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Taking the train from Cartagena to Santander in 10 hours 34 minutes

Thinking about taking the train from Cartagena to Santander? We’ve got you covered.

It usually takes around 13 hours 1 minute to travel the 431 miles (694 km) from Cartagena to Santander by train, although you can get there in as little as 10 hours 34 minutes on the fastest services. You’ll normally find around 4 trains per day running on this route. You’ll need to make 1 change along the way as there aren't any direct services on this line.

Train tickets from Cartagena to Santander are usually cheaper when you book in advance compared to buying them on the day. Start a search in our Journey Planner to check out the latest prices.

Keen to book your train tickets to Santander? No need to wait, start a search with us today! If you want to find out a bit more about the journey first, you can find our train timetable below, tips on booking cheap tickets and our FAQs, including first and last train times.

Trains to Santander from Cartagena

First train

06:50

Last train

17:20

Departure stationCartagena
Arrival stationSantander
Journey time

From 10h 34m

Distance

431 miles (694 km)

Frequency

4 trains per day

Changes

1 change

Train and bus operators

Bilman

What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Cartagena to Santander?

Want to know more about your journey from Cartagena to Santander? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.

How do you travel to Santander from Cartagena?

To get to Santander from Cartagena, why not take the train? With 4 trains per day and an average journey time of 13 hours and 1 minute, taking the train is a great way to travel. See our Journey Planner for up-to-date times and prices.

How long does it take to get from Cartagena to Santander by train?

On average, it takes around 13 hours and 1 minute to travel from Cartagena to Santander by train, although you can get there in 10 hours and 34 minutes on the fastest services. With 4 trains per day running on this route, journey times may vary, so check our Journey Planner for more information.

How fast can trains travel from Cartagena to Santander?

The fastest time a train can travel the 431 miles (694 km) from Cartagena to Santander is 10 hours and 34 minutes.

Are there any direct trains from Cartagena to Santander?

There are no direct trains that run between Cartagena and Santander. You’ll need to make at least 1 change along the way.

What are the train times from Cartagena to Santander?

Check out the next trains departing from Cartagena to Santander for Tuesday 2nd December 2025. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
05:5017:0411h 14m, 1 change
10:5521:2910h 34m, 3 changes
10:5522:2811h 33m, 2 changes
16:2011:0618h 46m, 2 changes

How do I find cheap train tickets from Cartagena to Santander?

If you’re planning a trip to Europe soon, our Trainline team of experts have put together some tips to help you find cheap tickets. Booking on the day in Europe is usually more expensive and costs can vary depending on the time of day, route or travel class.

1. Book in advance

The price of train tickets from Cartagena to Santander starts at § one-way for a Standard Class ticket if you book in advance. Most train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months ahead of time, so if you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find cheaper tickets.

2. Be flexible with your travel times

If you can, consider travelling outside of 'peak hours' (generally between 06:00 - 10:00 and 15:00 - 19:00 on weekdays) as many train companies increase their ticket prices during these commuter times.

3. Buy a rail pass

If you're visiting multiple locations on your trip, buying a rail pass can be cheaper than buying individual tickets. We're official retailers of Interrail Passes that are valid for travel within one country or multiple countries across Europe.

4. Choose a slower or connecting train

On some busier routes, you might have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have some extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare.

5. Look out for train ticket sales and discounts

Many train companies in Europe will often run sales on tickets throughout the year or offer discounts to senior/youth/group travellers, so keep an eye out!

6. Take a night train

Save on accommodation and use the night to travel by sleeper train to your next destination.

For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.

§Some train companies may not offer any Advance ticket types or cheaper deals for early bookings. On rare occasions, train companies may choose to release special offers closer to the date on last-minute or late-release tickets. This is dependent on the individual train operating company you travel with.

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