Until 28 September, Cartagena is offering a free fiesta bus from Alicante to make it easier for everyone to get around during the Carthaginian and Roman celebrations.
When can you ride the free fiesta bus to Cartagena?
- Until 28 September: Anyone dressed in Carthaginian or Roman costume can use city buses free of charge.
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Monday 22 and Friday 26 September: All passengers travel for free, no costume required.
Extra buses on main routes
To cope with the demand, Cartagena has reinforced several urban lines linking key neighbourhoods:
- Line 1: San Félix – Barreros – Cartagena
- Line 2: Bº Peral – José Mª Lapuerta – Cartagena
- Line 4: Canteras – Cartagena
- Line 5: Vaguada – Gabatos – Cartagena
- Line 6: Buenos Aires – Molinos Marfagones – Cartagena
- Line 7: Polígono Santa Ana – Dolores – Cartagena
Free fiesta bus Cartagena: Late-night services
If you plan to enjoy the celebrations into the early hours, special buses will run from 00:00 to 03:00 on 25, 26 and 27 September, every 30 minutes.
All departures leave from Alameda de San Antón, near Calle Soldado Rosique and right by the Festival Camp, before continuing on their normal routes.
About the festivals
These celebrations, recognised as of International Tourist Interest, have been held in Cartagena since 1990 every September. They commemorate key moments from the Second Punic War, including the capture of the city in 209 BC by Roman general Scipio.
The programme mixes history and spectacle: from Hannibal’s wedding to Himilce, to the Roman circus with gladiators and wild beasts. The highlight is the grand parade on Saturday, when all the troops and legions march through the city in full costume.
Other events include the Founding of Qart Hadast, the Destruction of Saguntum, the Roman Senate, the Oracle of the Goddess Tanit, the Centuries’ Comitia, the Landing and Hiring of Mercenaries, the Tribute to the Fallen, and the Extinguishing of the Sacred Fire.
Once you experience it, you’ll understand why so many visitors return year after year.
Take a peek at the programme of events.
