- Must visit
Museo Nacional del Prado
Spain’s premier art museum houses Velázquez, Goya and El Greco masterpieces, making it essential for understanding European painting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cartagena to Madrid
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 05 Sept
Cheapest price on 05 Sept
£47
Average ticket price on 05 Sept
£48
Fastest journey on 05 Sept
4 h 2 m
Average journey duration on 05 Sept
7 h 27 m
Trains on 05 Sept
5
Distance
391 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cartagena to Madrid is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cartagena to Madrid will cost around £48 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £47.
Fast trains
To travel from Cartagena to Madrid you need to make at least one change.
14541+
057635:094h02Cartagena station9:11Madrid Chamartín£471One-way1 change- 14541+058435:0911h29Cartagena station16:38Madrid Chamartín£471One-way1 change
- 14515+058439:007h38Cartagena station16:38Madrid Chamartín£471One-way1 change
- 14541+
058175:098h59Cartagena station14:08Madrid Chamartín£491One-way1 change - 14515+058179:005h08Cartagena station14:08Madrid Chamartín£491One-way1 change
- 14541+057635:094h02Cartagena station9:11Madrid Chamartín£471One-way1 change
- 14515+058179:005h08Cartagena station14:08Madrid Chamartín£491One-way1 change
- 14515+058439:007h38Cartagena station16:38Madrid Chamartín£471One-way1 change
- 14541+058175:098h59Cartagena station14:08Madrid Chamartín£491One-way1 change
- 14541+058435:0911h29Cartagena station16:38Madrid Chamartín£471One-way1 change
Travel Information
Compare coach, train and flight for Cartagena to Madrid
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cartagena to Madrid among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £24 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 44m. 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 £24, while a flight costs an average of £57.
Distance: 391 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
£24 Average Price Cheapest | £35 Average Price | £57 Average Price |
4h 38m Average total duration 4h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 27m Average total duration 4h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 44m Average total duration Fastest 1h 44m 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 Cartagena to Madrid is a train with an average price of £24.
This is compared to other travel options from Cartagena to Madrid:
A train is £11 less than a coach for this route with tickets for a coach from Cartagena to Madrid costing on average £35.
A train is £33 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cartagena to Madrid costing on average £57.
The fastest way to travel from Cartagena to Madrid is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 44m.
Other travel options to Madrid take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 8m.
Coach takes on average 4h 57m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cartagena and Madrid including taking a coach, train and flight.
Live departures
Cartagena to Madrid train times
The table below shows live departures for Cartagena to Madrid trains for tomorrow, Saturday 5 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14541+05763 | On time 5:09 Cartagena station | 4h02 | 9:11 Madrid Chamartín | 1 change | |
| 14541+05817 | On time 5:09 Cartagena station | 8h59 | 14:08 Madrid Chamartín | 1 change | |
| 14541+05843 | On time 5:09 Cartagena station | 11h29 | 16:38 Madrid Chamartín | 1 change | |
| 14515+05817 | 9:00 Cartagena station | 5h08 | 14:08 Madrid Chamartín | 1 change | |
| 14515+05843 | 9:00 Cartagena station | 7h38 | 16:38 Madrid Chamartín | 1 change |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cartagena to Madrid by coach, train or flight
Compare coach, 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 Cartagena to Madrid trains with Omio?
AVE as well as Renfe AVLO, SNCF OUIGO, Renfe INTERCITY and more offer trains services from Cartagena to Madrid.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cartagena to Madrid.
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 Cartagena to Madrid.
- 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 Cartagena to Madrid.
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 Cartagena to Madrid.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cartagena to Madrid?
The best time to book your train from Cartagena to Madrid is 1 day before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Cartagena to Madrid route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cartagena to Madrid 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 Cartagena to Madrid.
Trains
from £5Coaches
from £29Flights
from £20Journey information
Overview: Train from Cartagena to Madrid
SpainSpain
Trains from Cartagena to Madrid run on average 2 times per day, taking around 4h 8m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £8 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 391 km distance in 2h 44m.
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 391 km |
Average train duration 4h 8m |
Cheapest ticket price £8 |
Trains per day 2 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 2h 44m |
First train 4:45 |
Last train 20:39 |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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, SNCF OUIGO, Renfe INTERCITY from Cartagena to Madrid trainsAVE, Renfe AVLO, SNCF OUIGO, Renfe INTERCITY trains will get you between Cartagena and Madrid from £8. 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 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
SNCF 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 SNCF OUIGO Duration
2h 44m
Cheapest SNCF OUIGO Price
£8
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
Complete guide to Madrid
Things to do in Madrid
Discover the best of Madrid — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Madrid trip today.
- Must visit
Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia
Madrid’s leading modern art museum is famed for Picasso’s Guernica and strong collections of Dalí, Miró and 20th-century works.
- Must visit
Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza
This refined museum features major works by Titian, Rubens and Caravaggio in a manageable collection inside a grand palace.
- Must visit
El Retiro Park
Madrid’s most famous park offers lakes, gardens, sculptures and broad promenades, perfect for walking, rowing and people-watching.
- Must visit
Paseo del Prado
This grand boulevard links major museums and historic fountains, making it one of the city’s most elegant and culture-rich walks.
- Must visit
Gran Vía
A busy central avenue known for theatres, shops and illuminated façades, ideal for architecture, nightlife and classic city views.
Cocido Madrileño
A hearty chickpea stew with meats, vegetables and soup, long associated with Madrid taverns and traditional lunchtime dining.
Bocadillo de Calamares
Deep-fried squid rings served in a crusty bread roll, a classic fast bite around Plaza Mayor and one of Madrid’s best-known snacks.
- Gluten-free
Callos a la Madrileña
Madrid-style tripe stew with chorizo and morcilla, rich and slow-cooked, traditionally eaten in colder months.
Casa Dani
Traditional bar celebrated for excellent tortilla española and honest Madrid-style tapas in a lively, no-frills atmosphere.
Sobrino de Botín
Historic tavern famed for roast suckling pig and classic Castilian dishes in an old-fashioned, atmospheric setting near Plaza Mayor.
Chocolatería San Ginés
Iconic churrería serving Madrid’s classic chocolate con churros around the clock in a bustling, traditional setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Western Europe. Rooms, meals and Metro fares are usually cheaper than Paris or London, but central hotels and popular dining areas raise costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or menú del día.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €1.80-3.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are usually rounded up. In cafés, leaving small change is enough.
Mi Tarjeta Transporte
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.50
- Day pass
- €8.40
To the city centre
Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes -> Puerta del Sol, Madrid
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Contactless bank card payment is being introduced in Metro turnstiles for single tickets; buses and other modes may still require a transport card or other ticket.
- For the widest urban coverage, use CRTM fares and check your loaded ticket before entering Metro gates or boarding buses.
+ 
FAQs: Cartagena to Madrid train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cartagena to Madrid 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 Madrid, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Cartagena to Madrid can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £8, while the average price tends to be around £24.
The train journey from Cartagena to Madrid covers a distance of 391 km and takes approximately 2h 44m. Trains run 2 per day.
The train distance from Cartagena to Madrid is 391 km.
The first train from Cartagena to Madrid leaves at 4:45.
The last train from Cartagena to Madrid departs at 20:39.
Trains from Cartagena to Madrid run approximately 2 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Cartagena to Madrid.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cartagena to Madrid.
To get from Cartagena to Madrid, you can choose from several travel options including coach, train and flight.
There is no night train service from Cartagena to Madrid.
The train station in Cartagena that goes to Madrid is Murcia Del Carmen, and it arrives at Madrid Chamartín.
The cheapest way to get from Cartagena to Madrid is by train, costing approximately £8.
Booking trains from Cartagena to Madrid in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Cartagena to Madrid offers a mix of scenic views, particularly as it traverses the varied landscapes of the Spanish countryside, including rolling hills and picturesque rural areas.
A day trip from Cartagena to Madrid is not feasible, as the journey takes 2h 44m and there are 2 trains per day. The distance between the two cities is 391 km.
In Madrid, visit the bustling Puerta del Sol for its iconic clock and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy a variety of gourmet foods at Mercado de San Miguel and explore the lively nightlife in the Malasaña district. Experience traditional Spanish culture by attending a flamenco show. Sports enthusiasts can visit the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium for a tour or a football match. Discover artistic masterpieces at the Prado Museum and explore the opulent Royal Palace of Madrid. Relax in Retiro Park, admire the Plaza Mayor, and enjoy shopping or entertainment along Gran Vía.
To fully experience Madrid, 3 to 4 days are recommended, allowing time to explore its cultural landmarks, vibrant neighbourhoods, and rich culinary scene.
Yes, you can take the train from Cartagena to Madrid.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cartagena and Madrid
Most Cartagena to Madrid trains use the Murcia Del Carmen to Madrid Chamartín station pair. Use this guide to compare Cartagena and Madrid train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Cartagena
Arrival train stations in Madrid
Which Madrid station do trains from Cartagena arrive at?
Trains from Cartagena to Madrid arrive at Madrid Chamartín. Madrid Chamartín is 6 km from Madrid city centre.
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 · £0.90 · every ~15 min
Ic, Alv, 17041, Re, 18031, 18033, 18035, 18037, 18041, 18043, 18049, 18171, 37091, 37093, 37095, 37097, 37099 · 13m · £0.90 · every ~2 min
BusN24 · 24m · £3 · 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.
Most popular train connections from Cartagena
More options for your journey from Cartagena to Madrid
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Madrid and Cartagena
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