Weather lowdown
Located on the south east coast of Spain, Murcia has a typical Mediterranean climate which includes mild and pleasant weather all year round. This makes it a popular destination for tourists who come to enjoy the regions golden beaches, stunning scenery and vibrant town and cities.
April is when spring really gets into swing and all signs of winter are left behind. Murcia starts to warm up a little more, with an average temperature of 16°C, rising throughout the month to an average of around 18 or 19°C. High temperatures can even reach 22°C in April, which mainly occurs in the inland areas away from the coast. You may still need to pack a light jacket or some warmer layers for nights in Murcia, as temperatures can drop to a low of 9°C.
Days get much brighter in April, with 5 hours of sunshine compared to just 3 hours in March. Holiday makers can enjoy this sunny weather on one of Murcia's beautiful beaches along the Costa Cálida. While sunbathing is definitely an option in April, the sea may still too cold to swim for most. The average sea temperature is around 17°C which is warmer than the winter months but still not as warm as summer. The sea is slightly warmer in the sheltered Mar Menor, where the temperature never drops below 18°C.
While you may see some April showers in Murcia this month, the weather is much drier than March. April sees around 20mm of rain and an average of 6 wet days throughout the month compared to 300mm in the month before. There's a 20% chance of a rainy day in April, so you still might need to pack an umbrella. Rain at this time of the year is generally light rain and drizzle though, so your holiday shouldn't be totally spoiled by showers.
Take a look at the 14 day weather forecast for Murcia.
Where to stay
Wherever you decide to stay, Murcia has an array of fantastic accommodation options scattered around the region. Look out for some great deals in April.
If you're looking for a room in Murcia city centre, try the budget-friendly Hotel Arco De San Juan. Housed in a restored neoclassical palace, the hotel offers modern accommodation located just 250km from Murcia Cathedral. Guests can hire bicycles from the hotel for free a great way to explore the city!
Outside of the city, the Hacienda Riquelme resort is just 13 miles to the nearest beach, offering holiday makers the best of both worlds. Set near the village of Sucina, the hotel has beautiful surroundings on a peaceful golf course. Facilities include several outdoor swimming pools, a restaurant, tennis courts and a gym.
For those seeking a seaside stay in Murcia, Hotel Bahia in the resort of Puerto de Mazarrón is situated next to La Reya beach. The great value hotel offers simple and comfortable accommodation with free Wi-Fi, free on-site parking and a bar and Mediterranean restaurant for guests to enjoy. There's also a pretty garden and terrace which overlooks the sea. Hotel Bahia is perfect for a quiet stay in Murcia.
Hit the beach
Murcia is renowned for its beautiful beaches and natural coastline. In fact, the World Health Organisation declared Murcia's coast the cleanest in Spain.
In the south of Murcia, the resort of Águilas is a great place to visit if you want to hit the beach. Playa de Levante is the areas main stretch and has been awarded a Blue Flag for its quality. The beach is well equipped, with water sports, beach bars, sun loungers and restaurants close by. Further along the coast, Calabardina beach is a hit with families. The quiet beach is never crowded and is pristine, with a regular cleaning service. The sea here is calm and great for swimming.
Eating and drinking
Murcia is full of fresh and flavoursome food, with produce from the fields of the Huerta and fish and seafood from the Mar Menor and Mediterranean Sea.
For a taste of local cuisine, head to Restaurante Bolos in the port town of Cartagena. This popular eatery serves authentic Spanish fare including grilled meat dishes and paella alongside a great selection of wine.
If you're looking for a place to eat in Murcia city, Restaurante Salzillo is highly rated and has won a Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence for its excellent food and atmosphere. The restaurant offers guests contemporary Mediterranean fare and specialises in fresh fish dishes.
Barra del Rincón is also located in Murcia city centre and is a great place to stop off after dinner for a drink. Situated inside the four star Hotel Tryp Rincón de Pepe, the bar has a contemporary and upmarket feel and is well known for its amazing cocktail menu.
Things to do
Depending on when Easter falls, April can be an interesting month to be in Murcia because of the Holy Week activities. Those who would like to observe a time of historic and religious significance in Spain should definitely visit at this time of the year.
Around the middle of the month, Murcia has a Spring Festival which include events such as the Orchard Proclamation and the Burial of the Sardine. As its name implies, the first part involves paying tribute to the groves of fruits that the region hopes to harvest, praying over them and giving thanks in advance. The second part of the ceremony is a common practice at the end of many Spanish celebrations and sees locals burying a sardine - a humorous way to end a fiesta.
April is a popular travel time for families and Murcia has some great things to do with the kids. Terra Natura is Murcia's wildlife park located on the outskirts of Murcia city. The park contains over 50 different species of animals which visitors can get up close to and see in their natural environment. There's also a water park and various shows, making Terra Natura a fun day out for all the family.
Murcia is a region with local grape varieties that produces high quality red wine. For a more adult activity, tourists can go wine tasting in the Jumilla or Yecla wine region which has a number of wineries. The small but successful wine region is dedicated to its traditions and heritage
