Madrid to Cartagena train with Renfe AVLO

Thu, Jan 29
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Renfe AVLO
AVE
Ouigo
Renfe Intercity
Renfe (13)
1,000+ travel companies
Renfe AVLO
AVE
Ouigo
Renfe Intercity
Renfe (13)
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to Cartagena

Showing times and prices for Jan 30

Cheapest price

€49

Average price

€62

Fastest journey

2 h 46 m

Average duration

2 h 47 m

Trains per day

2

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 €62 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €49.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Madrid for Cartagena on Fri, Jan 30, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Jan 30 the direct trains cover the 391 km distance in an average of 2 h 47 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 46 m .

On Fri, Jan 30 the slowest trains will take 2 h 48 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

Ouigo
06:15AM2h46
Madrid
09:01AMCartagena
€491One-way
0 transfers
Ouigo
02:15PM2h48
Madrid
05:03PMCartagena
€751One-way
0 transfers

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 prices starting from €7. 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 €7, and a flight costs an average of €30.

Distance: 391 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight

€31

Average price

Cheapest

€41

Average price

€146

Average price

4h 25m

Average total duration

3h 55m

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

Renfe AVLO

Most popular train company

Alsa

Most popular bus company

Air Europa

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, Thursday, January 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 3:14 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
RenfeAVLO05668+RenfePROXIMIDAD14542
On time
5:15 AM Madrid Chamartín
8h03
1:18 PM Cartagena station		1 transfer
RenfeAVLO05668+RenfePROXIMIDAD14514
On time
5:15 AM Madrid Chamartín
6h49
12:04 PM Cartagena station		1 transfer
RenfeAVLO05668+RenfePROXIMIDAD14512
On time
5:15 AM Madrid Chamartín
5h01
10:16 AM Cartagena station		1 transfer
RenfeAVE05072+RenfeINTERCITY11092
On time
6:00 AM Madrid Chamartín
7h35
1:35 PM Cartagena station		1 transfer
RenfeAVE05092+RenfeINTERCITY11092
On time
8:00 AM Madrid Chamartín
5h35
1:35 PM Cartagena station		1 transfer
RenfeAVE05962+RenfePROXIMIDAD14516
On time
9:00 AM Madrid Chamartín
5h29
2:29 PM Cartagena station		1 transfer
RenfeAVE05962+RenfePROXIMIDAD14518
On time
9:00 AM Madrid Chamartín
6h55
3:55 PM Cartagena station		1 transfer
RenfeAVE05962+RenfePROXIMIDAD14542
On time
9:00 AM Madrid Chamartín
4h18
1:18 PM Cartagena station		1 transfer
RenfeALVIA04072+RenfeINTERCITY11182
On time
10:45 AM Madrid Chamartín
11h30
10:15 PM Cartagena station		1 transfer
RenfeAVE05142+RenfeINTERCITY11182
On time
1:00 PM Madrid Chamartín
9h15
10:15 PM Cartagena station		1 transfer
RenfeMD18040+RenfeINTERCITY11182
On time
1:24 PM Madrid Chamartín
8h51
10:15 PM Cartagena station		1 transfer
RenfeAVE05162+RenfeINTERCITY11182
On time
3:00 PM Madrid Chamartín
7h15
10:15 PM Cartagena station		1 transfer
RenfeAVLO05178+RenfeINTERCITY11182
On time
4:00 PM Madrid Chamartín
6h15
10:15 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.

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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 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €7 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 55m
Cheapest ticket price
€7
Trains per day
2
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
2h 46m
First train
04:45
Last train
20:39
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, Ouigo, Renfe Intercity, Renfe (13) from Madrid to Cartagena trainsRenfe AVLO, AVE, Ouigo, Renfe Intercity, Renfe (13) 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
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 (13)

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

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
€11
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

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.

FAQs
Cheap train tickets from Madrid to Cartagena can start from as little as €7 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Madrid to Cartagena is €31; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by train from Madrid to Cartagena is 2h 46m to travel the 391 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest train from Madrid to Cartagena leaves at 4:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The latest train from Madrid to Cartagena leaves at 8:39 PM.
Yes,there are 2 direct trains a day from Madrid to Cartagena with Ouigo. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct trains.
Yes, there are multiple high-speed train options for your journey from Madrid to Cartagena. You can choose between Ouigo. Ouigo trains take around 2h 46m
When taking a train from Madrid to Cartagena, you can count on Renfe AVLO, AVE, Ouigo, Renfe Intercity, Renfe (13) for the best way to get you to Cartagena. You can also check all possible train companies who offer a service between Madrid and Cartagena and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.
A trip to Cartagena from Madrid is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 46m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a train from Madrid to Cartagena is June.
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.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Madrid to Cartagena

Madrid
Cartagena
Madrid ChamartínParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
address
Address
28036 Madrid, Spain
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
6 km

More options for your journey from Madrid to Cartagena

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

Return journeys for trains from Cartagena to Madrid
Buses from Madrid to Cartagena
Compare all journeys between Madrid and Cartagena
Tickets and more information for trains to Madrid
Tickets and more information for trains to Cartagena
HomeTrainsTrains in SpainTrain Times to CartagenaMadrid to Cartagena train

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