Is There a Train From Madrid to Marbella?

By Michael Ferguson

Are you planning a trip from Madrid to Marbella and wondering if there is a train that can take you there? The answer is yes, there is a train that can take you from Madrid to Marbella.

However, it’s not a direct train. You’ll need to make some changes along the way.

Train Stations in Madrid

  • Atocha Station: This is the largest railway station in Madrid and it’s located in the city center. It’s also known as Madrid Puerta de Atocha.
  • Chamartin Station: This station is located in the northern part of Madrid and it serves as a hub for long-distance trains.

Train Stations in Marbella

  • Marbella Station: This station is located near the city center of Marbella and it’s the end station for trains coming from Madrid.

How to Get from Madrid to Marbella by Train

Step 1: Take a Train from Madrid Atocha or Chamartin Station to Malaga

From either Atocha or Chamartin Station, you’ll need to take a train heading south towards Malaga. The journey takes around 2.5-3 hours depending on which station you depart from and which train you choose.

Step 2: Change Trains at Malaga Station

Once you arrive at Malaga Station, you’ll need to change trains and take another one heading towards Fuengirola. The journey takes around 45 minutes.

Step 3: Take a Bus or Taxi from Fuengirola to Marbella

Once you arrive at Fuengirola Station, you’ll need to take a bus or taxi to Marbella. The journey takes around 30-40 minutes by bus and around 20-25 minutes by taxi.

Tip: If you’re traveling with a lot of luggage, it might be more convenient to take a taxi from the Malaga Station all the way to Marbella instead of taking a train and then switching to a bus or another train.

Train Schedule and Ticket Prices

The train schedule from Madrid to Malaga varies depending on the season and the day of the week. However, there are trains departing almost every hour from both Atocha and Chamartin Stations.

The ticket prices for the train ride from Madrid to Malaga start at around €30 for standard class and can go up to €70 for first class depending on which train you choose.

The ticket price for the train ride from Malaga to Fuengirola is around €2.50.

The bus ride from Fuengirola to Marbella costs around €4-€5 depending on which company you choose.

Tip: It’s recommended that you book your train tickets in advance, especially during peak season, as they tend to sell out quickly.

In Conclusion

Although there is no direct train from Madrid to Marbella, it’s still possible to reach your destination by taking a combination of trains and buses. The journey might take some time, but it’s worth it as Marbella is one of Spain’s most beautiful coastal towns.