Just returned from Andalusia after spending a full week in Seville and Málaga. These two cities each have their own charm - Seville feels more historical, while Málaga offers a strong seaside resort atmosphere. I’ve compiled my experience with transportation between Seville and Málaga, hoping it helps those planning to visit these destinations.
Transportation and Accommodation
There’s a direct train between the two cities, taking about two hours. Booking tickets in advance on the Renfe website can save you quite a bit. In Seville, I stayed at a guesthouse near the Santa Cruz district, just a ten-minute walk to the Cathedral, with plenty of restaurants nearby. In Málaga, I chose an apartment close to Malagueta Beach where I could watch the sunrise - excellent value for money. I recommend booking accommodation at least a month in advance, as prices double during peak season.
Must-See Sights in Seville
The Seville Cathedral and Royal Alcázar are highlights, but they get incredibly crowded. I arrived at the Cathedral at 8:30 AM on a weekday and only queued for half an hour. Climbing the Giralda tower gives you a panoramic view of the old town - absolutely worth it. The Alcázar gardens are stunning, so plan to spend at least two hours exploring leisurely. In the evening, head to the Triana district for tapas - fewer tourists, fair prices, and authentic fried fish and Iberian ham.
Relaxing Times in Málaga
Málaga has a noticeably slower pace, perfect for unwinding. The Picasso Museum’s collection isn’t huge but very refined, with student tickets at just four euros. I originally planned to visit Gibralfaro Castle, but it was closed for maintenance that day, so I ended up having a feast at a seafood restaurant in the old port - fried baby squid paired with white wine is an unbeatable combination. The beach is best visited in the evening when Seville vs Málaga the sun isn’t as harsh, and you can catch the sunset.
Practical Information Comparison
Here’s a basic comparison of the two cities to help you decide how to allocate your time based on your preferences:
| Category | Seville | Málaga |
|---|
| Recommended Days | 3-4 days | 2-3 days |
| Main Features | Historical monuments | Seaside resort |
| Dining Prices | Moderate | Slightly lower |
| Tourist Density | Higher | Moderate |
| Best Season | Spring/Autumn | Year-round |
A word about food - Andalusia’s tapas culture is truly wonderful, with many bars offering complimentary small bites with drinks. You must try Seville’s gazpacho and salmorejo, while Málaga’s espeto is very characteristic of the region. Both cities have no shortage of great restaurants - just follow where the locals go and you can’t go wrong.
Overall, this trip was very satisfying. A week split between the two cities was just right - not too rushed, not boring. If you have specific questions about traveling from Seville to Málaga, feel free to leave a comment and I’ll do my best to answer.
