Málaga is a fantastic destination in its own right, but it also makes an excellent base for day trips across Andalucía. Granada is one of the best of these, just 80 miles away and very easy to reach.
So what’s the best way to get from Málaga to Granada? Here’s everything you need to know.
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Your options at a glance
My experience and recommendation
My most recent visit to Granada was part of a wider Southern Spain itinerary, and I stayed for three nights. On my first visit, I went as a day trip from Málaga — easy enough, but I’d always recommend staying longer if you can. Granada is far more than the Alhambra.
For the journey itself, it’s a toss-up between bus and train. I took the bus, which at the time was the only direct service. It’s fast, frequent and easy to book.
The train is now slightly quicker on direct services, but those services are infrequent and pricier. One perk: Granada’s train station is more centrally located than the bus station.
If you’re taking a day trip to Granada and haven’t been before, a group tour is worth considering. It saves all the faff of arranging transport and, crucially, includes Alhambra tickets, which can be hard to get.
1. By train
Journey time: 1 hour 15 minutes (direct) | Operator: Renfe | From: ~€23
The direct train from Málaga to Granada is the fastest option, but services are infrequent, so check the timetable carefully before committing. Indirect services via Antequera Santa Ana are also available, though transfer times can be long.
Renfe trains are amongst the best in Europe. They are clean and comfortable and have storage spaces for luggage, usually on the racks above your head and at the end of each car. Air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi and power sockets usually come as standard.
Prices go up closer to departure, so book ahead. The Renfe website has the best prices but can be fiddly with non-Spanish cards. I use Omio for a smoother booking experience. There’s a small fee, but it’s less hassle.
Málaga train station: María Zambrano, about a mile southwest of the Old Town.
Granada train station: Avenida de Andaluces, a 20-minute walk from Granada Cathedral, on the edge of the Albaicín.
2. By bus
Journey time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Operator: Alsa | From: ~€10
Alsa runs frequent buses between Málaga and Granada, with many services also stopping at Málaga Airport (handy if you’re coming straight off a flight).
The buses are comfortable and reliable. For tickets, go directly to the Alsa website or buy at the station. I’d avoid using Omio for bus tickets as it only shows the more expensive flexible fares.
Málaga bus station: P.º de los Tilos, close to María Zambrano train station, about a 20-minute walk from the Historic Centre (ten minutes from the Soho district).
Granada bus station: Carretera de Jaen, about two miles north of the city centre. Take the number 33 bus from outside the station into town. It runs every 15 minutes, takes around 10-15 minutes, and you can pay the driver
3. By car
Journey time: Around 1 hour 30 minutes | Route: A92
Driving gives you the most freedom, particularly if you want to stop along the way. The A92 is the main road between the two cities, and it’s a straightforward drive.
4. Joining a day tour
A day tour is the most straightforward option for a day trip from Málaga, and it solves one of the biggest headaches: getting Alhambra tickets. These sell out weeks in advance, and a tour handles the reservation for you.
Here are two well-rated options:
Granada and the Alhambra from Málaga — A 10-hour tour including a guided visit to the Alhambra (Nasrid Palaces, Alcazaba and Generalife Gardens) plus free time in the city. >> Find out more
Private Alhambra Tour from Málaga — A six-hour private tour with a professional art historian. Alhambra entrance fees included. >> Find out more
Planning your trip to Granada
Once you’ve sorted your transport, here’s where to go next:
And if you’re still planning your time in Málaga:
- A Perfect Weekend in Málaga: 2-Day Itinerary
- Where to Stay in Málaga: The Best Areas for All Travellers
Happy travels!
About Bridget
Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.
Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.
To get in touch, email her at hello@theflashpacker.net or follow her on social media.