- 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, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 14
Cheapest price on Sep 14
$96
Average ticket price on Sep 14
$106
Fastest journey on Sep 14
11 h 1 m
Average journey duration on Sep 14
11 h 57 m
Trains on Sep 14
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 $106 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $96.
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$961One-way1 transfer- 04186+060206:53 AM11h01Bilbao-Abando5:54 PMMálaga María Zambrano$1151One-way1 transfer
- 04186+060206:53 AM11h01Bilbao-Abando5:54 PMMálaga María Zambrano$1151One-way1 transfer
- 04186+061686:53 AM12h53Bilbao-Abando7:46 PMMálaga María Zambrano$961One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Bilbao to Málaga
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Bilbao to Málaga among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $14 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 1m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the bus is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.7 - 1.8kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $14, while a flight costs an average of $333.
Distance: 459 miles (739 km)
Compare flight with
Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$333 Average price | $14 Average price Cheapest | $186 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 1m Average total duration Fastest 3h 1m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 14h 27m Average total duration 13h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 29m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
2.2 - 4.4kg CO2 emissions | 0.7 - 1.8kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Bilbao to Málaga is a bus with an average price of $14 (€12).
This is compared to other travel options from Bilbao to Málaga:
A bus is $29 (€23) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bilbao to Málaga costing on average $43 (€35).
A bus is $319 (€258) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bilbao to Málaga costing on average $333 (€269).
The fastest way to travel from Bilbao to Málaga is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 1m.
Other travel options to Málaga take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 14m.
Bus takes on average 13h 57m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bilbao and Málaga including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Bilbao to Málaga among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 2h 15m faster (7h 14m by train vs 9h 29m by car) and roughly $142 (€115) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($43 (€35) vs $186 (€150)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Bilbao to Málaga train times
The table below shows live departures for Bilbao to Málaga trains for tomorrow, Monday, September 14. 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+06020 | 6:53 AM Bilbao-Abando | 11h01 | 5:54 PM Málaga María Zambrano | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bilbao to Málaga by bus or flight
Compare bus and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Bilbao to Málaga
SpainSpain
Trains from Bilbao to Málaga run on average 2 times per day, taking around 7h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $21 (€17) but you can travel from only $8 (€6) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 06:52, the last at 13:55. The fastest train covers the 459 miles (739 km) distance in 2h 42m.
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
Bus from $8 (€6)
Distance 459 miles (739 km) |
Average train duration 7h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price $21 (€17) |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 2h 42m |
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 Sat |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 28 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
Bus from $8 (€6)
Train companies: Renfe ALVIA, AVE, Renfe AVLO from Bilbao to Málaga trainsRenfe ALVIA, AVE, Renfe AVLO trains will get you between Bilbao and Málaga from $19 (€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
Average Renfe ALVIA Duration
7h 15m
Cheapest Renfe ALVIA Price
$21 (€17)
Renfe ALVIA frequency
2 a day
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
AVE
About
Travel comfortably with AVE, Renfe’s high-speed trains. AVE connects major cities across Spain at speeds of up to 310 km/h (193 mph), offering a fast and smooth travel experience. Ticket options include Promo, Promo+, and Flexible fares to suit different budgets, along with discount cards such as the Gold Card and +Renfe Youth 50 Card for eligible travelers. AVE trains feature modern amenities including comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and onboard catering, making them a convenient and enjoyable way to travel across Spain.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average AVE Duration
2h 42m
Cheapest AVE Price
$32 (€26)
AVE frequency
11 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 3 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, and designated areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund conditions depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages. At-seat service in Preferente (First) Class
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance services available
Pets
Small pets under 10kg in carriers allowed free. Larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone
Renfe AVLO
About
Renfe Avlo is Spain’s low-cost high-speed rail service operated by the national rail company Renfe. Serving routes between major cities such as Madrid, Zaragoza, Barcelona, Valencia, Tarragona, Girona, and Figueres, Avlo trains reach speeds of up to 186 mph (300 km/h). All tickets are for Economy Class (“Básica”) with assigned seating and include onboard services such as free Wi-Fi, entertainment via the PlayRenfe app, power sockets, and vending machines. Child tickets are available for ages 0–13, while passengers aged 14 and over require an adult ticket. Each fare includes a backpack and hand luggage (55x35x25 cm, no weight limit), with the option to upgrade for extra baggage. Prices start from as low as €7, making Avlo a budget-friendly way to travel between Spain’s most popular destinations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Renfe AVLO Duration
3h 13m
Cheapest Renfe AVLO Price
$23 (€19)
Renfe AVLO frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
1 cabin bag (55x35x25cm) and 1 personal item (35x30x20cm)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and spaces between seats
Cancellation Policy
According to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers under 10kg allowed free. Service animals allowed
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.
Train ticket prices from Bilbao to Málaga can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $21 (€17), while the average price is around $43 (€35).
The train from Bilbao to Málaga takes 2h 42m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Bilbao to Málaga is 459 miles (739 km).
The first train from Bilbao to Málaga leaves at 6:52 AM.
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.
The cheapest way to get from Bilbao to Málaga is by flight, with a cost of around $19 (€15).
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.
A day trip from Bilbao to Málaga is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 42m. There are 14 train trips per day covering a distance of 459 miles (739 km).
In Málaga, you can explore the Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress with panoramic views, and visit the Picasso Museum to see a vast collection of Pablo Picasso's art. Discover the impressive Málaga Cathedral, known for its Renaissance architecture, and relax at La Malagueta Beach. Experience local cuisine at Mercado Central de Atarazanas, and don't miss the Roman Theatre and Gibralfaro Castle for stunning city vistas.
To fully experience Málaga, plan for 2 to 3 days to explore its vibrant culture, historic sites like the Alcazaba and Picasso Museum, and enjoy the local cuisine and beaches.
Yes, you can take the train from Bilbao to Málaga.
Since both Bilbao and Málaga are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Málaga include Córdoba, Granada, El Chorro, Ronda, Antequera.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Bilbao to Málaga among Omio's users.
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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