- Must visit
National Museum of Underwater Archaeology (ARQVA)
Spain’s flagship museum for underwater archaeology, with Phoenician and Roman finds from the Mediterranean. A top cultural stop on Cartagena’s waterfront.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Madrid to Cartagena
Showing times and prices for May 27
Cheapest price
$52
Average price
$56
Fastest journey
5 h 20 m
Average duration
5 h 34 m
Buses per day
10
Distance
391 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Madrid to Cartagena is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Madrid to Cartagena will cost around $56 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $52.
Fast buses
Of the 10 buses that leave Madrid for Cartagena on Wed, May 27, 10 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, May 27 the direct buses cover the 391 km distance in an average of 5 h 34 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 5 h 20 m .
On Wed, May 27 the slowest buses will take 6 h 5 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
Normal7:45 AM6h05Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)1:50 PMCartagena, Estación de Autobuses$521One-way0 transfers- Normal12:30 PM6h35Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses7:05 PMCartagena, Estación de Autobuses$521One-way0 transfers
- Normal11:45 AM7h20Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)7:05 PMCartagena, Estación de Autobuses$521One-way0 transfers
- Normal11:45 PM6h05Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)5:50 AMCartagena, Estación de Autobuses$521One-way0 transfers
- Normal4:45 PM6h30Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)11:15 PMCartagena, Estación de Autobuses$521One-way0 transfers
- Normal8:30 AM5h20Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses1:50 PMCartagena, Estación de Autobuses$521One-way0 transfers
- Normal12:30 AM5h20Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses5:50 AMCartagena, Estación de Autobuses$521One-way0 transfers
- Supra Economy4:30 PM5h20Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses9:50 PMCartagena, Estación de Autobuses$711One-way0 transfers
- Normal5:30 PM5h45Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses11:15 PMCartagena, Estación de Autobuses$521One-way0 transfers
- Normal7:45 AM6h05Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)1:50 PMCartagena, Estación de Autobuses$521One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Madrid to Cartagena
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)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$50 Average price | $35 Average price Cheapest | $174 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Madrid to Cartagena is a train with an average price of $35 (€28).
This is compared to other travel options from Madrid to Cartagena:
A train is $16 (€13) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Madrid to Cartagena costing on average $50 (€41).
A train is $140 (€113) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Madrid to Cartagena costing on average $174 (€141).
The fastest way to travel from Madrid to Cartagena is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 52m.
Other travel options to Cartagena take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 59m.
Bus takes on average 5h 11m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Madrid and Cartagena including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Cartagena among Omio's users.
Madrid to Cartagena Bus Timetables
| 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, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 06:10AM | Arrival Time 11:20AM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 06:30AM | Arrival Time 11:30AM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 06:50AM | Arrival Time 11:30AM | Duration 4h40 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 11:30AM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 07:45AM | Arrival Time 01:50PM | Duration 6h05 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 12:20PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 08:30AM | Arrival Time 01:50PM | Duration 5h20 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $44 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:30AM | Arrival Time 01:20PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator iryo | Departure Time 08:45AM | Arrival Time 03:05PM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 01:20PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 10:20AM | Arrival Time 02:50PM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $38 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 03:50PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 11:45AM | Arrival Time 07:05PM | Duration 7h20 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 05:00PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 12:20PM | Arrival Time 05:10PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 12:30PM | Arrival Time 07:05PM | Duration 6h35 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $44 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 01:50PM | Arrival Time 06:40PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 02:00PM | Arrival Time 06:40PM | Duration 4h40 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 07:00PM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 07:20PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 03:20PM | Arrival Time 08:20PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $38 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 03:45PM | Arrival Time 09:50PM | Duration 6h05 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $72 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 09:10PM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 04:20PM | Arrival Time 09:20PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 09:50PM | Duration 5h20 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 04:45PM | Arrival Time 11:15PM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 11:15PM | Duration 5h45 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 09:50PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 11:30PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 12:10AM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 12:30AM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 01:10AM | Duration 4h40 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 11:45PM | Arrival Time 05:50AM | Duration 6h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $52 |
Live departures
Madrid to Cartagena bus times
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Cartagena buses for today, Tuesday, May 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Normal | 11:45 PM Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid) | 6h05 | 5:50 AM Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Wednesday, May 27 | |||||
| Normal | 12:30 AM Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses | 5h20 | 5:50 AM Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Normal | 7:45 AM Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid) | 6h05 | 1:50 PM Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 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 | |
| Supra Economy | 4:30 PM Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses | 5h20 | 9:50 PM Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Normal | 4:45 PM Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid) | 6h30 | 11:15 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 | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Madrid to Cartagena by bus, train, or flight
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.
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Why should you book Madrid to Cartagena buses with Omio?
Alsa as well as Alsa Supra offer buses services from Madrid to Cartagena.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Madrid to Cartagena.
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 Alsa Supra to find the best option for your trip from Madrid to Cartagena.
- 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.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Alsa with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Madrid to Cartagena.
Why book with Omio over Checkmybus, Rome2rio or Busbud?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Alsa Supra to find the best option for your trip from Madrid to Cartagena.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Madrid to Cartagena.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Madrid to Cartagena
SpainSpain
Buses from Madrid to Cartagena run on average 13 times per day, taking around 5h 11m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $36 (€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.
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
Train from $16 (€13)
Distance 242 miles (391 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price $36 (€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 |
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
Train from $16 (€13)
Bus providers: Alsa, Alsa Supra, BlaBlaCar from Madrid to CartagenaYou can travel by bus between Madrid to Cartagena with Alsa, Alsa Supra, BlaBlaCar for as low as $16 (€13). 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 Duration
5h 20m
Cheapest Price
$36 (€29)
Alsa frequency
9 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.
Alsa Supra
About
Alsa Supra is a premium service offered by Alsa, a leading Spanish bus company. It provides a high level of comfort and amenities for travelers, aiming to make each journey a unique experience. Key features of Alsa Supra buses include reclining leather seats with footrests, individual seating rows, high-speed Wi-Fi, USB chargers, and an "Ociobus" on-board entertainment system with films, documentaries, and music. Passengers can also enjoy daily newspapers and a food and drink service, with a special menu available in the Premium class. Alsa Supra also offers services for people with reduced mobility, including reserved seating and wheelchair spaces. These services are available on various national and international routes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 20m
Cheapest Price
$88 (€71)
Alsa Supra 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. Within 48 hours, a fee applies.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Accessible restrooms.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; prior 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
4 a day
Complete guide to Cartagena
Things to do in Cartagena
Discover the best of Cartagena — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cartagena trip today.
- Must visit
Roman Theatre Museum
Excellent museum entrance to Cartagena’s restored Roman theatre, combining modern architecture with major remains from the Roman city.
- Recommended
Refugio-Museo de la Guerra Civil
Air-raid shelter museum explaining Cartagena’s Civil War history through preserved tunnels and interpretation displays beneath the city center.
- Must visit
Calle Mayor
Cartagena’s grand modernist main street, lined with elegant facades, shops, and some of the city’s best architectural details.
- Must visit
Plaza del Ayuntamiento
Ceremonial square facing the city hall and close to the Roman theatre, ideal as a starting point for sightseeing.
- Must visit
Old Town of Cartagena
Walkable historic core combining Roman archaeology, military heritage, modernist architecture, and lively public spaces.
- Gluten-free
Caldero del Mar Menor
Traditional rice dish from nearby Mar Menor, cooked in fish broth with ñora peppers and usually served with local fish. It is one of Cartagena's signature coastal dishes.
- Gluten-free
Michirones
Hearty stew of dried broad beans simmered with ham, chorizo and spices. A classic Murcian tapa commonly found in Cartagena bars.
Marinera
A famous local tapa made with a Russian salad topping on a breadstick ring, traditionally finished with an anchovy. It is strongly associated with the Murcia-Cartagena area.
Magoga
Michelin-starred restaurant led by María Gómez, known for refined Murcian cuisine, seasonal tasting menus and polished contemporary dining.
Los Churrascos
Long-established regional restaurant recognized for quality grilled meats, Murcian dishes and professional service in a more formal setting.
El Soldadito de Plomo
Well-known traditional venue popular for tapas, local specialties and a lively classic atmosphere in the old town.
Euro
Moderate by Spanish standards. Daily costs are usually lower than Madrid or Barcelona, with good-value local bars and mid-range restaurants.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-15 for a simple meal or tapas.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 50-80 per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.50-3 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Small change is fine in cafes. Taxis are usually rounded up, but tipping is not required.
Cartagena Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.20 EUR
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses -> Cartagena City Center
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Urban bus tickets are usually bought on board; carry small change in EUR in case card payment is not available.
- Cartagena city center is compact, and many central sights are within walking distance from the bus station.
FAQs: Bus from Madrid to Cartagena
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.
Cheap bus tickets from Madrid to Cartagena can start from as little as $36 (€29) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Madrid to Cartagena is $50 (€41) ; 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 Madrid to Cartagena is 5h 20m to travel the 242 miles (391 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 Madrid to Cartagena leaves at 12:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Madrid to Cartagena leaves at 11:45 PM.
Yes, there are 13 direct buses a day from Madrid to Cartagena with Alsa, Alsa Supra, BlaBlaCar. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Madrid to Cartagena, you can count on Alsa, Alsa Supra, BlaBlaCar for the best way to get you to Cartagena. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Madrid and Cartagena and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Madrid , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses, Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid) . When arriving in Cartagena , you can end your journey in bus stations like Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses, which is located around 3 away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Cartagena from Madrid is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 5h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Madrid to Cartagena is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Madrid and Cartagena including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Madrid to Cartagena for bus company Alsa, Alsa Supra.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Madrid to Cartagena:
- Alsa
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Accessible seating.
- Alsa Supra
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Accessible restrooms.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Cartagena are:
- Roman Theatre Museum, an ancient Roman theater with a museum showcasing archaeological finds
- Cartagena Naval Museum, a museum highlighting the city's naval history and maritime heritage
- Concepción Castle, a medieval fortress offering panoramic views of the city and its harbor
- National Museum of Underwater Archaeology, a museum dedicated to underwater archaeological discoveries and maritime history
- Calle Mayor, a bustling pedestrian street lined with modernist architecture, shops, and cafes.
The best things to do in Cartagena include:
- Explore the ancient Roman city of Carthago Nova, with guided tours revealing its historical significance
- Enjoy a boat tour of Cartagena's harbor, offering unique views of the city's coastline and landmarks
- Attend a local festival or cultural event, experiencing the vibrant traditions and community spirit of Cartagena
- Visit the Regional Park of Calblanque, a natural park with beautiful beaches and hiking trails
- Discover the local cuisine with a tapas tour, sampling traditional Spanish dishes in various eateries.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Madrid to Cartagena depends on the bus companies:
- Alsa
- You can cancel your ticket up to 48 hours before departure for a partial refund. Changes allowed for a fee.
- Alsa Supra
- You can cancel your ticket up to 48 hours before departure for a partial refund. Within 48 hours, a fee applies.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Alsa, Alsa Supra.
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 Madrid to Cartagena.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Madrid to Cartagena:
- Alsa
- One carry-on bag up to 10kg and one checked bag up to 25kg.
- Alsa Supra
- 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 Madrid to Cartagena:
- Alsa
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- Alsa Supra
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Madrid to Cartagena. The following conditions apply:
- Alsa
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets must travel in the hold.
- Alsa Supra
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Madrid to Cartagena with the following bus company: Alsa, Alsa Supra
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Madrid to Cartagena with the following bus company: Alsa, Alsa Supra.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Madrid to Cartagena with the following bus company: Alsa, Alsa Supra.
Since both Madrid and Cartagena 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Cartagena 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 Cartagena, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially pickpocketing in crowded areas like the Old City and public transportation. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial guides offering tours at inflated prices. It's advisable to use authorized taxis, avoid displaying valuables, and stay vigilant in busy tourist spots to ensure safety.
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 Madrid to Cartagena
Madrid
Cartagena
The major bus station for departures in Madrid is Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses for your trip from Madrid to Cartagena.
Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-23:00
Distance to city center
3 km
Car connection
Calle de Méndez ÁlvaroWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Cafetería de la estación (in the station)
- Restaurante El Brillante (0.5 km)
- La Taberna de Domínguez (0.7 km).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses
- Bus: 8, 102, 148 Metro: L6 Train: C1, C5
Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)
Amenities at bus station
DiningATMAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-23:00
Distance to city center
12 kmCar connection
M-40, M-14Dining
- Rodilla, Mahoudrid
Accessibility
- Step-free access, elevators, accessible toilets
WC
- Located inside the terminal, well-signposted, accessible, and generally clean
Shower
- No public showers in the bus station area; showers available in airport lounges (approx. €15-€30 for lounge access)
Public transit options for Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)
- Metro Line 8, Aeropuerto T4, 12 km
The major bus station for arrivals in Cartagena is Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses for your trip to Cartagena from Madrid.
Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-22:00
Car connection
Calle Doctor Gómez UllaWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Cafetería de la estación (in the station)
- Restaurante El Galeón (0.5 km)
- La Catedral (0.7 km).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses
- Bus: 2, 4, 6 Train: C-1
More options for your journey from Madrid to Cartagena
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cartagena and Madrid
Most popular bus connections to Cartagena
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