- Must visit
Museo del Teatro Romano
Top archaeological museum built around the Roman theater discovery, explaining excavation, architecture, and Cartagena’s ancient past.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Barcelona to Cartagena
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 08
Cheapest price on Sep 08
$88
Average ticket price on Sep 08
$102
Fastest journey on Sep 08
8 h 58 m
Average journey duration on Sep 08
10 h 40 m
Trains on Sep 08
6
Distance
500 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Barcelona to Cartagena is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Barcelona to Cartagena will cost around $102 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $88.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Barcelona to Cartagena without transferring at least once.
01071+
05912+
145187:15 AM9h40Barcelona Sants4:55 PMCartagena station$881One-way2 transfers- 01071+
014637:15 AM13h19Barcelona Sants8:34 PMCartagena station$891One-way1 transfer - 01071+
356237:15 AM14h02Barcelona Sants9:17 PMCartagena station$901One-way1 transfer - 01101+05742+1454410:15 AM8h58Barcelona Sants7:13 PMCartagena station$1141One-way2 transfers
- 01101+0146310:15 AM10h19Barcelona Sants8:34 PMCartagena station$1151One-way1 transfer
- 01101+05742+1454410:15 AM8h58Barcelona Sants7:13 PMCartagena station$1141One-way2 transfers
- 01071+05912+145187:15 AM9h40Barcelona Sants4:55 PMCartagena station$881One-way2 transfers
- 01101+0146310:15 AM10h19Barcelona Sants8:34 PMCartagena station$1151One-way1 transfer
- 01101+3562310:15 AM11h02Barcelona Sants9:17 PMCartagena station$1161One-way1 transfer
- 01071+014637:15 AM13h19Barcelona Sants8:34 PMCartagena station$891One-way1 transfer
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 bus, with an average ticket price of $56 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 51m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the bus is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.5 - 1.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $56, while a flight costs an average of $222.
Distance: 310 miles (500 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight |
|---|---|
$56 Average price Cheapest | $222 Average price |
10h 14m Average total duration 9h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 51m Average total duration Fastest 1h 51m Onboard + 2h 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 train with an average price of $27.
This is compared to other travel options from Barcelona to Cartagena:
A train is $29 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Barcelona to Cartagena costing on average $56.
A train is $194 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Barcelona to Cartagena costing on average $222.
The fastest way to travel from Barcelona to Cartagena is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 51m.
Other travel options to Cartagena take longer:
Train takes on average 8h 22m.
Bus takes on average 9h 44m.
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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Barcelona to Cartagena among Omio's users.
Live departures
Barcelona to Cartagena train times
The table below shows live departures for Barcelona to Cartagena trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01071+35623 | 7:15 AM Barcelona Sants | 14h02 | 9:17 PM Cartagena station | 1 transfer | |
| 01071+01463 | 7:15 AM Barcelona Sants | 13h19 | 8:34 PM Cartagena station | 1 transfer | |
| 01071+05912+14518 | 7:15 AM Barcelona Sants | 9h40 | 4:55 PM Cartagena station | 2 transfers | |
| 01101+01463 | 10:15 AM Barcelona Sants | 10h19 | 8:34 PM Cartagena station | 1 transfer | |
| 01101+35623 | 10:15 AM Barcelona Sants | 11h02 | 9:17 PM Cartagena station | 1 transfer | |
| 01101+05742+14544 | 10:15 AM Barcelona Sants | 8h58 | 7:13 PM Cartagena station | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Barcelona to Cartagena
SpainSpain
Trains from Barcelona to Cartagena run on average 8 times per day, taking around 8h 22m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $5 but you can travel from only $2 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:45, the last at 21:07. The fastest train covers the 310 miles (500 km) distance in 7h 10m.
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
Bus from $2
Distance 310 miles (500 km) |
Average train duration 8h 22m |
Cheapest ticket price $5 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 7h 10m |
First train 4:45 AM |
Last train 9:07 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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
Bus from $2
Train companies: Renfe EUROMED, Renfe MD, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe from Barcelona to Cartagena trainsRenfe EUROMED, Renfe MD, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe trains will get you between Barcelona and Cartagena from $24. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
Average Renfe EUROMED Duration
7h 10m
Cheapest Renfe EUROMED Price
$5
Renfe EUROMED frequency
3 a day
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 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
Average Renfe MD Duration
7h 44m
Cheapest Renfe MD Price
$28
Renfe MD frequency
5 a day
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 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
8h 24m
Cheapest Renfe INTERCITY Price
$21
Renfe INTERCITY frequency
4 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
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
Average Renfe Duration
10h 26m
Cheapest Renfe Price
$37
Renfe frequency
1 a day
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
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 Foro Romano Molinete
Major museum of Roman Cartagena with forum remains, baths, and sacred spaces that reveal daily life in Carthago Nova.
- Recommended
Museo Naval de Cartagena
Excellent naval museum featuring submarine history, maritime heritage, and the famous Isaac Peral submarine prototype.
- Must visit
Calle Mayor
Elegant pedestrian street lined with modernist façades, shops, and key landmarks; the classic route through central Cartagena.
- Must visit
Paseo Alfonso XII
Redeveloped waterfront promenade with harbor views, sculptures, and access to boats, museums, and the city’s maritime atmosphere.
- Recommended
Plaza del Ayuntamiento
Central square near the old town and port, surrounded by notable buildings and often used as a practical meeting point.
- Gluten-free
Caldero
Caldero del Mar Menor is the area’s signature rice cooked in rich fish broth, traditionally served with alioli and local lagoon fish.
- Gluten-free
Michirones
Michirones are slow-cooked fava beans with ham, chorizo and spices, a hearty tavern staple in Cartagena and the wider Murcia region.
Marinera
Marinera is a classic Murcian tapa: a crisp breadstick ring topped with Russian salad and an anchovy, loved in bars across Cartagena.
Magoga
Refined seafood and rice restaurant with polished service near the port. Known for Mediterranean cuisine and elegant dining.
La Uva Jumillana
Well-known casual venue for tapas, seafood and local favorites in the city center, with a lively and approachable atmosphere.
Rincón De Pepe
Historic, traditional restaurant popular for regional Murcian dishes, tapas and classic Cartagena specialties in a formal setting.
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.
muévete Cartagena
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.20
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Cartagena Railway Station -> Plaza de España, Cartagena
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Buy tickets on board Cartagena city buses; check with the driver whether card or contactless payment is accepted before boarding.
- Cartagena is compact, so many central sights are walkable from Cartagena railway and bus stations in about 10–20 min.
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.
Train ticket prices from Barcelona to Cartagena can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $5, while the average price is around $27.
The train from Barcelona to Cartagena takes 7h 10m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Barcelona to Cartagena is 310 miles (500 km).
The first train from Barcelona to Cartagena leaves at 4:45 AM.
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 $24.
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 train 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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