Low-cost rail operator Ouigo has launched a direct high-speed train between Malaga and Barcelona this summer.
The seasonal – and seven-hour – service will operate from July 20 until September 6, running from Friday to Monday to meet increased demand during the holiday season.
The only exceptions are July 24, 26 and 31, and August 2, when the direct service will not run.
The journey takes around seven hours, with trains stopping at Zaragoza, Madrid and Cordoba, but passengers can remain on board throughout the trip without changing trains.
The first train will leave Barcelona Sants at 7.35am, arriving in Malaga at 2.31pm. In the opposite direction, services will depart Malaga at 4.50pm, arriving in Barcelona at 11.56pm.
Tickets are already on sale through Ouigo’s website and mobile app, with promotional fares starting from €9.
The move comes as the French operator looks to capitalise on the surge in visitors heading to the Costa del Sol during the summer months.
Ouigo is not the first company to offer a direct connection between Malaga and Barcelona. Renfe already operates direct high-speed services on the route throughout the year.
Since entering the Spanish market in 2021, OUIGO says it has invested more than €700 million, operates a fleet of 16 high-speed trains, serves 15 destinations and employs around 500 staff.
Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.
