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Malaga Railway Station

About the Station

María Zambrano Station. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars
María Zambrano Station (Málaga-María Zambrano) is the city's main railway hub and the second busiest station in Andalusia. Located in close proximity to the historic centre, this modern complex combines a transport terminal with the major shopping and entertainment centre Vialia. High-speed AVE trains to Madrid, regional expresses, and commuter trains connecting the city with the airport and the resorts of the Costa del Sol depart from here.

CityMálaga
CountrySpain
TypeRailway station

It is important for passengers to know that the station features simple and clear navigation. Platforms for high-speed and long-distance trains are located on the ground level; access to them involves security checkpoints with luggage screening. Commuter trains (Cercanías) depart from underground platforms, the entrance to which is located separately inside the building. Thanks to the integration with the shopping centre, the environment is always lively, bright, and safe.

Contact Information

  • Official Website: Information is available on the portals of the operator Renfe and the management company Adif.
  • Helpline: Renfe unified helpline (+34) 912 320 320 (general inquiries and tickets).
  • Address: Explanada de la Estación, s/n, 29002 Málaga, Spain.
  • Opening Hours: The station is open daily from 05:00 to 00:45 (timings may vary on public holidays).
  • Luggage Storage: Available daily from 07:00 to 23:00, located in the shopping centre area.
  • Accessibility: The Atendo service provides free assistance to passengers with reduced mobility (advance booking is recommended).

How to Get There

Getting to María Zambrano station is very simple, as it is a key transport hub of the city. The fastest way from the airport is to use the commuter train line C-1 (Renfe Cercanías); the journey will take only about 12 minutes.

If you are travelling from the city centre, you can use the metro: El Perchel station is located right next to the railway station and serves lines 1 and 2. Many city buses also run here (routes 1, 3, 10, 16, A, and others), with stops located on the station square.

For those who enjoy walking, the route from the historic centre and Calle Larios will take approximately 15–20 minutes. A taxi ride from central Málaga will cost around 6–8 Euros and take 5–10 minutes depending on traffic.

Services and Amenities

The station offers a wide range of services, as it is located inside the Vialia shopping centre. Comfortable waiting lounges are available for passengers, and the VIP lounge Sala Club operates for premium ticket holders. There are ticket offices with staff and numerous self-service machines for quick ticket purchases on the premises.

Amenities include free Wi-Fi (registration required), ATMs, currency exchange points, and car rental services. Paid automatic luggage lockers of various sizes are provided for travellers with luggage. The washrooms at the station are modern and clean, adapted for people with reduced mobility. A service to assist passengers with disabilities is also available.

Dining Options

Thanks to its location within the Vialia Mall, finding food at the station will not be an issue. There is a huge selection of establishments here: from well-known fast-food chains (McDonald's, Burger King, KFC) to cozy coffee shops and tapas restaurants. If you are short on time, you can grab a sandwich or pastries to go from one of the bakeries.

For a more substantial meal, restaurants on the second floor of the complex offering Spanish and international cuisine are suitable. The average bill for a quick snack will be 5–10 Euros, and a full lunch will cost 15–20 Euros. Most establishments are open from early morning until late evening, which is convenient for passengers on morning and evening services.

Station History

The history of rail transport in this location dates back to the 19th century when the first station connecting Málaga with Córdoba was opened. However, the station acquired its modern appearance in the early 21st century as part of a large-scale modernisation of Spanish railways and preparation for the arrival of high-speed AVE trains.

The old building was replaced by a new multifunctional complex, which opened to passengers in 2006. In 2007, the station received its current name in honour of the renowned Spanish philosopher and essayist María Zambrano. This reconstruction played a key role in the development of tourism, reducing the travel time to Madrid to 2.5 hours and turning the station into a modern urban centre of attraction.

Travel Tips

When planning a trip on high-speed trains (AVE, Avant), it is recommended to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before departure. This is necessary to pass through security control, where all luggage is scanned. Boarding usually closes 2 minutes before departure.

Please note: tickets for commuter trains (Cercanías) must be kept until the end of the journey, as the exit turnstiles also require scanning. The station is safe, but as in any crowded place, please keep an eye on your belongings. The station closes for several hours at night (from 00:45 to 05:00), so staying inside the building overnight is not possible.

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