Alaska neighborhoods, in the Carretera de Cádiz District.

El Torcal: This station is also in the Carretera de Cádiz District, in the El Torcal neighborhood, along Velázquez Avenue.

La Luz-La Paz: Originally named "Los Guindos" and later "Velázquez" – due to its location on these two streets – residents of the La Luz and La Paz neighborhoods successfully petitioned to have the station renamed, as it sits between these two communities.

Puerta Blanca: This station was part of the first section completed, located in the Puerta Blanca neighborhood, in the Carretera de Cádiz District.

Palacio de los Deportes: Named for its proximity to the José María Martín Carpena Sports Palace, located on Miguel de Mérida Nicolich Street, in the Carretera de Cádiz District.

Connections

The Málaga Metro is well connected with other alternative transport options, integrating various ways to move around the city and its surroundings. While all stations are linked to other systems in some way, the following stand out:

El Perchel: This station serves both Line 1 and Line 2 and also provides access to the "Málaga-María Zambrano Station" – the main national rail terminal in Málaga, offering high-speed trains, the "Cercanías Málaga" suburban rail system, which serves the surrounding areas, and the Málaga Bus Station, where urban and intercity buses are available. The EMTSAM service also operates here, providing public bus transportation within the city.

Universidad: Located on Line 1, this station allows passengers to board EMTSAM buses on routes 11, 18, and 22, as well as urban bus routes M-116, M-143, M-114, and M-166.

Clínico: Also on Line 1, this station connects to EMTSAM bus routes 11, 18, and 22.

Puerta Blanca: Located on Line 2, passengers at this underground station can board urban bus routes 5, 9, 10, 31, and A.

Fares

While Málaga Metro's fare options and payment plans are not the most extensive, they are designed to meet the needs of its users, with four main ticketing options available:

• Occasional Ticket: This basic ticket is ideal for those who use the service infrequently. With this cardboard ticket, which can be reloaded, users can travel on the metro for just €1.35. It also supports multi-validation, meaning up to 9 people can use the same ticket in one station, as long as there is sufficient balance.
• Málaga Metro Reloadable Card (Tarjeta Monedero Metro de Málaga): The reloadable card is ideal for frequent metro users. Made from more durable materials than the occasional ticket, it can store up to €25 in balance, with a minimum reload amount of €5. Using this option, the cost of a trip on the Málaga Metro is reduced to €0.82. As with the occasional ticket, the reloadable card supports multi-validation, allowing up to 9 people to use the same card.
• Transport Consortium Reloadable Card (Tarjeta Monedero Consorcio de Transportes): The consortium card integrates with other public transportation systems, such as urban buses. It is the best option for frequent users of public transportation in the city, as the same card can be used across multiple services. With this card, a metro trip costs €0.82, but if transferring from an urban or intercity bus, the fare drops to €0.65. Like the other two options, this card supports multi-validation, allowing up to 9 people to use it in one station.
• Transport Consortium Card for Large Families (Tarjeta del Consorcio de Transportes para Familias Numerosas): This special card provides beneficiaries with discounts sponsored by the Málaga Transport Consortium. As a special pass, it does not support multi-validation and is non-transferable, meaning only the person receiving the benefit can use it.

Schedule

The Málaga Metro offers an attractive schedule system tailored to the needs of its users, with special considerations for holidays and similar occasions. The various operating times are as follows:

• Monday to Thursday: 6:30 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
• Fridays and the day before holidays: 6:30 a.m. – 1:30 a.m.
• Saturdays: 7:00 a.m. – 1:30 a.m.
• Sundays and holidays: 7:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.

Train frequency ranges from 6 to 10 minutes from Monday to Thursday, 6 to 15 minutes on Fridays, and 10 to 15 minutes on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.

Rules

The Málaga Metro has several rules that users are encouraged to follow in order to avoid potential penalties and to maintain the quality of services. Below are some of the rules that passengers must adhere to:

• To facilitate movement within the system, passengers are encouraged to allow others to exit the train before boarding.
• Use escalators correctly and stay to the right, allowing passengers in a hurry to pass on the left.
• Elevators are prioritized for people with reduced mobility and those traveling with strollers. It is also recommended that elderly passengers and pregnant women use the elevators.
• Use emergency devices and alarms responsibly, activating them only in real emergencies.
• Help keep the Málaga Metro clean by using the trash cans provided in the stations. Failure to do so may result in a fine.
• Avoid obstructing the movement of other passengers, and do not transport large items that may inconvenience others.
• If traveling with a child, hold their hand and supervise them at all times to prevent accidents.
• Passengers without a valid ticket, or those with an expired or unvalidated ticket, will be considered fare evaders and fined accordingly.
• When the door closing signal is heard, passengers may not enter or exit the train. Doing so may result in a fine.
• Smoking is strictly prohibited in metro stations and on trains.
• Passengers are not allowed to conduct photo or video reports without prior authorization from the facility’s managers.
• No food or beverages may be consumed in Málaga Metro stations or trains.
• Skating is prohibited in the stations or trains of the subway system.
• Animals are not allowed on the metro unless they are guide dogs or small pets, which must be transported in appropriate containers.
• Bicycles are allowed in the metro stations, but riders must use the designated paths for people with reduced mobility.

Connection to the Airport

The Málaga Metro does not have a direct connection to Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport, meaning none of its stations directly serve the airport terminal. However, passengers can reach the airport with a quick transfer.

To do this, simply take either of the two metro lines to the "El Perchel" station. Once there, exit the station and walk to the Málaga-María Zambrano train terminal. Here, several routes are available, but you must look for the trains heading to the airport, which are part of Renfe's C1 line. These trains typically run every 20 minutes and reach the airport in approximately 8 minutes. Tickets cost €1.70, and services run from 6:20 a.m. to 11:20 p.m.

Likewise, if traveling from Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport to the city center, the journey is similar. The C1 Renfe line operates at the train station located just below Terminal 3 (T3) of the airport. Tickets to the city center can be purchased at the station, and trains are also available to other parts of the province. Outside the airport terminal, passengers can also find taxis, bus stops, and car rental agencies to facilitate travel.

Future Expansions

The Málaga Metro continues to evolve. In 2022, the expansion of Lines 1 and 2 to Guadalmedina and the city center was completed, significantly improving connectivity. While no concrete plans exist for a third line yet, there has been discussion about connecting the system to the Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport and the eastern neighborhoods, such as La Malagueta.

The expansion toward the airport remains a future priority to improve access to the region’s main air hub, following the example of other Spanish cities.

The potential third line would serve the La Malagueta neighborhood, in the eastern district. However, the project could be replaced by an extension of the intercity rail network. In any case, the final decision will be made by authorities once the current works are completed.

Tourist Attractions

Near the Princesa station, passengers can visit the Collection of the Russian Museum, St. Petersburg, Málaga, a popular center for visitors to the city due to the diversity of its exhibitions.

Each year, more than 100,000 tourists visit the museum, which also features film screening rooms, a reading room, an auditorium, and a branch of the Virtual Museum. Its 2,300 square meters of space host rotating exhibitions, ensuring that visitors will always see new works by the greatest Russian artists.

Similarly, near the Princesa station is the Automobile and Fashion Museum. This relatively new museum, completed in 2010, was built in a restored tobacco factory. Its collection features more than 90 vehicles from different eras, with the oldest dating back to 1898. It is a must-see stop for car enthusiasts.

Accessibility in the Málaga Metro

The Málaga Metro has been designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring that everyone, including those with reduced mobility or disabilities, can use the transport system safely and without barriers. However, it is important to note that not all stations offer the same level of accessibility, although most comply with basic standards.

• Station access: Most metro stations are equipped with access ramps, elevators, and adapted pathways, making it easier for people using wheelchairs, strollers, or those with reduced mobility to navigate. However, some older stations may lack certain features, so it is recommended to check available services before traveling.
• Train-level platforms: Stations are designed with platforms that are level with the train doors, allowing barrier-free access. This design is uniform across all stations to facilitate movement for people with disabilities.
• Tactile signage: All stations feature tactile paving on the ground to guide visually impaired individuals from station entrances to the trains. This feature is available at all stations.
• Priority seating: Inside the trains, there are reserved seats for individuals with reduced mobility, the elderly, and pregnant women. These seats are clearly marked in all metro trains.
• Accessible information: Most stations are equipped with audio systems and electronic displays that provide both visual and auditory information regarding train schedules, delays, and service changes. However, smaller stations may have more limited technology.

In addition, Renfe and the Málaga Metro offer the ATENDO Service, designed to assist people with reduced mobility or disabilities during their journey. This service may include escorting passengers from the entrance to the train, assistance at the station, and help with luggage. It is recommended to request this service in advance through the website or by phone.

Lost and Found in the Málaga Metro

If you have lost any belongings inside the Málaga Metro facilities, there is an established procedure to help you recover your items. Below are the steps to follow in case of lost property:

• Contact Customer Service: In the event of losing something, it is advisable to contact the metro's Customer Service department immediately. You can do this by phone or by visiting one of the main stations, such as El Perchel or Málaga-María Zambrano, where lost property services are centralized.
• Lost item registration: If an item has been found by metro staff or handed in by another passenger, it will be taken to the lost and found office, where it will be registered and stored until claimed. It is important to provide a detailed description of the item when making an inquiry.
• Collection timeframes: Lost items are stored for a limited period. If an item is not claimed within the set timeframe, it may be handed over to authorities or charitable organizations.
• Required documentation: To retrieve a lost item, you will need to present valid identification and provide a detailed description of the item to confirm ownership.

It is advisable to act quickly if you lose something, as the timeframe for recovering items is limited. Major stations like El Perchel and Málaga-María Zambrano have better facilities to manage these services.