Malaga Rail Strike Causes Delays on Airport and Commuter Lines

A three-day rail strike launched on 10 November 2026 across the province of Malaga, causing widespread disruption to regional passenger travel. The industrial action hits the Cercanías network, which includes the C1 line that connects Malaga city centre, Malaga Airport, and coastal resorts down to Fuengirola, as well as the inland C2 route.

Rail operator Renfe has cautioned travellers that services face delays and cancellations over the course of the walkout. Beyond the local commuter network, middle-distance Avant train services running between Malaga and Seville have been substituted by replacement bus services. For holidaymakers heading to or from the eastern Costa del Sol, including Nerja, staying informed is vital when planning connections through Malaga's transport hubs.

Impact on Airport and Coastal Connections

The C1 commuter line is one of the busiest rail corridors in Spain, functioning as the primary public transit link between Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) and the city centre's main rail and bus terminal, Malaga María Zambrano. Travellers landing at the airport who usually take the train to connect with intercity buses towards Nerja should expect irregular departures, crowded platforms, and potential cancellations.

Renfe has advised passengers to allow extra journey time and consider alternative travel options where feasible. While minimum service levels are typically put in place during industrial action, frequencies can be significantly reduced compared to standard timetables.

Travel Alternatives for Visitors to Nerja

Nerja itself is not connected to the rail network, so visitors already rely on road transport — primarily direct ALSA coaches, private airport transfers, rental vehicles, or taxis. However, any rail slowdown ripples into regional road transit:

• From Malaga Airport to Nerja: Direct taxis, pre-booked private transfers, or rental cars remain unaffected by the rail walkout, making them the most dependable options during the strike.
• Via Malaga City: If your itinerary relies on catching the C1 train from the airport to Malaga María Zambrano to board the direct bus to Nerja, consider taking an airport taxi directly to the bus station, or opting for the direct airport shuttle bus to central Malaga.
• Trips to Seville: Visitors planning a day trip or onward journey to Seville should note that Avant trains are temporarily replaced by road coaches, which may alter travel times.

Travellers are urged to monitor official announcements before leaving their accommodation.

Good to know

• Dates of the action: The three-day strike commenced on 10 November 2026.
• Affected lines: Cercanías lines C1 (Malaga–Airport–Fuengirola) and C2, plus Avant middle-distance services to Seville.
• Seville connection: Avant trains between Malaga and Seville are operating via replacement buses.
• Getting to Nerja: Pre-booked airport transfers, taxis, and direct regional buses from Malaga's central bus terminal operate normally, avoiding the rail disruptions.
• Official advice: Operator Renfe advises passengers to check service status before travel and seek alternative transport where possible.