- 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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Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Lyon to Málaga
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Lyon to Málaga among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $36. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 27m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $36, and a flight costs an average of $62.
Distance: 786 miles (1266 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$174 Average price | $233 Average price | $93 Average price Cheapest | $379 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
11h 6m Average total duration 10h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 27m Average total duration Fastest 3h 27m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 22h 58m Average total duration 22h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 15h 38m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Lyon to Málaga is a bus with an average price of $93 (€77).
This is compared to other travel options from Lyon to Málaga:
A bus is $81 (€66) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Lyon to Málaga costing on average $174 (€143).
A bus is $140 (€115) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Lyon to Málaga costing on average $233 (€192).
The fastest way to travel from Lyon to Málaga is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 27m.
Other travel options to Málaga take longer:
Train takes on average 10h 36m.
Bus takes on average 22h 28m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Lyon and Málaga including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Lyon to Málaga among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 5h 2m faster (10h 36m by train vs 15h 38m by car) and roughly $205 (€169) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($174 (€143) vs $379 (€312)). 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.
Compare prices and tickets Lyon to Málaga by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, 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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Why should you book Lyon to Málaga trains with Omio?
AVE as well as Renfe Viajeros offer trains services from Lyon to Málaga.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Lyon to Málaga.
Why book with Omio vs AVE?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for AVE, but also compare tickets for the likes of Renfe Viajeros to find the best option for your trip from Lyon to Málaga.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare AVE with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Lyon to Málaga.
Why book with Omio over Rome2rio, Raileurope or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Lyon to Málaga.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Lyon to Málaga?
The best time to book your train from Lyon to Málaga is 70 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Lyon to Málaga route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Lyon to Málaga per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Lyon to Málaga.
Trains
from $28Buses
from $86Flights
from $263Journey information
Overview: Train from Lyon to Málaga
France
Spain
Trains from Lyon to Málaga run on average 12 times per day, taking around 10h 36m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $174 (€143) but you can travel from only $36 (€30) by bus.
There are 12 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:30, the last at 17:00. The fastest train covers the 786 miles (1266 km) distance in 23h 44m.
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 $36 (€30)
Distance 786 miles (1266 km) |
Average train duration 10h 36m |
Cheapest ticket price $174 (€143) |
Trains per day 12 |
Direct trains 12 |
Fastest train 23h 44m |
First train 12:30 AM |
Last train 5:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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
Bus from $36 (€30)
Train companies: AVE, Renfe Viajeros from Lyon to Málaga trainsAVE, Renfe Viajeros trains will get you between Lyon and Málaga from $36 (€30). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
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 Viajeros
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
23h 44m
Cheapest Price
$174 (€143)
Renfe Viajeros frequency
1 a day
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 Lyon to Málaga
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lyon 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 Lyon to Málaga can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $174 (€143), while the average price is around $174 (€143).
The train from Lyon to Málaga takes 23h 44m and runs 12 per day.
The distance by train from Lyon to Málaga is 786 miles (1266 km).
The first train from Lyon to Málaga leaves at 12:30 AM.
The last train from Lyon to Málaga leaves at 5:00 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Lyon to Málaga.
There is no direct train service currently available from Lyon to Málaga.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Lyon to Málaga.
The train station in Lyon that goes to Málaga is Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes, which connects to Málaga María Zambrano.
The cheapest way to get from Lyon to Málaga is by bus, with a cost of around $36 (€30).
The train journey from Lyon to Málaga offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of southern France and the Pyrenees, transitioning into the diverse terrains of Spain, including glimpses of charming countryside and coastal areas.
A day trip from Lyon to Málaga is not feasible as the journey duration is 23h 44m. However, there are 13 trains available per day for this route.
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 Lyon to Málaga.
Since both Lyon 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 Lyon 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.
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 Lyon to Málaga
Most Lyon to Málaga trains use the Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes to Malaga María Zambrano station pair. Use this guide to compare Lyon and Málaga train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Lyon
Arrival train stations in Málaga
Which Málaga station do trains from Lyon arrive at?
Trains from Lyon 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.
More options for your journey from Lyon to Málaga
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Málaga and Lyon
Most popular train connections to Málaga
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