- Must visit
Museo Nacional de Arqueología Subacuática ARQVA
National museum focused on underwater archaeology, with shipwreck finds and exhibits on Mediterranean maritime heritage. One of Cartagena’s leading cultural attractions.
We are not able to find a bus between these two places.
Cheapest price
-
Average price
-
Fastest journey
-
Average duration
-
Buses per day
-
Distance
-
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Madrid to Cartagena among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $16. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 52m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $16, and a flight costs an average of $40.
Distance: 242 miles (391 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$49 Average price | $34 Average price Cheapest | $171 Average price |
5h 41m Average total duration 5h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 29m Average total duration 3h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 52m Average total duration Fastest 1h 52m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.4 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.2 - 2.3kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Madrid to Cartagena:
A train is $15 (€13) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Madrid to Cartagena costing on average $49 (€41).
A train is $138 (€113) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Madrid to Cartagena costing on average $171 (€141).
Other travel options to Cartagena take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 59m.
Bus takes on average 5h 11m.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 12:30AM | Arrival Time 05:50AM | Duration 5h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:40AM | Arrival Time 10:50AM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 10:50AM | Duration 3h50 | Departure days Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 07:45AM | Arrival Time 01:50PM | Duration 6h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 08:30AM | Arrival Time 01:50PM | Duration 5h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 09:10AM | Arrival Time 02:00PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 10:00AM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $38 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 10:20AM | Arrival Time 03:00PM | Duration 4h40 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 05:05PM | Duration 6h35 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 06:05PM | Duration 6h35 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 05:30PM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 11:45AM | Arrival Time 07:05PM | Duration 7h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 04:20PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 12:30PM | Arrival Time 07:05PM | Duration 6h35 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 02:10PM | Arrival Time 06:20PM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 07:40PM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 08:10PM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 08:20PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 03:40PM | Arrival Time 08:40PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 03:45PM | Arrival Time 09:50PM | Duration 6h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $71 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 08:50PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 11:15PM | Duration 6h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 09:30PM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 11:15PM | Duration 5h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 10:20PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:40PM | Arrival Time 11:00PM | Duration 5h20 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 11:10PM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Tue, Sat | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 12:00AM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:00PM | Arrival Time 12:20AM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 09:45PM | Arrival Time 03:50AM | Duration 6h05 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 10:20PM | Arrival Time 03:00AM | Duration 4h40 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 10:30PM | Arrival Time 02:40AM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 10:45PM | Arrival Time 04:50AM | Duration 6h05 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 11:45PM | Arrival Time 05:50AM | Duration 6h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $51 |
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Cartagena buses for today, Friday, July 10. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 10:45 PM Madrid | 6h05 | 4:50 AM Cartagena | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, July 11 | |||||
Normal | 8:30 AM Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses | 5h20 | 1:50 PM Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses | 0 transfersDirect | |
Normal | 11:45 AM Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid) | 7h20 | 7:05 PM Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses | 0 transfersDirect | |
Normal | 12:30 PM Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses | 6h35 | 7:05 PM Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses | 0 transfersDirect | |
Supra Economy | 3:45 PM Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid) | 6h05 | 9:50 PM Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses | 0 transfersDirect | |
Normal | 4:30 PM Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid) | 6h45 | 11:15 PM Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses | 0 transfersDirect | |
Supra Economy | 4:30 PM Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses | 5h20 | 9:50 PM Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses | 0 transfersDirect | |
Normal | 5:30 PM Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses | 5h45 | 11:15 PM Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare bus, train, and 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.
Buses from Madrid to Cartagena run on average 13 times per day, taking around 5h 11m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $35 (€29) but you can travel from only $16 (€13) by train.
There are 13 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:30, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 242 miles (391 km) distance in 5h 20m.
Distance 242 miles (391 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price $35 (€29) |
Buses per day 13 |
Direct buses 13 |
Fastest bus 5h 20m |
First bus 12:30 AM |
Last bus 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 70 days |
Discover the best of Cartagena — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cartagena trip today.
National museum focused on underwater archaeology, with shipwreck finds and exhibits on Mediterranean maritime heritage. One of Cartagena’s leading cultural attractions.
Museum interpreting the Roman Theatre through archaeological displays and a designed visitor route linking the city and the monument.
Archaeological museum and site presenting the Roman forum district, baths and urban remains from ancient Carthago Nova.
Cartagena’s best-known pedestrian street, lined with modernist buildings, shops and civic architecture. A core walk in the historic centre.
The waterfront promenade and harbour area, popular for strolling, photos and views of cruise ships, monuments and nearby hills.
Elegant square fronting the City Hall and close to the port, serving as one of the main gathering points in the old town.
Traditional rice dish from the Campo de Cartagena and Mar Menor, cooked in rich fish stock with ñora peppers and usually served with local fish. It is one of the area’s signature specialties.
Hearty stew of dried broad beans simmered with ham, chorizo, bay leaf, and spices. It is a classic regional tapa, especially popular in cooler months.
A very typical Murcian tapa: a Russian salad on a breadstick ring topped with an anchovy. In Cartagena bars, it is one of the most recognizable snacks to order with a drink.
Well-known Michelin-starred restaurant in Cartagena, led by chef María Gómez. It is known for refined modern cuisine rooted in Murcia’s local products and maritime traditions.
Recognized local restaurant with a traditional feel, appreciated for Murcian dishes, meats, and seafood. A solid choice for a more classic Cartagena meal.
Established restaurant near the Roman Theatre, popular for rice dishes, seafood, and regional cuisine in an elegant but accessible setting.
Generally moderate by Spanish standards. Tapas and coffee are affordable, while sit-down dinners and summer tourist areas cost more.
Tipping is modest. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Small change is fine in cafes; taxis can be rounded up.
Official public transport app
Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses -> Cartagena City Center
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid to Cartagena 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 Cartagena, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Madrid to Cartagena buses use the Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid) to Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses station pair. Use this guide to compare Madrid and Cartagena bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid) is 12 km from Madrid city centre. Public transport options include:
Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid) has practical services for this route, including Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Rodilla, Mahoudrid
ATMs are aTMs located throughout T4, major cards accepted .
Ticket office support is available at Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid).
Available at Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid): WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid): Step-free access, elevators, accessible toilets.
Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses is 3 km from Madrid city centre. Public transport options include:
Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Cafetería de la estación (in the station), Restaurante El Brillante (0.5 km), La Taberna de Domínguez (0.7 km).
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance and in the waiting area.
Ticket office support is available at Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses.
Available at Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses: Elevators, ramps.
Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Cafetería de la estación (in the station), Restaurante El Galeón (0.5 km), La Catedral (0.7 km).
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses.
Available at Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses: Elevators, ramps.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need