20 Amazing things to do in Murcia, Spain

After moving to Spain from the UK, we visited the southern coast of Spain, visiting cities like Barcelona, Valencia and of course Murcia. This guide will show you all the best things to do in Murcia, Spain, one of the largest cities in the peninsula. Also, we will highlight to you some ideal day trips from Murcia and fun activities to enjoy your stay.

With a population of 540,000 people, Murcia is also an important commercial, manufacturing and agricultural centre. The city has access to all kinds of emblematic tourist attractions, activities and nightlife. The main reason to visit Murcia is that it is a very lively city, thanks to the university quarter, with youngsters from all over Spain and the rest of Europe, however, the city is still a little unknown.

Despite being small, Murcia has it all, the traditions of the typical Spanish markets to beautiful beaches and historical attractions. All that benefit from the cheap rates compared to other well-known locations on the same coastline.

All you should know about Murcia

Information about Murcia

• Reasons to visit Murcia
• Where is Murcia
• How to get to Murcia
• When visit Murcia
• Murcia Travel Information
• Map of Murcia Attractions
• Fun things to do in Murcia
• Best museums in Murcia
• Best Parties in Murcia
• Q&A Things to do in Murcia, Spain

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Things to do in Murcia Spain

1. Admire Murcia Cathedral
2. Real Casino de Murcia
3. Taste the local cuisine
4. Plaza de las Flores
5. Relax at Floridablanca Garden
6. Step inside Mercado de Verónicas
7. Snap a photo at Plaza del Cardenal Belluga
8. Stroll around the Segura River
9. Wander at Monteagudo Castle
10. Salzillo Museum
11. Santa Clara la Real Convent Museum
12. Murcia Archaeological Museum
13. Bishop’s Palace
14. Almudí Palace
15. Experience La Semana Santa
16. Attend Bando de la Huerta Festival
17. Jet Ski in Costa Calida
18. Castillo de San Juan de las Aguilas
19. Castel de Lorca
20. Ciudad Encantada de Bolnuevo
21. Visit Cartagena
22. Almadenes Caves and Canyon Rafting
23. Day trip to Costa Blanca

Why you should visit Murcia Spain

Murcia is still an uncovered destination among some of the best cities to visit in Spain. The little and tranquil town features incredible architecture, rich cuisine and traditions. Murcia is surrounded by incredible scenery, which makes this part of Spain a well-kept secret until now.

Uncover some of the best things to do in Murcia through some of the best attractions on this list. Unveil why Murcia is worth a visit, and enjoy the gorgeous coastline, the delicious food with typical Mediterranean influence and explore more of the surrounding parks and little towns.

Where is Murcia

Murcia is a city in the south-eastern region of Spain. It is the most populated city in the autonomous community of the Murcia Region and the seventh-largest city in Spain. We have included Murcia in our guide to the best cities to visit in Spain.

Located on the Mediterranean coast, the beautiful city has some of the best beaches in Southern Spain. Thanks to the centred position, between the region of Andalusia, Castilla-La Mancha and Valencia is easy to reach and perfect as the hub to start your trip to Spain.

Driving through the beautiful countryside you will notice the beautiful landscape, before arriving at the city centre and the seaside. Murcia and the entire region is all you need for the proper Spanish holidays. This traditional Spanish city is less touristy than you think, and this is mostly because people often prefer Andalucia or Valencia coast.

With an average of 3000 hours of sunshine per year, it’s safe to say that Murcia enjoys a somewhat temperate climate. However, the winters are usually long, partially cloudy, and can get quite cold, especially at night.

That said, the best time of the year to visit Murcia, weather-wise, is April through November. On average, June, July, and August are the balmiest, while January and February are the coldest months of the year.

June – August is considered the peak season in Murcia, and it’s usually the busiest time of the year.

Admire Murcia Cathedral

Murcia Cathedral should be at the top of any itinerary while visiting this laidback city as it’s one of the best things to do in Murcia.

Established in 1394, Murcia Cathedral is the oldest church in the city. It boasts exquisite details both on the outside and inside, adorned with the renaissance, gothic, and baroque architecture elements.

You don’t even have to be religious to gape at this architectural masterpiece.

Real Casino de Murcia

Situated at the heart of the city, this structure is considered a historic building and a cultural attraction.

It was established in 1847, and although it was initially a private club (still is), the ground floor acts as a host to many cultural events held in the city, and it’s open to the public.

The structure dates back to the 18th century and has a perfect combination of artistic styles from the late 19th century and the early 20th century.

Taste the local cuisine

Dubbed as “Europe’s vegetable gardens”, the farms in this region are renowned for their unmatchable quality in the continent. Culinary tourism is continuously an upward trend, and if you haven’t already, you should jump on the bandwagon on your next visit to this beautiful city.

If you’re not a fervent foodie, the Murcia local food might just turn you into one, thanks to the plethora of products and the extraordinary flavours this cuisine has to offer.

Arroz meloso (creamy rice), Pulpo a la murciana (Murcian-style octopus), and Hortalizas en tempura (vegetable tempura) are just a few delicacies you might want to try.

Plaza de las Flores

If you’re looking for the very best things to do in Murcia, Plaza de las Flores is a must-visit.

While on the circuit, walk around Murcia; this is a great spot where you can stop to refuel, drink a cup of coffee and enjoy watching people. Nestled within residential apartments and bodegas roundabout, this plaza oozes relaxing vibes.

You’ll find a couple of flower shops, a handful of eateries, and shopping centres. It’s also one of the most famous plazas in the shopping area where you get to enjoy the best selection of traditional Spanish restaurants and tapas bars.

Relax at Floridablanca Garden

This small but captivating garden is the best treat for nature lovers. But, if you want to kick back and unwind, this piece of heaven is the perfect place to start.

Some of the Ficus trees in this park were planted in the 18th century, and today, they give shelter from the sun to hundreds of people who enjoy spending part of their days in a peaceful, calming environment.

Step inside Mercado de Verónicas

On the north side of Rio Segura, just on the edge and adjacent to the floating bridge, you’ll find this awe-inspiring 20th-century building. This two-tiered food marketplace doubles down as a place where people meet, hang out and eat.

Mercado de Verónicas is ornate, visually spectacular, and a structure that deserves a spot on Murcia things to-do bucket list. You might mistake the market for a railway station from the outside, but once inside, there’s superb fresh produce to admire and buy.

Snap a photo at Plaza del Cardenal Belluga

Plaza del Cardenal Belluga is a beguiling square encircled by monumental buildings – the beautiful Cathedral, contemporary city hall, and the majestic 18th-century Episcopal palace.

The view of the Cathedral’s façade is particularly astounding, and the cafés present you with an opportunity to sit for a minute as you watch the world go by. You can visit this place any time of the day, but it truly comes to life with lights and a dreamy ambience at night.

Stroll around the Segura River

The Segura River confers the city of Murcia with luring scenic beauty while allowing adventure junkies to enjoy different types of water activities.

 If you’re not ready to go kayaking down the Segura, you can enjoy a peaceful walk by, as you appreciate flora and fauna thriving along the banks of this river.

Wander at Monteagudo Castle

Over the years, Monteagudo Castle has served many purposes – it has been a grain store, a fortress, and a prison. Up until the 15th century, it served as a border castle between the kingdoms of Castilla and Aragon.

It’s approximately 3 miles from the city centre. Still, it’s impressively carved from a rocky mountain and towers 149 metres above sea level, so it’s easy to spot it from the neighbouring areas.

From a distance, both the castle plus the statue of Jesus are staggering, and from the base of the ruins, you’ll have a sweeping view of Murcia.

Salzillo Museum

This beautiful museum is as captivating as it is gorgeous. It was established in 1960 as a tribute to Francisco Salzillo, a renowned local sculptor who lived in the 17th century. The museum has various rooms where splendid sizable sculptures by Salzillo are displayed.

Easter week is particularly exceptional in this city because the floats (pasos) carried in Murcia’s parades were designed and sculpted by Salzillo. Today, the Salzillo Nativity scene is probably the most outstanding work in the history of Spain and might just be the highlight of your visit here.

Santa Clara la Real Convent Museum

If you’re a history geek, you might find this museum worth your time. Although only part of this complex is open to the general public, it still has loads of intriguing history on display.

As though fate attempted to bring people of different religions together, Santa Clara la Real Convent, popularly known to locals as ‘las Claras’, was constructed on the previously occupied site by Moorish palaces.

The remains of the palaces of Ibin martinis and I bin Hud can be visited, and here, you’ll find a hoard of religious art and Islamic archaeology.

Murcia Archaeological Museum

Visiting the Murcia Archaeological Museum is probably one of the most exciting things to do in Murcia.

Since time immemorial, the Murcia region has been invaded and inhabited by different people. The Murcia Archaeological Museum hosts treasures that will take you on a journey from the Palaeolithic to the 20th-century occupation of this region.

The collection of finds has been gathered from sites across Murcia, and they’re laid out in chronological order – the prehistoric ones on the ground floor. At the same time, the Iberian are logically displayed on the first floor.

Bishop’s Palace in Plaza Cardenal Belluga

In our opinion one of the most instagrammable spots in Murcia. Plaza Cardenal Belluga is on the left side of the Segura River, opening the scenery to the beautiful Cathedral of Murcia.

The beautiful square is full of bars and restaurants to chill out and enjoy a coffee or cocktail. One of the most beautiful Spain Landmarks and definitely on the list of the most attractive squares in Europe, this features some of the most incredible places to visit in Murcia.

The square gives you access not only to the 14th-century Cathedral but also to the Palacio Episcopal (Bishop’s Palace) and the Sala Belluga, an exhibitions gallery open to visitors. Plaza Cardenal Belluga is iconic for locals, hosting the main celebrations of the city and it’s a meetup for citizens.

Almudí Palace

Located in Plano de San Francisco, Almudi Palace was constructed in the 15th century and was initially built to serve as a grain warehouse. This role changed in the 19th century. It was turned into a cavalry barracks and repurposed in 1886 into a court of justice.

In 1935 the complex was demolished, and the current building was rebuilt. It houses the municipal archives, Almudi art centre, and the culture department. There might not be much to see here, but the building itself is an architectural wonder.

Experience La Semana Santa

Like all other Spanish cities also Murcia has its own way to celebrate the holy week. We suggest you visit Murcia at this time of the year, as La Semana Santa is a unique experience that should be on your Spanish bucket list.

The holy week’s activities begin with religious parades, many established hundreds of years ago, making part of the Murcia traditions. Unmissable is the parade of Colorados, the largest, with over 4000 penitents walking together, hooded in a procession all in red and barefoot. As there are many activities during the Semana Santa in Murcia, we suggest getting updated information every year. Check it now!

Bando de la Huerta

If you want to immerse yourself fully into the Murcian culture, Bando de la Huerta Festival is a fantastic way to get in the spirit. Dating back to the 18th century, this tradition is celebrated on the first Tuesday after Easter, and it marks the onset of the spring Festivities.

Everybody is invited to celebrate so you can join the parade or simply enjoy the high-spirited ambience that crams the sky.

Jet ski tour in Costa Cálida

As you travel through the Mediterranean Sea on a jet ski, you’ll find the most stunning spots on the Costa Cálida. While exploring Murcia in summer, you can’t miss a day trip through the amazing coast.

Hop on a Jetski tour and explore the Islands, get into hidden Coves, arriving at Cartagena Port city for a beautiful walking tour of the old town.

Castillo de San Juan de las Aguilas

This gorgeous fortress was erected in the 16th century as a coastal defensive fortress against pirate attacks.

Getting to the castle does involve some climbing. But if you’re in reasonable shape, it should be relatively easy to get to the top from where you’ll be rewarded with exceptional views of the islands below and the bay.

The castle of Lorca

Well known as Fortaleza del Sol or The Sun Fortress, the Lorca Castle is the symbol of the homonymous city. The magnificent, still standing building was built between the 9th and 15th centuries.

The remarkable medieval fortress was impossible to conquer back on time, pivoting the city of Murcia into an inexpugnable city. Today this is one of the largest castles in Spain, open to visitors.

Located on the hilltop, overlooking the valley, the Lorca Castle has one of the most dramatic views in the whole Murcia countryside. Book your visit to the castle.

Ciudad Encantada de Bolnuevo

With their otherworldly appearance, Ciudad Encantada de Bolnuevo is a must-visit attraction that leaves you with a deep admiration of the forces of nature.

The sandstone formations have been shaped in a quirky yet bewildering appearance over thousands of years. On a lazy afternoon, you can head here to marvel at this glorious landscape.

Cartagena City FREE walking tour

Take our fantastic free walking tour to discover gorgeous Cartagena. A professional local guide will tour you around the old Murcian city’s most important landmarks. Start the tour exploring the historic alleyways of the 16th and 17th centuries, passing via San Agustin Square and Calle Bodegones.

We soon arrive at the Town Hall, a majestic structure that stands guard over the plaza. From here, we take a trip along with Calle Mayor, Cartagena’s main retail thoroughfare. This and more in a FREE tour of Cartagena.

Almadenes Caves and Canyon Rafting tour

Discover a protected and unique natural area tucked in the Murcia region’s northwest corner. You may go kayaking or rafting in the Almadenes Canyon with specialists who will lead you and explain everything about this fascinating region.

Enjoy the beaches with a day trip to Costa Blanca

This post about the best things to do in Murcia will not be complete without giving you insights about some of the best beaches. Despite being in the Alicante Province, Costa Blanca is the ideal day trip from Murcia. The most known city is definitely Benidorm, one of the favourite locations for Brits, Germans and other European youngsters.

About 200-kilometre-long Mediterranean beaches in the Alicante province will let you discover that you don’t need a long haul flight to find paradisiac beaches. It stretches from the town of Dénia in the north to the town of Pilar de la Horadada in the south, beyond which lies the Costa Cálida.