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Cycling in Malaga: Bike Rental, Routes, and Rules (2026)
With 300+ days of sunshine and flat coastal paths, Malaga is perfect for cycling. Here's everything you need to know.
Cycling in Malaga: Quick Facts
Cycling in Malaga is one of the best ways to explore the city. With over 300 days of sunshine, a flat coastline, and dedicated bike lanes, you can cover more ground than walking while still soaking up the atmosphere.
The public bike-share scheme (MalagaBici) no longer exists, but private rentals and app-based e-bikes have filled the gap. Here's everything you need to know about cycling in Malaga.
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Where to Rent a Bike
You have three main options for getting a bike in Malaga: app-based e-bikes, rental shops, or hotel bikes.
App-Based E-Bikes
The easiest option for short rides. Download an app, find a nearby bike, scan, and go.
| App | Type | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Dott | Electric bike | ~€0.25/min |
| Bolt | Electric bike | ~€0.20/min |
| Lime | Electric bike | ~€0.25/min |
App bikes are scattered across the city.
You'll find them near Muelle Uno, the beach promenades, Soho, and main tourist areas. When finished, park in designated zones or face extra fees.
Local tip
App-based e-bikes work out cheaper for rides under 30 minutes. For a full day of exploring, rent from a shop instead.
Bike Rental Shops
For longer rentals, dedicated bike shops offer better value and proper sizing.
| Rental Type | Daily Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard city bike | €10-15/day | Basic but reliable |
| Electric bike | €25-30/day | Easier for hills |
| Road/gravel bike | €35-50/day | For serious cyclists |
| 3-day e-bike rental | ~€55-60 | Better value for longer stays |
Where to find rental shops:
- Muelle Uno: Several shops near the port, ideal for tourists
- Soho: Central location, good for city exploration
- El Palo: Eastern beaches, good for coastal rides
- La Malagueta: Near the main beach
Recommended companies:
- Malaga Bike Tours: Rentals and guided tours
- Cycle Malaga: Carbon road bikes, gravel bikes, and city bikes
- E-Bike Malaga: Electric bike specialists
Hotel Rentals
Many hotels and hostels offer basic city bikes for guests.
Check before you book, as this can save money. Quality varies, so inspect the bike before heading out.
Cycling Rules in Malaga
Malaga takes cycling rules seriously.
Police actively enforce them, and fines can reach €60. Here's what you need to know.
Where You Can Ride
| Allowed | Not Allowed |
|---|---|
| Dedicated cycle lanes | Pavements/sidewalks |
| Roads with 30km/h limit | Historic centre |
| Residential areas (20km/h) | Pedestrianised streets |
| Shared spaces (where marked) | Bus and taxi lanes |
| Eastern seafront bike lane | Pedregalejo promenade (pedestrian side) |
Warning:
You cannot ride on pavements or pedestrian areas in Malaga. The only exception is the eastern seafront promenade, which has a dedicated bike lane separated from pedestrians. If you're unsure, get off and push.
Speed Limits
| Zone | Maximum Speed |
|---|---|
| Cycle lanes on main roads | 30 km/h |
| Residential areas | 20 km/h |
| Shared pedestrian spaces | 10 km/h |
| Near pedestrians | Adjust to walking pace |
Helmet Laws
| Age | In City | Outside City |
|---|---|---|
| Under 16 | Required | Required |
| 16 and over | Not required | Required |
| E-bike riders | Recommended | Required |
Children under 16 must wear helmets at all times, whether riding or as passengers. Adults are only legally required to wear helmets outside urban areas, but it's always a good idea.
Other Rules
Prohibited while cycling:
- Using a mobile phone (even hands-free)
- Wearing headphones or earbuds
- Listening to music or podcasts
- Riding on one wheel (wheelies)
- Holding onto moving vehicles
- Cycling under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Carrying children over 7 in child seats
Required equipment:
- Lights (front and rear) at night, in tunnels, or bad weather
- Reflectors
- Bell or horn
Parking Your Bike
| Where | Allowed? |
|---|---|
| Designated bike stands | Yes |
| Pedestrianised areas (not blocking path) | Yes, if stands unavailable |
| Urban furniture (benches, etc.) | Yes, if no stands within 50m |
| Traffic lights | No |
| Control boxes | No |
| Traffic signs | No |
| Trees | No |
Leave at least 1.5 metres free for pedestrians when parking.
Bikes on Public Transport
| Transport | Regular Bikes | Folding Bikes |
|---|---|---|
| Metro | Off-peak only | Anytime |
| Buses | Not allowed | Off-peak only |
| Cercanias train | Off-peak only | Anytime |
Off-peak generally means avoiding rush hours (8-9am, 6-8pm on weekdays).
Best Cycling Routes in Malaga
1. Beach Promenade East (Family Friendly)
The most popular route, running along the seafront with dedicated bike lanes.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Start | La Malagueta Beach |
| Route | Banos del Carmen → Pedregalejo → El Palo → Candado Beach → Penon del Cuervo |
| Distance | ~10 km one way |
| Difficulty | Easy (flat) |
| Best for | Families, photography, beach stops |
This route follows the eastern coast on mostly flat, dedicated bike paths. Stop at the chiringuitos (beach bars) in Pedregalejo for fresh fish, or pack a picnic for the small bays along the way.
2. City Sightseeing Loop
See Malaga's main attractions by bike without the walking fatigue.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Start | Muelle Uno |
| Route | Soho → Plaza de la Marina → Paseo del Parque → Picasso Museum area → La Alcazaba |
| Distance | ~6 km |
| Difficulty | Easy (mostly flat) |
| Best for | Tourists, casual riders |
Note: You'll need to dismount and walk through the historic centre. The route works best using the peripheral bike lanes, then walking the final stretch to attractions.
3. Guadalhorce Nature Reserve
A peaceful escape from the city, perfect for birdwatching.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Start | Misericordia Beach (west) |
| Route | Paseo Antonio Banderas → Wooden Bridge → Guadalhorce Nature Reserve |
| Distance | ~7-10 km round trip |
| Difficulty | Easy (flat) |
| Best for | Birdwatchers, families, nature lovers |
The 300-metre wooden bridge across the Guadalhorce river is a highlight.
Look for herons, storks, flamingos (in season), and coastal lagoons. The route connects seamlessly with the urban bike lane along Misericordia Beach.
4. Paseo Maritimo West
The western seafront promenade, less crowded than the east.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Start | Muelle Uno / Port |
| Route | Paseo de la Farola → Misericordia Beach → Paseo Antonio Banderas |
| Distance | ~5 km one way |
| Difficulty | Easy (flat) |
| Best for | Sunset rides, quiet cycling |
This route passes the lighthouse (La Farola) and continues along the western beaches. Less touristy than the eastern promenade.
5. Montes de Malaga Challenge
For serious cyclists looking for a mountain challenge.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Start | Ciudad Jardin |
| Route | Carril de Picapedreros → Fuente de la Reina → Puerto del Leon |
| Distance | 15-45 km (varies by route) |
| Difficulty | Hard (up to 1,000m+ elevation) |
| Best for | Road cyclists, mountain bikers |
Warning:
This is a serious climb with gradients up to 10%. Bring water, food, and appropriate gear. Not recommended for casual cyclists or in summer heat.
6. Coastal Route to Torre del Mar
An ambitious day ride along the eastern coast.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Start | Malaga city |
| Route | Rincon de la Victoria → La Cala del Moral → Benajarafe → Almayate → Torre del Mar |
| Distance | ~40-45 km one way |
| Difficulty | Moderate (mostly flat with gentle hills) |
| Best for | Experienced cyclists, day trips |
This route combines bike lanes, shared roads, and seafront promenades through charming coastal towns. Take the Cercanias train back to Malaga if you don't want to cycle both ways.
Guided Bike Tours
If you prefer a guide, these companies offer excellent tours:
- Malaga Bike Tours: City tours and rentals, knowledgeable local guides
- White Village Tours: Day trips to the white villages of Andalusia by bike
Guided tours typically include bike rental, helmet, water, and insurance.
Tips for Cycling in Malaga
Cycling in Malaga Checklist
- Download Dott, Bolt, or Lime apps before arrival
- Bring sunscreen and water (it gets hot)
- Avoid midday cycling in summer (ride early or late)
- Carry ID and phone (charged)
- Know the rules: no pavements, no headphones, no phones
- Use bike lanes where available
- Lock your bike properly when stopping
- Wear a helmet if cycling outside the city
Best Times to Cycle
| Season | Conditions |
|---|---|
| March-June | Ideal. Warm but not hot, long days |
| July-August | Very hot. Only cycle early morning or evening |
| September-November | Excellent. Warm, fewer tourists |
| December-February | Mild. Some rain possible, still pleasant |
Avoid cycling in the midday sun during summer. Temperatures can exceed 35°C, making physical activity uncomfortable and potentially dangerous.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hola! I'm the researcher, walker, and co-founder behind Spain on Foot. I help travellers experience Spain authentically, through in-depth guides, locals-only knowledge, and cultural stories you won't find in guidebooks. You can reach me at heidi@spainonfoot.com
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