- Fast and Convenient: Direct high-speed trains now connect Malaga and Granada in as little as 1 hour 10 minutes.
- Affordable Options: Ticket prices start at $21.69, with round-trip discounts available.
- Frequent Departures: Up to 8 daily trains, offering over 6,600 weekly seats.
- Comfortable Ride: Modern trains with spacious seating, climate control, and large windows for scenic views.
- Central Stations: Both Malaga María Zambrano and Granada stations are located near city centers, making your journey seamless.
Quick Comparison of Train Services
| Train Type | Journey Time | Starting Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Avant | 1h 10m | $45 | Direct high-speed service. |
| AVE | 1h 30m | $66 | Some connections required. |
| AVLO | 2h 53m | $40 | Requires transfers. |
Pro Tip: Book early, choose off-peak hours, or opt for round-trip tickets to save more on your journey. Whether you’re traveling for leisure or business, this route offers a smooth, scenic, and cost-effective way to explore Andalusia.
Train Services and Operators
Train Classes and Models
The Malaga–Granada route uses Avant 104 series trains, built for high-speed travel. These four-car trains, equipped with 237 seats, can reach speeds of up to 250 km/h [4].
| Train Type | Journey Time | Starting Price | Service Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Avant | 1h 10m | $45 | Direct high-speed |
| AVE | 1h 30m | $66 | Some connections |
| AVLO | 2h 53m | $40 | Requires transfers |
These trains are a key part of Renfe’s upgraded offerings on this route.
About Renfe Services
Renfe, Spain’s national railway operator, oversees all train services between Malaga and Granada [3]. On March 4, 2025, Renfe introduced direct high-speed connections [4]. This new service uses a 7.5 km (4.7 miles) rail link connecting the Granada–Antequera-Santa Ana and Málaga–Córdoba high-speed lines [4].
"The launch of the new train services is one more example that the Government continues to make progress in improving rail connections in Andalusia which for the first time in its history will link these two capitals by high speed." – Pedro Fernández, Delegate of the Government in Andalusia [4]
Schedule and Trip Length
With these updates, travelers now have access to 8 daily departures, providing over 6,600 weekly seats [4]. Journey times vary from 1 hour 10 minutes on direct Avant services to 2 hours 53 minutes on trains requiring transfers [2]. By removing the need for transfers at Antequera-Santa Ana, the journey becomes smoother and more time-efficient.
Tickets and Booking
Ticket Types
Renfe has a simple fare structure for the Malaga–Granada route, offering three main ticket categories [5]:
| Fare Type | Class Options | Features | Flexibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Básico | Standard only | Lowest-priced option | Non-refundable; changes allowed with a fee |
| Elige | Standard or Comfort | More flexible choice | Refundable with a fee; changes permitted |
| Premium | Comfort only | Includes lounge access | Free changes; small refund fee |
Comfort class (previously called Preferente) offers extra legroom and a 2+1 seating layout, while Standard class has a 2+2 configuration [5].
Ticket Prices
Prices for the Malaga–Granada route start at about $25 for Básico tickets [6]. Costs depend on factors like ticket type, booking timing, class, and season. Round-trip tickets are available for approximately $41, making this route an affordable option for many travelers [3].
Booking Methods
You can book tickets through several methods, each with its own benefits:
-
Official Renfe Website
Booking directly through Renfe allows for perks like seat selection and no extra booking fees. However, users might face issues with international credit cards, navigating the site in English, or booking complex connections. -
Third-Party Platforms
Services like Trainline, Rail Europe, and Omio offer a smoother experience for international travelers. While they charge small booking fees, they simplify the process and provide better support.
Additionally, Petrabax.com displays ticket prices in USD but includes a small markup.
Next, check out detailed station information and onboard amenities to finalize your travel plans.
From Granada to Malaga in Spain by AVANT
Station and Train Information
After booking your tickets, take a moment to check out the station services and onboard amenities to make your trip as smooth as possible.
Station Guide
Here’s what you can expect at the stations along this route:
| Station | Operating Hours | Key Facilities |
|---|---|---|
| Malaga María Zambrano | 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM | Information desk, luggage storage, cafes, restaurants, fast food outlets, Wi‑Fi, accessibility features |
| Granada Train Station | 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM | Luggage storage |
Malaga María Zambrano stands out with its modern design and central location, offering a variety of services across multiple levels. Meanwhile, Granada Train Station provides the essentials and stays open late, making it convenient for travelers arriving after hours [1].
Onboard Features
Once aboard, you’ll enjoy comfortable seating, climate control, and restrooms. These amenities ensure a relaxed and pleasant ride, complementing the services available at the stations.
Route Views
The journey itself is a visual treat. You’ll pass stunning coastal landscapes, ancient Roman bridges stretching over the Guadalhorce River, and endless olive groves. As the train winds through the countryside, expect breathtaking mountain views dotted with traditional whitewashed villages. Midway, the rolling hills and historic pueblos blancos create the perfect backdrop for memorable photos [1].
Tips and Cost Savings
Ways to Save
Planning ahead can help you find better deals for your Málaga–Granada trip. Traveling in the afternoon during off-peak hours often comes with lower ticket prices [3].
Here are some booking tips to help you save:
- Book round-trip tickets to take advantage of discounts.
- Reserve your seats early to lock in lower rates.
- Travel mid-week when fares tend to be cheaper.
- Sign up for promotional alerts to catch special deals.
These strategies can make your journey more budget-friendly. Keep them in mind while reviewing the extra fees listed below.
Extra Costs
| Fee Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Seat Reservation | Required for most trains |
| Luggage Storage | Paid service available at stations |
| Ticket Changes | Fees depend on the ticket type |
| Cancellation | Based on fare conditions |
Rail Pass Options
If you’re planning multiple train trips in Spain, a rail pass might be worth considering. However, even with a rail pass, you’ll need to reserve seats for the Málaga–Granada route, and those reservations come with additional fees.
To decide if a rail pass is the better option, compare its cost to individual tickets by factoring in:
- The number of train trips you plan to take.
- Your travel dates and how flexible they are.
- Whether you can book tickets in advance.
- Seasonal price changes that may affect fares.
Summary
Traveling by train from Málaga to Granada offers a convenient and picturesque way to connect these two historic Andalusian cities. The journey treats passengers to stunning views of southern Spain, including olive groves, charming white villages, and rolling hills [1].
With up to eight daily departures [2], this service is both frequent and budget-friendly, with standard tickets starting at $21.69 [1]. Most trips take around 1 hour and 30 minutes, though some can be as quick as 1 hour and 17 minutes [2].
This route stands out for its combination of speed, comfort, and affordability. Both stations are located in the heart of their respective cities, ensuring a seamless travel experience from start to finish [1].