Málaga is one of the best bases in Andalucía for day trips, and Seville is one of the most rewarding destinations you can reach from it. The journey is straightforward whichever way you go.
Here’s how to get from Málaga to Seville, with my honest take on each option.
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Quick answers
My take: If this is your only chance to see Seville, grab it with both hands, but go in knowing it’s a full day out. You’re looking at a minimum four-hour return journey, so set your alarm early.
The train is the best all-round option: fast, comfortable and easy to book. The bus saves money but adds time. A day tour is worth considering if you want to make the most of your time and to skip the ticket queues.
1. By train
Journey time: 2 hours 15 minutes | Operator: Renfe | From: €46
There are five or six direct trains a day from Málaga to Seville. Spanish trains are run by the national rail operator Renfe. They’re clean, comfortable and reliable, with luggage racks, air-conditioning, free wifi and power sockets as standard.
Book in advance: Seville is popular, and prices rise closer to departure. The Renfe website gets you the best prices, but it can be glitchy with non-Spanish cards.
I book Spanish trains through Omio instead. The booking fee is a small price to pay for a smoother experience.
Málaga train station: Trains leave from María Zambrano station, about a mile southwest of the Old Town. Note that Málaga Centro Alameda only serves local lines; you want María Zambrano for Seville.
Seville train station: Trains arrive at Santa Justa station, northeast of the city centre. It’s a 25-minute walk from Seville Cathedral, or a short taxi or bus ride if you’d rather save your legs.
2. By bus
Journey time: 2 hours 45 minutes | Operator: Alsa | From: €10
Alsa runs buses between Málaga and Seville around ten times a day. I’ve used these coaches, and they’re very comfortable. You can book on the Alsa website or buy at the station.
Málaga bus station: This is at Paseo de los Tilos, right next to María Zambrano railway station. It’s a 20-minute walk from the Historic Centre, or around ten minutes from the Soho district.
Seville bus station: Buses arrive at Plaza de Armas Bus Station, just under a mile northwest of the Old Town and a 20-minute walk from Seville Cathedral.
3. By car
Journey time: Around 2 hours 20 minutes | Route: A92
Driving from Málaga to Seville gives you total flexibility over timings, though parking in central Seville can be tricky and will add time and cost to your day.
4. Day tours from Málaga to Seville
A day tour takes the planning off your plate and is one of the smarter ways to do this trip, particularly if you’re short on time. You get a local guide, and many tours include skip-the-line entry to Seville’s big-ticket sights.
As a solo traveller, I’d also add that group tours are one of the best ways to meet other people on the road, worth factoring in if you’re finding the trip a little solitary.
Seville Day Trip from Málaga (with optional Real Alcázar tickets) – This full-day tour includes optional skip-the-line entry to Seville’s Real Alcázar and a guided tour. You get three hours to explore on your own. >> Find out more
Planning your time in Seville? My one-day Seville itinerary is a good place to start, or if you have longer, the 3-day version covers the city properly. Back in Málaga, my weekend itinerary has everything you need to make the most of your base.
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.