- Must visit
Museu Nacional Arqueològic de Tarragona (MNAT)
The city’s main archaeological museum, focused on Roman Tarraco and its mosaics, sculpture, and everyday artifacts. Essential for understanding Tarragona’s UNESCO Roman heritage.
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Cartagena to Tarragona Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 06:15AM | Arrival Time 09:25PM | Duration 15h10 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $61 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 02:40PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 05:50PM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $64 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 06:40PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $62 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 08:40PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $53 |
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
Take a bus from Cartagena to Tarragona and enjoy the approximately 270 miles (435 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 02:25, the last at 20:15.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $34 (€28)
Distance 270 miles (435 km) |
Average bus duration 7h 43m |
Buses per day 2 |
Direct buses 2 |
First bus 2:25 AM |
Last bus 8:15 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 7 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $34 (€28)
Bus providers: Alsa, BlaBlaCar, Hife from Cartagena to TarragonaYou can travel by bus between Cartagena to Tarragona with Alsa, BlaBlaCar, Hife for as low as $34 (€28). 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
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
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.
BlaBlaCar
About
BlaBlaCar is a French online marketplace for carpooling, connecting drivers with empty seats and passengers traveling to the same destination to share costs. Founded in 2006, it operates in Europe and Latin America, boasting 26 million active members. The platform also includes BlaBlaCar Bus, an intercity bus service. BlaBlaCar's name comes from its rating system for drivers' chattiness: "Bla" for quiet, "BlaBla" for talkative, and "BlaBlaBla" for very chatty. The company aims to be the leading marketplace for shared travel, offering affordable and sustainable solutions by combining carpooling with bus journeys.
Luggage & cancellation policy
BlaBlaCar frequency
2 a day
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
Museu d'Art Modern de la Diputació de Tarragona
A respected modern art museum with Catalan paintings, sculpture, and temporary exhibitions in a historic building in the old town.
- Recommended
Museu del Port de Tarragona
A maritime museum explaining the history of Tarragona’s port, trade, fishing, and seafaring life through interactive displays and local heritage collections.
- Must visit
Balcó del Mediterrani
The city’s signature seafront viewpoint at the end of Rambla Nova, famous for wide coastal views and as a classic Tarragona meeting point.
- Must visit
Rambla Nova
Tarragona’s main boulevard, ideal for strolling between shops, cafés, civic buildings, and viewpoints while feeling the city’s everyday rhythm.
- Must visit
Part Alta
The atmospheric old town, packed with Roman remains, medieval lanes, small squares, and local character. Best area for walking and discovering hidden corners.
- Gluten-free
Xató
A traditional salad of escarole, salt cod, tuna, anchovies, olives, and a rich nut-and-pepper xató sauce, strongly associated with the Tarragona area and nearby Costa Daurada.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Calçots Amb Salsa Romesco
Chargrilled sweet spring onions served with romesco sauce. A classic winter specialty across Tarragona province, especially during calçotada gatherings.
- Gluten-free
Romesco De Peix
A Tarragona-style fish stew or seafood dish flavored with romesco sauce made from dried peppers, nuts, garlic, and olive oil; one of the city’s signature flavors.
AQ Restaurant
A respected modern restaurant in Tarragona known for creative Mediterranean and Catalan tasting menus in an elegant but relaxed setting.
La Cuineta
An established Old Town restaurant serving refined Catalan cuisine with local ingredients in a warm, intimate atmosphere.
El Llagut
A well-known seafood-focused restaurant popular for rice dishes, local fish, and traditional Tarragona flavors near the old town.
Euro
Moderate by Spanish standards: meals and coffee are reasonable, while beachfront dining and summer stays cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-15 for a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person.
- Fine dining
- EUR 50-80 per person.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.50-3 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Locals often round up or leave 5-10% for good restaurant service; small change for cafes, bars, and taxis is enough.
EMT Tarragona
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.60 EUR
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Tarragona, Estación de Autobuses -> Tarragona Railway Station, Tarragona
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- City buses are operated by EMT Tarragona; check routes and service updates in the official EMT Tarragona app or website.
- Card payment availability on board can vary by bus and ticket type, so carry a contactless card and some cash as backup.
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.
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.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from Cartagena to Tarragona with BlaBlaCar. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct 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.
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.
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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