{"id":1071,"count":3,"description":"","link":"https:\/\/www.winalist.com\/blog\/spain\/murcia","name":"Things to do in Murcia","slug":"murcia","taxonomy":"category","parent":826,"meta":{"winalist_lat":"37.9922","winalist_lng":"-1.1307"},"acf":{"short_region_name":"Murcia","region_id":159,"h1":"Things to Do in Murcia, Spain: 13 Best Places to Visit","subtitle":"","term_author":17,"term_co_authors":"","term_published":"2025-07-09 00:00:00","term_last_updated":"2026-07-21 18:50:15","tldr_title":"The essentials for visiting Murcia","tldr_content":"<ul>\r\n \t<li>A Baroque old town along the Segura river \u2014 Cardenal Belluga square alone justifies a slow afternoon.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Cartagena's Roman theatre and Carthaginian-era port pack more ancient history than most inland cities in Spain.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Mar Menor's shallow lagoon means warm water and windsurfing lessons even for total beginners.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Sierra Espu\u00f1a and the Ricote Valley swap beach towels for hiking boots and orange groves in under an hour's drive.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Jumilla and Bullas add a genuine wine layer to the region, with estates open for tastings near the interior villages.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>","link_to_wl_landing_page":"https:\/\/www.winalist.com\/regions\/murcia","override_cta_in_quick_access":"Best Wine Tastings & Tours in Murcia","intro":"<p>Murcia hides roughly 250km of coastline behind a single word most travelers only associate with one city \u2014 and that's before counting the Baroque squares, Roman ruins and inland orchards that never make the shortlist.<\/p>\r\n<p>The best things to do in Murcia, Spain span far more than the capital: the Baroque old town along the Segura river, Cartagena's Roman theatre and port, Mar Menor's beaches and water sports, Lorca's Baroque churches, and inland spots like Sierra Espu\u00f1a, Calasparra's rice fields and Ricote Valley. Add the region's wineries and you have days of authentic exploring.<\/p>","best_hosts_title":"Wine country in the Region of Murcia","best_hosts_content":"Inland from the coast, the Region of Murcia carries two DOs that rarely make it onto a first-timer's map: Jumilla, planted mostly with Monastrell on high, dry plateaus toward the Albacete border, and Bullas, smaller and set higher in the Sierra de Ricote foothills, also built around old-vine Monastrell alongside Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon plantings. Both appellations run cellar-door tastings and vineyard walks, typically priced from around \u20ac10-20 per person depending on the estate and whether a meal is included. It's a landscape of stone farmhouses and low bush vines rather than manicured ch\u00e2teaux, and it pairs naturally with a detour from Ricote Valley or the interior villages. For anyone building a route that includes wine tasting tours in Murcia, the appellations sit close enough together to combine in a single day trip from the capital.","things_to_do_content":"<h2>13 best things to do in Murcia<\/h2>\r\nThe Region of Murcia stretches from a Baroque riverside city to a Roman naval port, a lagoon warm enough to swim in most of the year, and a mountainous interior that feels nothing like the coast. Here are the 13 places worth building a trip around.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:heading -->\r\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What are the best things to do in Murcia?<\/h2>\r\n<!-- \/wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\r\n<h3><\/h3>\r\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Discover the Cathedral de Murcia<\/h3>\r\n<!-- \/wp:heading --> <!-- wp:image {\"id\":42548,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\",\"align\":\"wide\"} -->\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignwide size-large\"><img class=\"wp-image-42548\" src=\"https:\/\/images.winalist.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/05140031\/adobestock-1292123540-1500x1000.jpeg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/figure>\r\n<!-- \/wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph -->\r\n\r\nStep into the heart of Murcia at the stunning Catedral de Murcia, where centuries of history collide under one breathtaking roof. Standing proudly in the vibrant Plaza del Cardenal Belluga, this cathedral is anything but ordinary. You\u2019ll wander through Gothic arches, peek into richly decorated Baroque chapels, and admire Renaissance details, all in one visit. Look up and you\u2019ll spot the tallest bell tower in the region, ringing out over the city with flair. Inside, the play of light through stained glass is pure magic.\r\n\r\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph -->\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\r\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Explore the real Casino de Murcia<\/h3>\r\n<!-- \/wp:heading --> <!-- wp:image {\"id\":42550,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\",\"align\":\"wide\"} -->\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignwide size-large\"><img class=\"wp-image-42550\" src=\"https:\/\/images.winalist.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/05140252\/adobestock-660117590-1500x998.jpeg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/figure>\r\n<!-- \/wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph -->\r\n\r\nStep into the lavish world of the Real Casino de Murcia, yes, it's open to the public, and no, it\u2019s not a casino in the Vegas sense. This 19th-century social club is a feast for the eyes, with gilded ballrooms, crystal chandeliers, intricate mosaics, and even a Moorish-style patio that feels like a film set. Wander through its stunning rooms and glass-covered courtyards, and you\u2019ll see why it\u2019s one of the top things to do in Murcia.\r\n\r\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph -->\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\r\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Relax at the beaches of La Manga del Mar Menor<\/h3>\r\n<!-- \/wp:heading --> <!-- wp:image {\"id\":42551,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\",\"align\":\"wide\"} -->\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignwide size-large\"><img class=\"wp-image-42551\" src=\"https:\/\/images.winalist.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/05140419\/adobestock-71028360-1500x1000.jpeg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/figure>\r\n<!-- \/wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph -->\r\n\r\nLa Manga is Murcia\u2019s sun-soaked coastal playground, a slender slice of land stretching between the sparkling Mediterranean and the calm waters of the Mar Menor, Europe\u2019s largest saltwater lagoon. It\u2019s a dream for beach lovers: golden sand, warm shallow waters perfect for swimming or snorkeling, and scenic views on both sides. Looking to unwind? Head to the La Manga Club resort for a bit of seaside luxury, complete with world-class golf courses, spa treatments, and upscale dining. It\u2019s relaxation, Murcian-style.\r\n\r\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph -->\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\r\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Experience the Fiestas de Primavera<\/h3>\r\n<!-- \/wp:heading --> <!-- wp:image {\"id\":42552,\"sizeSlug\":\"full\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\",\"align\":\"wide\"} -->\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignwide size-full\"><img class=\"wp-image-42552\" src=\"https:\/\/images.winalist.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/05141239\/adobestock-591106360.jpeg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/figure>\r\n<!-- \/wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph -->\r\n\r\nHeld just after Easter, the Fiestas de Primavera light up Murcia with a week of joy, color, and tradition. Think flower-covered floats, lively parades, music echoing through the streets, and locals dressed in traditional huertano outfits. It\u2019s the perfect time to join the party, grab a pastel de carne, dance along to the bandas, and soak in the contagious springtime energy. If you\u2019re in Murcia during this week, missing it isn\u2019t an option!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\r\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Take a break at Convento de Santa Clara La Real<\/h3>\r\n<!-- \/wp:heading --> <!-- wp:image {\"id\":42554,\"sizeSlug\":\"full\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\",\"align\":\"wide\"} -->\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignwide size-full\"><img class=\"wp-image-42554\" src=\"https:\/\/images.winalist.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/05142602\/adobestock-371664096.jpeg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/figure>\r\n<!-- \/wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph -->\r\n\r\nHoused in a beautifully preserved former convent, the Museum of Santa Clara offers a fascinating glimpse into Murcia\u2019s layered cultural heritage. Within its tranquil cloisters, visitors can admire a unique collection of Islamic and Christian art, showcasing the city\u2019s evolution through centuries of coexistence and transformation. The museum is not only a journey through religious art and architecture but also a quiet retreat that reveals the spiritual and artistic soul of Murcia. It\u2019s a must-visit for those seeking deeper insight into the region\u2019s rich and diverse history.\r\n\r\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph -->\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\r\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Climb to Santuario de la Fuensanta<\/h3>\r\n<!-- \/wp:heading --> <!-- wp:image {\"id\":42553,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\",\"align\":\"wide\"} -->\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignwide size-large\"><img class=\"wp-image-42553\" src=\"https:\/\/images.winalist.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/05141512\/adobestock-105594526-1500x996.jpeg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/figure>\r\n<!-- \/wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph -->\r\n\r\nPerched in the hills just outside Murcia, the Santuario de la Fuensanta rewards visitors with panoramic views and a peaceful atmosphere steeped in tradition. The climb, whether by car, bike, or on foot, is a journey through fragrant pine forests and winding roads lined with olive groves. At the summit, the sanctuary\u2019s Baroque fa\u00e7ade and tranquil setting offer a serene pause, a chance to connect with local history and take in the natural beauty of the surrounding Sierra.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h3>7. Wander the historic city center along the Segura river<\/h3>\r\n<img class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-60189\" src=\"https:\/\/images.winalist.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/21183639\/shutterstock-2784084961-1500x1047.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"768\" height=\"536\" \/>\r\n\r\nThe city of Murcia's old town sits right on the banks of the Segura river, and its historic city center rewards walking rather than checklist-ticking. Narrow streets open unexpectedly onto grand squares, and the whole center of Murcia is compact enough to cover on foot in a day.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h3>8. Stand in Cardenal Belluga square<\/h3>\r\n<img class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-60190\" src=\"https:\/\/images.winalist.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/21183832\/shutterstock-1041153199-1500x1000.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"768\" height=\"512\" \/>\r\n\r\nPlaza del Cardenal Belluga is the single best snapshot of Murcia's Baroque identity: the cathedral's ornate facade faces the more understated Episcopal Palace across a small square that fills with caf\u00e9 tables in the evening.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h3 id=\"block-0d63beee-111c-407e-9729-448b0a0b7514\" class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable block-editor-block-list__block wp-block wp-block-heading rich-text\" role=\"document\" contenteditable=\"true\" spellcheck=\"false\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-readonly=\"false\" aria-label=\"Bloc\u00a0: Titre 3\" data-block=\"0d63beee-111c-407e-9729-448b0a0b7514\" data-type=\"core\/heading\" data-title=\"Titre 3\" data-wp-block-attribute-key=\"content\">9. See the Salzillo sculptures<\/h3>\r\nThe Salzillo Museum houses the processional sculptures of Francisco Salzillo, the sculptor from Murcia whose Baroque figures still lead the city's Holy Week processions. Even outside Holy Week, the carved detail on the wood is striking up close.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h3>10. Explore Cartagena's Roman theatre and port<\/h3>\r\n<img class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-60191\" src=\"https:\/\/images.winalist.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/21184222\/shutterstock-2675342215-1500x998.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"768\" height=\"511\" \/>\r\n\r\nAn hour south of the capital, Cartagena layers Roman, Carthaginian and modern naval history on top of each other. The Roman theatre, uncovered beneath the old town, sits a short walk from a working port that's been active since Roman times.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h3 id=\"block-49ee65a5-3d37-4490-8d7c-821c5986d0ae\" class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable block-editor-block-list__block wp-block wp-block-heading rich-text\" role=\"document\" contenteditable=\"true\" spellcheck=\"false\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-readonly=\"false\" aria-label=\"Bloc\u00a0: Titre 3\" data-block=\"49ee65a5-3d37-4490-8d7c-821c5986d0ae\" data-type=\"core\/heading\" data-title=\"Titre 3\" data-wp-block-attribute-key=\"content\">11. Walk the dunes at Calblanque<\/h3>\r\n<img class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-60192\" src=\"https:\/\/images.winalist.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/21184344\/shutterstock-2720750803-1500x1000.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"768\" height=\"512\" \/>\r\n\r\nCalblanque is a protected coastal park between Cartagena and the Mar Menor, with undeveloped beaches backed by low dunes and pine-covered hills \u2014 a contrast to the built-up stretches of Costa C\u00e1lida further north.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h3>12. Hike Sierra Espu\u00f1a<\/h3>\r\n<img class=\"alignnone size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/d\/db\/Morr%C3%B3n_de_Espu%C3%B1a.jpg\" width=\"4000\" height=\"3000\" \/>\r\n\r\nInland from the coast, Sierra Espu\u00f1a is a mountain range covered in pine forest with numerous hiking trails, popular for its griffon vulture population and cooler air in summer.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\r\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">13. See Calasparra's rice fields<\/h3>\r\n<img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-60194\" src=\"https:\/\/images.winalist.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/21184657\/shutterstock-2297398627.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1440\" height=\"1080\" \/>\r\n\r\n<!-- \/wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph -->\r\n\r\nCalasparra grows rice under its own protected designation, and the paddies along the river make for an unusual detour if you're driving through the interior toward Lorca or the Ricote Valley.\r\n\r\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\r\n\r\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\r\n<blockquote>Renting a car is the most practical way to link the coast, the capital and the interior villages in one trip \u2014 public transport thins out fast once you leave the main towns.<\/blockquote>","title_for_cities_in_the_wine_region":"The must-see cities of the Region of Murcia","text_for_cities_in_the_wine_region":"Murcia city anchors the region with its Baroque old town, but it's worth pairing with Cartagena on the coast for Roman ruins and naval history, and Lorca inland for its own Baroque churches and hilltop castle. Smaller towns like \u00c1guilas add a quieter fishing-port stop along the Costa C\u00e1lida, while Cieza is known regionally for its spring blossom, the Floraci\u00f3n de Cieza. Anyone planning to stay in Murcia city itself will find hotels concentrated around the historic center, within walking distance of the cathedral and Plaza de las Flores \u2014 a good base for exploring murcia wineries in Jumilla and Bullas on a day trip.","villages_content":"","title_itineraries":"Our itineraries to visit the Region of Murcia","text_itineraries":"A short stay works well split between the historic city center of Murcia and a day trip to Cartagena for the Roman theatre and port. With more time, add a night near the Mar Menor for beaches and water sports, then head inland through Sierra Espu\u00f1a, Calasparra and the Ricote Valley before finishing with wine tasting tours in Murcia around Jumilla or Bullas. The region drives well as a loop: coast, capital, interior, and back, without retracing the same road twice.","when_visit":"<p>The best month to visit depends on whether the coast or the interior is the priority, since summer heat inland can be intense while the Mar Menor stays comfortable well into autumn.<\/p>\r\n<p><strong>Spring<\/strong> brings mild temperatures, Holy Week processions with the Salzillo sculptures in the capital, and the Cieza blossom season \u2014 a good window for both cities and hiking in Sierra Espu\u00f1a.<\/p>\r\n<p><strong>Summer<\/strong> is beach season on the Mar Menor and Costa C\u00e1lida, though inland towns like Murcia city and Lorca can get very hot in July and August.<\/p>\r\n<p><strong>Autumn<\/strong>, particularly September and October, is harvest time for Jumilla and Bullas wineries and still warm enough for the coast, making it a strong all-round season.<\/p>\r\n<p><strong>Winter<\/strong> is mild by northern European standards and suits city visits and interior villages, though sea swimming drops off outside the Mar Menor's more sheltered spots.<\/p>","how_visit":"<p><strong>By train<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>High-speed and regional connections link Murcia city to Madrid, Alicante and Cartagena.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p><strong>By car<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Around 1 hour from Alicante, roughly 3-4 hours from Madrid, and a manageable drive from Andalusia via the A-7 coastal motorway.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p><strong>By plane<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Regi\u00f3n de Murcia International Airport handles domestic and some European routes; Alicante airport is a further option for wider flight choice.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p><strong>Getting around<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>A car is the most flexible way to combine the coast, the capital and the interior; regional trains and buses cover the main towns, and guided tours are a good option for Cartagena's Roman theatre or a Jumilla wine day trip.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>","hotels_visit":"<p><strong>Charming hotels<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Hotel Cetina Murcia \u2014 historic city center, Murcia<\/li>\r\n<li>Hotel options near Plaza de las Flores \u2014 Murcia city<\/li>\r\n<li>Boutique hotels near Cartagena's old town and port<\/li>\r\n<li>Coastal hotels along La Manga del Mar Menor<\/li>\r\n<li>Rural hotels in the Ricote Valley near Archena<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p><strong>Guesthouses in the vineyards<\/strong> Around Jumilla and Bullas, several estates offer simple guesthouse-style stays alongside their tastings, putting travelers directly among the vines for a night rather than driving in for the afternoon.<\/p>\r\n<p><strong>Living Murcia differently<\/strong> Staying inland in the Ricote Valley or near Sierra Espu\u00f1a suits a slower trip built around hiking trails and orchard villages, while a base on the Mar Menor favors water sports and beach time over sightseeing.<\/p>","display_map":true,"map_title":"","map_widget_link":"<a href=\"https:\/\/www.winalist.com\/affiliate\/widget?partner=14&type=map&lat=37.9922399&lng=-1.1306544&location=Murcia,%20Spain&locale=en_US\">https:\/\/www.winalist.com\/affiliate\/widget?partner=14&type=map&lat=37.9922399&lng=-1.1306544&location=Murcia,%20Spain&locale=en_US<\/a>","other_images_for_term":"","title_faq":"Good to know before visiting the Region of Murcia","text_before_faq":"","acf-repeater-faq":[{"faq_question":"What is the best month to visit Murcia?","faq_answer":"September and October combine warm coastal weather with the Jumilla and Bullas grape harvest, plus milder temperatures inland than in peak summer."},{"faq_question":"Is Murcia city worth visiting on its own?","faq_answer":"Yes \u2014 the historic city center along the Segura river, Murcia Cathedral and the Real Casino de Murcia are enough for a full day, though the wider Region of Murcia rewards a longer stay."},{"faq_question":"How far is Cartagena from Murcia city?","faq_answer":"Cartagena sits roughly 45-50km from Murcia city, close enough for a half-day or full-day trip to see the Roman theatre and port."},{"faq_question":"What is the Mar Menor and is it good for swimming?","faq_answer":"The Mar Menor is a shallow saltwater lagoon separated from the Mediterranean by the La Manga sandbar, known for warm, calm water suited to families and water sports."},{"faq_question":"Are there hiking trails in the Region of Murcia?","faq_answer":"Sierra Espu\u00f1a has numerous hiking trails through pine forest, and Barrancos de Gebas offers a shorter, more dramatic badlands walk near the capital."},{"faq_question":"Can you combine wine tasting with a trip to Murcia?","faq_answer":"Jumilla and Bullas are both within reach of Murcia city and Lorca, making it possible to combine a coastal or city stay with a wine tasting tour in Murcia inland."},{"faq_question":"Is the Ricote Valley worth a detour?","faq_answer":"Yes \u2014 the valley's orange and lemon groves along the Segura river, and villages like Ricote and Abar\u00e1n, offer a quieter contrast to the coast and cities."}]},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.winalist.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories\/1071","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.winalist.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.winalist.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/taxonomies\/category"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.winalist.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories\/826"}],"acf:user":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.winalist.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/17"}],"wp:post_type":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.winalist.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts?categories=1071"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}