The cheapest and fastest trains from Málaga to Barcelona
Cheapest price
$96
Average price
$137
Fastest journey
6 h 26 m
Average duration
6 h 35 m
Trains per day
32
Distance
769 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Málaga to Barcelona is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Málaga to Barcelona will cost around $137 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $96.
Of the 32 trains that leave Málaga for Barcelona on Wed, May 27, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, May 27 the direct trains cover the 769 km distance in an average of 6 h 35 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 26 m .
On Wed, May 27 the slowest trains will take 6 h 42 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
039937:55 AM6h59Málaga María Zambrano2:54 PMBarcelona Sants$961One-way0 transfers
13901+
039937:02 AM7h52Málaga María Zambrano2:54 PMBarcelona Sants$1051One-way1 transfer
02109+
0615110:32 AM8h22Málaga María Zambrano6:54 PMBarcelona Sants$1071One-way1 transfer
02063 · 039935:37 AM9h17Málaga María Zambrano2:54 PMBarcelona Sants$1071One-way1 transfer
08664+
039936:32 AM8h22Málaga María Zambrano2:54 PMBarcelona Sants$1091One-way1 transfer
02123 · 0315111:33 AM6h26Málaga María Zambrano5:59 PMBarcelona Sants$1281One-way1 transfer
02163 · 031913:28 PM6h31Málaga María Zambrano9:59 PMBarcelona Sants$1971One-way1 transfer
06021+
0315111:24 AM6h35Málaga María Zambrano5:59 PMBarcelona Sants$1191One-way1 transfer
06021 · 0602111:24 AM6h42Málaga María Zambrano6:06 PMBarcelona Sants$1211One-way1 transfer
0602111:24 AM6h42Málaga María Zambrano6:06 PMBarcelona Sants$1211One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Málaga to Barcelona
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Málaga to Barcelona among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $58. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 35m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $58, and a flight costs an average of $44.
Distance: 477 miles (769 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$115 Average price Cheapest | $206 Average price | $135 Average price | $188 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 13m Average total duration 5h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 35m Average total duration Fastest 4h 35m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 12h 51m Average total duration 12h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 38m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 2.3 - 4.6kg CO2 emissions | 0.8 - 1.9kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() 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 |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Málaga to Barcelona:
A train is $20 (€16) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Málaga to Barcelona costing on average $135 (€109).
A train is $91 (€74) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Málaga to Barcelona costing on average $206 (€166).
Other travel options to Barcelona take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 43m.
Bus takes on average 12h 21m.
The journey is about 3h 55m faster (5h 43m by train vs 9h 38m by car) and roughly $73 (€59) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($115 (€93) vs $188 (€152)). 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.
Direct services run with AVE, iryo, Renfe AVLO.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Málaga to Barcelona train times
The table below shows live departures for Málaga to Barcelona trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, May 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
02063+ 06151 | On time 5:37 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 13h17 | 6:54 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
02063 · 03993 | On time 5:37 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 9h17 | 2:54 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
02063 · 03151 | On time 5:37 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 12h22 | 5:59 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
08664+ 03993 | 6:32 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 8h22 | 2:54 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
02073+ 06111 | Delayed 6:50 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 7h49 | 12:39 PM 12:39 PMBarcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
02073+ 06151 | On time 6:50 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 12h04 | 6:54 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
02073 · 03151 | On time 6:50 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 11h09 | 5:59 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
13901+ 03993 | On time 7:02 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 7h52 | 2:54 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
02083+ 06111 | Delayed 7:38 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 7h01 | 12:39 PM 12:39 PMBarcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
02083+ 06151 | On time 7:38 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 11h16 | 6:54 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
02083 · 03151 | On time 7:38 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 10h21 | 5:59 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
03993 | 7:55 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 6h59 | 2:54 PM Barcelona Sants | 0 transfersDirect | |
02093+ 06021 | On time 9:17 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 8h49 | 6:06 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
02093+ 06151 | On time 9:17 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 9h37 | 6:54 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
02093 · 03151 | On time 9:17 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 8h42 | 5:59 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
02109+ 06151 | On time 10:32 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 8h22 | 6:54 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
02109+ 06021 | On time 10:32 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 7h34 | 6:06 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
02109+ 03151 | On time 10:32 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 7h27 | 5:59 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
06021 | 11:24 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 6h42 | 6:06 PM Barcelona Sants | 0 transfersDirect | |
06021 · 06151 | On time 11:24 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 7h30 | 6:54 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
06021 · 06021 | On time 11:24 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 6h42 | 6:06 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
06021+ 03151 | On time 11:24 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 6h35 | 5:59 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
02123+ 06151 | On time 11:33 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 7h21 | 6:54 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
02123 · 03151 | On time 11:33 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 6h26 | 5:59 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
02123 · 03161 | On time 11:33 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 7h26 | 6:59 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
02133+ 06161 | 12:50 PM Málaga María Zambrano | 6h49 | 7:39 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
02133+ 06171 | 12:50 PM Málaga María Zambrano | 7h52 | 8:42 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
02133 · 03171 | 12:50 PM Málaga María Zambrano | 7h09 | 7:59 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
02163 · 03309 | 3:28 PM Málaga María Zambrano | 7h52 | 11:20 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
02163+ 06013 | 3:28 PM Málaga María Zambrano | 7h18 | 10:46 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
02163 · 03191 | 3:28 PM Málaga María Zambrano | 6h31 | 9:59 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
02173 · 03201 | 4:48 PM Málaga María Zambrano | 6h59 | 11:47 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Málaga to Barcelona 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 Málaga to Barcelona trains with Omio?
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 iryo or Renfe AVLO to find the best option for your trip from Málaga to Barcelona.
- 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 Málaga to Barcelona.
Why book with Omio over Rome2rio, Raileurope or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of iryo or Renfe AVLO to find the best option for your trip from Málaga to Barcelona.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Málaga to Barcelona.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Málaga to Barcelona?
ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Málaga to Barcelona

Journey information
Overview: Train from Málaga to Barcelona
Trains from Málaga to Barcelona run on average 4 times per day, taking around 5h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $58 (€47) but you can travel from only $44 (€36) by flight.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:40, the last at 21:25. The fastest train covers the 477 miles (769 km) distance in 6h 2m.
Distance 477 miles (769 km) |
Average train duration 5h 43m |
Cheapest ticket price $58 (€47) |
Trains per day 4 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 6h 2m |
First train 5:40 AM |
Last train 9:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 70 days |
Train companies: AVE, iryo, Renfe AVLO from Málaga to Barcelona trainsAVE, iryo, Renfe AVLO trains will get you between Málaga and Barcelona from $44 (€36). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
AVE
iryo
Renfe AVLO
Traveling by train from Málaga to Barcelona
Traveling between Málaga and Barcelona is a breeze thanks to the efficient train connections offered by Renfe AVE, iryo, and Renfe AVLO . These high-speed trains provide a comfortable and quick journey across Spain's beautiful landscapes, allowing you to cover the distance of approximately 1,000 km in just around 5 hours. With multiple departures throughout the day, you'll have plenty of options to choose from for your adventure!
Train Connection: Málaga to Barcelona
Traveling from Málaga to Barcelona takes approximately 5 hours and 56 minutes. There are 2 direct connections available each day, departing from Malaga María Zambrano and arriving at Barcelona Sants.
Málaga to Barcelona Train Connection
The first daily train journey from Málaga to Barcelona departs at 06:25 AM, providing an early start for travelers eager to explore the vibrant culture and attractions of these two cities.
Train Tickets Price for Málaga to Barcelona
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from Málaga to Barcelona is €17. The average ticket price typically hovers around €44, making it a convenient option for travelers looking to explore these vibrant Spanish cities.
Exploring the Wonders of Gaudí in Barcelona
The Sagrada Família, designed by the visionary architect Antoni Gaudí, has been under construction since 1882 and is a stunning example of Catalan Modernism. Its intricate facades and towering spires symbolize both religious devotion and artistic innovation, making it one of Barcelona's most iconic landmarks. As you step inside, you'll be captivated by the play of light through its stained glass windows that creates an ethereal atmosphere.
Park Güell is another masterpiece crafted by Gaudí between 1900 and 1914; originally intended as a residential project, it transformed into a public park filled with whimsical structures and vibrant mosaics. This UNESCO World Heritage site not only showcases Gaudí’s unique style but also offers breathtaking views over the city from its elevated terraces. Strolling through Park Güell feels like wandering in a dreamscape where nature intertwines seamlessly with art.
Casa Batlló stands out on Passeig de Gràcia for its organic shapes and colorful façade that reflect Gaudí's deep connection to nature; completed in 1906, this building redefined architectural norms at the time. The interior features flowing lines reminiscent of ocean waves while each room tells stories inspired by marine life—making every corner worth exploring. Don't miss climbing up to the rooftop adorned with dragon-like scales—a true testament to Gaudí’s imaginative genius!
FAQs: Trains from Málaga to Barcelona
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Málaga to Barcelona 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 Barcelona, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Málaga to Barcelona
- Mon - Sun: 05:00 - 00:45
- Free throughout the station.
- Open daily from 07:00 to 23:00.
- 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
- The station is fully accessible and includes adapted elevators and platforms. Additional services can be arranged by contacting the station before traveling.
- Hotel ILUNION Málaga
- Barceló Málaga
- Eurostars Málaga
- Mon - Sun: 05:00 - 00:45
- Located in the station's main concourse.
- Commuter rail lines: C1, C2
- Bus lines: 1, 3, 10, 16, 19, 24, 27, C2
- Train lines: Avant, AVE, Media Distancia
- Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 22:00
- Hotspots in and near restaurants.
- Staffed and automatic. Open daily from 05:30 to 21:00.
- McDonald’s
- Caffe di Fiore
- Ars Café
- Café de l'Estació
- Café de l’Estació Deli
- Lavazza
- Como
- Peter's
- Tutti Frutti
- Enrique Tomás
- & many more
- All areas of the station have full disability access facilities.
- Apartments Eixample
- Apartment Guell
- Sweet Inn Callao
- Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 22:00
- Located in various locations inside the station.
- Metro lines: L3, L5
- Bus lines: A1, A2
- Train lines: AVE, Alvia, Euromed, Talgo, Trenhotel, TGV, Avant, Intercity, R1, R2, R2 Nord, R2 Sud, R3, R4, RG1, R11, R12, R13, R14, R15, R16, R17
More options for your journey from Málaga to Barcelona
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