On the Costa del Sol, the AP-7 motorway is once again causing debate in the summer of 2026. The toll road along the coast, which runs from Málaga through Marbella to Estepona and Manilva, remains one of the most important but also most expensive transport routes in southern Spain. With the start of the peak season, charges are rising significantly once again – and with them, discontent among many motorists is growing.
Spain Expat Press Editorial Team
by Marlon Gallego Bosbach
Significantly higher costs during the peak season
As every year, higher summer rates apply on the AP-7 between June and September. The most affected area is the heavily used stretch along the western Costa del Sol, which is used daily by commuters, tourists and expats.
For a full journey between Fuengirola and Manilva, motorists now have to pay around €19.55 during the peak season. In the low season, the same route costs about €12 – a difference that regularly surprises many users.
Individual sections are also affected by the increases. For example, the stretch near Calahonda costs around €9.25 in summer, compared to about €5.70 previously. In San Pedro Alcántara, the price rises to around €6.25, while the toll in Manilva increases to approximately €4.05.
Why prices are rising
Officially, the annual adjustments are attributed to several factors. These include general inflation, rising operating costs, as well as a gradual reduction in state support. The operators argue that toll prices must be regularly adjusted to reflect economic developments.
At the same time, this very argument is drawing criticism from many drivers, as the price increases are now seen as barely proportionate.
Growing criticism from politicians and the public
The price developments have been a subject of controversy for years, particularly in the province of Málaga. Local politicians and regional representatives criticise the fact that the AP-7 has effectively become a compulsory route for many people, as the free A-7 coastal road is regularly congested during the summer months.
The toll is therefore described by critics as “overpriced”, particularly for commuters and locals who are required to use the route regularly. At the same time, there are calls for the revenue to be invested more heavily in upgrading the parallel A-7 motorway, in order to achieve genuine long-term relief.
AP-7 or A-7: hardly a real choice in summer
Many motorists on the Costa del Sol face a dilemma. The AP-7 offers a fast and usually congestion-free route along the coast, but it is a toll road and significantly more expensive, especially during the summer months. The A-7, on the other hand, is free of charge, but in peak season it is often heavily congested, particularly between Málaga and Marbella.
Especially during the summer months, many road users therefore opt for the AP-7 despite the high costs in order to avoid long traffic jams and delays.
