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Taking the train from Madrid to Málaga-María Zambrano

The fastest way to travel from Madrid to Málaga-María Zambrano, Málaga’s principal railway station, is by high-speed AVE train. Operated by Renfe, AVE trains running between Málaga and Madrid run on the Madrid–Málaga high-speed rail line, which supports speeds of up to 300km/h. The average journey time is 3 hours and 16 minutes. 

Situated 417km south of Madrid, Málaga makes an interesting change from the Spanish capital. You’ll go from skyscrapers to sandy beaches, from the hustle and bustle of the city to the tranquility of the Costa del Sol. You could check out 5 of the best golf courses on the Costa del Sol while you're there.

If you can drag yourself off the beach (or the course), be sure to visit the stunning Alcazaba Castle and the Picasso Museum – after all, you’re in the city where Picasso was born! If you're an art fan, check out our rundown of Málaga's best museums for even more to explore. What's more, the famous beaches of Marbella are just a 45-minute bus ride away from Málaga! If you're planning to stay in Marbella and are not sure where to stay, check out our guide to the best hotels in Marbella.

Need more inspiration on things to see in Málaga? Check out our guide to the best things to do in Málaga.

Wherever you choose to visit, AVE trains will get you there in comfort, boasting air-conditioned carriages throughout and luxurious reclining leather seats in Confort (First) Class.

Need more info? Keep reading to find today’s train timetables, journey FAQs and ticket prices. Once you’re ready to travel, use our Journey Planner above to buy your train ticket. Find the cheapest fares for your chosen day of travel and the most convenient travel times. After booking, we’ll send you a convenient eticket, which you can print at home or display on your phone.

Madrid to Málaga-María Zambrano by train

It takes an average of 3h 22m to travel from Madrid to Málaga-María Zambrano by train, over a distance of around 259 miles (417 km). There are normally 20 trains per day traveling from Madrid to Málaga-María Zambrano and tickets for this journey start from $21.84 when you book in advance.

First train

7:25 am

Last train

9:10 pm

Departure station

Madrid

Arrival station

Málaga-María Zambrano

Journey time

From 2h 42m

Distance

259 miles (417 km)

Frequency

20 trains per day

Changes

Direct trains available

Price

From $21.84

Train and bus operators

iryo, Renfe

Madrid to Málaga-María Zambrano train times

Check out the next trains departing from Madrid to Málaga-María Zambrano for Tuesday Oct 22nd 2024. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
10:45 am 1:32 pm 2h 47m, direct
11:35 am 2:34 pm 2h 59m, direct
1:00 pm 4:24 pm 3h 24m, 1 change
1:35 pm 4:37 pm 3h 2m, direct
2:07 pm 4:54 pm 2h 47m, direct
2:40 pm 5:22 pm 2h 42m, direct
2:59 pm 6:31 pm 3h 32m, 1 change
3:53 pm 6:40 pm 2h 47m, direct
4:37 pm 7:47 pm 3h 10m, direct
5:00 pm 8:12 pm 3h 12m, 1 change

AVE, iryo and Renfe trains from Madrid to Málaga-María Zambrano

You can travel from Madrid to Málaga-María Zambrano on AVE, iryo and Renfe trains. When you search for times and tickets, we might also show you some other options with multiple connections or operators if they’re available.

AVE is Renfe's flagship high-speed service, with trains capable of reaching up to 193 mph (310 km/h). It’s one of the fastest trains in Europe and connects the main cities of Spain. Most AVE trains offer two comfort classes – Estándard (Standard Class) and Confort (First Class equivalent, with 1-1 configuration, ultra-wide seats, gourmet food and drink and lounge access). All AVE trains have air conditioning, power sockets, free WiFi and a buffet carriage serving a selection of food and drinks. There are three fares for AVE services: the cheapest but least flexible Básico fare, the Elige fare (slightly pricier but more flexible), and the Premium fare for seats in Confort Class.

Operating since the end of 2022, iryo is a new high-speed train company in Spain. It’s a consortium between the Spanish airline Air Norstrum and the train company Trenitalia, one of the greatest leaders in European rail transport. The first private Spanish high-speed company to operate, iryo runs high-speed services on the Madrid – Zaragoza – Barcelona route and connects Madrid – Cuenca – Valencia/Alicante and Madrid – Cordoba – Seville/Malaga. They are doing this all with a fleet of ETR1000 model trains that offer the highest level of comfort in Spain, with a combination of advanced propulsion and highest quality onboard services, including WiFi connection and catering service. 98% of the parts of the trains are 100% recyclable, making this trip sustainable as well!

Renfe is the national train operator in Spain. It operates trains on the longest high-speed railway network in Europe, and the second-longest in the world. The country's major cities are linked up by the high-speed AVE and Avlo trains, while other long-distance routes are served by Altaria, Talgo, Alvia and Euromed trains. Renfe also operates cross-border services into neighbouring Portugal and France. Depending on which service you are travelling on, you'll usually find two classes on Renfe trains - Estándard (Standard Class) and Confort (First Class). Fare types range from the cheapest (but least flexible) Básico fare, to the more flexible Elige fares, to the Premium fare for seats in Confort carriages.

iryo, AVE and Avlo classes from Madrid to Málaga-María Zambrano

Compare the different travel classes offered by iryo, AVE and Avlo when traveling from Madrid to Málaga-María Zambrano.

Onboard services on iryo, AVE and Avlo

Discover more about the onboard services offered on trains from Madrid to Málaga-María Zambrano.

LuggageLuggageBaggage

You can carry up to 3 pieces of baggage on iryo trains, as long as they do not exceed 25kg (55.1lbs) in total. These 3 pieces can be 2 suitcases with a maximum size of 85 x 55 x 35cm (33.4 x 21.6 x 13.7 inches) and a backpack or handbag that does not exceed the dimensions of 36 x 27 x 15cm (14.1 x 10.6 x 5.9 inches).

RestaurantRestaurantFood and drink

iryo offers different menus with high-quality products in all classes. You can buy your favorite meal from their onboard restaurant/bar car, which is usually near car 2. If you’re traveling in the Infinita Bistró Class, you can enjoy the Infinita Bistró food service – your meal will be served straight to your seat. Please note that you’ll need to book your meal at least 24 hours in advance.

WiFiWiFiEntertainment

You can enjoy free WiFi in all classes on iryo trains, as well as an onboard entertainment platform providing a wide selection of movies, TV series, live news and Spotify.

ChildPassengerChildPassengerTravel with children

Kids aged 0-3 travel for free on all iryo trains. Kids aged 4-13 get a discounted ticket while those aged 14-18 need to pay the full price. Please note that kids aged under 18 need to be accompanied by their parents or legal guardians.

ModeOfTransportBikeModeOfTransportBikeBikes

You can take your bike on board iryo trains for free if it’s folded and does not exceed 90 x 120 x 40cm. Also, your bike must travel without the pedals and with the handlebar rotated 90 degrees.

PetPetPets

iryo allows pets that do not exceed 10kg (22lbs) in weight, as long as they travel inside a carrier with a maximum size of 60 x 35 x 35cm (23.6 x 13.7 x 13.7 inches). You'll need to buy a ticket for your pet in advance. In addition, guide dogs can travel at no additional cost.

WheelchairWheelchairSpecial Assistance

There are 2 seats for people with reduced mobility on iryo trains. Step-free access is also available both when boarding and when getting off the train.

LuggageLuggageBaggage

With AVE, you can travel with up to 3 pieces of baggage that do not exceed 290cm (114.1 inches) and 25kg (55.1 pounds). In total, the maximum measurements of each piece of baggage are 85 x 55 x 35cm (33.4 x 21.6 x 13.7 inches). Musical instruments also count as hand baggage as long as they do not exceed the dimensions 30 x 120 x 38cm (11.8 x 47.2 x 14.9 inches) and are stored in a case.

RestaurantRestaurantFood and drink

If you’d like to stretch your legs and grab a coffee during your journey, AVE trains have an onboard dining car. If you’d prefer to stay in your seat, AVE staff will pass through each car with a food and drink cart.

WiFiWiFiEntertainment

On AVE trains, you can take advantage of PlayRenfe – their free WiFi and entertainment pass. Giving you access to exclusive content and fast connection speeds, PlayRenfe can be downloaded from the app store on your phone. Once you’re connected, you can access the PlayRenfe portal, where you’ll find exclusive live sport, news, films and TV series.

ChildPassengerChildPassengerTravel with children

Children under 3 years old travel for free with AVE, as long as they do not occupy a seat and have their free child ticket. Children from 3 to 14 years old can take advantage of a 40% discount on ticket prices.

ModeOfTransportBikeModeOfTransportBikeBikes

On all AVE trains, each passenger can take one bicycle or scooter on board, as long as it’s folded and carried inside a case. Also, the pedals must be removed and handlebars turned 90 degrees. Lastly, if the sum of the dimensions of the case is less than 180cm (70.8 inches), it's considered as hand luggage. However, if it’s bigger, it will be considered as special luggage (max dimensions 120 x 90 x 40 cm or 47.2 x 35.4 x 15.7 inches).

PetPetPets

With AVE, you can travel with a pet as long as it weighs no more than 10 kg (22 pounds) and travels inside a cage or carrier that measures max 60 x 35 x 35 cm (23 x 13 x 13 inches). Your pet must have their own pet ticket, unless you’re traveling with a Premium ticket, in which case the pet ticket is free. Guide and assistance dogs travel for free.

WheelchairWheelchairSpecial Assistance

AVE offer a free assistance and care service for people with reduced mobility. To request the service, passengers should contact AVE directly.

LuggageLuggageBaggage

Traveling with a Básica ticket on an Avlo train? You can travel with 1 piece of hand baggage and 1 suitcase. Both pieces of baggage are not subject to a weight limit, but the hand baggage cannot exceed 27cm (10.6") x 36cm (14.1") x 25cm (9.8") and the suitcase cannot exceed 55cm (21.6") x 35cm (13.7") x 25cm (9.8") in dimensions. If you’d like to add 1 extra piece of baggage, you’ll need to pay a fee of €10 if you buy it at the time of purchase and €30 if you get it at the station.

RestaurantRestaurantFood and drink

On Avlo trains, there is no onboard dining service. However, you will find a vending machine, serving a diverse variety of hot and cold drinks and snacks. Please note that the vending machine only accepts card payments.

WiFiWiFiEntertainment

If you’re traveling with Avlo, you can enjoy free WiFi through the PlayRenfe platform. As soon as you’re connected you can enjoy films, television shows, newspapers and much more.

ChildPassengerChildPassengerTravel with children

Children under 3 years old travel for free with Avlo, as long as they do not occupy a seat. Children under 14 travel for €5 (maximum of 2 child tickets per adult).

ModeOfTransportBikeModeOfTransportBikeBikes

Only folding bikes and scooters are allowed on board Avlo trains, as long as they do not exceed the dimensions permitted for suitcases – 55 x 35 x 25cm (21.6" x 13.7" x 9.8").

PetPetPets

You can travel with your pet for only €10 ($11.01), provided that you have a small pet, such as a dog, cat, ferret or bird (not poultry). Your pet must not weigh more than 10 kg (22 lbs) and must travel inside a cage or carrier, which must not exceed dimensions of 60 x 35 x 35 cm (23.6" x 13.7" x 13.7").

Please note there is a maximum of 1 pet per person and all pets must always travel with their own pet ticket and not take up a seat. Guide and assistance dogs are allowed on the train free of charge.

WheelchairWheelchairSpecial Assistance

With Avlo, passengers with reduced mobility can request the assistance service. For more information, contact Avlo directly.

Cheap train tickets from Madrid to Málaga-María Zambrano

The price of train tickets from Madrid to Málaga-María Zambrano starts at $21.84 one-way for a Standard Class ticket if you book in advance. Booking on the day is usually more expensive and costs can vary depending on the time of day, route or class.

Book in advance

Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from Madrid to Málaga-María Zambrano by booking early.§

Be flexible with your travel times

Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.

Choose a slower or connecting train

On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!

Look out for special deals

Take a look at our handy guides to find out when train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap European train tickets for your journey.

For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.

§Some train companies may not offer any Advance ticket types or cheaper deals for early bookings. On rare occasions, train companies may choose to release special offers closer to the date on last-minute or late-release tickets. This is dependent on the individual train operating company you travel with.

FAQs for Madrid to Málaga-María Zambrano

Want to know more about your journey from Madrid to Málaga-María Zambrano? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.

How long does the train from Madrid to Málaga-María Zambrano take?

The average journey time by train between Madrid and Málaga-María Zambrano is 3 hours and 22 minutes, with around 20 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.

What's the fastest journey time between Madrid and Málaga-María Zambrano by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Madrid to Málaga-María Zambrano is 2 hours and 42 minutes.

How much does the train from Madrid to Málaga-María Zambrano cost?

Train tickets from Madrid to Málaga-María Zambrano can start from as little as $21.84 when you book in advance and are usually more expensive when purchased on the day. Prices can also vary depending the time of day, route and class you book.

Is there a direct train from Madrid to Málaga-María Zambrano?

Yes, it is possible to travel from Madrid to Málaga-María Zambrano without having to change trains. There are 16 direct trains from Madrid to Málaga-María Zambrano each day. Though there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.

What time does the first train from Madrid to Málaga-María Zambrano leave?

The first train from Madrid to Málaga-María Zambrano leaves at 07:25. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.

What time does the last train from Madrid to Málaga-María Zambrano leave?

The last train from Madrid to Málaga-María Zambrano leaves at 21:10. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.

What's the distance between Madrid and Málaga-María Zambrano by train?

Trains travelling from Madrid to Málaga-María Zambrano cover a distance of around 259 miles (417 km) during the journey.

Looking for more information?

If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Málaga-María Zambrano to Madrid.


* Based on European average monthly visitors to Trainline’s app and website from 1.1.2023 to 10.31.2023 vs other independent retailers.

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