Málaga to Alicante train with AVE

Málaga to Alicante by train: my Renfe AVE day-to-evening ride

Introduction

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.

Route Overview

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.

Transportation Experience

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.

Route Details

Departure & Arrival Stations

I arrived at Málaga María Zambrano a bit early so that I could grab a café con leche. 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.

Schedule & Frequency

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.

Onboard Experience & Services

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).

Ticketing Advice & Budget Breakdown

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. Here's what I spent for this trip.

Budget breakdown:

Top Tips & Personal Recommendations

Here are some of my top tips to make the most of your Málaga to Alicante train trip:

• Arrive early: Málaga María Zambrano has plenty of shops and cafés, but plan to be at the platform about 20 minutes before departure.
• Pack light: AVE trains allow up to three pieces of luggage (maximum 25 kg total), perfect for a suitcase, laptop bag, and daypack.
• Charge devices: Use the power sockets at your seat and download maps offline in case Wi-Fi connection dips.
• Plan your evening: Try to arrive later in the day to enjoy a sunset walk along the Esplanade and a paella dinner nearby.
• Carry ID: Always keep your passport or ID card with you.

Conclusion

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.

About the Author: Nancy Sevilla

• Job Title: Travel & Lifestyle Creator
• Bio: Nancy is a travel content creator who shares honest guides, helpful tips, and personal experiences from her global adventures. Based between Spain and the U.S., she specializes in creating visually compelling content for her blog and social platforms.