Madrid to Cartagena train with Renfe AVLO

Mon 20 Jul
+ Add return
Renfe AVLO
AVE
SNCF OUIGO
Renfe INTERCITY
Renfe MD
2,000+ travel companies
Renfe AVLO
AVE
SNCF OUIGO
Renfe INTERCITY
Renfe MD
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
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
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to Cartagena

Showing times and prices for 20 Jul

Cheapest price

£72

Average price

£72

Fastest journey

4 h 40 m

Average duration

5 h 55 m

Trains per day

3

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

Fast trains

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

  • AVE05962+Renfe PROXIMIDAD14542
    10:004h40
    Madrid Chamartín
    14:40Cartagena station
    £721One-way
    1 change
  • AVE05962+Renfe PROXIMIDAD14518
    10:007h10
    Madrid Chamartín
    17:10Cartagena station
    £721One-way
    1 change
  • AVE05962+Renfe PROXIMIDAD14516
    10:005h55
    Madrid Chamartín
    15:55Cartagena station
    £721One-way
    1 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 £12. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 52m. 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 £29.

Distance: 391 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

£25

Average Price

Cheapest

£36

Average Price

£126

Average Price

4h 29m

Average total duration

3h 59m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 41m

Average total duration

5h 11m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 52m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 52m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 1.0kg

CO2 emissions

1.2 - 2.3kg

CO2 emissions

Renfe AVLO

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

Madrid to Cartagena train times

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

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
AVE05962+Renfe PROXIMIDAD14542
On time
10:00 Madrid Chamartín
4h40
14:40 Cartagena station		1 change
AVE05962+Renfe PROXIMIDAD37463
On time
10:00 Madrid Chamartín
10h55
20:55 Cartagena station		1 change
AVE05962+Renfe PROXIMIDAD14544
On time
10:00 Madrid Chamartín
9h40
19:40 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.

Sun
19 Jul
Mon
20 Jul
Tue
21 Jul
Wed
22 Jul
Thu
23 Jul
Fri
24 Jul
Sat
25 Jul
Sun
26 Jul
Mon
27 Jul
Tue
28 Jul
Wed
29 Jul
Thu
30 Jul
Fri
31 Jul
Sat
01 Aug
Sun
02 Aug
Mon
03 Aug
Tue
04 Aug
Wed
05 Aug
Thu
06 Aug
Fri
07 Aug
Sat
08 Aug

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.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Madrid to Cartagena

SpainSpain
SpainSpain
Icon of train

Trains from Madrid to Cartagena run on average 2 times per day, taking around 3h 59m. 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 49m.

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 59m
Cheapest ticket price
£12
Trains per day
2
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
2h 49m
First train
4:45
Last train
20:39
Cheapest Month
Dec
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
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 £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

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
Learn more about Renfe AVLO

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 49m
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 trains from Madrid to Cartagena

+

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 Madrid to Cartagena. 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: 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.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Madrid to Cartagena can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £12, while the average price tends to be around £25.
The train journey from Madrid to Cartagena covers a distance of 391 km and takes approximately 2h 49m. 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.
Yes, there is a direct train between Madrid and Cartagena. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by SNCF OUIGO.
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 £12.
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 49m. 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

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 6 km from Madrid city centre at 28036 Madrid, Spain.
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

More options for your journey from Madrid to Cartagena

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

Return trains from Cartagena to Madrid
Madrid to Cartagena coach
Madrid to Cartagena flights
Tickets and more information for trains to Madrid
Tickets and more information for trains to Cartagena

Most popular trains to and from Cartagena and Madrid

Madrid to Barcelona train
Madrid to Leeds train
Madrid to London train
Madrid to Milan train
Madrid to Amsterdam train
Madrid to Stockholm train
Torre-Pacheco to Cartagena train
Madrid to Brussels train
Madrid to Berlin train
Madrid to Liverpool train
Murcia to Cartagena train
Toledo to Cartagena train
Madrid to Manchester train
Espinardo to Cartagena train
Madrid to Geneva train
Madrid to Birmingham train
Torrevieja to Cartagena train
Madrid to Munich train
Madrid to Edinburgh train
Madrid to Paris train
Madrid to Glasgow train
Madrid to Lisbon train
Alicante to Cartagena train
Madrid to Copenhagen train
Madrid to Florence train
London to Cartagena train
Elche to Cartagena train
Barcelona to Cartagena train
Madrid to Vienna train
Madrid to Rome train
Madrid to Venice train
Albacete to Cartagena train
Balsicas to Cartagena train
Valencia to Cartagena train
HomeTrainsTrains in SpainTrain Times to Cartagena Madrid to Cartagena train

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.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone