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Medellin to Cartagena from $20: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Medellin, Colombia
to
Cartagena, Colombia

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

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$20 by busBest price
463.3 kmDistance
2h 52m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Medellin to Cartagena 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  52m
Estimated price
$51-208
Recommended
Company
Expreso Brasilia, Rapido Ochoa
Bus
Average Duration
11h  39m
Estimated price
$20-50
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 463.3 km
Duration: 2h 52m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
16h  23m
Estimated price
$30-85
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
9h  29m
Estimated price
$30-50
Company
various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
4h  39m
Estimated price
$77-228
Company
various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
3h  52m
Estimated price
$108-309
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Traveling From Medellin to Cartagena

Traveling from Medellin to Cartagena offers you a fascinating contrast between Medellin's vibrant urban culture and Cartagena's rich colonial history by the Caribbean Sea.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cartagena

Cartagena boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences and attractions.

Getsemani
• Vibrant street art everywhere you turn.
• Lively nightlife and local music scene.
Walled City
• Historical architecture and stunning plazas throughout.
• Great shopping and dining options nearby.
Bocagrande
• Modern high-rises with beachfront access.
• Upscale shopping and dining along the coast.

Best Times To Visit Cartagena's Attractions

Timing your visits to Cartagena's attractions can enhance your experience and minimize crowds.

Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
Visit early in the morning for cooler temperatures and fewer tourists.
La Serrezuela
Explore during weekdays to enjoy quieter shopping and dining.
Plaza Santo Domingo
Evenings are ideal for enjoying street performances and vibrant ambiance.

Cartagena Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cartagena enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures and humidity throughout the year, making it essential to consider the rainy season from May to November. To fully enjoy outdoor activities, visiting between December and April is ideal, as you'll find more sunshine and pleasant conditions.

Dining Recommendation in Cartagena

Try the fresh ceviche at Restaurante La Cevicheria, where the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean sea come alive, setting itself apart from Medellin's hearty arepas and bandeja paisa. The lively atmosphere and the use of local ingredients create a dining experience that embodies the coastal spirit of Cartagena.

Medellin - Cartagena operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
latam.com

Plane from Medellin Jose Marie Cordova to Cartagena

Average Duration
1h 8m
Estimated price
$50-170

Plane from Medellin Jose Marie Cordova to Barranquilla

Average Duration
1h 13m
Estimated price
$45-140
Website
avianca.com

Plane from Medellin Jose Marie Cordova to Cartagena

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$45-170

Plane from Medellin Jose Marie Cordova to Barranquilla

Average Duration
1h 14m
Estimated price
$40-170
Website
jetsmart.com

Plane from Medellin Jose Marie Cordova to Cartagena

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$30-85
Website
copaair.com

Plane from Medellin Jose Marie Cordova to Cartagena

Average Duration
1h 14m
Estimated price
$23-190
Website
easyfly.com.co

Plane from Medellin Enrique Olaya Herrera to Tolu

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$70-350

Plane from Medellin Enrique Olaya Herrera to Tolu

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$70-350
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
01 800 051 8001
Website
expresobrasilia.com

Bus from Terminal Norte to Cartagena

Average Duration
11h 39m
Estimated price
$23-40
Contact phone
+57 604 44448888
Website
rapidoochoa.com.co

Bus from Terminal Norte to Cartagena

Average Duration
15h 40m
Estimated price
$20-50

Bus from Rionegro to Tolú

Average Duration
12h
Estimated price
$17-65
Contact phone
+57 310 654 3797
Website
torcoromaweb.com

Bus from Tolú to Cartagena

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$10-17
all-pages.other Show other routes

Other from Tolu to Cartagena

Average Duration
2h 35m
Estimated price
$40-55

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

Traveling between Medellin and Cartagena 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 Medellín to Cartagena, covering a distance of 637.3 km that spans Colombia's diverse landscapes and climates. 💰 Discover budget-friendly options ranging from $30 to $50 for a memorable journey through historic towns and picturesque coastal views on your way to vibrant Cartagena by car. ⏱️ Enjoy the freedom of the open road as you venture for approximately 9 hours and 29 minutes, creating unforgettable memories along the way on this unforgettable Colombian adventure.
Average price
$30 - $50
🛫 Flying from Medellin to Cartagena is a convenient option with a direct flight taking just 1 hour and 8 minutes. 🌴 Enjoy a quick and efficient journey from Medellin to Cartagena with flight times averaging around 2 hours and 52 minutes, all while admiring the beautiful Colombian landscapes from above. Prices for this flight route typically range from $51 to $208, offering options for various budgets.
Departure Point
Medellin Jose Marie Cordova Airport
Arrival Point
Cartagena Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Consider booking your flight with Avianca or LATAM for a more comfortable experience, as they tend to offer slightly more inclusive services and better on-time performance on this route.
• Upon arrival at Rafael Núñez International Airport in Cartagena, make sure to follow the signs for immigration and baggage claim; expect a relaxed but somewhat busy process, especially during peak travel season.
• Taxi fares from the airport to the city center typically range between $10 and $15 USD; it's advisable to confirm the fare with the driver or use an app like Uber for pricing transparency and convenience.
🚌 Starting from Terminal Norte in Medellín, hop on a direct bus to Cartagena operated by Expreso Brasilia. Services run four times a day, making it convenient for travelers. The journey through stunning Colombian landscapes lasts approximately 11 hours and 39 minutes. 🌴 Once you arrive at Cartagena station, you'll have completed the scenic route from Medellín. Take in the diverse sights and sounds of the vibrant cities along the way. The prices for this bus trip can range from $20 to $50, offering budget-friendly options for all types of travelers.
Departure Point
Terminal Norte station
Arrival Point
Cartagena station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your bus ticket in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, as Expreso Brasilia is one of the main operators for the Medellin to Cartagena route; you can check schedules and book tickets at Expreso Brasilia's website.
• Prepare for a long journey of approximately 11h 39m by packing snacks and entertainment, as the bus has limited stops; consider downloading a movie or playlist beforehand.
• Upon arrival at Cartagena's Terminal de Transportes, be ready for a bustling environment where you can find various taxi options; use official taxi services to avoid scams and be sure to negotiate prices or ask for the meter.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Medellin to Cartagena.

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The cheapest way to get from Medellín to Cartagena is by bus. The cost of the bus ticket ranges from $17 to $50, depending on the bus company and the type of seat. The bus journey takes approximately 11 hours and 39 minutes, so it's a good idea to bring some entertainment or a neck pillow for comfort.
The fastest way to travel from Medellín to Cartagena is by flying, with a flight time of approximately 2 hours and 52 minutes. Several airlines offer this route, and ticket prices can range from $50 to $210, depending on the airline and time of booking.
The distance from Medellín to Cartagena is approximately 464 km. If you prefer to drive, the road distance is about 634 km. It usually takes around 7-8 hours to reach Cartagena by car, depending on traffic conditions. If you choose to take public transportation, the bus journey typically takes around 10-12 hours.
To travel from Medellín to Cartagena without a car, you can take a bus. There are several bus companies that operate this route, offering comfortable and affordable options. The journey takes approximately 11 hours and 39 minutes, depending on traffic and specific routes. Ticket prices range from $17 to $50, making it an economical choice for travelers on a budget.
The journey from Medellín to Cartagena typically takes around 2 hours and 52 minutes, including any necessary transfers.
There are many options for accommodation in Cartagena. With over 1194 hotels to choose from, there is something to fit every budget and preference. Prices for hotels start at $90 per night.
Yes, you can drive from Medellín to Cartagena. The driving distance is approximately 634 km, and the journey takes approximately 9 hours and 28 minutes.
Yes, there is a direct bus service between Medellin and Cartagena. The buses operate four times a day and run every day. The journey takes approximately 11 hours and 39 minutes.
To catch the bus from Medellin to Cartagena you will need to go to the Medellín station. This is where the bus services, operated by Expreso Brasilia, depart from.
The Medellín to Cartagena bus services, operated by Expreso Brasilia, arrive at Cartagena station.
AeroRepública, LATAM Chile, and Avianca - Aerovías del Continente Americano S.A. offer flights between Medellin and Cartagena. These airlines operate flights from Medellin Jose Marie Cordova Airport to Cartagena Airport.
The fastest way to travel from Medellin to Cartagena is by taking a direct flight. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour and 8 minutes. Airlines such as AeroRepública, LATAM Chile, and Avianca offer flights between Medellin Jose Marie Cordova Airport and Cartagena Airport. The average price for a flight between the two cities ranges from $50 to $208.
The flight from Medellin to Cartagena takes approximately 1 hour and 8 minutes.
The cost of a flight from Medellin to Cartagena can range from $50 to $208.
The cost of a bus ticket from Medellin to Cartagena can range between $17 and $50.