- Must visit
Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante (MACA)
Leading contemporary art museum with a strong 20th-century collection in a restored historic building.
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Cheapest price
$123
Average price
$162
Fastest journey
5h 43m
Average duration
8h 45m
Trains per day
21
Distance
415 km
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Málaga to Alicante among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $45. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 36m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $45, and a flight costs an average of $93.
Distance: 242 miles (391 km)
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$149 Average price | $67 Average price Cheapest | $324 Average price | $96 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 26m Average total duration 5h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 18m Average total duration 5h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 36m Average total duration Fastest 2h 36m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 38m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions | 1.2 - 2.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Málaga to Alicante:
A bus is $82 (€68) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Málaga to Alicante costing on average $149 (€122).
A bus is $257 (€211) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Málaga to Alicante costing on average $324 (€266).
Other travel options to Alicante take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 48m.
Train takes on average 5h 56m.
Tickets start at around $149 (€122) compared to roughly $96 (€79) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-53.27 (€-43.70). The journey takes 5h 56m versus 4h 38m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
The table below shows live departures for Málaga to Alicante trains for today, Friday, July 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
02063+ 06164 | On time 5:47 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 13h23 | 7:10 PM Alicante-Terminal | 1 transfer | |
02063 · 05912 | Delayed 5:47 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 7h44 | 11:31 AM 11:31 AMAlicante-Terminal | 1 transfer | |
02073+ 06164 | On time 7:00 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 12h10 | 7:10 PM Alicante-Terminal | 1 transfer | |
02073 · 05912 | Delayed 7:00 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 6h31 | 11:31 AM 11:31 AMAlicante-Terminal | 1 transfer | |
02083+ 06164 | On time 7:48 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 11h22 | 7:10 PM Alicante-Terminal | 1 transfer | |
02083 · 05912 | Delayed 7:48 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 5h43 | 11:31 AM 11:31 AMAlicante-Terminal | 1 transfer | |
06089+ 05152 | Delayed 8:00 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 9h17 | 3:17 PM 3:17 PMAlicante-Terminal | 1 transfer | |
06089+ 05142 | Delayed 8:00 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 8h28 | 2:28 PM 2:28 PMAlicante-Terminal | 1 transfer | |
06089 · 06164 | On time 8:00 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 11h10 | 7:10 PM Alicante-Terminal | 1 transfer | |
02093+ 06164 | On time 9:27 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 9h43 | 7:10 PM Alicante-Terminal | 1 transfer | |
02109+ 06164 | On time 10:35 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 8h35 | 7:10 PM Alicante-Terminal | 1 transfer | |
06021+ 04140 | On time 11:34 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 11h18 | 10:52 PM Alicante-Terminal | 1 transfer | |
06021+ 05182 | Delayed 11:34 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 8h49 | 6:23 PM 6:23 PMAlicante-Terminal | 1 transfer | |
06021 · 06164 | On time 11:34 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 7h36 | 7:10 PM Alicante-Terminal | 1 transfer | |
02123+ 06164 | On time 11:56 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 7h14 | 7:10 PM Alicante-Terminal | 1 transfer | |
02133+ 06164 | On time 12:55 PM Málaga María Zambrano | 6h15 | 7:10 PM Alicante-Terminal | 1 transfer | |
06149+ 04140 | On time 1:50 PM Málaga María Zambrano | 9h02 | 10:52 PM Alicante-Terminal | 1 transfer | |
06149+ 05182 | Delayed 1:50 PM Málaga María Zambrano | 6h33 | 6:23 PM 6:23 PMAlicante-Terminal | 1 transfer | |
06149+ 05192 | Delayed 1:50 PM Málaga María Zambrano | 8h30 | 8:20 PM 8:20 PMAlicante-Terminal | 1 transfer | |
06159+ 05192 | Delayed 3:26 PM Málaga María Zambrano | 6h54 | 8:20 PM 8:20 PMAlicante-Terminal | 1 transfer | |
06159+ 04140 | On time 3:26 PM Málaga María Zambrano | 7h26 | 10:52 PM Alicante-Terminal | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare bus, flight, and train 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.
By Nancy Sevilla
I planned a beach-to-city travel day and booked tickets from Málaga to Alicante with Renfe’s AVE high-speed train. If you’re traveling from Málaga to Alicante, Renfe AVE connects Andalusia and the Costa Blanca with a stress-free, long-distance ride. Seats are comfortable, luggage is easy to manage, and I arrived ready for tapas near Mercado Central. Here's how you can make the same trip.
This journey runs between Málaga María Zambrano and Alacant/Alicante Terminal. The distance is roughly 390 km, and the fastest AVE services take about 5 hours and 35 minutes. It’s ideal for travelers with luggage who prefer a single train over flight check-ins. There are other ways to travel from Málaga to Alicante, but I always prefer taking the train over buses or flights.
I booked my Málaga–Alicante train tickets on Omio. I selected Renfe AVE as the operator, entered my preferred time, and paid my fare with a credit card online. It couldn’t have been easier, and I received a mobile ticket for gate scanning. I had considered taking the bus from Málaga to Alicante, but with a journey time of up to 9 hours, the fast AVE services won hands down. I recommend checking Omio for up-to-date timetables and prices before planning your trip.
I liked how the station had clear signage and a range of shops to pass the time. You’ll find restrooms and fast access to the platforms via escalator or lift. Passing through security is straightforward. Check in at the main concourse, then board the train shortly before departure. If you need anything last minute, there’s a convenient supermarket inside. I bought a hot coffee and a sandwich for about €8 in total. We rolled into Alicante Terminal, just a short walk from the city center with taxis waiting outside. Signage is bilingual, and it’s easy to find the exits, local buses, and the tram connection toward the beaches. I wanted to drop my bag and head straight to the marina. There are no lockers inside the Renfe Alicante train station itself, but I found private luggage storage services just across the street. It cost €5 to store my large bag for the day. I then took a taxi to the marina, which I split with my friend, costing us only €12.50 each.
I arrived at Málaga María Zambrano a bit early so that I could grab a café con leche.
There are approximately 10 trains daily from Málaga to Alicante, with direct AVE services running frequently. Departures start in the early morning (around 6:00 AM) and continue into the late afternoon (around 3:41 PM), with one final evening departure. My train left at 10:45 AM and arrived about 5 hours and 35 minutes later at Alicante Terminal, just in time for me to check into my stay before sunset on the Esplanade.
I rode in Estándar Class on Renfe’s AVE train from Málaga to Alicante. The seats were wide and comfortable in a 2+2 layout, with tables and power sockets for every pair of seats. The PlayRenfe Wi-Fi worked as expected, and I used it to check maps during the trip. Toilets were located at the coach ends and stayed clean and well-stocked throughout the journey. The train’s air conditioning kept the carriage cool as we crossed southern Spain in the afternoon. I had picked up a bocadillo and a bottle of water at Málaga María Zambrano before boarding, but the AVE long-distance service also had a bar car with snacks and hot drinks. I didn’t visit it this time, but it usually has salads, sandwiches, and pastries available. Luggage travels with you on overhead racks or in storage areas near the doors. Renfe’s three-piece, 25 kg luggage policy easily covered my suitcase and day bag. The highlight of the journey was watching the scenery change from the rolling Andalusian hills to the coastal plains near Alicante. Since I was traveling with a friend, I didn’t spend as much time looking out the window this time (and she had the window seat).
Book early in the Omio app for lower fares and better seat selection. I paid €85.00 about four weeks before departure, but prices can range from €60 to over €100, depending on demand and travel dates.
| Item | Cost (eur) |
|---|---|
| Ticket price | €85 |
| Food & drinks | €8 |
| Travel to departure station | €12.50 |
| Travel from arrival station | € |
| Total | € 105.5 |
If you want a simple point-to-point journey without the hassle of airports, traveling from Málaga to Alicante by train with Renfe AVE is a comfortable and scenic way to cross Spain. I stepped off close to the city center and went straight to the waterfront, a great feeling after several hours on the train. If you’re planning the same trip, I recommend using Omio to compare fares, times, and operators. Plan your journey today the book via the Omio app.
Trains from Málaga to Alicante run on average 1 times per day, taking around 5h 56m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $81 (€67) but you can travel from only $45 (€37) by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:48, the last at 21:25. The fastest train covers the 242 miles (391 km) distance in 5h 38m.
Distance 242 miles (391 km) |
Average train duration 5h 56m |
Cheapest ticket price $81 (€67) |
Trains per day 1 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 5h 38m |
First train 5:48 AM |
Last train 9:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 91 days |
Discover the best of Alicante — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Alicante trip today.
Leading contemporary art museum with a strong 20th-century collection in a restored historic building.
Archaeological museum with acclaimed interactive displays covering prehistory to modern Alicante.
Fine arts museum in an 18th-century palace, featuring Alicante artists and regional painting collections.
Alicante's iconic waterfront promenade with mosaic paving, palms, and constant seaside city life.
Historic old quarter of whitewashed lanes climbing toward the castle, full of character and viewpoints.
Popular city beach and promenade area beside the old town, excellent for walks and classic coastal views.
Alicante’s signature rice dish, cooked in fish stock with seafood or meat. It is central to local Sunday meals and showcases the region’s rice tradition.
Rice baked in the oven with stock, tomato, chickpeas, and often pork or sausage. A hearty Valencian classic widely eaten in Alicante homes.
Traditional Alicante rice made with tuna, pumpkin, and ñora pepper. It reflects the city’s coastal pantry and old home-style cooking.
Refined Michelin-starred restaurant known for creative Mediterranean tasting menus in an elegant contemporary setting.
Historic traditional venue famous for Alicante tapas, cured fish, and local wines in a classic, lively old-town setting.
Well-known seafood and rice restaurant near the marina, valued for fresh fish, shellfish, and polished but approachable service.
Moderate for Spain: lodging rises in summer, but tapas, local transit, and casual dining stay fairly affordable for most tourists.
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, round up or leave 5-10% for good service. Small change is fine in cafes; taxis are usually rounded up.
Official public transport app
Alicante-Terminal -> Plaça dels Estels, Alicante
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Málaga to Alicante 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 Alicante, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Málaga to Alicante trains use the Malaga María Zambrano to Alicante-Terminal station pair. Use this guide to compare Málaga and Alicante train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Malaga María Zambrano is 1 km from Málaga city centre. Public transport options include:
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 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
Free throughout the station. ATMs are located in various points in the station.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 05:00 - 00:45. Information desks are located in the station's main concourse.
Luggage storage is open daily from 07:00 to 23:00.
Available at Malaga María Zambrano: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Malaga María Zambrano: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
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.
Nearby hotels include Hotel ILUNION Málaga, Barceló Málaga, Eurostars Málaga.
Alicante-Terminal is 1 km from Alicante city centre. Public transport options include:
Alicante-Terminal has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: Cafestore, Candy & go, Gambrinus, Máquinas Vending, Upper Crust
Free WiFi. . ATMs are aTM machine is in the station.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 05:15 - 24:00. Information desks are look for the "i" symbol.
Luggage storage is offered through an independent company. . Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Alicante-Terminal: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Alicante-Terminal: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Alicante-Terminal: Adapted for deaf persons.
Nearby hotels include Eurostar Centrum Alicante, Old Town Alicante B&B, Casa Alberola Alicante, Curio Collection by Hilton.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need