Where to Park in Nerja: Free, Paid & Beach Parking Guide (2026)

Parking in Nerja can be a challenge, especially in summer. The narrow streets of the Old Town fill up quickly, and the popular beaches attract visitors from across the Costa del Sol. But with local knowledge, finding a good spot becomes much easier.

Whether you're looking for free parking near Nerja Old Town, secure paid car parks, or the best places to leave your car before a beach day, this guide has you covered.

As someone who visits Nerja often, I've gathered the most reliable parking tips to help you save time and avoid stress.

Can You Park in Nerja Old Town?

Parking in Nerja Old Town is possible, but limited.

The area has narrow, winding streets, many of which are one-way or pedestrian-only. Street parking on the outer edges of the Old Town fills up quickly, especially in high season.

The best approach: Park just outside the Old Town and walk in. Nerja is compact, so even the closest car parks are only a few minutes' walk from the Balcon de Europa, the beaches, and the historic centre.

Free Parking in Nerja

Several reliable free parking options exist in Nerja, though they fill up quickly in summer. Here are the best spots:

Calle del Ingenio / Calle del Puente Viejo

The largest free car park in Nerja is the open area at the end of Calle del Puente Viejo and Calle del Ingenio. You can see it from the N-340 as you enter Nerja.

• Distance to centre: 5-minute walk
• Size: Large, usually has availability
• Best for: All-day parking, beach days, avoiding paid lots

This is my go-to spot when visiting Nerja. Even in busy months, it usually has space.

Fairground Parking (C. Prol. Hernando de Carabeo)

A spacious open area just a short walk from the Old Town. Close to many of Nerja's main attractions.

• Distance to centre: 3-4 minute walk
• Size: Medium
• Best for: Quick access to Old Town

Parque Verano Azul Area (C. Carretera 6)

Popular with locals and visitors alike. Near the iconic Chanquete boat from the Spanish TV series.

• Distance to centre: 5-minute walk
• Best for: Families visiting the park

Beach Parking (Playa Burriana)

Free public parking is available along Playa Burriana, one of the most practical places to leave your car for a beach day.

• Distance to beach: Right there
• Fills up by: 10am in summer
• Best for: Beach days at Burriana

Paid Parking in Nerja

Nerja has several paid car parks that are convenient, secure, and close to the main sights.

Plaza de Espana Municipal Car Park

The most central option, located just off Calle de la Cruz. This underground car park is a short walk from the Balcon de Europa, the town hall, and Nerja's Old Town streets.

• Location: Underground, off Calle de la Cruz
• Price: €1.80 for the first hour
• Full day: €18.30 maximum
• Distance to Balcon de Europa: 2-minute walk
• Best for: Convenience, rainy days, overnight stays

Parque Verano Azul Municipal Car Park

Access directly from the park area.

Slightly farther from the centre but still only a short walk away. Same pricing as Plaza de Espana.

• Price: €1.80/hour, €18.30/day max
• Distance to centre: 5-minute walk
• Best for: Families, park visits

Los Huertos Private Car Park

An open-air car park running along the northern side of Calle Carabeo.

Previously free, now operates as a paid lot. Excellent location near beaches and popular streets.

• Price: €1.80 for one hour, €18.00 for 24 hours
• Distance to beach: 3-minute walk
• Best for: Quick beach access, central location

Beach Parking in Nerja

Nerja's beaches are among the most beautiful on the Costa del Sol. Here's where to park for each one:

Playa Burriana Parking

The best beachside parking in Nerja. Plenty of free public spaces within walking distance of the shore.

• Type: Free
• Availability: Good, but arrive early in summer
• Facilities: Restaurants and beach bars nearby

Calahonda Beach & El Salon Parking

These beaches sit right below the Balcon de Europa. Free parking is available nearby, but spaces disappear quickly due to the central location.

• Type: Free (street parking)
• Availability: Limited, fills up fast
• Alternative: Park at Calle del Ingenio and walk (10 minutes)

Parking for Other Beaches

For more remote beaches like Maro or the caves area, parking is available at the Nerja Caves car park or along the access roads. These spots are further from the Old Town but offer easier beach access.

Tips for Parking in Nerja

Signs to Watch For

• Prohibido Estacionar - No parking
• Reservado - Reserved (usually for residents or disabled)
• Zona de carga y descarga - Loading zone, no parking during certain hours
• Vado permanente - Permanent no-parking (garage access)

Is Street Parking Free in Nerja?

Street parking in Nerja can be free, but it depends on location.

Many residential streets and areas slightly outside the Old Town don't have meters. However, central streets have loading zones, no-parking zones, or monitored areas.

Rule of thumb: Always check the signs before leaving your car. Free doesn't mean unrestricted.

Best Parking Strategy by Situation

Day trip to Old Town: Park at Calle del Ingenio (free) and walk 5 minutes. Or use Plaza de Espana underground if you want convenience.

Beach day at Burriana: Arrive before 10am and park in the free lots near the beach. Alternatively, park at Calle del Ingenio and walk.

Short visit (1-2 hours): Los Huertos or Plaza de Espana underground offer central locations at €1.80/hour.

Overnight stay: Hotel parking if available, or Plaza de Espana underground (€18.30/day max).

Summer peak season: Accept that you may need to use paid parking. Free spots fill up by 10am.