MADRID to CARTAGENA train from $7 with AVE

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to Cartagena

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 10

Cheapest price on Oct 10

$101

Average ticket price on Oct 10

$110

Fastest journey on Oct 10

4 h 18 m

Average journey duration on Oct 10

6 h 41 m

Trains on Oct 10

Distance

391 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train 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 $110 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $101.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Madrid to Cartagena without transferring at least once.

05668+14512
6:15 AM5h01
Madrid Chamartín
11:16 AMCartagena station
$1011One-way
1 transfer
05668+14514
6:15 AM6h49
Madrid Chamartín
1:04 PMCartagena station
$1011One-way
1 transfer
05668+14542
6:15 AM8h03
Madrid Chamartín
2:18 PMCartagena station
$1011One-way
1 transfer
05962+14542
10:00 AM4h18
Madrid Chamartín
2:18 PMCartagena station
$1181One-way
1 transfer
05962+14544
10:00 AM9h13
Madrid Chamartín
7:13 PMCartagena station
$1181One-way
1 transfer

Journey information

Overview: Train from Madrid to Cartagena

Spain

Trains from Madrid to Cartagena run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $7 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 04:45, the last at 20:39. The fastest train covers the 242 miles (391 km) distance in 2h 46m.

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

Distance

242 miles (391 km)

Average train duration

4h 23m

Cheapest ticket price

Trains per day

Fastest train

2h 46m

First train

4:45 AM

Last train

8:39 PM

Cheapest Month

Dec

Cheapest Day

Tue

High Season

Jul - Sep

Low Season

Apr - Jun

Busiest Day

Tue

Least Busy Day

Sun

Best time to book

63 days

Price information

Live departures

Madrid to Cartagena train times

The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Cartagena trains for today, Friday, October 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
06484	On time 8:15 AM Madrid Chamartín	3h27	11:42 AM Murcia Del Carmen	0 transfersDirect
06564	On time 4:15 PM Madrid Chamartín	2h49	7:04 PM Murcia Del Carmen	0 transfersDirect
06594	Delayed 6:45 PM Madrid Chamartín	3h29	8:14 PM 8:14 PMMurcia Del Carmen	0 transfersDirect
This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Madrid to Cartagena trains with Omio?

AVE as well as Renfe AVLO, Renfe INTERCITY, SNCF OUIGO and more offer trains 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 AVE?

Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for AVE, but also compare tickets for the likes of Renfe AVLO, Renfe INTERCITY or SNCF OUIGO 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 AVE 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 Rome2rio, Raileurope or Trainline?

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.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Madrid to Cartagena?

The best time to book your train from Madrid to Cartagena is 1 day before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Madrid to Cartagena route.

Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Madrid 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 Madrid to Cartagena.

Trains

from $7

Buses

from $38

Flights

from $39

Train companies: AVE, Renfe AVLO, Renfe INTERCITY, SNCF OUIGO from Madrid to Cartagena trainsAVE, Renfe AVLO, Renfe INTERCITY, SNCF OUIGO trains will get you between Madrid and Cartagena from $7. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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

Average AVE Duration

3h 39m

Cheapest AVE Price

AVE frequency

3 a day

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

Learn more about AVE

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 Renfe INTERCITY Duration

5h 1m

Cheapest Renfe INTERCITY Price

$11

Renfe INTERCITY frequency

7 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

Learn more about Renfe INTERCITY

Renfe AVLO

About

Renfe Avlo is Spain’s low-cost high-speed rail service operated by the national rail company Renfe. Serving routes between major cities such as Madrid, Zaragoza, Barcelona, Valencia, Tarragona, Girona, and Figueres, Avlo trains reach speeds of up to 186 mph (300 km/h). All tickets are for Economy Class (“Básica”) with assigned seating and include onboard services such as free Wi-Fi, entertainment via the PlayRenfe app, power sockets, and vending machines. Child tickets are available for ages 0–13, while passengers aged 14 and over require an adult ticket. Each fare includes a backpack and hand luggage (55x35x25 cm, no weight limit), with the option to upgrade for extra baggage. Prices start from as low as €7, making Avlo a budget-friendly way to travel between Spain’s most popular destinations.

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Renfe AVLO Duration

4h 34m

Cheapest Renfe AVLO Price

Renfe AVLO frequency

3 a day

Luggage included

1 cabin bag (55x35x25cm) and 1 personal item (35x30x20cm)

Luggage storage

Overhead racks and spaces between seats

Cancellation Policy

According to fare conditions

Refund

Full refund if train is canceled

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes

Seat reservation

Seat reservation included in ticket price

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

Wheelchair spaces and assistance available

Pets

Small pets in carriers under 10kg allowed free. Service animals allowed

Learn more about Renfe AVLO

SNCF OUIGO

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average SNCF OUIGO Duration

2h 46m

Cheapest SNCF OUIGO Price

$11

SNCF OUIGO frequency

3 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

Museo del Teatro Romano

Top archaeological museum built around the Roman theater discovery, explaining excavation, architecture, and Cartagena’s ancient past.

View on map Visit website

Must visit

Museo del Foro Romano Molinete

Major museum of Roman Cartagena with forum remains, baths, and sacred spaces that reveal daily life in Carthago Nova.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Museo Naval de Cartagena

Excellent naval museum featuring submarine history, maritime heritage, and the famous Isaac Peral submarine prototype.

View on map Visit website

Euro (€)

Moderate for Spain: dining and stays are usually cheaper than Madrid or Barcelona, while local buses and coffee remain affordable for tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget: €8-12 for fast food or a simple menu.
Mid-range: €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining: €45+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee: €1.50-2.50 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tipping is modest. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service; small change for cafes; taxis usually just round up.

FAQs: Trains from Madrid to Cartagena

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid 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.

Train ticket prices from Madrid to Cartagena can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $7, while the average price is around $16.

The train from Madrid to Cartagena takes 2h 46m and runs 7 per day.

The first train from Madrid to Cartagena leaves at 4:45 AM.

The distance by train from Madrid to Cartagena is 242 miles (391 km).

The last train from Madrid to Cartagena leaves at 8:39 PM.

There is no high speed train available from Madrid to Cartagena.

Yes, there is a direct train from Madrid to Cartagena. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by SNCF OUIGO.

Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Madrid to Cartagena.

The train station in Madrid that goes to Cartagena is Madrid Chamartín, which connects to Cartagena station.

The train journey from Madrid to Cartagena offers diverse scenery, including views of the Spanish countryside, rolling hills, and small towns, providing a pleasant visual experience.

Yes, you can take the train from Madrid to Cartagena.

Popular day trips by train from Cartagena include Murcia, Torre-Pacheco, Balsicas, Elche, Orihuela.

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.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Madrid to Cartagena

Most Madrid to Cartagena trains use the Madrid Chamartín to Cartagena station pair. Use this guide to compare Madrid and Cartagena train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Madrid

Arrival train stations in Cartagena

Which Madrid station do trains to Cartagena leave from?

Trains from Madrid to Cartagena leave from Madrid Chamartín. The station is 3 miles (6 km) from Madrid city centre at 28036 Madrid, Spain.

Madrid Chamartín28036 Madrid, Spain Parking

City-centre transport

Getting to Madrid Chamartín from Madrid city centre

Madrid Chamartín is 6 km from Madrid city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainC3, C4, C4a, C4b · 11m · $1 · every ~15 min

Ic, Alv, 17041, Re, 18031, 18033, 18035, 18037, 18041, 18043, 18049, 18171, 37091, 37093, 37095, 37097, 37099 · 13m · $1 · every ~2 min

BusN24 · 24m · $4 · every ~11 min

Subway1 · 19m · $2 · every ~24 min

Madrid Chamartín train station facilities and services

Madrid Chamartín has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Madrid Chamartín.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Madrid Chamartín.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Madrid Chamartín. Information desks are available at Madrid Chamartín.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Madrid Chamartín: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Madrid Chamartín: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Madrid Chamartín.

More about Madrid Chamartín

Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena GrandesGlorieta Emperador Carlos V, 28045 Madrid, Spain+34 912432343 Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes from Madrid city centre

Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes is 1 km from Madrid city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainC3, C4, C4a, C4b · 5m · $1 · every ~15 min

Bus26, 32 · 6m · $1 · every ~60 min

Subway1 · 6m · $2 · every ~24 min

Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes train station facilities and services

Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.