With Malaga’s spectacular Christmas lights illuminating over 500 streets from throughout December and early January, those living from Torremolinos to Marbella are planning to flock to the city for festive shows, theatre, concerts, shopping on Calle Larios and at the Christmas markets, and New Year’s celebrations. The famous light-and-sound displays on Calle Larios run at 6.30pm, 8.30pm, and 10pm most days (none on December 24 or 31), with lights glowing late into the night.
Public transport options
Public transport offers affordable, reliable travel, but holiday schedules are reduced on December 24, 25, and 31 and January 1, with few late-night extensions for coastal returns. Plan ahead using official apps and websites.
Train travel (Renfe Cercanías C-1)
Ideal for Torremolinos, Benalmadena, and Fuengirola. Trains run every 20 minutes (normally) from 6am to 11.30pm to 12.30am, reaching Malaga Centro-Alameda station near the festivities in 20–45 minutes. Fares cost €1.80 to €3.60 one-way. On Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, the last train back departs around 8.50pm. Services are limited on holidays. And, Marbella residents must connect via bus.
Bus Services (Consorcio and Avanza)
The bus routes cover the full coast, including direct routes to Marbella (e.g., M-220, L-60/L-79). Lines like M-110/M-112 serve Torremolinos/Benalmadena too, and the M-113 goes to Fuengirola. Frequencies: 15 to 60 minutes; fares range from €2 to €5. Holiday reductions tend to be the same as the train services end early (after 8pm) on December 24 and 31, and resume again on December 25 and January 1. There are no all-night options have been announced so far. Except, that is, for lucky Benalmadena. On January 1, M-110 buses run from Muelle Heredia in Malaga to Torrenueva at 1am, 2.05, 2.50 and 3.55.
Key Advice
For late-night lights viewing or even the spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks in Plaza de la Constitución in Malaga and Muelle Uno, Malaga Port, unfortunately, public transport won’t suffice for returns, so consider pre-booked taxis, ride-shares, or overnight stays. Even with the possibility in going in a private car, with the latest low-emissions zone restrictions in the centre of Malaga, and the intensity of random Guardia Civil breathalyser checks, driving is not necessarily the best option.
With mild weather and unforgettable events, trips to the big city are rewarding, but flexibility will ensure a stress-free festive celebration.