- 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.
Flights from Madrid Barajas Airport to Cartagena depart on average 14 times per day, taking around 2h 15m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $39 (€32) but you can travel from only $16 (€13) by train.
There are 4 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 05:05, the last at 20:45. The fastest flight covers the 241 miles (389 km) distance in 1h 5m. October is the cheapest month to fly.
Distance 241 miles (389 km) |
Average flight duration 2h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price $39 (€32) |
Flights per day 14 |
Direct flights 4 |
Fastest flight 1h 5m |
First flight 5:05 AM |
Last flight 8:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Cheapest price
$65
Average price
$235
Fastest journey
1 h 5 m
Average duration
1 h 12 m
Flights per day
21
Distance
389 km
The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Madrid Barajas Airport 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 Barajas Airport to Cartagena will cost around $235 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $65.
Of the 21 flights that leave Madrid Barajas Airport for Cartagena onTue, Jun 30, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Jun 30 the direct flights cover the 389 km distance in an average of 1 h 12 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 1 h 5 m .
On Tue, Jun 30 the longest flights will take 1 h 15 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.
UX4047
UX4049
UX6013 · UX4026
UX6031 · UX4024
UX6021 · UX4026
UX4047
UX4049
IB1011
IB1015
IB1009Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Madrid Barajas Airport 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 2h 15m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $16, and a flight costs an average of $39.
Distance: 241 miles (389 km)
| Flight | Most popular Bus | Train |
|---|---|---|
$97 Average price | $52 Average price | $32 Average price Cheapest |
5h 15m Average total duration Fastest 2h 15m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 7m Average total duration 4h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 55m Average total duration 4h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
![]() Most popular airline | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular train company |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Madrid Barajas Airport to Cartagena:
A train is $20 (€17) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Madrid Barajas Airport to Cartagena costing on average $52 (€43).
A train is $66 (€54) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Madrid Barajas Airport to Cartagena costing on average $97 (€80).
Other travel options to Cartagena take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 25m.
Bus takes on average 4h 37m.
The table below shows live departures for Madrid Barajas Airport to Cartagena flights for tomorrow, Tuesday, June 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
UX4047 | 7:05 AM Madrid Barajas Airport | 1h05 | 8:10 AM Alicante Elche Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
IB1009 | 7:55 AM Madrid Barajas Airport | 1h15 | 9:10 AM Alicante Elche Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
UX6031 · UX4024 | 8:20 AM Madrid Barajas Airport | 3h20 | 11:40 AM Alicante Elche Airport | 1 transfer | |
UX6031 · UX4026 | 8:20 AM Madrid Barajas Airport | 11h35 | 7:55 PM Alicante Elche Airport | 1 transfer | |
UX6021 · UX4026 | 9:30 AM Madrid Barajas Airport | 10h25 | 7:55 PM Alicante Elche Airport | 1 transfer | |
UX6021 · UX4024 | 9:30 AM Madrid Barajas Airport | 26h10 | 11:40 AM Alicante Elche Airport | 1 transfer | |
UX6013 · UX4026 | 10:15 AM Madrid Barajas Airport | 9h40 | 7:55 PM Alicante Elche Airport | 1 transfer | |
UX6013 · UX4024 | 10:15 AM Madrid Barajas Airport | 25h25 | 11:40 AM Alicante Elche Airport | 1 transfer | |
IB1011 | 11:50 AM Madrid Barajas Airport | 1h15 | 1:05 PM Alicante Elche Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
AT973 · AT894 | 1:35 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 22h35 | 12:10 PM Alicante Elche Airport | 1 transfer | |
UX6067 · UX4026 | 2:35 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 5h20 | 7:55 PM Alicante Elche Airport | 1 transfer | |
UX6067 · UX4024 | 2:35 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 21h05 | 11:40 AM Alicante Elche Airport | 1 transfer | |
UX4049 | 3:10 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 1h10 | 4:20 PM Alicante Elche Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
UX6079 · UX4024 | 5:05 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 18h35 | 11:40 AM Alicante Elche Airport | 1 transfer | |
UX6079 · UX4026 | 5:05 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 2h50 | 7:55 PM Alicante Elche Airport | 1 transfer | |
UX6097 · UX4024 | 7:00 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 16h40 | 11:40 AM Alicante Elche Airport | 1 transfer | |
UX6097 · UX4026 | 7:00 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 24h55 | 7:55 PM Alicante Elche Airport | 1 transfer | |
IB1015 | 7:40 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 1h15 | 8:55 PM Alicante Elche Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
AT971 · AT894 | 8:10 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 16h00 | 12:10 PM Alicante Elche Airport | 1 transfer | |
UX6049 · UX4026 | 9:45 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 22h10 | 7:55 PM Alicante Elche Airport | 1 transfer | |
UX6049 · UX4024 | 9:45 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 13h55 | 11:40 AM Alicante Elche Airport | 1 transfer | |
This is the last flight 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.
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.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid Barajas Airport to Cartagena by flight. 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 flight, 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 Barajas Airport to Cartagena flights use the Madrid Barajas Airport to Alicante Elche Airport airport pair. Use this guide to compare Madrid Barajas Airport and Cartagena airports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like airport facilities and services.
Madrid Barajas Airport is 12 km from Madrid city centre. Public transport options include:
Madrid Barajas Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, Lounge, and Lost and Found Office.
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located in all terminals.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Madrid Barajas Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Madrid Barajas Airport: Ramps, assistance.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need