- Must visit
Museo Picasso Málaga
A major collection tracing Picasso’s career in a historic palace, essential for understanding the artist born in Málaga.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bilbao to Málaga
Showing times and prices for Jul 31
Cheapest price
$178
Average price
$182
Fastest journey
12 h 14 m
Average duration
12 h 34 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
739 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bilbao to Málaga is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bilbao to Málaga will cost around $182 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $178.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Bilbao to Málaga without transferring at least once.
04186+
061686:53 AM12h53Bilbao-Abando7:46 PMMálaga María Zambrano$1781One-way1 transfer- 04186+061586:53 AM12h14Bilbao-Abando7:07 PMMálaga María Zambrano$1851One-way1 transfer
- 04186+061586:53 AM12h14Bilbao-Abando7:07 PMMálaga María Zambrano$1851One-way1 transfer
- 04186+061686:53 AM12h53Bilbao-Abando7:46 PMMálaga María Zambrano$1781One-way1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bilbao to Málaga
SpainSpain
Take a train from Bilbao to Málaga and enjoy the approximately 459 miles (739 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
There are 14 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:52, the last at 13:55.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $18 (€15)
Distance 459 miles (739 km) |
Average train duration 7h 17m |
Trains per day 14 |
Direct trains 14 |
First train 6:52 AM |
Last train 1:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 42 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $18 (€15)
Live departures
Bilbao to Málaga train times
The table below shows live departures for Bilbao to Málaga trains for tomorrow, Friday, July 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 04186+06168 | 6:53 AM Bilbao-Abando | 12h53 | 7:46 PM Málaga María Zambrano | 1 transfer | |
| 04186+06158 | 6:53 AM Bilbao-Abando | 12h14 | 7:07 PM Málaga María Zambrano | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Train companies: Renfe ALVIA from Bilbao to Málaga trainsRenfe ALVIA trains will get you between Bilbao and Málaga from $18 (€15). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Renfe ALVIA
About
Renfe Alvia are high-speed trains with top speeds of up to 250km/h operated by Renfe, Spain’s national railway company. Alvia trains cover most cities in Spain, including Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao, Valencia, Alicante, Zaragoza and Cadiz. They are somewhat slower than Renfe AVE and AVLO (high-speed and low cost) but cover more destinations and are a comfortable and effective way of travelling around Spain. Onboard facilities include free WIFI, bike storage and luggage allowance. Alvia trains have two seat classes – Estándar and Confort. Top routes for Renfe Alvia include Barcelona to Pamplona, Madrid to Cádiz and Alicante to Gijón.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 3 pieces of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Renfe
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with drinks, snacks, and hot meals. At-seat service in Preferente class
Seat reservation
Included in Preferente (First) class. Optional extra cost in Turista (Second) class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, accessible toilets, and staff assistance for boarding/alighting
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be muzzled and leashed, require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Málaga
Things to do in Málaga
Discover the best of Málaga — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Málaga trip today.
- Must visit
Museo Carmen Thyssen Málaga
Dedicated to Carmen Thyssen’s collection, this museum excels in 19th-century Spanish and Andalusian painting in a restored palace.
- Recommended
Casa Natal Picasso Museum
Set in Picasso’s birthplace, this museum explores his early years, family context, and personal legacy in Málaga.
- Must visit
Calle Larios
Málaga’s main pedestrian shopping street links the old center with the port and is lively day and evening.
- Must visit
Muelle Uno
A redeveloped waterfront promenade with gardens, shade structures, and harbor views, ideal for an easy central walk.
- Must visit
Mirador de Gibralfaro
A scenic hilltop viewpoint by Gibralfaro Parador, famous for postcard panoramas of the port, bullring, and cathedral.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Ajoblanco
A chilled tomato soup with olive oil, garlic and bread, often topped with ham and egg. A Málaga summer staple linked to Andalusian home cooking.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Ajoblanco
Cold almond and garlic soup thinned with water and olive oil, traditionally served with grapes. A classic Málaga dish with Moorish roots.
Boquerones Fritos
Tiny anchovies lightly fried in olive oil until crisp. One of Málaga’s signature seafood tapas, especially popular at beach bars and fish markets.
José Carlos García
Michelin-starred fine dining serving refined Andalusian cuisine with technical precision. Elegant atmosphere and one of Málaga’s top gastronomic addresses.
El Pimpi
Historic old-town tavern famed for classic Málaga tapas, fried fish and vermouth. Lively, traditional and one of the city’s most beloved institutions.
Restaurante El Caballete
Classic seafood restaurant at Pedregalejo known for espetos, grilled fish and rice dishes. Casual beachfront setting with a long local reputation.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Spain. Hotels rise in summer, but tapas, local transit, and casual dining stay fairly reasonable versus Madrid, Barcelona, or many major European beach cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or simple local meals.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a meal at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €1.80-3.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, round up or leave 5-10% for very good service. In cafes, small change is fine. In taxis, rounding up the fare is common.
EMT Malaga
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1,40 €
- Day pass
- 4,20 €
To the city center
Málaga María Zambrano -> Málaga Centro-Alameda, Málaga
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 8 min
- EMT city buses accept contactless bank cards on board. Keep your card ready and validate once when boarding.
- For the center from María Zambrano, Cercanías C1 to Málaga Centro-Alameda is usually the fastest public transport option.
FAQs: Trains from Bilbao to Málaga
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bilbao to Málaga by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Málaga, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The first train from Bilbao to Málaga leaves at 6:52 AM.
The distance by train from Bilbao to Málaga is 459 miles (739 km).
The last train from Bilbao to Málaga leaves at 1:55 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Bilbao to Málaga.
There is no direct train service currently available from Bilbao to Málaga.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bilbao to Málaga.
The train station in Bilbao that goes to Málaga is Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes, which connects to Málaga María Zambrano.
Yes, the train journey from Bilbao to Málaga offers scenic views, including the rolling landscapes of the Basque Country, the vineyards of La Rioja, and the diverse terrains of central Spain before reaching the coastal region of Andalucía.
Yes, you can take the train from Bilbao to Málaga.
Popular day trips by train from Málaga include Córdoba, Granada, El Chorro, Ronda, Antequera.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Spain Pass and Interrail Spain Pass are valid on most trains within Spain, including RENFE regional, AVE high-speed, and other long-distance services. Some restrictions may apply for certain premium trains, so it is advisable to check specific train eligibility and reservation requirements in advance.
Spain uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards, but cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, while cash may be preferred for small purchases, markets, and rural locations.
In Málaga, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transport, and popular tourist sites. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers who do not use the meter and unofficial street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It's advisable to avoid accepting unsolicited help with luggage or directions, as these can lead to distraction theft. Staying vigilant in nightlife areas and keeping personal belongings secure helps ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Bilbao to Málaga
Most Bilbao to Málaga trains use the Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes to Malaga María Zambrano station pair. Use this guide to compare Bilbao and Málaga train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Bilbao
Arrival train stations in Málaga
Which Málaga station do trains from Bilbao arrive at?
Trains from Bilbao to Málaga arrive at Malaga María Zambrano. Malaga María Zambrano is 0 miles (1 km) from Málaga city centre.
Malaga María ZambranoExplanada de la Estación, S/N, 29002 Málaga, Spain+34 902240202
City-centre transport
Getting to Malaga María Zambrano from Málaga city centre
Malaga María Zambrano is 1 km from Málaga city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus4, 19, N3 · 13m · $2 · every ~11 min
M-113 · 1h 29m · $10 · every ~3 min
SubwayL1 · 4m · every ~16 min
Malaga María Zambrano train station facilities and services
Malaga María Zambrano has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: 100 Montaditos, Burger King, Dunkin' Coffee, Gino's, Lizarran, Orient Express Cafeteria, The Posada of Brazil, Pizza Hut, Rail Coffee, The Good Burger, & many more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free throughout the station. ATMs are located in various points in the station.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 05:00 - 00:45. Information desks are located in the station's main concourse.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is open daily from 07:00 to 23:00.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Malaga María Zambrano: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Malaga María Zambrano: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Malaga María Zambrano: The station is fully accessible and includes adapted elevators and platforms. Additional services can be arranged by contacting the station before traveling.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel ILUNION Málaga, Barceló Málaga, Eurostars Málaga.
Most popular train connections from Bilbao
More options for your journey from Bilbao to Málaga
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Málaga and Bilbao
Most popular train connections to Málaga
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