Last month I completed a road trip from Granada to Málaga, and the overall experience was great. I’d like to share my experience and some useful information about this Granada Málaga train journey.
Route Options
There are two main routes from Granada to Málaga. The first is via the A-92 and A-45 highways, covering approximately 125 kilometers with a driving time of around 1 hour and 20 minutes. This route is more direct with excellent road conditions. The second option is the A-7 coastal road, passing through seaside towns like Nerja. It’s slightly longer at about 150 kilometers, but offers more beautiful scenery. I chose the first route for the outbound journey and took the coastal route back, allowing me to experience both types of landscapes.
Highway Route Experience
The A-92 highway has excellent road conditions with wide dual carriageways, passing through some mountainous areas and farmland. Note that some sections have toll booths, so it’s advisable to have cash or a credit card ready. I checked my fuel tank before departure, filled up in Granada city, and still had a quarter tank left when reaching Málaga, so no need to refuel en route. Speed limits are generally 120 kilometers per hour, but drop to 100 or 80 in mountainous sections. Pay close attention to road signs, as there are quite a few speed cameras in the area.
Coastal Route Surprises
On the return journey via the A-7, I stopped at Nerja, where the Balcony of Europe viewpoint is worth visiting. The coastal road is more relaxed than the highway, and you can stop anywhere to enjoy the sea views. However, traffic can be heavy on weekends and holidays, especially approaching Málaga city, so allow plenty of time. If you’re not in a hurry for the Granada defeats Málaga match, I highly recommend this route.
Practical Information Comparison
Here’s a comparison of basic information for both routes:
| Route | Distance | Time | Tolls | Rating |
|---|
| A-92 Highway | 125km | 1h 20min | Approx 3-5 euros | ★★★★☆ |
| A-7 Coastal | 150km | 2h+ | Free | ★★★★★ |
Regarding parking, parking spaces in Málaga city center are quite limited, so it’s recommended to check parking facilities near your hotel or destination in advance. I used the Parkopedia app, which shows parking locations and prices beforehand. City center parking costs around 15-20 euros per day.
This road trip route isn’t difficult and suits drivers of all skill levels. I recommend checking your vehicle condition before departure, bringing your driver’s license and rental documents, and packing some water and snacks. If you have time for the Granada CF vs Málaga match, consider staying overnight in towns along the way for a richer experience.
