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Cartagena to Medellin from $20: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cartagena, Colombia
to
Medellin, Colombia

How to Get from Cartagena to Medellin: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$20 by busBest price
288 milesDistance
2h 31m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cartagena to Medellin with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
2h  31m
Estimated price
$51-210
Recommended
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
14h  28m
Estimated price
$20-33
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 288 miles
Duration: 2h 31m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Expreso Brasilia, Rapido Ochoa
Bus
Average Duration
11h  38m
Estimated price
$20-50
Company
self-drive
Drive
Average Duration
9h  27m
Estimated price
$30-50

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Fly $72 $71 $62 $81 $71 $72 $72
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Traveling From Cartagena to Medellin

Traveling from Cartagena to Medellin offers you a chance to journey from the coastal charm and vibrant history of Cartagena to the dynamic urban landscape and thriving culture of Medellin, showcasing the diverse beauty Colombia has to offer.

Best Neighbourhoods in Medellin

Medellin boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

El Poblado
• Upscale dining and shopping options available.
• Lively nightlife scene attracts visitors.
Laureles
• Known for its tree-lined streets and parks.
• Offers a more local and relaxed vibe.
Envigado
• Rich in culture and traditional Colombian charm.
• A great spot for authentic local cuisine.

Best Times To Visit Medellin's Attractions

Timing your visits can elevate your experience in Medellin's vibrant attractions.

Plaza Botero
Early mornings are ideal to enjoy the sculptures without crowds.
Comuna 13
Visit during weekdays for a more immersive tour experience.
Jardin Botanico
Afternoons on weekdays offer peaceful walks among beautiful gardens.

Medellin Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Medellin boasts a mild climate with average temperatures around 72°F (22°C) year-round, often referred to as the 'City of Eternal Spring.' The best times to explore are from December to March and July to August, as dry conditions enhance your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Medellin

For a culinary experience that contrasts with Cartagena's coastal fare, try the bandeja paisa at Restaurante Hatoviejo, featuring hearty ingredients like beans, rice, avocado, and chicharrón. The vibrant atmosphere and locally sourced ingredients create a uniquely authentic feel that showcases Medellin's rich cultural heritage and gastronomic diversity.

Cartagena - Medellin operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cartagena and Medellin, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
avianca.com

Plane from Cartagena (CTG) to Medellin Jose Marie Cordova (MDE)

Average Duration
1h 14m
Estimated price
$45-170
Website
jetsmart.com

Plane from Cartagena (CTG) to Medellin Jose Marie Cordova (MDE)

Average Duration
1h 13m
Estimated price
$35-85
Website
latam.com

Plane from Cartagena (CTG) to Medellin Jose Marie Cordova (MDE)

Average Duration
1h 11m
Estimated price
$50-170
Website
copaair.com

Plane from Cartagena (CTG) to Medellin Jose Marie Cordova (MDE)

Average Duration
1h 14m
Estimated price
$24-200
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
01 800 051 8001
Website
expresobrasilia.com

Bus from Cartagena to Terminal Norte

Average Duration
11h 38m
Estimated price
$23-40
Contact phone
+57 604 44448888
Website
rapidoochoa.com.co

Bus from Cartagena to Terminal Norte

Average Duration
13h
Estimated price
$20-50

Bus from Cartagena to Planeta Rica

Average Duration
6h
Estimated price
$9-14

Bus from Planeta Rica to Yarumal

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$8-12
Contact phone
+57 4 293 31 31
Website
coopetransa.com

Bus from Santa Rosa to Terminal Norte

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$2-5
Contact phone
+57 311 749 6803
Website
yameya.co

Bus from Santa Rosa de Osos to Terminal Norte

Average Duration
1h 36m
Estimated price
$7-7

Cartagena to Medellin: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Cartagena and Medellin offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Cartagena to Medellín, covering a distance of 637.3 km. 💸 Experience budget-friendly travel with prices ranging from $30 to $50 for the journey by car. ⏰ Set aside around 9 hours and 27 minutes for the drive from Cartagena to Medellín, allowing for leisurely stops to appreciate the beauty of the Colombian countryside.
Average price
$30 - $50
🛫 Flying from Cartagena to Medellin is a quick and convenient option, with a direct flight taking just 1 hour and 10 minutes. Airlines like AeroRepública, LATAM Chile, Avianca, and JetSMART offer this route. ✈️ The total travel time from Cartagena to Medellin by plane is approximately 2 hours and 31 minutes. 💸 Flight prices between Medellin and Cartagena can range from $51 to $210, making it a relatively affordable and efficient mode of travel.
Departure Point
Cartagena Airport
Arrival Point
Medellin Jose Marie Cordova Airport
🛣️ The bus ride from Cartagena to Medellin takes approximately 11 hours and 38 minutes, offering travelers ample time to enjoy the Colombian landscapes along the way. 💸 Prices for the bus between Medellin and Cartagena range from $20 to $33, making it an affordable option for those looking to travel between these two vibrant Colombian cities. Sit back, relax, and soak in the beauty of the journey from the Caribbean coast to the bustling metropolis of Medellin.
Departure Point
Cartagena station
Arrival Point
Terminal Norte station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Purchase your bus tickets in advance, especially during weekends or holidays, as this route can fill up quickly; consider booking through Expreso Brasilia's website at expresobrasilia.com.co
• Prepare for a long journey by packing snacks and entertainment, as the trip takes approximately 14 hours; some popular services like Expreso Brasilia offer onboard amenities, but it's best to have your own supplies just in case.
• Upon arriving at Terminal Norte in Medellin, be ready to navigate the station by identifying the exits directly linked to public transport options; look for local buses to get to popular neighborhoods like El Poblado or Laureles, and check the station's map which is often available near the main exits.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cartagena to Medellin.

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The distance between Cartagena and Medellín is approximately 463.5 km by air and 633.9 km by road. Traveling by plane is the fastest option, taking around 1 hour and 49 minutes. Driving by car takes significantly longer, with an estimated travel time of 9 hours and 25 minutes. Taking a bus is the slowest mode of transportation, with an average travel time of 11 hours and 38 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Cartagena to Medellin is by bus, with ticket prices ranging from $16 to $50. Although this option takes longer, approximately 11 hours and 38 minutes, it allows travelers to save money on transportation expenses. However, for those seeking a quicker journey, flying is the most time-efficient option, taking only 1 hour and 49 minutes, but with ticket prices ranging from $55 to $160.
When traveling from Cartagena to Medellin by bus, the prices can range from $16 to $50, depending on the bus company and the level of comfort.
To get from Cartagena to Medellin without using public transportation, you can consider renting a car and driving. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 634.1 km, and it takes around 9 hours and 25 minutes to reach Medellin by car. Renting a car can give you the flexibility to explore various attractions along the way and make stops at your convenience. The prices for car rental range from $30 to $50, depending on the type of car and the rental duration.
To travel from Cartagena to Medellín without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 11 hours and 38 minutes, and the cost ranges from $16 to $50, depending on the type of bus and the amenities provided.
Yes, there is a direct link between Cartagena and Medellín in Colombia. Expreso Brasilia operates bus services four times a day, allowing travelers to conveniently travel between the two cities. The journey takes approximately 11 hours and 38 minutes.
The flight between Cartagena and Medellin typically takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes. The prices for this flight can vary, with fares ranging from $57 to $155.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Medellín. With over 1732+ hotels to choose from, travelers can easily find a place that suits their needs and budget. Prices for hotels in the area start at $34 per night, with a range of options including luxury hotels, budget accommodations, and boutique guesthouses. It is recommended to book in advance, as Medellín is a popular tourist destination.