- Must visit
Tabakalera
Major contemporary art center in a former tobacco factory. It hosts ambitious exhibitions, local culture, and one of the city’s strongest programs.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
€103
Average ticket price on Sep 19
€117
Fastest journey on Sep 19
9 h 30 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
11 h 47 m
Trains on Sep 19
4
Distance
762 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian will cost around €117 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €103.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian without transferring at least once.
06149+
041671:50 PM9h30Málaga María Zambrano11:20 PMDonostia-San Sebastián€1031One-way1 transfer- 06139+0416712:50 PM10h30Málaga María Zambrano11:20 PMDonostia-San Sebastián€1101One-way1 transfer
- 06089+041678:00 AM15h20Málaga María Zambrano11:20 PMDonostia-San Sebastián€1261One-way1 transfer
- 06021+0416711:34 AM11h46Málaga María Zambrano11:20 PMDonostia-San Sebastián€1301One-way1 transfer
- 06149+041671:50 PM9h30Málaga María Zambrano11:20 PMDonostia-San Sebastián€1031One-way1 transfer
- 06139+0416712:50 PM10h30Málaga María Zambrano11:20 PMDonostia-San Sebastián€1101One-way1 transfer
- 06021+0416711:34 AM11h46Málaga María Zambrano11:20 PMDonostia-San Sebastián€1301One-way1 transfer
- 06089+041678:00 AM15h20Málaga María Zambrano11:20 PMDonostia-San Sebastián€1261One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of €36 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 43m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.7kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €36, while a flight costs an average of €321.
Distance: 473 miles (762 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€36 Average price Cheapest | €321 Average price | €88 Average price | €159 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 45m Average total duration 8h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 43m Average total duration Fastest 2h 43m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 17h 38m Average total duration 17h 8m 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian is a train with an average price of €36.
This is compared to other travel options from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian:
A train is €52 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian costing on average €88.
A train is €286 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian costing on average €321.
The fastest way to travel from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 43m.
Other travel options to Donostia-San Sebastian take longer:
Train takes on average 8h 15m.
Bus takes on average 17h 8m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Málaga and Donostia-San Sebastian including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 1h 23m faster (8h 15m by train vs 9h 38m by car) and roughly €123 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (€36 vs €159). 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
Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian train times
The table below shows live departures for Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian trains for tomorrow, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 06089+04167 | 8:00 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 15h20 | 11:20 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 06021+04167 | 11:34 AM Málaga María Zambrano | 11h46 | 11:20 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 06139+04167 | 12:50 PM Málaga María Zambrano | 10h30 | 11:20 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 06149+04167 | 1:50 PM Málaga María Zambrano | 9h30 | 11:20 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 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 Donostia-San Sebastian 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 Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian
SpainSpain
Trains from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian run on average 3 times per day, taking around 8h 15m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €17 but you can travel from only €15 by flight.
The earliest train runs at 04:50, the last at 14:12. The fastest train covers the 473 miles (762 km) distance in 7h 43m.
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
Flight from €15
Distance 473 miles (762 km) |
Average train duration 8h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price €17 |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 7h 43m |
First train 4:50 AM |
Last train 2:12 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 21 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
Flight from €15
Train companies: Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian trainsRenfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY trains will get you between Málaga and Donostia-San Sebastian from €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 58m
Cheapest Renfe ALVIA Price
€17
Renfe ALVIA frequency
3 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
Renfe INTERCITY
About
Renfe Intercity is a high-speed train service operated by the Spanish national railway company, Renfe. It operates throughout Spain, connecting major cities and towns with frequent departures throughout the day. The Intercity service offers a variety of train types, including the Alvia and Talgo, all of which offer comfortable seating and modern amenities. Alvia and Talgo offer fast trains but not as fast the high-speed trains like AVE, offering more stops. Passengers can choose from a range of ticket types, including Economy, Business, and First Class. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power outlets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. The most popular routes for Renfe Intercity include Madrid to Barcelona, Madrid to Seville, and Barcelona to Valencia.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Renfe INTERCITY Duration
7h 43m
Cheapest Renfe INTERCITY Price
€18
Renfe INTERCITY frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of checked luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at the ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions and fare type
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 First Class
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation with additional fee. Included in some premium tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled, require paid ticket
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Donostia-San Sebastian
Things to do in Donostia-San Sebastian
Discover the best of Donostia-San Sebastian — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Donostia-San Sebastian trip today.
- Must visit
San Telmo Museoa
Fine arts museum in a historic building with Basque, Spanish, and international works. A compact stop for painting and sculpture lovers.
- Must visit
Aquarium
Aquarium with historic maritime displays and a famous underwater tunnel. It combines family appeal with local ocean and fishing context.
- Must visit
Paseo de La Concha
The city’s most famous beach promenade curves around La Concha Bay. Essential for classic views, elegant walks, and sunset atmosphere.
- Must visit
Parte Vieja
Historic Old Town of lively squares, churches, and traditional streets. It is the best area for atmosphere, architecture, and everyday city life.
- Must visit
Zurriola Beach and Promenade
Urban beach and neighborhood promenade popular with surfers and locals. Great for broad sea views, people-watching, and a more contemporary vibe.
Pintxos
Small bar snacks on bread or bites, central to local txikiteo culture. San Sebastián is famous for creative and classic pintxos in packed old-town bars.
- Gluten-free
Rodaballo A La Parrilla
Whole grilled turbot, prized on the Basque coast for its clean flavor and simple preparation with olive oil, garlic, and grill smoke.
- Gluten-free
Bacalao A La Donostiarra
Basque-style cod often cooked with garlic, olive oil, and peppers. It reflects the region’s deep seafood tradition and classic home cooking.
Arzak
Celebrated fine-dining restaurant with innovative Basque cuisine and tasting menus in an elegant, destination setting above the city.
Kokotxa
Refined modern Basque restaurant by the bay, known for seafood-focused tasting menus and a polished but welcoming dining room.
Casa Urola
Well-known grill restaurant specializing in premium beef and Basque classics, with a smart, contemporary atmosphere near the center.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Spain: lodging is pricier in peak season, but pintxos, set lunches, and local buses keep daily costs manageable for most tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for pintxos, fast food, or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-40 per person for a standard restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €1.80-3.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service; small change is fine in cafes. Taxi tipping is usually just rounding up.
FAQs: Trains from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian 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 Donostia-San Sebastian, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €17, while the average price is around €36.
The train from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian takes 7h 43m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian is 473 miles (762 km).
The first train from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian leaves at 4:50 AM.
The last train from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian leaves at 2:12 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian.
There is no direct train service currently available from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian.
The train station in Málaga that goes to Donostia-San Sebastian is Málaga María Zambrano, which connects to Donostia-San Sebastián.
The cheapest way to get from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian is by flight, with a cost of around €15.
Yes, the train journey from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian is scenic, offering views of diverse Spanish landscapes, including the Andalusian countryside, green valleys, and the Basque Country's rolling hills and coastline.
A day trip from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian is not feasible due to the travel duration of 7h 43m and a distance of 473 miles (762 km). There are 3 train journeys available per day.
In Donostia-San Sebastian, you can enjoy surfing at Zurriola Beach, join a pintxo tour in the lively bars of the Old Town, take a funicular to Monte Igueldo for stunning views and amusement park fun, explore marine life at the Aquarium, or attend events at the Kursaal Congress Centre. Don't miss visiting La Concha Beach, the historic Old Town, and the San Telmo Museoa. For panoramic views, head to Monte Igueldo, and visit Miramar Palace for beautiful gardens and bay views.
Three days in Donostia-San Sebastian is ideal to explore the city's beautiful beaches, indulge in its renowned culinary scene, and visit key attractions like the Old Town and Monte Igueldo.
Yes, you can take the train from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian.
Since both Málaga and Donostia-San Sebastian 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 Donostia-San Sebastian include Vitoria-Gasteiz, Pamplona, Tolosa, Irun, Alsasua – Altsasu.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian 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 Donostia-San Sebastian, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as La Concha Beach and the Old Town. Common scams include distraction techniques used near popular attractions and public transportation. It is advisable to keep belongings secure and stay vigilant in busy spots, particularly during festivals or large events. Overall, the city is considered safe, but standard precautions against petty theft are recommended.
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 Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian
Most Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian trains use the Malaga María Zambrano to Donostia-San Sebastián station pair. Use this guide to compare Málaga and Donostia-San Sebastian train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Málaga
Arrival train stations in Donostia-San Sebastian
Which Málaga station do trains to Donostia-San Sebastian leave from?
Trains from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian leave from Malaga María Zambrano. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Málaga city centre at Explanada de la Estación, S/N, 29002 Málaga, Spain.
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 · €8 · 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.
Which Donostia-San Sebastian station do trains from Málaga arrive at?
Trains from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian arrive at Donostia-San Sebastián. Donostia-San Sebastián is 0 miles (1 km) from Donostia-San Sebastian city centre.
Donostia-San SebastiánDe Francia Ibilbidea, 22, 20012 Donostia, Gipuzkoa, Spain
City-centre transport
Getting to Donostia-San Sebastián from Donostia-San Sebastian city centre
Bus9, 37, B3, 42 · 6m · €2 · every ~14 min
Donostia-San Sebastián train station facilities and services
Donostia-San Sebastián has practical services for this route, including Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Donostia-San Sebastián. Information desks are available at Donostia-San Sebastián.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Donostia-San Sebastián: WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Donostia-San Sebastián: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Donostia-San Sebastián.
More options for your journey from Málaga to Donostia-San Sebastian
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Donostia-San Sebastian and Málaga
Most popular train connections to Donostia-San Sebastian
HomeTrainsTrains in SpainTrain Times to Donostia-San SebastianMálaga to Donostia-San Sebastian train
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