Why pre-book your airport transfer?
After a long flight, the last thing anyone wants is a queue at the taxi rank or a confusing local bus with suitcases in tow. Booking your airport transfer before you travel means a driver or shuttle is waiting when you land, the price is agreed up front in pounds, and there's no haggling or meter-watching on the way to your hotel. It's especially worth it for families with young children, late-night arrivals and resorts that are a long drive from the airport.
Pre-booked transfers are often cheaper than a taxi too, particularly in busy summer resorts like Magaluf, Benidorm, Costa Adeje and Albufeira, and most include a reasonable amount of luggage in the price.
Types of airport transfer
🚌 Shared shuttle
The cheapest way to reach your hotel. A coach or minibus collects passengers from the same flight and drops them at their hotels in turn. Great value for couples and solo travellers who don't mind a few stops.
🚗 Private transfer
A car or people carrier just for your party, going direct to your door. Quicker, more comfortable and often similar in price to a shuttle once you split it between four or more people.
🚐 Minibus & group transfers
Travelling with a big family, a hen or stag party or a golf group? A private minibus keeps everyone (and all the luggage) together for one fixed price.
✨ Executive & luxury
A premium car with a smartly dressed driver. Ideal for honeymoons, special occasions or simply starting your holiday in style.
How to book a transfer with Holiday Splash
- Pick your destination airport above and type the name of your hotel, villa or apartment.
- Compare options on Holiday Extras. Shared, private and luxury transfers are shown side by side with the full price.
- Book and relax. Add your flight number so your driver can track any delays, and keep your confirmation handy for the meeting point.
Top tips for a smooth airport transfer
- Use your hotel's full name. Lots of resorts have similarly named hotels, so include the hotel brand and the resort or town it's in.
- Book your return at the same time. It's usually simpler and saves sorting it out on holiday.
- Mention child seats when booking if you're travelling with babies or young children.
- Check luggage limits if you're bringing golf clubs, bikes, prams or ski gear, as these may need a bigger vehicle.
- Save the emergency number from your confirmation in case you can't find your driver.
Airport transfer FAQs
Is it cheaper to book an airport transfer in advance?
Almost always. Pre-booked shared and private transfers are priced per journey, so you know the cost before you fly, while taxis at the rank charge on the meter and can cost noticeably more in busy resorts or late at night.
What is the difference between a shared and a private transfer?
A shared transfer (shuttle) is a coach or minibus that drops several groups at different hotels, so it is the cheapest option but can take longer. A private transfer is a car or minivan just for your party that goes straight to your hotel, which is quicker and ideal for families, groups or late arrivals.
What happens if my flight is delayed?
When you book you give your flight number, so the transfer company can track your flight and adjust your pick-up time. Check the meeting and waiting time details on your booking confirmation before you travel.
How do I find my driver at the airport?
Your confirmation explains exactly where to go, usually a meeting point in arrivals or a rep holding a sign with your name. Keep it on your phone along with the transfer company's emergency number.
Can I book a transfer to a villa or apartment rather than a hotel?
Yes. Enter the full name or address of your villa, apartment or hotel as the drop-off point when you search, and the transfer company will take you to the door where the road allows.
Who provides the transfers on this page?
Transfers are booked with our partner Holiday Extras, a UK travel extras company. Holiday Splash may earn a commission when you book through our links, at no extra cost to you.
Planning the rest of your trip?
Browse our latest hand-picked holiday deals from UK airports, book attraction tickets for theme parks and water parks before you go, or read our travel guides for destination tips.