Barcelona to Málaga train with iryo

My Journey From Barcelona to Malaga by Train

Introduction

Traveling from Barcelona to Malaga by train was one of my easiest and most seamless journeys in Spain. When I was planning a trip around the country, I focused on the trains, as they’re modern and rapid. Barcelona to Malaga flights actually take more time, especially when you factor in travel to and from the airport and long waiting times.

Route Overview

I think that the train is easily the best way to get from Barcelona to Malaga. Taking around six hours, it cuts across the entire country, making its way from the eastern to the southern coast. Calling at stations like Zaragoza, Lleida, and Cordoba, it’s a lifeline for anyone wanting to travel to the main cities in Spain. Direct services do not travel via Madrid, as that’s on a separate high-speed line.

Transportation Experience

Booking the Barcelona to Malaga train was easy and simple via Omio. On the app, I just needed to select my journey and make the payment. I then received the tickets online, with a QR code that I could scan when boarding.

Should you take the train, bus, or plane?

As the trains reach high speeds of up to 300 km per hour, it’s a much better option than taking the bus. Buses to Malaga can take up to 17 hours, and you can't get up and walk around like on a train. Flights take less time in the air (1 hour 45 minutes), but when you factor in time spent at the airport and traveling to and from, the total journey time is usually much longer.

Route Details

Departure & Arrival Stations

The train leaves from Barcelona Sants Station, located in the Barcelona Sants district. This is around 3.2 kilometers from La Rambla and 5.6 kilometers from La Sagrada Familia. Check-in is easy, although I did go through airport-style security scanners (with no restrictions on liquids).

The station is vast, with a few places to eat, although they are pricier than city center locations. As I left early in the morning, some eateries were not open, which may also be the case on Sundays.

The train arrives at Malaga Maria Zambrano, approximately six hours later. When I arrived, I headed to the mall next door, which has a large supermarket and eateries like Taco Bell and McDonald’s. The station is around 2.4 kilometers from Malaga’s Alcazaba.

Schedule & Frequency

There are two to three direct services per day (at other times, indirect services with one or two changes are available). Typically, one leaves in the late morning, one in mid-afternoon, and one in early evening. Renfe's high-speed trains are usually punctual, although delays are possible.

Onboard Experience & Services

To get from Barcelona to Malaga by train, I traveled in Standard Class. I have used First Class on Renfe previously, but the only notable upgrade is a comfier, larger seat. So generally, I don’t think the extra cost is worthwhile.

Wi-Fi is available and functional for browsing the internet, but don't expect fast uploads or downloads. EU plug sockets are also available beneath the seat. On Renfe trains from Barcelona to Malaga, you’re allowed up to three pieces of luggage (max combined 25 kg). That was more than enough for my trip. There’s also a restaurant car where you can buy food and drinks. My favorite dish is pan con tomate, a typical Spanish breakfast.

I loved the scenery after we passed Cordoba, from the Andalusian plateau and the landscape sprawls, and I could make out the Sierra Nevada mountains in the distance.

Ticketing Advice & Budget Breakdown

Spanish trains do go up in price closer to the date, but not as dramatically as other rail providers! Still, I’d recommend booking as early as possible. It’s easy on Omio, and you can keep all of your tickets in one place.

Budget breakdown:

• Barcelona to Malaga train ticket: €68
• Coffee and pastry at Barcelona Sants Station: €6.50
• Pan con tomate on the train: €3
• Taco Bell at Malaga Maria Zambrano station: €10
• Total: €87.50

Top Tips & Personal Recommendations

• Choose a window seat: The views (on both sides of the train) are wonderful.
• Arrive early: You need to go through baggage security, and there can be lines for this.
• Fill up your water bottle: Water is potable throughout Spain, and it can be expensive on the train.
• Check Business Class prices: It’s sometimes the same rate as standard.

Conclusion

Traveling from Barcelona to Malaga by train is a quick and efficient way to get between these two Spanish cities. Booking is effortless, too. You just download the Omio app, and away you go!

The 300 km/h journey is comfortable, scenic, and stress-free, with no airport lines or long bus rides. Whether you’re heading south for business or leisure, the train is a fantastic way to get there. I’d absolutely recommend it for your next trip!

About the Author: Claire Martin

• Job Title: Travel Journalist and Videomaker

• Bio: Claire Martin is a British travel journalist and blogger who specializes in train and ferry travel around Europe. Her expertise lies in finding the best ways to travel overland, creating comprehensive guides and videos for her audience.