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Malaga, Andalucía to Cartagena, Province of Murcia from $30: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Malaga, Spain
to
Cartagena, Spain

How to Get from Malaga 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.

$30 by busBest price
322 kmDistance
3h 52m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Malaga 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
Bus
Average Duration
6h  45m
Estimated price
€34-56
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
7h  15m
Estimated price
€28-40
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 322 km
Duration: 3h 52m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
7h  54m
Estimated price
€42-340
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  52m
Estimated price
€63-98
Company
Renfe AVE
Train
Average Duration
9h  37m
Estimated price
€80-143
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
8h  55m
Estimated price
€341-342
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Traveling From Malaga to Cartagena

Traveling from Malaga to Cartagena offers a fascinating contrast; while Malaga dazzles with its vibrant coastal charm and historical sites, Cartagena captivates with its rich naval history and stunning Mediterranean architecture.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cartagena

Cartagena's neighborhoods each showcase a distinct charm and cultural flavor.

Old Town
• Picturesque streets adorned with colorful colonial architecture.
• Home to vibrant plazas and lively outdoor cafés.
Getsemani
• Known for its lively street art and creative vibe.
• Offers a vibrant nightlife scene with local music.
Bocagrande
• Features beautiful beaches and high-rise luxury hotels.
• Popular for upscale dining and shopping options.

Best Times To Visit Cartagena's Attractions

Timing your visits can enrich your experience of Cartagena's highlights.

Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
Visit early in the morning to enjoy the views without large crowds.
Walled City
Late afternoon offers cooler temperatures and beautiful sunset lighting.
Cartagena's Beaches
Weekdays provide a quieter experience for lounging and swimming.

Cartagena Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cartagena enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters, making it a desirable destination throughout the year. Visiting in spring or fall often offers the ideal balance of pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, enhancing your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Cartagena

Don't miss trying the local dish, "Murcian zarangollo," a vibrant stir-fry of zucchini and egg that reflects the agricultural roots of the region. Unlike the seafood-heavy cuisine of Malaga, Cartagena’s culinary scene emphasizes fresh vegetables and unique spices, creating a distinct and unforgettable dining experience.

Malaga - Cartagena operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+34 910 207 007
Website
https://www.alsa.com/en/web/bus/home

Bus from Malaga to Granada

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
€28-29

Bus from Granada to Cartagena

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
€31-40

Bus from Malaga to Almeria

Average Duration
2h 45m
Estimated price
€28-29

Bus from Almería to Cartagena

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
€28-29

Bus from Alicante Aeropuerto to Murcia

Average Duration
55m
Estimated price
€28-29

Bus from Murcia to Cartagena

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
€28-29
Train
Contact phone
+34 91 232 03 20
Website
https://www.renfe.com/es/en

Train from Malaga Maria Zambrano to Estación de tren de Atocha

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
€63-65

Train from Estación de tren de Atocha to Murcia Del Carmen

Average Duration
3h 27m
Estimated price
€65-66

Train from Murcia Del Carmen to Cartagena

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
€65-66
Plane
Website
iberia.com

Plane from Malaga (AGP) to Alicante–Elche (ALC)

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
€347-348

Plane from Malaga (AGP) to Valencia (VLC)

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
€349-560
Website
vueling.com

Plane from Malaga (AGP) to Alicante–Elche (ALC)

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
€347-348

Plane from Malaga (AGP) to Valencia (VLC)

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
€349-560
Website
ryanair.com

Plane from Malaga (AGP) to Alicante–Elche (ALC)

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
€344-561

Plane from Malaga (AGP) to Valencia (VLC)

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
€562-563
Website
aireuropa.com

Plane from Malaga (AGP) to Alicante–Elche (ALC)

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
€345-564

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

Traveling between Malaga 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 an exciting road trip from Malaga to Cartagena, covering a scenic distance of 244 miles in under 4 hours by car. 💰 Explore the flexibility of pricing options ranging from €65 to €101 for your journey from Malaga to Cartagena, offering choices to suit your budget and preferences.
Average price
€65 - €101
🚂 Although there is no direct train from Málaga to Cartagena, travelers can embark on a scenic journey with services departing from Malaga Maria Zambrano. The route includes transfers at Estación de tren de Atocha and Murcia Del Carmen, totaling approximately 9 hours and 37 minutes. 🎟️ The prices for a train ticket between Malaga and Cartagena can vary from €82 to €147, making it a cost-effective and enjoyable travel option for those looking to explore the beautiful cities of southern Spain at a relaxed pace.
Departure Point
Malaga Maria Zambrano station
Arrival Point
Cartagena station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services on the train route from Malaga to Cartagena typically include catering options provided by Renfe, such as light snacks, beverages, and meals available for purchase. It's advisable to check Renfe's website in advance for the latest menu offerings on your specific train if you're planning to dine on board.
• The AVE and regional trains from Malaga to Cartagena offer multiple seating options: First Class (Preferente), Business Class (Club), and Economy Class (Turista). If you're looking for a quieter trip with additional amenities, consider booking First Class. You can enjoy more spacious seating and complimentary services. Detailed seating arrangements are available on Renfe's website.
• The main operators for the Malaga to Cartagena route are Renfe and Talgo. For the most accurate schedules and to purchase tickets, you can visit their official websites: Renfe (renfe.com) and Talgo (talgo.com). Additionally, local transit information for Cartagena can be found at (transportes.cartagena.es)
🛫 Traveling from Malaga to Cartagena by plane requires a stopover, with the quickest flight taking approximately 3 hours. Airlines such as Air Europa, Iberia, Ryanair, and Vueling Airlines provide options for this route, departing from Malaga Airport and arriving at Alicante–Elche Airport.
Departure Point
Malaga Airport
Arrival Point
Alicante–Elche Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h and has one stopover
🚌 Although there is no direct bus from Málaga to Cartagena, travelers can take a bus that departs from Malaga and makes a transfer in Granada. The journey is approximately 6 hours and 45 minutes. 💵 Prices for buses between Cartagena and Malaga typically range from €35 to €58, offering an affordable and convenient way to travel between these two Spanish cities. Travelers can experience the scenic route and enjoy the journey at a reasonable cost.
Departure Point
Malaga station
Arrival Point
Cartagena station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Malaga to Cartagena.

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The distance between Malaga and Cartagena is 200 miles. If traveling by train, it takes approximately 8 hours and 57 minutes to reach Cartagena from Malaga. Another option is to fly to Alicante–Elche and then take a train, which would take about 8 hours and 35 minutes. If driving, it would take approximately 3 hours and 52 minutes to reach Malaga from Cartagena. Lastly, traveling by bus would take around 8 hours and 40 minutes to reach Cartagena from Malaga.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Malaga to Cartagena is by bus via Almería, which costs between €36-€63 and takes approximately 9 hours and 45 minutes. However, if you're looking for a faster option, driving is the most time-efficient choice. It takes about 3 hours and 52 minutes to drive from Malaga to Cartagena and costs between €63-€100.
The prices for a train ticket from Malaga to Cartagena range from €81 to €143, while the prices for a bus ticket from Cartagena to Malaga range from €54 to €95. It's important to note that these prices may vary depending on factors such as the time of year, availability, and class of service. It is advisable to check with the specific train or bus operator for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information.
If you prefer not to use public transportation, the most convenient way to reach Cartagena from Malaga is by driving. The distance is approximately 244 miles, and it takes about 3 hours and 52 minutes to drive between the two cities. The cost of the trip by car typically ranges from €63 to €100 depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls.
If you want to travel from Malaga to Cartagena without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 8 hours and 40 minutes and the ticket prices range from €54 to €100. Buses are a convenient and affordable mode of transportation between the two cities, offering a comfortable journey with the flexibility to relax and enjoy the scenery along the way.
No, there is no direct link between Malaga and Cartagena. However, there are options available for travel. By train, the journey takes approximately 8 hours and 57 minutes with transfers in Madrid and Murcia. Another option is to fly to Alicante and then take a train, which takes around 8 hours and 35 minutes. By car, the distance between the two cities is 200 miles and the travel time is approximately 3 hours and 52 minutes. Lastly, a bus journey from Malaga to Cartagena takes about 8 hours and 40 minutes with transfers in Granada.
The flight duration between Malaga and Cartagena typically takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes with a stopover. However, there are no direct flights available, so passengers will have to take a connecting flight. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability, but it typically ranges from $150 to $300. It is advisable to check with different airlines and booking platforms for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
There are plenty of accommodation options to choose from near Cartagena. In fact, there are over 1,403 hotels available in the area. Prices for hotels start at €28 per night, so there are options for various budgets. With such a wide range of choices, you will definitely find a suitable place to stay near Cartagena.