Murcia is one of the amazing places to visit in the south of Spain. This historic, and relatively small Spanish city is so wonderful to visit; especially if you’re driving down the coast from Alicante. Not only that, there are so many of the best things to do in Murcia that you’ll be spoilt for choice once you arrive.
With centuries of history and yummy restaurants, you’re going to have the best time visiting Murcia. Just make sure to give yourself at least a full day (or longer) to experience it all.
So, to help you get the most out of your visit, I’m sharing my top places in Murcia that you have to visit. Have an amazing time visiting Spain.
1.) Monteagudo Castle
Nestled on the fringes of the city itself, Monteagudo Castle is one of the best things to do in Murcia whilst exploring the city’s centuries of history.
That being said it’s a bit of a trek to get to and also fairly easy to see without hiking from the city centre. You can easily drive (or grab a taxi) close to Monteagudo Castle and explore the surrounding castle.
Once here, make sure to spot Christ of Monteagudo (who sits proudly on top of the hill). The whole fort area is great to see if you’re into your history. You’ll even get to learn more about the Moorish artefacts that have been found.
Just be aware, there is very intermittent access to this site. Sometimes the gates are shut or the whole site is closed off; with very little information for visitors.
A visit will only take around 40 minutes, and can easily completed in the morning as you leave Murcia.
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2.) Murcia Cathedral
Murcia Cathedral is one of the most iconic spots in the city. This makes visiting one of the best things to do in Murcia whilst strolling the city centre.
Dating back to the 1400s the architectural details of this cathedral are just stunning; both inside and out.
From the outside, you’ll get to see the beautiful Baroque architecture that is so beautiful. Once inside, the architecture changes somewhat and you’re greeted with a Gothic building that’s equally as impressive, but different in style.
Just make sure to see Vélez Chapel. It’s beautiful and dates back over 500 years.
At sunset, the hues around the cathedral are also pretty amazing; So it’s nice to explore at golden hour if you’re staying in the city overnight.
Oh, I almost forgot! Murcia Cathedral also has one of the tallest bell towers in Spain; with no less than 25 bells inside.
In fact, you can also climb to the top of the cathedral and if you are up to it, you’ll have one of the best views in the city as a reward for all of your hard work. However, make sure to take some water, as it can get hot in the summer months.
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3.) Plaza De Las Flores
Yes, it might be small but Plaza de las Flores is one of the best things to do in Murcia to visit whilst hungry! You see, this whole area has heaps of tapas spots to grab a bite to eat. But choose wisely, some of the tapas bars aren’t the best.
We loved Pepico del Tío Ginés that’s just off Plaza de las Flores. Their grilled montaditos are so good. Oh, and don’t forget a glass of vermouth, too.
Not only that, there are lots of great restaurants (if you fancy a more formal ‘sit down’ dinner) in the area, too. Just remember that dinner is not a rushed experience in Spain. Set aside enough time to enjoy and eat into the night.
4.) Floridablanca Garden
If you’re looking for something laidback to do in Murcia or just want to cool off in the heat? Then visiting Floridablanca Gardens is one of the best things to do in Murcia. Yes, it’s relatively small but it’s quite important as this is the first public garden in all of Spain.
Plus, you’ll get to see the Peligros Church that’s a few minutes away.
If that’s not your thing, head out of Murcia and visit Calasparra to explore Murcia’s iconic Cueva del Puerto. The cave system is so impressive to see and well worth a gander if you’re interested in natural history. Just be sure to book these tickets before arriving. You don’t want tours to be filled once you make the journey.
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5.) Plaza Del Cardenal Belluga
If you’re already visiting Murcia’s Cathedral, then you really can’t miss Plaza Del Cardenal Belluga. It’s one of the grandest squares in all of Murcia.
Of course, this is in large part thanks to Murcia Cathedral at one end and the Bishops’s palace at the other. The whole area around the plaza is just gorgeous to stroll.
Not only that, you’ll get to see the Episcopal Palace of Murcia’s courtyard and grand staircase as just so lovely to see.
Now, like most of central Murcia, Plaza Del Cardenal Belluga is a great spot to stop for food in the city. We loved the unfussy Los Zagales for tapas.
Though, it is worth noting that some of the restaurants are a little pricier here. If you want to keep costs a little lower, venture down some of the side streets thanks to its popular location. We loved Tierra Mía for their freshly baked pizza.
Oh, and if you’ve got time, book a ticket to watch a performance at Teatro Romea. It’s a medical theatre that’s building is just as incredible as the performances inside.
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6.) Almudi Palace
Just a few minutes’ stroll from Plaza Del Cardenal Belluga, the Almudi Palace is an absolutely must-visit for art lovers.
It’s absolutely beautiful and plays home to lots of equally beautiful art throughout the previous centuries. Best of all, it’s never really crowded or overly busy.
Plus, it is open till quite late on most days (it closes around 9 pm) meaning you can leave exploring this till later in the evenings. It does however close on Sundays and public holidays at 2 pm. So be warned if you’re travelling around these times.
Afterwards, head over to Mercado de Verónicas to experience a working market that’s so lovely to see. The bottom floors are typically fresh meats and fish; but head upstairs and you’ll find some produce like grains, nuts and fruits.
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7.) Costa Calida And Costa Blanca
Fancy a trip away from the bustling streets of Murcia? Then head down to the Spanish coast. Costa Calida and Costa Blanca are vast stretches of beautiful coastlines which span hundreds of miles.
In fact, it’s home to some of Spain’s best beaches so a trip to Murcia is a fantastic excuse to visit the beach and have a fantastic holiday in the sun.
We absolutely love Playa de Mil Palmeras as it’s got that mix of being a ‘big beach’ whilst also having the town for snacks and nibbles. If you want something a little quieter, head over to Playa Les Ortigues. The beach area isn’t built up and it’s vast enough to ever feel busy.
Alternatively, if you’re heading south, down the coast, stop off at Aguilas. The beach, La Playa Amarilla, is gorgeous.
Now, you can do one on a day, but, and it’s a big but; I’d recommend adding on a couple of days. This way, you can explore the vast stretches of the Spanish coastline that make this area so special.
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8.) Real Casino de Murcia
One of the most famous social clubs and restaurants in Murcia has to be the Real Casino de Murcia. Now, the entry fee is around 5 Euro, but it’s worth it to visit the rooms that make this so special.
As you wander around, be sure to take a glimpse at the gorgeous ballroom, the library and the billiard room which are all so unique.
After exploring, pop into the restaurant for lunch. Their menus change seasonally and it’s a whole experience.
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9.) Carrascoy And El Valle Regional Park
Fancy a little wander into the great outdoors in Murcia’s region? Then get yourself over to Carrascoy and El Valle Regional Park.
Around 30 minutes from the centre of Murcia by car, Carrascoy and El Valle is beautiful to visit. In fact, I’d go as far as saying it’s one of the best things to do in Murcia if you’re looking to hike.
It’s such a gorgeous area and great for hiking in Spain, especially with all the different trails that crisscross the park. Some of our favourite spots are around Plaza de Las Moreras.
Just remember, this is a really hot part of Spain so make sure you take enough snacks and, more importantly, drinks for your hike here. No one likes a reckless hiker.
Read more: Best places to visit in the south of Spain
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