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The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to Cartagena
Showing times and prices for Jan 10
Cheapest price
$16
Average price
$34
Fastest journey
4 h 18 m
Average duration
6 h 41 m
Trains per day
6
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 $34 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $16.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Madrid to Cartagena without transferring at least once.
05668+
1454206:15AM8h03
Madrid Chamartín02:18PMCartagena station
$161One-way
1 transfer
05668+1451406:15AM6h49
Madrid Chamartín01:04PMCartagena station
$161One-way
1 transfer
05668+1451206:15AM5h01
Madrid Chamartín11:16AMCartagena station
$161One-way
1 transfer
05962+3746310:00AM10h34
Madrid Chamartín08:34PMCartagena station
$531One-way
1 transfer
05962+1454410:00AM9h13
Madrid Chamartín07:13PMCartagena station
$531One-way
1 transfer
05962+1454210:00AM4h18
Madrid Chamartín02:18PMCartagena station
$531One-way
1 transfer
05668+1451206:15AM5h01
Madrid Chamartín11:16AMCartagena station
$161One-way
1 transfer
05668+1451406:15AM6h49
Madrid Chamartín01:04PMCartagena station
$161One-way
1 transfer
05668+1454206:15AM8h03
Madrid Chamartín02:18PMCartagena station
$161One-way
1 transfer
05962+1454410:00AM9h13
Madrid Chamartín07:13PMCartagena station
$531One-way
1 transfer
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 €7. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 24m. 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 €7, and a flight costs an average of €30.
Distance: 242 miles (391 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€31 Average price Cheapest | €41 Average price | €146 Average price |
4h 25m Average total duration 3h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 3m Average total duration 5h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 24m Average total duration Fastest 1h 24m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions | 1.2 - 2.3kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Madrid to Cartagena train times
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Cartagena trains for tomorrow, Saturday, January 10. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 3:41 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 05668+14542 | On time 5:15 AM Madrid Chamartín | 8h03 | 1:18 PM Cartagena station | 1 transfer | |
| 05668+14514 | On time 5:15 AM Madrid Chamartín | 6h49 | 12:04 PM Cartagena station | 1 transfer | |
| 05668+14512 | On time 5:15 AM Madrid Chamartín | 5h01 | 10:16 AM Cartagena station | 1 transfer | |
| 05962+37463 | On time 9:00 AM Madrid Chamartín | 10h34 | 7:34 PM Cartagena station | 1 transfer | |
| 05962+14544 | On time 9:00 AM Madrid Chamartín | 9h13 | 6:13 PM Cartagena station | 1 transfer | |
| 05962+14542 | On time 9:00 AM Madrid Chamartín | 4h18 | 1:18 PM Cartagena station | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
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 trains with Omio?
Renfe AVLO as well as AVE, Ouigo and Renfe Intercity 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 Renfe AVLO?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Renfe AVLO, but also compare tickets for the likes of AVE, Ouigo and Renfe Intercity 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 Renfe AVLO 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 Trainline and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While Renfe AVLO tickets can be bought on Renfe AVLO's website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of AVE, Ouigo and Renfe Intercity to help you choose the right option for your journey 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.
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 42 days 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 $7Buses
from $52Flights
from $102Journey information
Overview: Train from Madrid to Cartagena
SpainSpain
Trains from Madrid to Cartagena run on average 2 times per day, taking around 3h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $9 (€7) if you book in advance.
There are 2 trains per day. 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 3h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price $9 (€7) |
Trains per day 2 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 2h 46m |
First train 04:45 |
Last train 20:39 |
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
Train companies: Renfe AVLO, AVE, Ouigo, Renfe Intercity, Renfe (13) from Madrid to Cartagena trainsRenfe AVLO, AVE, Ouigo, Renfe Intercity, Renfe (13) trains will get you between Madrid and Cartagena from $9 (€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
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
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
0
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 (13)
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
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
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
Ouigo
About
SNCF OUIGO is a low-cost train service launched in 2013 by SNCF, the French national railway company. It offers budget-friendly travel on both high-speed (Ouigo Grande Vitesse) and conventional (Ouigo Vitesse Classique) lines in France, and also to Belgium and Spain. OUIGO trains are characterized by a "no-frills" approach, featuring a single class of seating and minimal onboard amenities to keep ticket prices low. While the high-speed services utilize specially reconfigured TGV trains, Ouigo Vitesse Classique uses older locomotive-hauled rolling stock for even cheaper fares on slower routes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 46m
Cheapest Price
$14 (€11)
Ouigo frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
1 cabin bag (max 36x27x15cm) and 1 small bag included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by OUIGO
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 mandatory and included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available for passengers with reduced mobility
Pets
Small pets in carriers (max 45x30x25cm) for €5. Large dogs not allowed except guide dogs
Train tickets from Madrid to Cartagena: when to book to save $
The rule of buying in advance to save money is not only valid when booking a flight but also for train travel. Train tickets are generally on sale 6 months before the departure date. Some train booking tips from us:
- Buying your train ticket from Madrid - Cartagena 3 weeks in advance means you can save on average up to 10% compared to the price available on the day of departure.
- If you book a ticket Madrid - Cartagena with 2 months in advance you save up to about 23% compared to the initial price.
- By booking 3 months in advance, you could save up to 14%.
- On Omio you can find all offers, train times and prices for train travel in Europe, the U.S., and Canada.
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.
Typically, spending 3 to 4 days in Cartagena is ideal to explore its historic sites, enjoy the beaches, and experience the vibrant local culture.
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.
A day trip from Madrid to Cartagena is not feasible as the travel time is 2h 46m. Trains run 2 times per day. The distance is 242 miles (391 km).
Train ticket prices from Madrid to Cartagena can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $9 (€7), while the average price is around $38 (€31).
The cheapest way to get from Madrid to Cartagena is by train, with a cost of around $9 (€7).
The distance by train from Madrid to Cartagena is 242 miles (391 km).
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.
The train from Madrid to Cartagena takes 2h 46m and runs 2 per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Madrid to Cartagena.
The first train from Madrid to Cartagena leaves at 4:45 AM.
The train station in Madrid that goes to Cartagena is Madrid Chamartín, which connects to Murcia Del Carmen.
Yes, you can take the train from Madrid to Cartagena.
Yes, there is a direct train from Madrid to Cartagena. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Ouigo.
The last train from Madrid to Cartagena leaves at 8:39 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Madrid to Cartagena.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Madrid to Cartagena
Madrid
Cartagena
Amenities at train station
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
More options for your journey from Madrid to Cartagena
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cartagena and Madrid
Most popular train connections to Cartagena
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