- Must visit
National Museum of Underwater Archaeology (ARQVA)
Spain’s flagship museum for underwater archaeology, with Phoenician, Roman, and shipwreck finds from the Mediterranean. A top cultural stop on Cartagena’s waterfront.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Santander to Cartagena
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$87
Average price
$87
Fastest journey
14 h 45 m
Average duration
14 h 45 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
694 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Santander to Cartagena is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Santander to Cartagena will cost around $87 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $87.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave Santander for Cartagena on Sun, Jun 21, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 21 the direct buses cover the 694 km distance in an average of 14 h 45 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 14 h 45 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest buses will take 14 h 45 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.
4:15 AM14h45Santander7:00 PMCartagena$871One-way0 transfers- 5:15 AM14h45Santander8:00 PMCartagena$881One-way0 transfers
- 5:15 AM14h45Santander8:00 PMCartagena$881One-way0 transfers
- 4:15 AM14h45Santander7:00 PMCartagena$871One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Santander to Cartagena
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Santander to Cartagena among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $84. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 25m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $84, and a flight costs an average of $33.
Distance: 431 miles (694 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight |
|---|---|
$88 Average price Cheapest | $212 Average price |
12h 59m Average total duration 12h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 25m Average total duration Fastest 2h 25m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Santander to Cartagena is a bus with an average price of $88 (€72).
This is compared to other travel options from Santander to Cartagena:
A bus is $124 (€102) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Santander to Cartagena costing on average $212 (€174).
The fastest way to travel from Santander to Cartagena is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 25m.
Other travel options to Cartagena take longer:
Train takes on average 10h 37m.
Bus takes on average 12h 29m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Santander and Cartagena including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Santander to Cartagena among Omio's users.
Santander to Cartagena Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 12:45AM | Arrival Time 01:50PM | Duration 13h05 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $88 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 01:00AM | Arrival Time 01:15PM | Duration 12h15 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $83 |
Operator Bilman Bus | Departure Time 04:15AM | Arrival Time 07:00PM | Duration 14h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $87 |
Operator Bilman Bus | Departure Time 05:15AM | Arrival Time 08:00PM | Duration 14h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $84 |
Operator Bilman Bus | Departure Time 06:15AM | Arrival Time 09:00PM | Duration 14h45 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $87 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 09:50PM | Duration 13h50 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $89 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 05:50AM | Duration 19h20 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $101 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 05:50AM | Duration 17h50 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $95 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 05:50AM | Duration 14h20 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $119 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 05:50AM | Duration 13h50 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $96 |
Live departures
Santander to Cartagena bus times
The table below shows live departures for Santander to Cartagena buses for today, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:15 AM Santander | 14h45 | 7:00 PM Cartagena | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:15 AM Santander | 14h45 | 8:00 PM Cartagena | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Santander to Cartagena by bus or flight
Compare bus 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.
Sun
Jun 21
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
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Jun 27
Jun 27
Why should you book Santander to Cartagena buses with Omio?
Alsa as well as Bilman Bus or Alsa Supra offer buses services from Santander to Cartagena.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Santander 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 Bilman Bus or Alsa Supra to find the best option for your trip from Santander 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 and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Santander 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 Bilman Bus or Alsa Supra to find the best option for your trip from Santander to Cartagena.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Santander to Cartagena.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Santander to Cartagena
SpainSpain
Buses from Santander to Cartagena run on average 1 times per day, taking around 12h 29m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $84 (€69) but you can travel from only $33 (€27) by flight.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:45, the last at 16:00. The fastest bus covers the 431 miles (694 km) distance in 14h 45m.
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 $33 (€27)
Distance 431 miles (694 km) |
Average bus duration 12h 29m |
Cheapest ticket price $84 (€69) |
Buses per day 1 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 14h 45m |
First bus 12:45 AM |
Last bus 4:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 $33 (€27)
Bus providers: Alsa, Bilman Bus, Alsa Supra from Santander to CartagenaYou can travel by bus between Santander to Cartagena with Alsa, Bilman Bus, Alsa Supra for as low as $33 (€27). 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.
Bilman Bus
About
Bilman Bus is a Spanish bus company known for operating a significant number of routes across Spain, including popular connections like Teruel to Bilbao, Alicante to Pamplona, and Valencia to San Sebastian. The company emphasizes reliability, punctuality, and high-quality service, with a focus on regular vehicle maintenance and passenger satisfaction. Many newer Bilman Bus vehicles offer onboard Wi-Fi, and longer intercity routes typically include breaks. In addition to passenger transport, Bilman Bus also provides bus rental services.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
14h 45m
Cheapest Price
$84 (€69)
Bilman Bus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 10kg and one checked bag up to 25kg.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag up to 25 kg.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. No refund 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; limited space available.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; guide dogs travel free.
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
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.
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 of Cartagena
Museum and access complex for Cartagena’s spectacular Roman theatre, combining archaeological galleries with the restored ancient performance space.
- Recommended
Cartagena Naval Museum
A naval history museum with ship models, maritime collections, and the well-known Isaac Peral submarine exhibit, reflecting the city’s strong military port identity.
- Must visit
Calle Mayor
Cartagena’s principal historic shopping street, lined with Modernist architecture, balconies, and some of the city’s most photographed façades.
- Must visit
Puerto de Cartagena
The regenerated waterfront promenade with marina views, cruise activity, museums, and easy access to several of the city’s top attractions.
- Recommended
Plaza del Ayuntamiento
The grand square by the city hall and port, ideal for appreciating Cartagena’s civic architecture and starting a walk through the old centre.
- Gluten-free
Caldero del Mar Menor
The area’s signature rice dish, cooked in fish stock with ñora pepper and traditionally served with fish and alioli. It is closely tied to nearby Mar Menor fishing culture.
- Gluten-free
Michirones
A hearty stew of dried broad beans simmered with ham, chorizo and spices. It is a classic regional tapa in Cartagena and Murcia.
Marinera
A very Murcian tapa made with a rusks-style bread ring topped with Russian salad and an anchovy. It is one of the most typical bar snacks in Cartagena.
Magoga
A Michelin-starred restaurant led by chef María Gómez, known for refined contemporary cooking rooted in Cartagena and Murcia products. Elegant but welcoming atmosphere.
La Uva Jumillana
A famous old-school tapas bar known for authentic local snacks, marinera-style tapas and a bustling informal atmosphere. A strong choice for traditional Cartagena flavors.
El Soldadito de Plomo
An established traditional restaurant and tapas spot popular for Murcian dishes, seafood and hearty local specialties. Lively, classic dining room.
Euro
Moderate by Spanish standards. Meals and coffee are reasonable, while tourist-area dining and summer stays cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for tapas, menus, or fast food.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 50-90 per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.50-3 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Small change for cafes is enough. Taxis are usually rounded up; hotel tips are optional.
Cartagena Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.50 EUR
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Cartagena, Estación de Autobuses -> Cartagena City Center
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Most local urban bus tickets are bought on board; carry small change in EUR in case card payment is not available.
- For routes and timetables, use the official operator website or app before traveling, especially on Sundays and holidays.
FAQs: Bus from Santander to Cartagena
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santander 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 Santander to Cartagena can start from as little as $84 (€69) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Santander to Cartagena is $88 (€72) ; 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 Santander to Cartagena is 14h 45m to travel the 431 miles (694 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 Santander to Cartagena leaves at 12:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Santander to Cartagena leaves at 4:00 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Santander to Cartagena with Bilman Bus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Santander to Cartagena, you can count on Alsa, Bilman Bus, Alsa Supra for the best way to get you to Cartagena. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Santander and Cartagena and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Santander, Estación de Autobuses, which is located around 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 Santander is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 14h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Santander to Cartagena is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Santander and Cartagena including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Santander to Cartagena:
- Bilman Bus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Accessible seating.
- Alsa
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Accessible seating.
- Alsa Supra
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Accessible restrooms.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Santander to Cartagena for bus company Alsa, Bilman Bus, Alsa Supra.
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 Santander to Cartagena depends on the bus companies:
- Bilman Bus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. No refund 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.
- 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, Bilman Bus, 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 Santander to Cartagena.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Santander to Cartagena:
- Bilman Bus
- 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.
- 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 Santander to Cartagena:
- Bilman Bus
- 10€ per additional bag up to 25 kg.
- 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 Santander to Cartagena. The following conditions apply:
- Bilman Bus
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- guide dogs travel free.
- 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 Santander to Cartagena with the following bus company: Alsa, Bilman Bus, Alsa Supra
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Santander to Cartagena with the following bus company: Alsa, Bilman Bus, Alsa Supra.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Santander to Cartagena with the following bus company: Alsa, Bilman Bus, Alsa Supra.
Since both Santander 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Santander 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 Santander to Cartagena
Santander
Cartagena
The major bus station for departures in Santander is Santander, Estación de Autobuses. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Santander, Estación de Autobuses for your trip from Santander to Cartagena.
Santander, Estación de Autobuses
information
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 Santander.
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
Most popular bus connections from Santander
More options for your journey from Santander to Cartagena
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cartagena and Santander
Most popular bus connections to Cartagena
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