Introduction
Murcia is a major city in the south-eastern part of Spain and the seventh biggest city in the country.
Situated in the Huerta (orchard area), Murciaâs has a hilly landscape, close to the surrounding mountain ranges of Cresta de Gallo and Sierra de Orihuela.
Visitors like the semi-arid, Mediterranean climate, which provides warm summers and mild winters.
Given that the Spanish destination enjoys 300 days of sunshine annually, travellers find Murcia an ideal holiday destination.
It is not surprising that Murciaâs shore is referred to as La Costa Calida (warm shore).
Whether you go to Murcia to enjoy the beaches, appreciate the architecture, or hike through one of the scenic parks, you will find that this city is an inviting option
Types of Holiday-goers
Because of its diverse landscape, beaches, and old-world architecture, Murcia attracts a variety of people.
History buffs enjoy visiting the cathedrals and buildings in the capital of Murcia, while hikers like to escape to the Parque Natural de Sierra Espuna.
Then, of course, there are the beaches in the area, where travellers can relax along the shore or enjoy a variety of water sports, including surfing, swimming, and jet skiing.
The Best Time to Travel to Murcia
Because of its sunny, warm climate, Murcia sees tourists visit the city throughout the year.
During the winter, the average temperature during the day stays around 16 degrees Celsius. In the summer temperatures soar to an average 34 degrees Celsius in the day.
Most tourists choose to visit during the warmest months of the year, in the main tourism season of May to October. At this time of the year, the Mediterranean climate is at its best, with long, hot and sunny days and virtually no rain.
Activities
Visitors to Murcia wonât be disappointed when it comes to things to do.
Aside from relaxing on the sand, the beaches are perfect for tourists that want to try out water sports, with snorkelling, scuba diving, kite surfing, jet skiing and windsurfing available.
Sailing trips around the coast, in particular, dolphin and whale watching trips, are also a favourite with tourists of all ages and a relaxing alternative.
The surrounding countryisde is ideal for walking and hiking, while the many golf courses in the area will keep everyone from beginners to serious players happy.
Hotels in Murcia will often arrange tours and excursions for guests too.
Sights and Attractions
Murcia is an ideal city in which to walk and see the various sights, especially the Murcia Cathedral, in Cardinal Belluga Square, which is noted for its Baroque architecture.
TheEpiscopal Palace, which dates back to the fourteenth century and is located in the square as well, is another noteworthy attraction. The tower on the palace is several hundred feet high. The Cathedral Museum, Science Museum, and the Bullfighting Museumare other popular attractions.
The Mar Menor, which is the biggest saltwater lake in Europe and the Calblanque National Park both attract active tourists, with plenty of water sports on offer here, as well as walking and hiking trails.
If you are a history enthusiast, youâll like visiting the town of Caravaca de la Cruz, which features a Renaissance church and castle.
The Beaches of Murcia
Murciaâs beaches are popular with tourists and locals throughout the summer and there are plenty to visit when on holiday here.
Lo Paganâs shoreline is divided by a marina and fishing harbour. The town, which can be found on the north side of Mar Menor, is recognised for its mud baths too, all which are located at the end of the beach area. Visitors cover themselves with the mud, which is said to help joint aches and pains and improve the skin. A fun fair is featured next to the marina during the summertime for the kids.
Santiago de la Ribera, which is located on the Mar Menor, provides a ferry service across the large lagoon. The boat takes passengers to the La Manga Strip and the Tomas Maestre Marina.
Nightlife
La Manga, located close to Murcia, is the place to visit after sunset as it is home to several clubs and bars.
Yesterdays is a seasonal club that is only open in the high tourism season, but is a very popular club that guarantees a great night out, with the top tunes and a fantastic light show.
Q Bar is a trendy and relatively new club that provides food and screens sporting events during the day, before providing a great clubbing atmosphere in the evening. Live music is also a feature at the weekends.
Spikeâs Bar is known for providing the best live music and entertainment. Everything from Latino dance evenings, to popular DJs, to piano music is provided here, depending on the night of the week you visit.
Restaurants
Murcia is known for its tapas as well as its seafood specialties.
The Rincon de Pepe is the most popular tapas restaurant in Murcia.
Hispano is another popular, highly-recommended tapas restaurant. The restaurant also serves delicious meats and stews. The low prices and authentic food make Hispano a favourite of tourists and locals alike.
Accommodation
Murcia offers a range of accommodation. Regardless of whether you plan to relax at the beach or explore the city, there will be something to suit your tastes and budget.
Golfers in Murcia can stay at the InterContinental La Torre Golf Resort, which offers cheap room rates which will suit ven those travelling on a budget. The lakeside property, which is situated in the centre of the La Torre Golf resort, is also close to many restaurants, boutiques and historical sites.
The Catalonia Conde de Floridablanca is a five-minute walk from the Murcia Cathedral. Room rates start as low as 40 Euros a night, so it is ideal for anyone travelling on a budget.
The Hotel Hispanois located in the old quarter of Murcia and so is the ideal accommodation for history enthusiasts.
The Hotel Campanile Murcia Hotel is situated near the city centre.
The Hotel Nelva, which is a popular choice of travellers, is only ten minutes away from the town centre of Murcia. The hotel is less than five minutes away from the Las Atalayas shopping complex.