Madrid to Malaga by high-speed train
Let the high-speed AVE train whisk you from Malaga to Madrid at speeds of 300 km/h. Operated by Renfe, the train takes just 2h 28m on the fastest services. AVE trains on this route run on the Madrid-Malaga high-speed rail line, which supports fast travel between the two cities. The first train leaves Málaga-María Zambrano station at 06:20 and the last service departs at 20:13, with an average of 19 trains per day departing to Malaga from Madrid.
Arriving into Madrid Atocha station, you’ll be at the heart of the Spanish capital. The Royal Palace is just a short hop on the Cercanias metro, while the Royal Botanical Gardens are within walking distance of the station. AVE trains will get you to Madrid in style, but choosing Preferente (First) Class will give you plenty of legroom, reclining leather armchairs, free WiFi and complimentary drinks and snacks.
Ready to travel? Book your tickets from Malaga to Madrid with ease using our Journey Planner. View the cheapest tickets and train timetables; when you book, we’ll send your ticket as a convenient eticket, which you can keep handy on your phone.
Madrid to Málaga by train
Renfe and AVE trains from Madrid to Málaga
Renfe
AVE
Renfe is the national train operator in Spain. It has the widest network of high-speed trains in Europe, linking major cities with AVE, AV-City, Avant, Alvia, and Euromed trains. Long-distance routes are served by Altaria and Talgo trains, while regional routes are operated by Media Distancia, Regional and Express Regional trains. Renfe also operates on international routes to France and Portugal. Renfe trains offer four different travel classes, depending on the train you’re travelling on – Turista (Standard), Turista Plus (Premium Economy), Preferente (Business Class) and Club (First Class).
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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 four comfort classes – Turista (standard class), Turista Plus (wider, more comfortable seats), Preferente (lounge access, wide leather seats, food and drink service) and Club (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.
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Cheap train tickets from Madrid to Málaga
- lowest price found‡
- from€24.35
- 4 weeksin advance‡
- avg. single price€72.69
- 2 weeksin advance‡
- avg. single price€73.43
- on the day‡
- avg. single price€85.95
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 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 guide to check when European train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap tickets for your journey.
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.
Journey details
How long does the train from Madrid to Málaga take?
The average journey time by train between Madrid and Málaga is 2 hours and 42 minutes, with around 5 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 by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Madrid to Málaga is 2 hours and 33 minutes.
How much does the train from Madrid to Málaga cost?
Train tickets from Madrid to Málaga can start from as little as €24.35 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?
Yes, it is possible to travel from Madrid to Málaga without having to change trains. There are 4 direct trains from Madrid to Málaga. Though there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.
What time does the first train from Madrid to Málaga leave?
The first train from Madrid to Málaga leaves at 07:20. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Madrid to Málaga leave?
The last train from Madrid to Málaga leaves at 19:30. 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 by train?
Trains travelling from Madrid to Málaga cover a distance of around 258 miles (416 km) during the journey.
