Best Day Trips from Málaga by Train: Where & How to Do It

Malaga is jam-packed with things to do, and sometimes with people too.

On busy days, or days when you need to escape the city, Malaga's public transport system has an ace up its sleeve. With so much to see in Andalusia, it's worth thinking about using the quick and cheap train system to see more of Southern Spain.

In this guide, you'll find:

• How Málaga's train network works

• Top destinations to visit by train (with travel time, cost, and highlights)

• Ticket types, where to buy, and tips for smooth travel

How to Use the Train System in Málaga

Before we dive into the best day trips, here's a quick primer on the types of trains and how to use them from Málaga:

Main Departure Stations

• Málaga María Zambrano: Main long-distance train station (AVE, Media Distancia, Intercity, Cercanías C1)

• Málaga Centro Alameda: Smaller city-centre station (Cercanías C1 local trains)

Types of Trains You'll Use

Train TypeDescriptionDestinationsCercanías C1/C2Local trainsTorremolinos, Fuengirola, El ChorroMedia Distancia (MD)Mid-range regionalRonda, GranadaAVE (Alta Velocidad)High-speed trainsCórdoba, Seville, Madrid

Best Places to Visit from Malaga by Train

Here are the top train-accessible day trips, complete with journey times, fares, and what to do once you arrive.

1. Córdoba – For Stunning Architecture & Cultural History

What to See:

• The Mezquita-Catedral: A jaw-dropping mosque-cathedral hybrid

• The Roman Bridge & Calahorra Tower

• Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos and its lush gardens

• Jewish Quarter with artisan shops and tapas bars

Pro Tip: Book AVE tickets in advance via Renfe.com or Trainline for the lowest fares.

2. Ronda – For Dramatic Cliffs & Andalusian Charm

What to Do:

• Stand over the epic Puente Nuevo bridge spanning a 120m gorge

• Visit the Arab Baths, Palacio de Mondragónthe, and the city walls

• Hike the Molinos del Tajo trail or admire views from Mirador del Viento

Note: Only one direct train per day, book early or consider an overnight stay.

3. Caminito del Rey (El Chorro) – For Adventure & Nature

What to Do:

• Walk the famous Caminito del Rey, a cliffside path suspended over a gorge

• Enjoy panoramic views of the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes

• Bring sturdy shoes, water, and a head for heights!

Tip: Book your Caminito ticket online in advance for a seamless experience. Shuttle bus (€2.50) returns you to the train station after the hike.

4. Granada – For Moorish Palaces & Tapas Culture

What to Do:

• Tour the Alhambra and Generalife Gardens

• Stroll the Albaicín district and sip tea in Moroccan-style teterías

• Visit Granada Cathedral and Royal Chapel

Essential: Book Alhambra tickets weeks in advance during high season.

5. Fuengirola– For Beachside Relaxation

What to Do:

• Chill on Fuengirola's wide sandy beach

• Visit the Bioparc zoo or Sohail Castle

• Walk the beachfront promenade and enjoy tapas by the sea

No reservations needed: Just tap in with your Renfe card or buy a paper ticket at the machine.

6. Torremolinos– For a Quick Beach Getaway

What to Do:

• Sunbathe on Playa del Bajondillo

• Walk or bike to Benalmádena along the coastal promenade

• Eat seafood at beachside chiringuitos

Budget travel win: One of the cheapest and easiest day trips on the Costa del Sol.

Ticketing, Timetables & Apps

Where to Buy Tickets

• Renfe.com or Trainline.com for AVE/MD tickets

• Cercanías machines at stations for local trains

• Renfe Cercanías App or contactless card for tap-in/tap-out

Timetables & Schedules

• Use Renfe's journey planner

• For Cercanías: Visit Cercanías Málaga

• Google Maps also shows live rail connections

Travel Cards & Discounts

Card TypeBest ForNotes****Renfe Tarjeta +Renfe Joven 50Youth (under 30)50% off AVE & MD ticketsBonotrenLocal train multipass10 rides, discounted rateAndalusian Transport CardRegular commutersMulti-modal (bus + train)

Tips for Train Day Trips from Málaga

• Travel ****early tomaximise your time at the destination

• Book AVE/MD trains in advance for the best prices

• Avoid peak return times (5–7 PM) to ensure seat availability

• Bring snacks & water, especially for longer routes

• Validate tickets before boarding Cercanías trains

Interactive Journey Planner

• View real-time train routes from Málaga here

Final Word

Train travel from Málaga opens the door to Andalusia's most magical cities, charming villages, and coastal escapes, all within a few hours.

It's easy to use, safe, and you don't have to think about it. Just jump on and get off.

If staying nearer to Malaga is more your thing, take a look at our guide to getting around Malaga by Metro.

No. Cercanías trains are first-come, first-served. Just tap in.

Yes, small luggage and folding bikes are allowed. AVE and MD trains have overhead racks.

Absolutely. Spanish rail is clean, secure, and well-patrolled.

Use the Renfe app to check for the next departure or book flexibly when possible.