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The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to Cartagena
Showing times and prices for 20 Apr
Cheapest price
£32
Average price
£40
Fastest journey
4 h 18 m
Average duration
5 h 34 m
Trains per day
12
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 travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Madrid to Cartagena will cost around £40 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £32.
Fast trains
To travel from Madrid to Cartagena you need to make at least one change.
05668+
145426:158h03Madrid Chamartín14:18Cartagena station£321One-way1 change- 05668+145146:156h49Madrid Chamartín13:04Cartagena station£321One-way1 change
- 05668+145126:155h01Madrid Chamartín11:16Cartagena station£321One-way1 change
05072+
110927:007h35Madrid Chamartín14:35Cartagena station£341One-way1 change
04072+1118211:4511h30Madrid Chamartín23:15Cartagena station£391One-way1 change
- 05962+1454210:004h18Madrid Chamartín14:18Cartagena station£391One-way1 change
- 05668+145126:155h01Madrid Chamartín11:16Cartagena station£321One-way1 change
- 05962+1451610:005h29Madrid Chamartín15:29Cartagena station£391One-way1 change
- 05178+1118217:006h15Madrid Chamartín23:15Cartagena station£481One-way1 change
- 05668+145146:156h49Madrid Chamartín13:04Cartagena station£321One-way1 change
Travel Information
Compare coach, 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 £8. 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 £8, and a flight costs an average of £27.
Distance: 391 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
£24 Average Price Cheapest | £36 Average Price | £99 Average Price |
4h 27m Average total duration 3h 57m 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, Sunday 19 April. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 05668+14542 | On time 6:15 Madrid Chamartín | 8h03 | 14:18 Cartagena station | 1 change | |
| 05668+14514 | On time 6:15 Madrid Chamartín | 6h49 | 13:04 Cartagena station | 1 change | |
| 05668+14512 | On time 6:15 Madrid Chamartín | 5h01 | 11:16 Cartagena station | 1 change | |
| 05072+11092 | On time 7:00 Madrid Chamartín | 7h35 | 14:35 Cartagena station | 1 change | |
| 05962+14516 | On time 10:00 Madrid Chamartín | 5h29 | 15:29 Cartagena station | 1 change | |
| 05962+14518 | On time 10:00 Madrid Chamartín | 6h55 | 16:55 Cartagena station | 1 change | |
| 05962+14542 | On time 10:00 Madrid Chamartín | 4h18 | 14:18 Cartagena station | 1 change | |
| 04072+11182 | On time 11:45 Madrid Chamartín | 11h30 | 23:15 Cartagena station | 1 change | |
| 05142+11182 | On time 14:00 Madrid Chamartín | 9h15 | 23:15 Cartagena station | 1 change | |
 18040+11182 | On time 14:24 Madrid Chamartín | 8h51 | 23:15 Cartagena station | 1 change | |
| 05162+11182 | On time 16:00 Madrid Chamartín | 7h15 | 23:15 Cartagena station | 1 change | |
| 05178+11182 | On time 17:00 Madrid Chamartín | 6h15 | 23:15 Cartagena station | 1 change | |
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 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 Madrid to Cartagena trains with Omio?
Renfe AVLO as well as AVE, SNCF OUIGO, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe MD and more offer trains services from Madrid to Cartagena.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Renfe AVLO tickets.
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, SNCF OUIGO, Renfe INTERCITY or Renfe MD 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.
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 £5Coaches
from £38Flights
from £75Journey information
Overview: Train from Madrid to Cartagena
SpainSpain
Trains from Madrid to Cartagena run on average 2 times per day, taking around 3h 57m. 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 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 391 km |
Average train duration 3h 57m |
Cheapest ticket price £8 |
Trains per day 2 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 2h 46m |
First train 4:45 |
Last train 20:39 |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 14 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: Renfe AVLO, AVE, SNCF OUIGO, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe MD from Madrid to Cartagena trainsRenfe AVLO, AVE, SNCF OUIGO, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe MD trains will get you between Madrid and Cartagena 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 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
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
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 46m
Cheapest 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
+ 
FAQs: Madrid to Cartagena train
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.
The cost of a train ticket from Madrid to Cartagena can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £8, while the average price tends to be around £24.
The train journey from Madrid to Cartagena covers a distance of 391 km and takes approximately 2h 46m. Trains run 2 per day.
The train distance from Madrid to Cartagena is 391 km.
The first train from Madrid to Cartagena leaves at 4:45.
The last train from Madrid to Cartagena departs at 20:39.
Trains from Madrid to Cartagena run approximately 2 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Madrid to Cartagena.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Madrid to Cartagena.
To get from Madrid to Cartagena, you can choose from several travel options including coach, train and flight.
There is no night train service from Madrid to Cartagena.
The train station in Madrid that goes to Cartagena is Madrid Chamartín, and it arrives at Murcia Del Carmen.
The cheapest way to get from Madrid to Cartagena is by train, costing approximately £8.
Booking trains from Madrid to Cartagena in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Madrid to Cartagena offers a mix of scenic views, including picturesque countryside landscapes, charming Spanish villages, and glimpses of the mountainous regions, especially as the train approaches the Murcia region.
A day trip from Madrid to Cartagena is not feasible as the travel time is 2h 46m. The distance between the two cities is 391 km and there are 2 trains per day.
In Cartagena, you can explore the ancient Roman city of Carthago Nova and take a guided tour to learn about its historical significance. Enjoy a boat tour of Cartagena's harbour for unique views of the city's coastline and landmarks. Attend a local festival or cultural event to experience the vibrant traditions and community spirit. Visit the Regional Park of Calblanque for beautiful beaches and hiking trails, and discover the local cuisine with a tapas tour. Don't miss the Roman Theatre Museum, Cartagena Naval Museum, Concepción Castle, National Museum of Underwater Archaeology, and the bustling Calle Mayor.
For a fulfilling experience in Cartagena, plan to spend around 3 to 4 days. This duration allows you to explore the historic Old Town, enjoy the local beaches, and savour the vibrant culture and cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from Madrid to Cartagena.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Madrid and 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
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Most popular trains to and from Cartagena and Madrid
Most popular train connections to Cartagena
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