Cartagena to Madrid train with AVE

Mon 20 Jul
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AVE
SNCF OUIGO
Renfe AVLO
Renfe INTERCITY
Avanti West Coast
2,000+ travel companies
AVE
SNCF OUIGO
Renfe AVLO
Renfe INTERCITY
Avanti West Coast
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cartagena to Madrid

Showing times and prices for 20 Jul

Cheapest price

£65

Average price

£72

Fastest journey

4 h 26 m

Average duration

6 h 11 m

Trains per day

9

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 £72 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £65.

Fast trains

To travel from Cartagena to Madrid you need to make at least one change.

  • Renfe PROXIMIDAD38604+Renfe AVLO05817
    6:107h58
    Cartagena station
    14:08Madrid Chamartín
    £651One-way
    1 change
  • Renfe PROXIMIDAD14515+Renfe AVLO05817
    8:405h28
    Cartagena station
    14:08Madrid Chamartín
    £651One-way
    1 change
  • Renfe PROXIMIDAD14541+Renfe AVLO05817
    4:459h23
    Cartagena station
    14:08Madrid Chamartín
    £651One-way
    1 change
  • Renfe MD35604+Renfe AVLO05817
    6:107h58
    Cartagena station
    14:08Madrid Chamartín
    £671One-way
    1 change
  • Renfe PROXIMIDAD38604+AVE05843
    6:1010h28
    Cartagena station
    16:38Madrid Chamartín
    £721One-way
    1 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 prices starting from £12. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 44m. 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 £12, and a flight costs an average of £19.

Distance: 391 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

£20

Average Price

Cheapest

£36

Average Price

£55

Average Price

4h 40m

Average total duration

4h 10m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 27m

Average total duration

4h 57m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 44m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 44m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 1.0kg

CO2 emissions

1.2 - 2.3kg

CO2 emissions

AVE

Most popular train company

Alsa

Most popular bus company

Iberia

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Cartagena to Madrid train times

The table below shows live departures for Cartagena to Madrid trains for today, Sunday 19 July. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
SNCF OUIGO06615
On time
19:53 Murcia Del Carmen
3h34
23:27 Madrid Chamartín		0 changesdirect
Monday 20 July
Renfe PROXIMIDAD14541+AVE057634:45 Cartagena station
4h26
9:11 Madrid Chamartín1 change
Renfe PROXIMIDAD14541+Renfe AVLO058174:45 Cartagena station
9h23
14:08 Madrid Chamartín1 change
Renfe PROXIMIDAD14541+AVE058434:45 Cartagena station
11h53
16:38 Madrid Chamartín1 change
Renfe PROXIMIDAD38604+AVE058436:10 Cartagena station
10h28
16:38 Madrid Chamartín1 change
Renfe PROXIMIDAD38604+Renfe AVLO058176:10 Cartagena station
7h58
14:08 Madrid Chamartín1 change
Renfe MD35604+Renfe AVLO058176:10 Cartagena station
7h58
14:08 Madrid Chamartín1 change
Renfe PROXIMIDAD14515+Renfe AVLO058178:40 Cartagena station
5h28
14:08 Madrid Chamartín1 change
Renfe PROXIMIDAD14515+AVE058438:40 Cartagena station
7h58
16:38 Madrid Chamartín1 change
Renfe PROXIMIDAD37460+AVE0584311:35 Cartagena station
5h03
16:38 Madrid Chamartín1 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 SNCF OUIGO, Renfe AVLO, 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 SNCF OUIGO, Renfe AVLO 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 49 days 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.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cartagena to Madrid

SpainSpain
SpainSpain
Icon of train

Trains from Cartagena to Madrid run on average 2 times per day, taking around 4h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £12 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 10m
Cheapest ticket price
£12
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
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
91 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, SNCF OUIGO, Renfe AVLO, Renfe INTERCITY from Cartagena to Madrid trainsAVE, SNCF OUIGO, Renfe AVLO, Renfe INTERCITY trains will get you between Cartagena and Madrid from £12. 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
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
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

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 Duration
2h 44m
Cheapest Price
£12
SNCF 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

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
Learn more about Renfe AVLO


Renfe trains from Cartagena to Madrid

+

Renfe is Spain's national train operator and connects the country's main points of interest. In addition, Renfe has the largest high-speed network in Europe with AVE and Alvia trains. Other Renfe train types are Altaria, Euromed and Talgo. All Renfe trains are equipped with an on-board bistro, toilets, air conditioning and many of them with Wi-Fi.

At Omio you can easily check the Renfe timetable for your trip and book cheap Renfe tickets from Cartagena to Madrid. When booking, you can choose different classes (Tourist, Tourist Plus, Preferred and Club), the seat and the type of ticket you want (Promo, Promo+, Flexible or Round Trip). If you have a Renfe discount card, you can specify it when you buy your ticket at Omio and take advantage of many offers. For information on ticket cancellation, please visit our Help centre.


More information: Trains in Spain
More information: Renfe
More information: Book your trains in Europe
More information: Cheap train tickets
More information: High speed trains in Europe

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.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Cartagena to Madrid can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £12, while the average price tends to be around £20.
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.
Yes, there is a direct train between Cartagena and Madrid. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by SNCF OUIGO.
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 £12.
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, SpainParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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 · £0.89 · every ~15 min
Ic, Alv, 17041, Re, 18031, 18033, 18035, 18037, 18041, 18043, 18049, 18171, 37091, 37093, 37095, 37097, 37099 · 13m · £0.89 · 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.

More about Madrid Chamartín

Most popular train connections from Cartagena

Cartagena to Alicante train

More options for your journey from Cartagena to Madrid

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Return trains from Madrid to Cartagena
Cartagena to Madrid coach
Tickets and more information for trains to Cartagena
Tickets and more information for trains to Madrid
HomeTrainsTrains in SpainTrain Times to Madrid Cartagena to Madrid train

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