- Must visit
Museu Nacional Arqueològic de Tarragona
Main archaeological museum for Roman Tarraco, with mosaics, sculpture, inscriptions, and essential context for the UNESCO site.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cartagena to Tarragona
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18
Cheapest price on Sep 18
CHF50
Average ticket price on Sep 18
CHF53
Fastest journey on Sep 18
10 h 5 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
13 h 13 m
Buses on Sep 18
3
Distance
435 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cartagena to Tarragona is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cartagena to Tarragona will cost around CHF53 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only CHF50.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Cartagena to Tarragona without transferring at least once.
Normal+
Normal6:15 AM14h25Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses8:40 PMTarragona, Plaça de la Imperial TàrracoCHF501One-way1 transfer- Normal · Normal6:15 AM15h10Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses9:25 PMTarragonaCHF541One-way1 transfer
- Normal · Normal6:15 AM10h05Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses4:20 PMTarragonaCHF541One-way1 transfer
- Normal · Normal6:15 AM10h05Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses4:20 PMTarragonaCHF541One-way1 transfer
- Normal+Normal6:15 AM14h25Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses8:40 PMTarragona, Plaça de la Imperial TàrracoCHF501One-way1 transfer
- Normal · Normal6:15 AM15h10Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses9:25 PMTarragonaCHF541One-way1 transfer
Cartagena to Tarragona Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:40AM | Arrival Time 12:10PM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price CHF49 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 06:15AM | Arrival Time 09:25PM | Duration 15h10 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price CHF50 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 01:40PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price CHF56 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 09:40AM | Arrival Time 03:10PM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price CHF48 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 04:50PM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price CHF52 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 06:00PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price CHF45 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 02:00PM | Arrival Time 08:10PM | Duration 6h10 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price CHF25 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 01:20AM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price CHF56 |
Live departures
Cartagena to Tarragona bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cartagena to Tarragona buses for tomorrow, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Normal · Normal | 6:15 AM Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses | 15h10 | 9:25 PM Tarragona | 1 transfer | |
| Normal · Normal | 6:15 AM Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses | 10h05 | 4:20 PM Tarragona | 1 transfer | |
| Normal+Normal | 6:15 AM Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses | 14h25 | 8:40 PM Tarragona, Plaça de la Imperial Tàrraco | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cartagena to Tarragona by flight
Compare flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Cartagena to Tarragona buses with Omio?
Alsa as well as Hife offer buses services from Cartagena to Tarragona.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cartagena to Tarragona.
Why book with Omio vs Alsa?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Alsa, but also compare tickets for the likes of Hife to find the best option for your trip from Cartagena to Tarragona.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
Why book with Omio over Checkmybus, Rome2rio or Busbud?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Hife to find the best option for your trip from Cartagena to Tarragona.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cartagena to Tarragona
SpainSpain
Buses from Cartagena to Tarragona run on average 5 times per day, taking around 9h 1m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at CHF2 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 02:25, the last at 20:15. The fastest bus covers the 270 miles (435 km) distance in 7h 50m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 270 miles (435 km) |
Average bus duration 9h 1m |
Cheapest ticket price CHF2 |
Buses per day 5 |
Fastest bus 7h 50m |
First bus 2:25 AM |
Last bus 8:15 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 14 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Bus providers: Alsa, Hife from Cartagena to TarragonaYou can travel by bus between Cartagena to Tarragona with Alsa, Hife for as low as CHF35. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Alsa
About
Alsa is the main provider of bus travel in Spain and a subsidiary of the UK’s National Express. It operates an extensive network of regional, national, and international routes, transporting more than 300 million passengers annually. Alsa’s modern fleet offers varying levels of comfort and amenities. The standard Alsa Normal buses include free Wi-Fi, onboard bathrooms, footrests, and entertainment. For a more premium experience, Alsa Supra, Alsa Eurobus, and Alsa Premium services provide enhanced comfort and luxury features.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Alsa Duration
7h 50m
Cheapest Alsa Price
CHF2
Alsa frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 10kg and one checked bag up to 25kg.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 48 hours before departure for a partial refund. Changes allowed for a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Accessible seating.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for an additional fee; must be packed.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets must travel in the hold.
Hife
About
Hife is a Spanish bus company that has been operating bus routes since 1915, with a strong presence in regions like Catalonia and Valencia. They offer a variety of services including regular intercity and urban bus lines, school transport, and bus rentals for events. Hife emphasizes reliability, punctuality, and customer satisfaction, maintaining a high standard of vehicle fleet maintenance. Popular destinations include cities like Barcelona, Valencia, Zaragoza, and Salou. Many of their newer buses offer amenities like Wi-Fi, and they provide options for mobile tickets on some routes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Hife Duration
8h 55m
Cheapest Hife Price
CHF23
Hife frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 10kg and one checked bag up to 25kg.
Additional luggage
15€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. No refunds for cancellations within 24 hours.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Accessible seating.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; reservation required.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; guide dogs travel for free.
Complete guide to Tarragona
Things to do in Tarragona
Discover the best of Tarragona — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Tarragona trip today.
- Recommended
Maqueta de Tarraco
Detailed model and interpretation center explaining ancient Tarraco's layout, ideal before exploring the Roman remains.
- Recommended
Museu Diocesà de Tarragona
Museum inside the cathedral complex featuring liturgical art, sculpture, and treasures tied to Tarragona's religious history.
- Must visit
Balcó del Mediterrani
Balcony-like seafront promenade with classic Mediterranean views, ideal for sunset, photos, and a first impression of Tarragona.
- Must visit
Rambla Nova
Broad central avenue lined with shops and civic buildings, connecting the modern city with the historic core and sea views.
- Must visit
Part Alta
Atmospheric old town quarter of narrow lanes, stone houses, and Roman-medieval layers, perfect for wandering on foot.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Romesco
Romesco is Tarragona's emblematic sauce of roasted ñora peppers, nuts, garlic, oil and vinegar, often served with fish, calçots or seafood.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Calçots
Calçots are sweet spring onions grilled over flames and dipped in romesco or salvitxada. They are a beloved winter tradition across Tarragona province.
- Gluten-free
Xató
Xató is an escarole salad with salt cod, tuna, anchovies, olives and a rich romesco-style sauce. It is a classic festive dish in coastal Tarragona.
Can Bosch
Refined Michelin-starred restaurant near Tarragona known for creative tasting menus rooted in Catalan ingredients and elegant modern dining.
AQ Restaurant
Well-known casual spot in the old town serving tapas, vermouth and Catalan small plates in a lively, local setting.
El Llagut
Established restaurant by the Roman circus area, known for contemporary Catalan cuisine, rice dishes and polished service.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Spain: dining is reasonable, local transit is cheap, and summer hotels rise but stay below Barcelona.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple menu.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €1.50-3 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, round up or leave 5-10% for great service. For cafes and taxis, round up or leave small change.
FAQs: Bus from Cartagena to Tarragona
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cartagena to Tarragona by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Tarragona, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Cartagena to Tarragona can start from as little as CHF2 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cartagena to Tarragona is CHF12 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Cartagena to Tarragona is 7h 50m to travel the 270 miles (435 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Cartagena to Tarragona leaves at 2:25 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cartagena to Tarragona leaves at 8:15 PM.
There are 5 buses a day from Cartagena to Tarragona which require at least one change with Alsa, BlaBlaCar, Hife. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Cartagena to Tarragona, you can count on Alsa, BlaBlaCar, Hife for the best way to get you to Tarragona. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cartagena and Tarragona and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Tarragona from Cartagena is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 50m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
Yes, you can take a flight between Cartagena and Tarragona.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cartagena to Tarragona:
- Hife
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Accessible seating.
- Alsa
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Accessible seating.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cartagena to Tarragona for bus company Alsa, Hife.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Tarragona are:
- Tarragona Amphitheatre, a well-preserved Roman amphitheater overlooking the Mediterranean Sea
- Tarragona Cathedral, a stunning Gothic and Romanesque cathedral with a rich history and beautiful cloisters
- Roman Circus, ancient chariot racing grounds with underground tunnels and impressive ruins
- Balcó del Mediterrani, a scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the coastline and city
- Pont del Diable, an ancient Roman aqueduct known for its impressive architecture and historical significance.
The best things to do in Tarragona include:
- National Archaeological Museum of Tarragona, a museum showcasing artifacts from the Roman period and Tarragona's history
- Explore the vibrant Mercat Central de Tarragona, a bustling market offering local produce and delicacies
- Enjoy a leisurely stroll along Rambla Nova, a lively street filled with shops, cafes, and cultural landmarks
- Visit the El Serrallo district, a charming fishing neighborhood with seafood restaurants and a maritime atmosphere
- Relax on the sandy beaches of Tarragona, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cartagena to Tarragona depends on the bus companies:
- Hife
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. No refunds for cancellations within 24 hours.
- Alsa
- You can cancel your ticket up to 48 hours before departure for a partial refund. Changes allowed for a fee.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Alsa, Hife.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Cartagena to Tarragona.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cartagena to Tarragona:
- Hife
- One carry-on bag up to 10kg and one checked bag up to 25kg.
- Alsa
- One carry-on bag up to 10kg and one checked bag up to 25kg.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Cartagena to Tarragona:
- Hife
- 15€ per additional bag.
- Alsa
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Cartagena to Tarragona. The following conditions apply:
- Hife
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- guide dogs travel for free.
- Alsa
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets must travel in the hold.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cartagena to Tarragona with the following bus company: Alsa, Hife
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cartagena to Tarragona with the following bus company: Alsa, Hife.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cartagena to Tarragona with the following bus company: Alsa, Hife.
Since both Cartagena and Tarragona are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cartagena to Tarragona among Omio's users.
Spain uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards, but cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, while cash may be preferred for small purchases, markets, and rural locations.
In Tarragona, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the old town and near popular tourist sites. Common scams include overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or trying to sell fake tickets. It's advisable to stay vigilant in busy spots and use official transportation and ticket vendors to avoid fraud.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Cartagena to Tarragona
Most Cartagena to Tarragona buses use the Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses to Tarragona station pair, with some services arriving at Tarragona, Plaça de la Imperial Tàrraco. Use this guide to compare Cartagena and Tarragona bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Cartagena
Arrival bus stations in Tarragona
Which Cartagena station do buses to Tarragona leave from?
Buses from Cartagena to Tarragona leave from Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Cartagena city centre at Calle Doctor Gomez Ulla, s/n, 30203 Cartagena, Murcia, Spain.
Cartagena, Estación de AutobusesCalle Doctor Gomez Ulla, s/n, 30203 Cartagena, Murcia, Spain
City-centre transport
Getting to Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses from Cartagena city centre
Bus2, 4, 6 Train: C-1
Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses bus station facilities and services
Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafetería de la estación (in the station), Restaurante El Galeón (0.5 km), La Catedral (0.7 km).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses: Elevators, ramps.
Tarragona
City-centre transport
Getting to Tarragona from Tarragona city centre
TrainR14, R16, R17, R15 · 1h 20m · CHF13
Avn, Eur, Alv, Ic, 9725 · 1h 21m · CHF18 · every ~2 min
Re, Ic · 1h 22m · CHF12
Bus2h 2m · CHF25 · every ~2 min
Vilanova-Tarragona · 2h 46m · CHF13 · every ~2 min
Tarragona, Plaça de la Imperial TàrracoTarragona, Carrer de Pere Martell, 1, 43005 Tarragona, Spain
City-centre transport
Getting to Tarragona, Plaça de la Imperial Tàrraco from Tarragona city centre
Bus54 · 4m · every ~7 min
Nt5 · 11m · CHF1
Tarragona, Plaça de la Imperial Tàrraco bus station facilities and services
Tarragona, Plaça de la Imperial Tàrraco has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Tarragona, Plaça de la Imperial Tàrraco. ATMs are available at Tarragona, Plaça de la Imperial Tàrraco.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Tarragona, Plaça de la Imperial Tàrraco.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Tarragona, Plaça de la Imperial Tàrraco: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Tarragona, Plaça de la Imperial Tàrraco: Wheelchair access available.
More options for your journey from Cartagena to Tarragona
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Tarragona and Cartagena
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