- Must visit
Roman Theatre Museum
Key museum for Cartagena’s Roman heritage, linking modern galleries with the restored ancient theatre. One of the city’s essential cultural visits.
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Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Barcelona to Cartagena
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Barcelona to Cartagena among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $33. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 34m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 0.5 - 1.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $33, and a bus costs an average of $94.
Distance: 310 miles (500 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight |
|---|---|
$109 Average price | $95 Average price Cheapest |
7h 19m Average total duration 6h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 34m Average total duration Fastest 2h 34m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.5 - 3.0kg CO2 emissions |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Barcelona to Cartagena is a flight with an average price of $95 (€77).
This is compared to other travel options from Barcelona to Cartagena:
A flight is $13 (€11) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Barcelona to Cartagena costing on average $109 (€88).
The fastest way to travel from Barcelona to Cartagena is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 34m.
Other travel options to Cartagena take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 49m.
Train takes on average 8h 37m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Barcelona and Cartagena including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Barcelona to Cartagena among Omio's users.
Compare prices and tickets Barcelona 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.
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Why should you book Barcelona to Cartagena trains with Omio?
Renfe INTERCITY as well as Renfe EUROMED, Renfe, Renfe MD, AVE and more offer trains services from Barcelona to Cartagena.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Renfe INTERCITY tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Renfe INTERCITY?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Renfe INTERCITY, but also compare tickets for the likes of Renfe EUROMED, Renfe, Renfe MD or AVE to find the best option for your trip from Barcelona 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 Renfe INTERCITY with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Barcelona to Cartagena.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Barcelona to Cartagena?
The best time to book your train from Barcelona to Cartagena is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Barcelona to Cartagena route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Barcelona to Cartagena per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Barcelona to Cartagena.
Trains
from $46Buses
from $12Flights
from $92Journey information
Overview: Train from Barcelona to Cartagena
SpainSpain
Take a train from Barcelona to Cartagena and enjoy the approximately 310 miles (500 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 04:45, the last at 21:07.
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 310 miles (500 km) |
Average train duration 8h 37m |
First train 4:45 AM |
Last train 9:07 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 28 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 $33 (€27)
Train companies: Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe EUROMED, Renfe, Renfe MD, AVE from Barcelona to Cartagena trainsRenfe INTERCITY, Renfe EUROMED, Renfe, Renfe MD, AVE trains will get you between Barcelona and Cartagena from $33 (€27). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Renfe INTERCITY
About
Renfe Intercity is a high-speed train service operated by the Spanish national railway company, Renfe. It operates throughout Spain, connecting major cities and towns with frequent departures throughout the day. The Intercity service offers a variety of train types, including the Alvia and Talgo, all of which offer comfortable seating and modern amenities. Alvia and Talgo offer fast trains but not as fast the high-speed trains like AVE, offering more stops. Passengers can choose from a range of ticket types, including Economy, Business, and First Class. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power outlets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. The most popular routes for Renfe Intercity include Madrid to Barcelona, Madrid to Seville, and Barcelona to Valencia.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 49m
Cheapest Price
$61 (€49)
Renfe INTERCITY frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of checked luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at the ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions and fare type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Renfe
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with drinks, snacks, and hot meals. At-seat service in First Class
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation with additional fee. Included in some premium tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled, require paid ticket
Quiet zone
Renfe EUROMED
About
Renfe Euromed is Spanish railway company Renfe's high-speed rail service along the beautiful Spanish Mediterranean coast. Running since 1997, Renfe Euromed trains run between Barcelona, Tarragona, Castellón de la Plana, Valencia and Alicante in the Catalonia and Valencia autonomous communities. The most popuar routes connect Barcelona to Valencia in under three hours and Barcelona to Alicante in just over four hours.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
1 suitcase and 1 hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages. Mobile bar service also available
Seat reservation
Seat reservation is mandatory and included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available. Staff assistance for boarding and alighting
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free. Dogs must be muzzled and require paid ticket
Quiet zone
Renfe
About
Renfe is Spain’s national train company operating freight and passenger on Spain’s extensive railway network as well as international routes to neighboring France and Portugal. Renfe has a wide range of ticket types to fit your budget like the Basic, Elige and Premium tickets. Renfe also offers discount cards like the Renfe Gold Card and +Renfe Youth Card 50 for qualified travelers. The Renfe AVE trains run at high speed and serve long-distance routes, Alvia trains combine high-speed and normal speed trains serving domestic routes, Altaria serves domestic routes into southern Spain, Euromed offers domestic routes along the Mediterranean coast, Avant trains serve regional commuter routes and Trenhotel offers night train routes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and up to three suitcases free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and spaces between seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (cafeteria) available on most long-distance trains serving hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages. First class passengers receive at-seat service
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation. Included in some ticket types, additional fee for others. Recommended during peak travel times
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance services available for passengers with reduced mobility
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled, require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Renfe MD
About
Renfe MD, or Media Distancia (Mid-distance), is a division of Spain's national railway company, Renfe, specializing in regional train services. These trains connect cities and towns within the same autonomous community or between contiguous communities, typically covering distances under 300 km. Renfe MD operates various train types, including modern regional services with amenities like power sockets and reading lights, and high-speed Avant trains that reach up to 250 km/h on shorter, high-speed routes. While not as fast as long-distance AVE trains, Renfe MD offers extensive coverage across Spain, providing essential regional connections.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 3 pieces of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at the ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions and fare type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with drinks, snacks, and light meals. Vending machines available on some trains
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation with additional fee. Some routes require mandatory seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled, require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
AVE
About
Travel comfortably with AVE, Renfe’s high-speed trains. AVE connects major cities across Spain at speeds of up to 310 km/h (193 mph), offering a fast and smooth travel experience. Ticket options include Promo, Promo+, and Flexible fares to suit different budgets, along with discount cards such as the Gold Card and +Renfe Youth 50 Card for eligible travelers. AVE trains feature modern amenities including comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and onboard catering, making them a convenient and enjoyable way to travel across Spain.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 3 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, and designated areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund conditions depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages. At-seat service in Preferente (First) Class
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance services available
Pets
Small pets under 10kg in carriers allowed free. Larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone
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
National Museum of Underwater Archaeology (ARQVA)
Spain’s leading museum for underwater archaeology, with shipwreck finds, ancient cargoes, and well-curated exhibits on Mediterranean maritime history.
- Must visit
Museum of the Roman Forum District
Archaeological museum built around major Roman remains, including baths, streets, and domestic spaces. Excellent for understanding ancient Carthago Nova.
- Must visit
Calle Mayor
Cartagena’s grand central street, lined with modernist buildings, shops, and civic landmarks. Ideal for walking and one of the city’s most photogenic areas.
- Must visit
Puerto de Cartagena Promenade
Popular waterfront walking area with harbor views, naval atmosphere, and easy access to major sights. Especially attractive around sunset.
- Recommended
Plaza del Ayuntamiento
Elegant square by the city hall and near the port, serving as a natural starting point for exploring Cartagena’s historic center.
- Gluten-free
Caldero Cartagenero
Traditional rice dish from the Cartagena and Mar Menor area, cooked in rich fish broth with garlic and ñoras, usually served with fish and alioli.
- Gluten-free
Michirones
Hearty broad bean stew typical in Cartagena and Murcia, made with dried beans, ham, chorizo and spices; a classic tavern dish.
Marinera
A classic Murcian tapa of Russian salad served on a breadstick ring and topped with an anchovy; very popular in Cartagena bars.
Magoga
Well-known fine dining restaurant in Cartagena with a contemporary approach to Murcian products and regional cuisine in an elegant setting.
El Soldadito De Plomo
Classic, long-running Cartagena venue popular for traditional tapas, regional specialties and a lively, historic dining room.
Cuarentaytrés
Stylish restaurant and cocktail venue associated with Licor 43, offering modern local cuisine and a fashionable atmosphere in central Cartagena.
Euro
Generally moderate by Spanish standards. Menus del día and tapas are affordable, while seafront dining costs more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-15 for a simple meal or tapas.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a standard restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 50-80+ per person at upscale venues.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.50-3 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Small change for cafés and taxis is enough; not obligatory.
Cartagena Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.50 EUR
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Cartagena Railway Station, Cartagena -> Plaza del Ayuntamiento, Cartagena
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Urban buses are operated by Alsa in Cartagena, and single fares are usually bought on board with limited change accepted in cash.
- For Renfe rail arrivals, the historic center is walkable from Cartagena railway station, so you may not need local transport for central hotels and sights.
FAQs: Trains from Barcelona to Cartagena
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Barcelona to Cartagena by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Cartagena, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The first train from Barcelona to Cartagena leaves at 4:45 AM.
The distance by train from Barcelona to Cartagena is 310 miles (500 km).
The last train from Barcelona to Cartagena leaves at 9:07 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Barcelona to Cartagena.
Yes, there is a direct train from Barcelona to Cartagena. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Renfe INTERCITY.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Barcelona to Cartagena.
The cheapest way to get from Barcelona to Cartagena is by flight, with a cost of around $33 (€27).
The train journey from Barcelona to Cartagena offers a varied scenic experience, featuring coastal views of the Mediterranean Sea, the rugged landscapes of the Valencian Community, and the rolling hills and agricultural fields of the Murcia region, providing a picturesque and diverse backdrop.
In Cartagena, you can explore the ancient Roman city of Carthago Nova with guided tours, enjoy a boat tour of the harbor for unique coastal views, and attend local festivals to experience vibrant traditions. Visit the Regional Park of Calblanque for beautiful beaches and hiking, and discover the local cuisine with a tapas tour. Don't miss the Roman Theatre Museum, the Cartagena Naval Museum, Concepción Castle, the National Museum of Underwater Archaeology, and a stroll down Calle Mayor for a mix of history, culture, and scenic views.
Typically, spending 3 to 4 days in Cartagena is ideal to explore its historic sites, enjoy the beaches, and experience the vibrant local culture.
Yes, you can take the train from Barcelona to Cartagena.
Since both Barcelona 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.
Popular day trips by train from Cartagena include Murcia, Torre-Pacheco, Balsicas, Elche, Orihuela.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Barcelona to Cartagena among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Spain Pass and Interrail Spain Pass are valid on most trains within Spain, including RENFE regional, AVE high-speed, and other long-distance services. Some restrictions may apply for certain premium trains, so it is advisable to check specific train eligibility and reservation requirements in advance.
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.
More options for your journey from Barcelona to Cartagena
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cartagena and Barcelona
Most popular train connections to Cartagena
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