Alicante-Terminal to Málaga María Zambrano train with iryo

Traveling From Alicante Terminal to Málaga María Zambrano by Train

Introduction

After a restful stretch in Alicante, I was ready for a change of scene and some Andalusian sunshine in Málaga. Alicante’s coastal calm and Málaga’s lively, art-filled energy make them two very different experiences along Spain’s southern coast, and that contrast was exactly what I needed. The train journey strikes the perfect balance between speed and comfort on Renfe’s AVE train. Here’s everything you need to know about traveling from Alicante Terminal to Málaga María Zambrano by train.

Route Overview

The rail journey from Alicante Terminal to Málaga María Zambrano crosses Spain’s southeast and usually involves one transfer. Stops are often in Madrid or Córdoba, depending on the service. Direct trains do exist, but they’re less frequent. I was lucky to find a direct service in the late afternoon that took about 5 hours and 51 minutes. It meant a late arrival in Málaga, but skipping the transfer was worth it. Compared with the stress of flying, the train offers city-center departures, power outlets, and no baggage check lines. For me, traveling with Renfe AVE is also far more comfortable for working or resting. With so many advantages, it’s easy to see why I think the high-speed train is the best way to travel from Alicante to Málaga.

Transportation Experience

For my recent trip from Alicante Terminal to Málaga María Zambrano, I booked my train ticket on Omio. The app made it easy to filter departures and find a direct option to avoid transfers. I secured a seat on Renfe’s AVE service and reserved a window seat, which I always like for leaning back and watching the scenery. High-speed trains are a much easier and more comfortable way to travel between Spanish cities, at least in my experience. If you prefer hitting the road, there are also buses from Alicante to Málaga, but these typically take between 7 and 8 hours. Since I was lucky enough to get a direct Renfe AVE service, the train was an easy choice for me.

Route Details

Departure & Arrival Stations

Trains to Málaga depart from Alicante Terminal, the main station for both high-speed and regional trains in Alicante. The station is compact and close to the city center, so I walked there after a big lunch. Inside, you’ll find cafés like Tim Hortons, along with small convenience shops for water and snacks. You’ll also find several ATMs if you need to grab some cash before boarding. Security is straightforward, with ID checks before the platforms, so arriving 30–40 minutes early is ideal. Restrooms are modern (usually paid entry), and the platforms are clearly signed. Before boarding, I found a small kiosk and picked up a bottle of water and a small snack for the journey to Málaga.

Renfe AVE trains from Alicante arrive at Málaga María Zambrano. The station functions much like an airport, with a wide selection of cafés and shops. It also connects directly to the Vialia shopping center, which has more cafés, restaurants, and a supermarket. Outside the station, you’ll find plenty of taxis waiting. For public transport, you can connect to Cercanías trains or the Málaga Metro (El Perchel stop is directly linked), making it simple to reach Centro Histórico or the beach.

Schedule & Frequency

On most days, you’ll find several departures between Alicante Terminal and Málaga Maria Zambrano, with many routes requiring one transfer. The first train usually leaves around 7:24 AM, and the last departs at about 3:26 PM. I chose a direct service with Renfe AVE, leaving at 4:35 PM and arriving around 10:26 PM. The timing wasn’t ideal, but skipping a transfer made the long journey much more comfortable.

Onboard Experience & Services

I usually travel in Turista Class (Estándar) on Renfe trains. This is equivalent to Standard Class, and it’s honestly more than comfortable enough for me. The seats are wide, they recline, and there’s plenty of legroom. It's the perfect setup for reading or getting a bit of work done. With Renfe’s generous luggage policy (up to three items under 25 kg total), my carry-on fit easily in the overhead rack and my backpack stayed by my feet, still leaving space to stretch and relax.

On the train from Alicante Terminal to Málaga María Zambrano, I had a window seat, which I loved because I could watch the scenery shift from the dry hills near Alicante to the golden valleys of southern Spain. The highlight was catching glimpses of the Mediterranean near Benalmádena and Fuengirola when sitting on the left-hand side of the train heading south.

One thing I love about taking Renfe’s AVE service is the PlayRenfe entertainment portal. It offers fast internet along with a selection of TV shows, movies, and e-newspapers. The Wi-Fi worked surprisingly well after signing in with my ticket. I used it to check emails, upload videos, and scroll through photos from my trip on Instagram.

I brought my own snacks and water, but there’s also a cafetería car onboard serving coffee and sandwiches if you need a break. Restrooms are also available if you need a different kind of break. They were clean and well-stocked, which I always appreciate on longer routes. Overall, this was an excellent experience, and I’d gladly do it again with Renfe AVE.

Ticketing Advice & Budget Breakdown

I booked my Alicante to Málaga train ticket on Omio only a few days in advance. I recommend booking earlier if possible, which I usually try to do. On Renfe's AVE services, your ticket already includes luggage, which makes it an even better deal. Here’s what I spent on this trip:

Budget breakdown:

Top Tips & Personal Recommendations

When planning your Alicante to Málaga train trip, keep these tips in mind:

• Filter for “direct” on Omio: Fewer evening arrivals, but worth it if you want zero transfers. Direct services save you from switching trains in Madrid or Córdoba.
• Arrive 30–40 minutes early: ID checks happen before the platforms, but lines move quickly. Use the extra time to grab water or a snack before boarding.
• Pack light snacks and water: The cafetería is fine for coffee or sandwiches, but your own staples are cheaper and faster. A small refillable bottle is especially useful on long rides.
• Choose a window seat: Extra comfort for a 5–6 hour journey and great views across southern Spain. Sit on the left-hand side of the train for the best views.

Conclusion

For me, traveling from Alicante Terminal to Málaga Maria Zambrano by train is the calmest and most productive way to cross Spain. The ride is scenic and stress-free, taking you from the Costa Blanca to the Costa del Sol in just under 6 hours. If you can find a direct AVE service, it’s a total win. To make your trip as smooth as mine, book your tickets early on Omio. Compare times, reserve your preferred seat, and keep everything in one app. Ready to go? Plan your journey and book online today.

About the Author: Nancy Sevilla

• Job Title: Travel & Lifestyle Creator
• Bio: Nancy is a travel content creator who shares honest guides, helpful tips, and personal experiences from her global adventures. Based between Spain and the U.S., she specializes in creating visually compelling content for her blog and social platforms.