Will Costa del Sol ever have a coastal train? First phase of feasibility study due in January 2026

The Costa del Sol coastal rail (Tren Litoral), the proposed railway connecting Nerja, in the eastern Malaga province, to Algeciras, in Cadiz is continuing to progress as Spain approaches 2026.

The feasibility study phase of the project is underway. Key milestones are expected to be achieved as soon as January.

Feasibility studies divided into segments

The Spanish Ministry of Transport awarded the €992,000 contract for the feasibility study in mid-2025 to a consortium led by WSP Spain-APIA Multicriteri – MCRIT. Work on the 18-month study began shortly thereafter, dividing the potential 195 km corridor into five segments: Malaga-Nerja (east) and four western sections from Malaga-Fuengirola (upgrading the existing C1 Cercanías line) through to Algeciras.

The study was on schedule as of January 2026. There were no delays reported. The initial study of alternative options outlining viable routes, possible alignments (for example, parallel to the A-7 when possible, with underground section in urban areas) and technical preference is expected by the end of January or February 2026. Initial indications indicate that priority will be given to Fuengirola – Marbella, with options including partially buried tracks in order to minimise the local environmental impact.

By November 2026, the final word will be announced

You can also find out more about the following: full feasibility studyThe final approval of the report, which includes detailed demand forecasts and cost-benefit analyses, as well as socioeconomic evaluations is expected to be completed in November 2026. A summary document for the public will accompany these conclusions.

If the study confirms viability of the project, as earlier projections suggest, with potential socioeconomic benefits double the estimated €6 to 7 billion cost for the full route, the next step would be the more detailed “estudio informativo” (informative study), paving the way for environmental assessments and eventual construction tenders. It is possible that the project will be implemented in phases, beginning with the most urgent parts.

Sources describe 2026 as an important year for local authorities and residents. It is crucial to define the technical framework of the project and secure funding commitments. The train will be essential to serve underserved areas like Marbella and Estepona. It will also improve connectivity between Malaga Airport and the main holiday resorts.

While there is no set construction schedule, positive results in the feasibility study could speed up planning for 2027 and beyond. The Ministry highlights the project’s role in promoting a sustainable transport system amid the growing traffic pressures at the Costa del Sol.