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How to get from Granada to Malaga
The quickest way from Granada to Málaga is by Renfe train, about 1 h 10 to 1 h 30 on the high-speed line via Antequera, though there are only a handful a day. Alsa buses take about 1 h 30 to 2 h, run much more often and are usually the cheapest. Driving takes about 1 h 30.
Best option: Bus. Alsa buses leave far more often than the few direct trains, cost less and arrive at Málaga's bus station next to the María Zambrano train station.
All the ways to make the trip
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| bus Alsa buses from Granada bus station to Málaga bus station; some continue to Málaga airport | about 1 h 30 to 2 h | roughly every hour, more often on busy days | about €12–20 | Book online on busy weekends and holidays; Granada's bus station is outside the centre, so take a city bus or taxi. |
| train Renfe high-speed (Avant/AVE) trains from Granada to Málaga María Zambrano, some direct, others with a change at Antequera Santa Ana | about 1 h 10 to 1 h 30 direct, longer with a change | only a few direct trains a day — check current timetables | about €15–35 | Seats are reserved; book ahead for the cheaper fares. |
| car A-92 west then A-45 south via Antequera (about 130 km) | about 1 h 30 | fuel only, no tolls on this route | Parking in central Málaga is expensive; use a public car park and walk. |
*Approximate prices and times for 2026. Timetables change by season: check with the operator before you travel.
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Tips
- If you are flying out of Málaga, look for Alsa buses that go straight to the airport so you avoid a change in the city.
- Compare train and bus times on the day: the train is faster only when a direct service suits you.
- Granada's bus and train stations are both away from the old town; allow 20 minutes to reach them.
- Málaga's bus station and María Zambrano train station are next to each other, with the Cercanías train to the airport and Torremolinos.
Common questions
Is there a direct train from Granada to Málaga?
Yes, but only a few a day. Renfe runs high-speed trains that take about 1 h 10 to 1 h 30; other connections need a change at Antequera Santa Ana and take longer. Because the direct trains are so few, check the Renfe timetable before you plan around the train. If the times do not suit you, the hourly Alsa bus is often just as quick in practice.
What is the cheapest way to get from Granada to Málaga?
The Alsa bus is usually the cheapest option, at about €12–20 one way depending on the time and how early you book. Cheap Renfe fares can sometimes match it if you book well ahead, but those seats sell out. Driving costs only fuel, as there are no tolls, but parking in Málaga adds to the bill.
Can I get from Granada straight to Málaga airport?
Yes. Some Alsa buses run directly from Granada bus station to Málaga airport, which saves a change in the city; the trip takes roughly 2 h. Otherwise take any bus or train to central Málaga and then the Cercanías suburban train from María Zambrano to the airport, which takes about 12 minutes. Check current bus times, as airport services are less frequent.
Do I need to book ahead?
For most weekday buses you can buy a ticket at the station, but booking online is wise on Friday and Sunday afternoons, public holidays and in summer, when buses fill up. Renfe trains have reserved seats only, and the few direct services can sell out, so buy those in advance. Early booking also gives the lowest train fares.
Compiled by TonyPlan from operator and transport information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.