- Must visit
Museo del Teatro Romano
Top archaeological museum built around the Roman theater discovery, explaining excavation, architecture, and Cartagena’s ancient past.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to Cartagena
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 08
Cheapest price on Sep 08
$43
Average ticket price on Sep 08
$48
Fastest journey on Sep 08
4 h 18 m
Average journey duration on Sep 08
5 h 42 m
Trains on Sep 08
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 $48 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $43.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Madrid to Cartagena without transferring at least once.
05668+
145146:15 AM6h49Madrid Chamartín1:04 PMCartagena station$431One-way1 transfer- 05668+145126:15 AM5h01Madrid Chamartín11:16 AMCartagena station$431One-way1 transfer
- 05668+145426:15 AM8h03Madrid Chamartín2:18 PMCartagena station$431One-way1 transfer
05962+1454210:00 AM4h18Madrid Chamartín2:18 PMCartagena station$531One-way1 transfer- 05962+1451810:00 AM6h55Madrid Chamartín4:55 PMCartagena station$531One-way1 transfer
- 05962+1454210:00 AM4h18Madrid Chamartín2:18 PMCartagena station$531One-way1 transfer
- 05668+145126:15 AM5h01Madrid Chamartín11:16 AMCartagena station$431One-way1 transfer
- 05962+1451610:00 AM5h29Madrid Chamartín3:29 PMCartagena station$531One-way1 transfer
- 05668+145146:15 AM6h49Madrid Chamartín1:04 PMCartagena station$431One-way1 transfer
- 05962+1451810:00 AM6h55Madrid Chamartín4:55 PMCartagena station$531One-way1 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 an average ticket price of $16 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 15m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $16, while a flight costs an average of $287.
Distance: 242 miles (391 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$16 Average price Cheapest | $53 Average price | $287 Average price |
4h 53m Average total duration 4h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 33m Average total duration 6h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 15m Average total duration Fastest 2h 15m Onboard + 2h 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Madrid to Cartagena is a train with an average price of $16.
This is compared to other travel options from Madrid to Cartagena:
A train is $37 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Madrid to Cartagena costing on average $53.
A train is $271 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Madrid to Cartagena costing on average $287.
The fastest way to travel from Madrid to Cartagena is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 15m.
Other travel options to Cartagena take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 23m.
Bus takes on average 6h 3m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Madrid and Cartagena including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Cartagena among Omio's users.
Live departures
Madrid to Cartagena train times
The table below shows live departures for Madrid 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 05668+14514 | On time 6:15 AM Madrid Chamartín | 6h49 | 1:04 PM Cartagena station | 1 transfer | |
| 05668+14512 | On time 6:15 AM Madrid Chamartín | 5h01 | 11:16 AM Cartagena station | 1 transfer | |
| 05668+14542 | On time 6:15 AM Madrid Chamartín | 8h03 | 2:18 PM Cartagena station | 1 transfer | |
| 05962+14542 | 10:00 AM Madrid Chamartín | 4h18 | 2:18 PM Cartagena station | 1 transfer | |
| 05962+14516 | 10:00 AM Madrid Chamartín | 5h29 | 3:29 PM Cartagena station | 1 transfer | |
| 05962+14518 | 10:00 AM Madrid Chamartín | 6h55 | 4:55 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.
Tue
Sep 08
Sep 08
Wed
Sep 09
Sep 09
Thu
Sep 10
Sep 10
Fri
Sep 11
Sep 11
Sat
Sep 12
Sep 12
Sun
Sep 13
Sep 13
Mon
Sep 14
Sep 14
Tue
Sep 15
Sep 15
Wed
Sep 16
Sep 16
Thu
Sep 17
Sep 17
Fri
Sep 18
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26
Sep 26
Sun
Sep 27
Sep 27
Mon
Sep 28
Sep 28
Why should you book Madrid to Cartagena trains with Omio?
AVE as well as Renfe AVLO, SNCF OUIGO, Renfe INTERCITY 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, SNCF OUIGO or 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 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 $7Buses
from $39Flights
from $40Journey information
Overview: Train from Madrid to Cartagena
SpainSpain
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 $7 |
Trains per day 7 |
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 |
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: 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
$7
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
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
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
$7
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
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 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 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.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Madrid to Cartagena.
There is no direct train service currently available from Madrid to Cartagena.
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 Murcia Del Carmen.
The cheapest way to get from Madrid to Cartagena is by train, with a cost of around $7.
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.
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).
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 Madrid to Cartagena.
Since both Madrid 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 Madrid 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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Madrid to Cartagena
Most Madrid to Cartagena trains use the Madrid Chamartín to Murcia Del Carmen 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
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 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
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
