How to Get From Malaga to Mijas and Have a Fun Day Trip

Are you planning a day trip from Malaga to Mijas and want to know exactly how to get there?

First of all, it’s important to know that Mijas is divided into two parts: Mijas Pueblo and Mijas Costa.

Mijas Costa refers to the area next to the beach, while Mijas Pueblo is the mountain village. 

The most visited part is Mijas Pueblo, and the reason behind it is its unique setting and character. 

It’s considered the prettiest town in Malaga, so yes, it’s worth your time. 

This guide includes exactly how to get to Mijas from Malaga and suggestions on what to do in Mijas in one day. 

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How to Get from Malaga to Mijas Pueblo

Option 1 – Drive

The easiest and quickest way to get from Malaga to Mijas is by car. It takes 35 to 40 minutes.

A car gives you the freedom to travel to Mijas Pueblo anytime (before the crowds during the peak season) and stop in other coastal towns like Fuengirola or Mijas Costa.

Driving from Malaga to Mijas Pueblo is straightforward. You’ll drive most of the time via the AP-7 motorway. 

However, I do need to mention that the road up to Mijas Pueblo, which is on a hilltop, is a bit windy, so be aware of that.

Also, finding a car park isn’t always easy. We always try to park a bit further after the roundabout where the BP petrol station is. If you don’t want to walk much to the centre, you can try the parking near the tourist office, but I’ve always found it busy.

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Option 3 – Take the bus

Is there a direct bus from Malaga to Mijas Pueblo? The short answer is yes; the M-112 bus leaves from Malaga bus station.

But is it the best option after driving there? No. 

Although it’s fantastic that there is a direct bus, the timetable is very limited. Only four times are available from Monday to Friday, and only one time from Saturday to Sunday.

In addition to this, the bus journey takes 1 hour and 35 minutes because it makes over 50 stops on the way. 

Option 4 – Order an Uber

If you don’t want to rent a car for a day or rely on public transport, getting an Uber from Malaga to Mijas Pueblo is another option.

The rides can cost from 29 euros, but you can see all the options once you enter the details on the app.

Is it budget-friendly? Not really, as you’ll pay about 60 euros for a return journey. However, it’s worth it if you aren’t on a budget because you have all the time you want to explore Mijas Pueblo without worrying about getting back to Malaga.

 When requesting one on the way back, do it 30 minutes before or so if you don’t want to be waiting for long. There might not be Ubers close to Mijas, and it might take a bit to come and pick you up. 

Option 5 – Book an organised trip

Last but not least, you have the option of booking an organised day trip, which includes a guide and transportation.

This guided tour takes you from Malaga to Mijas Pueblo and one of my favourite places in my hometown, Marbella, which has much more than the expensive port of Puerto Banus.

The duration is eight hours, and you’ll have free time to explore both locations.

I think it’s good if you don’t have much time in Malaga and want to see some places outside the city.

However, I would personally spend more time in both places by going on my own.

If you wonder if it’s possible to see Mijas Pueblo in one day, the answer is yes.

You won’t need more than a day trip to Mijas Pueblo! There are some sights, but they won’t take much of your time.

Here are some of the attractions you shouldn’t miss: 

Explore Centro de Mijas

Wandering the centre of Mijas is a must if you love taking photos, window shopping or seeing historical buildings. It’s very picturesque, and there are a couple of museums and plenty of independent shops where you can buy souvenirs. 

Eat chocolate at Mayan Monkey Mijas

Do you love chocolate? Don’t leave Mijas without visiting this chocolate factory. Be ready to learn about making organic and sustainable chocolate and taste it, too. If you have plenty of time, I would even book a class to make your own chocolate bars. It’s a lot of fun for adults and kids! 

Visit Mijas Miniatures Museum

An interesting museum in Mijas is the Miniature Museum, located on a wagon. Expect to find the smallest items you’ve ever seen! 

Check out Ermita de la Virgen de la Peña

This small church in a cave is quite impressive to see. By the way, if you like buying souvenirs, there’s a cute little shop next to the church. 

Wander Parque La Muralla

This park is a fantastic place to relax and have a stroll while enjoying beautiful sea views and seeing a wide variety of plants. There are also many cats around this area! 

Watch the sunset at Mirador del Compás

I don’t know about you, but I love viewpoints and this is one of my favourites on the Costa del Sol. The coastal views are spectacular, but they’re even better on a clear day at sunset. 

How to Get from Malaga to Mijas Costa

The easiest and fastest way to get to La Cala de Mijas is by car.

The train plus bus option consists of taking the Cercanias train to Fuengirola and then the M-220 bus. Stop at Leila Playa.

There’s a direct bus from Malaga to La Cala de Mijas, but it’s only one way, so you’ll need to take the bus plus train to go back or get an Uber.