Murcia Spain Visitor & Tourism Guide

"According to the World Health Organisation - Murcia has the healthiest climate in Europe!"

Located in the Catalonia region, Girona Spain offers a perfect blend of medieval charm and modern attractions.

One of the most iconic sights in Girona Spain is its well-preserved medieval quarter, known as Barri Vell. Lose yourself in its labyrinthine streets, marvel at the colourful facades, and visit the impressive Girona Cathedral, which dominates the city's skyline. Take a stroll along the ancient city walls for panoramic views of the surroundings.

For a touch of history, head to the Jewish Quarter, a beautiful neighbourhood with narrow streets, historic buildings, and the Museum of Jewish History. Immerse yourself in the fascinating stories of the Jewish community that once thrived here.

Another highlight is the Onyar River, which flows through the heart of the city. Admire the picturesque houses along its banks and cross the iconic bridges, such as the Eiffel Bridge designed by Gustave Eiffel.

City of Murcia Spain
Murcia City

Food lovers will be delighted by Girona's culinary scene. The city boasts several Michelin-starred restaurants, including El Celler de Can Roca, renowned for its innovative Catalan cuisine. Indulge in local specialities like xató (a salad with cod, anchovies, and romesco sauce) or suquet de peix (a fish stew).

If you enjoy art, then don’t miss the Girona Art Museum, housed in a former Benedictine monastery. It showcases a collection of Catalan art from the Romanesque period to the present day. For contemporary art, visit the Espai Carmen Thyssen, which features temporary exhibitions of modern masterpieces.

If you're a Game of Thrones fan, Girona might look familiar as it served as a filming location for the popular series. Explore the places where key scenes were shot, such as the Cathedral steps and the Arab Baths.

For nature lovers, a visit to the nearby Montsoriu Castle is a must. Situated in the lush Montseny Natural Park, this well-preserved castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Girona also hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, including the Girona Flower Festival, where the city is adorned with beautiful floral displays, and the Girona Temps de Flors, featuring art installations and performances.

Murcia is one of the smaller regions of Spain, located in the southeast nestled between the autonomous regions of Andalucia to the south and Valencia to the north.

The ancient history of the region was sculptured by the Carthaginians, Romans and Moors, all of which occupied and left their marks on this sometimes overlooked and underrated part of Spain.

According to the World Health Organisation, Murcia has the healthiest climate in Europe with more than 320 days of sunshine per year, that’s enough to satisfy even the most demanding sun worshipper.

From a geographical point, the region of Murcia really is a region stark in contrast from its dry plains to rich cultivated areas growing a surprisingly large selection of fruits and vegetables, including cotton, apricots, oranges, grapes, and lemons.

Murcia also has its fair share of picturesque and wild mountainous areas and the Costa Calida coastline, around 250 km long, home to many popular beach resorts.

The highest point in the region is the Revolcadores Massif mountains, around 2,027 meters in height, followed by numerous other smaller ranges located in the central and northwest area of the province, such as El Carche, La Pilar, the Sierra Espuña and the picturesque Ricote Valley.

The City of Murcia

Murcia Spain

The city of Murcia is often described as one of the most beautiful and historic in the country.

There is a great selection of historic buildings and sites including impressive city walls, churches that were previously mosques and the Cathedral arguably the most prized building in the city.

The first foundation stone of the Santa Maria Cathedral was laid in 1388 by Bishop Pedrosa and took four centuries to complete.

The different styles and cultures within the Cathedral are impressive including 23 different chapels.

A look around the historic old quarter of the city and you will find such gems as the Bishop’s Palace, the Convent Church of Santa Ana, and the San Miguel Church each one provides a historical ménage from the  15th to the 18th century plus there is the impressive Almudi Palace that dates back to 1602.

The city is also home to an important university city so there is a youthful atmosphere with many lively bars around the student campus district.

You may suffer from historic overload in Murcia Spain as there seems to be a monumental building on every corner, and many are in pristine condition after long and costly restorations.

Top Attractions in Murcia Spain

 

Murcia Cathedral

Murcia Cathedral
Murcia Cathedral

Murcia Cathedral is a magnificent Catholic church located in the heart of the city's old quarter.

The Cathedral is part of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Cartagena and has long been an iconic symbol of the city’s history and culture. It was built on the site of a former mosque that was consecrated by King James I of Aragon in 1240. The construction lasted from 1394 to the late 15th Century, but it continued to evolve until the 18th century and now displays a variety of architectural styles.

The interior is mainly Gothic, with chapels, altars, and artworks that reflect different artistic periods. The facade is Baroque. The bell tower, built between 1521 and 1791, stands 90 metres tall (95 metres with the weather vane). It is the tallest campanile in Spain and one of the most emblematic features of Murcia. It has five levels with different widths and styles.

Murcia Cathedral is well worth visiting and you can do so every day from 10:00 to 17:00 (except Sundays and holidays). There is also an interesting museum, cloister, and bell tower you can explore for a small fee.

The Real Casino of Murcia

Royal Casino Murcia

The Real Casino de Murcia is a real hidden gem located in the old quarter of Murcia City. It was founded in 1847 as a private social club for the upper class of the city. It is not a gambling casino, but a place where members can enjoy cultural and leisure activities.

The building is a masterpiece of architecture and art, combining different styles such as modernist, eclectic and neo-Nazarí. It has several halls that display paintings, sculptures, furniture and decorative elements from the 19th and 20th centuries. Some of the most remarkable halls are the Ballroom, with its stunning ceiling; the Library, with its valuable collection of books; the Moorish Patio, with its exotic decoration; and the Ladies’ Powder Room, with its delicate frescoes.

The Real Casino de Murcia Spain is open to visitors every day from 10:30 to 19:00 (except Sundays and holidays). Audio guides are available at the reception ticket office. You can also book a guided tour or enjoy a meal at its classy restaurant.

Murcia Town Hall

Casa Consistorial Murcia
Casa Consistorial Murcia

Murcia’s Town Hall, also known as The Casa Consistorial de Murcia, also is an ornate neoclassical building located in the Plaza de la Glorieta, looking out over the river Segura. It is the seat of the municipal institution of Murcia and one of its most emblematic buildings.

The Casa Consistorial was built between 1846 and 1848 by the architect Juan José Belmonte, following the design of Salvador Marín Baldo, who was the mayor of Murcia at that time. The building has a portico with four Corinthian columns supporting a pediment that gives prominence to the main balcony. Above it, there is a clock with a carillon that plays typical melodies of Murcia every hour and a half. The facade also features a large coat of arms of the city and two statues representing abundance and happiness.

The Casa Consistorial has an annex building designed by Rafael Moneo in 1998. It has a modern and rectangular facade with square openings. It is connected to the original building by a walkway over San Patricio street. The annex building faces Plaza de Belluga, where you can also see the Episcopal Palace and Murcia Cathedral.

El Puente Viejo  - The Old Bridge

Puente Viejo Murcia
Puente Viejo Murcia

The Puente Viejo (Old Bridge is a historic stone bridge that spans the river Segura that dates back to the 18th century. It is the oldest bridge in Murcia and connects the historic center with the Barrio del Carmen. It is also known as the Puente de Los Peligros (Bridge of Dangers) because of a small temple that houses an image of the Virgin of Dangers, which was invoked by those who crossed the river fearing its floods. The bridge has two arches and a clock with a carillon that plays local melodies. From the bridge, you can enjoy beautiful views of Murcia and its landmarks, such as the Cathedral, the Town Hall, or the Manterola footbridge.

Murcia Festivals

Murcia Carnival Costumes
Murcia Carnival Costumes

Murcia has more than its fair share of festivals and fiestas going on throughout the year. The pick of the annual festivities is  Holy Week in April, the annual fair dedicated to the city's patron saint La Virgen de la  Fuensanta.

If you like the carnival atmosphere then February is a great time to visit and dress up in colourful carnival costumes and participate in any of the numerous activities which go on throughout the month.

 

Port City of Cartagena

Cartagena Murcia
Cartagena Murcia

The origins of Cartagena date back over 3.000 years and due to its deepwater port area was one of Spain’s main naval bases.

The city went into some decline during the mid-20th century but has undergone a major redevelopment in the past 20 years.

When the Spanish naval base closed the archaeologists moved in transforming the many historic sites into stunning places to visit.

The city's undeniable historic symbol is the Roman Theatre Museum a true wonder of the Roman occupation, the site includes the Pascual Riquelme Palace and the Santa María la Vieja Cathedral, interestingly the Carthago Nova Theatre was not discovered until 1990.

For Golf Lovers

La Manga Golf Murcia
La Manga Golf Murcia

For the golf lovers among you, the Murcia region is home to a number of top-notch golf courses most notably, the La Manga Club and the PGA Championship Course of El Valle. Other quality courses include La Torre Golf, La Serena, Roda Golf, Mar Menor Golf, Hacienda Riquelme and the Alhamar Golf Resort.

The Mar Menor - La Manga de Mar Menor

La Manga De Mar Menor
La Manga De Mar Menor

The region boasts a stunning coastal area known as La Manga de Mar Menor which due to a geographical accident of nature has made a coastal strip of land which, bar a few connecting channels, is completely closed off the Mediterranean Sea.

A huge saltwater lagoon was formed which is proudly protected by the rough Mediterranean Sea on the outside, with many types of exciting water sports being practiced in its calmer waters.

The four main holiday resorts which lay along the Costa Calida are San Javier, Los Alcazares and San Pedro de Pinatar.

The Costa Calida

Los Belones - Costa Calida
Los Belones - Costa Calida

The Costa Calida stretches for some 250 km and offers golden everything from rugged coastlines, unspoiled sandy beaches, crystal waters, and romantic coves. The coastline sits between the Costa Blanca to the North and the Costa Almeria to the south.

The coastline has become one of Spain’s most popular holiday destinations. The four main holiday resorts which lay along the Costa Calida are San Javier, Los Alcazares, and San Pedro de Pinatar.

Other towns located along the coast which are well worth visiting include Los Belones, Isla Plana, Bolnuevo, Lo Pagan. El Mojon, Los Urrutias and La Azohia.

The Gastronomy of Murcia

Michirones
Michirones

The region of Murcia boasts a rich and varied gastronomy that has been influenced by its location between the Mediterranean Sea and the mountains, as well as by its history and culture.

Murcia has a wealth of local products that make its dishes unique, such as Calasparra rice, seafood, and fish from Mar Menor or fruit and vegetables from La Huerta.

Murcia’s gastronomy is based on the Mediterranean diet, with cereals, vegetables, and olive oil as its main ingredients. However, it also incorporates meat, fish, and shellfish from its land and sea.

The region of Murcia boasts a rich and varied gastronomy that has been influenced by its location between the Mediterranean Sea and the mountains, as well as the many cultures that have lived in the region including the Moors, and the Romans.

Murcia has a wealth of local products that make its dishes unique, such as Calasparra rice, seafood, and fish from Mar Menor or fruit and vegetables from La Huerta.

Murcia’s gastronomy is based on the Mediterranean diet, with the main ingredients being cured meats, cereals, vegetables, and olive oil. as well as meat, fish, and shellfish from its land and sea.

Mixed Fried Plate
Mixed Fried Plate

El Pasaje de Zabalburu

Located on the Plaza San Pedro Num 3, Restaurant El Pasaje de Zabalburu serves up a selection of traditional tapas with a modern twist. Signature dishes include seared tuna, artichokes stuffed with duck, ox cheeks and cuttlefish croquet.

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Restaurant El Churra

For a fine dining experience, the Restaurant El Churra is a food option. It is located within the 3-star Hotel El Churra on Avenida Marqués de Los Velez, number 12.  The chef here makes use of top-quality local produce to create a fine selection of rustic and modern Spanish dishes. The hotel boasts a large wine cellar with over 250 different types of wine in over 15.000 bottles.

» Website

Restaurant Pura Cepa

Located on Calle Cristo del Perdon Number 8, this is simply a superb restaurant in Murcia offering a unique dining experience. Great use of local products and wines is central to the traditional Spanish cooking served at the Pura Cepa.  Your taste buds will come alive with dishes such as red prawn croquettes, the tapa of cheese avocado and sardine,  and the delicious grilled scallop.

» Website

Getting Around Murcia Spain

Ave High Speed Train
Ave High-Speed Train

Murcia is well connected as far as public transport and road and motorway infrastructure goes, there are several public transport options for getting to and around the city.

Some of the main public transport options are:

- Flights: Murcia has a new airport, called the Región de Murcia International Airport at Corvera, located about 25 km from the city centre. The airport offers domestic and international flights to several destinations in Europe and Africa. You can reach the airport by bus, taxi or car.

- Bus: Murcia has a bus service operated by Transportes de Murcia which covers routes within the city and its surroundings. The bus is a cheap and convenient way to get around Murcia Spain, with an average price of €1.20 per journey. You can buy tickets on board or use a card that gives you discounts and allows you to transfer between buses and trams. The bus connects most of the main attractions and neighbourhoods of the city as well as other towns and cities in the region, such as Cartagena, La Manga, Mar Menor, Mazarrón and Águilas.

- Train: Murcia is well connected by a good local and national train service to and from all the major cities in Spain. The service is run by Spain's national carrier, Renfe.

- Tram: Murcia has a tram service operated by Tranvía de Murcia, which runs along 18 km of route and connects the northern area of the city (universities, shopping and leisure centres, and residential areas) with the city center. The tram is a fast and comfortable way to travel in Murcia, with a frequency of 10 minutes during peak hours. You can buy tickets at the stations or use the same card as for the buses.

- Taxi: Murcia has a taxi service that can be booked by phone, app or at taxi ranks. Taxis are a convenient way to travel within the city or to nearby places. The fare is determined by a meter and depends on the distance, time and day of the week.

- Bicycle: Murcia Spain is a city that encourages the use of bicycles as an efficient and sustainable means of transport. The city has a public bicycle system called MuyBici, which allows you to rent a bike at one of the 60 stations around the city for a low price. You need to register online or at an office to use this service. The city also has a network of cycling lanes that covers more than 100 km of streets.

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