5-Day Weekend Getaway to Murcia, Spain

Discover the Mediterranean charm of Murcia, Spain.

22 April 2023

As a tourist, Murcia is an amazing destination for relaxation and exploration. You can walk through the stunning neighborhoods adorned with colorful homes, visit the must-see Cathedral de Santa Maria, and gorge on authentic Spanish cuisine. The mineral-rich waters of the nearby Mar Menor adds an extra layer of relaxation with its therapeutic properties and stunning beaches.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Adventurous Arrival

  • Check into your hotel: Hotel Nelva, a trendy and modern four-star hotel with a rooftop pool.
  • Head to Terra Natura, an animal park with over 300 species. There are interactive shows and a water park.
  • Afterwards, visit the Salzillo Museum to see an impressive collection of sculptures, many of which are related to Holy Week. The museum also has a dollhouse exhibit, which is fascinating.
  • Eat at La Parranda, a charming cafeteria-style eatery that serves traditional Spanish food.
  • End the night at the Terra Natura Terrace for a drink and great view.
Day 2

Culture and Calmness

  • Start the day at the Cathedral. It is a stunning Gothic building with beautiful stained glass windows and interesting chapels to explore.
  • Go to the Teatro Romea, a historical theater built in the 19th century. You may catch a great show there.
  • Visit the Monteagudo Castle for a panoramic view of the city. It is on top of a hill, so you may want to bring comfortable shoes.
  • Have an authentic Spanish paella for lunch at Restaurante Bar El Churra.
  • In the evening, unwind at the Alameda Park, a peaceful place with palm trees and fountains.
Day 3

Revitalize with Hydrotherapy

  • Pamper yourself at the Balneario de Archena, one of the most famous spa resorts in the country. They have hydrotherapy sessions, mud treatments, massages, and much more.
  • Grab a bite at La Cava, a cozy restaurant with a vast selection of wines and delicious tapas.
  • Stroll around the Glorieta, a large tree-filled square in the center of the city. It has a beautiful fountain and benches to sit and relax.
  • Relax at the Plaza de las Flores, a picturesque square with colorful flowers and quaint cafes.
  • Dine at El Callejon de los Gatos, a lovely restaurant famous for its grilled meats and homemade desserts.
Day 4

Open-Air Museums

  • Visit the Santuario Virgen de la Fuensanta, a sanctuary with breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains.
  • Head to the Murcia Fine Arts Museum to see an impressive collection of works by local artists. There is also an archaeology section.
  • See the Muralla Árabe, ancient Arab walls that date back to the 9th century. They are in the center of the city and offer an interesting insight into the region's history.
  • Stop by the Salzillo Museum again to marvel at the fascinating life-size Nativity scene.
  • End the day at La Región brewery, where you can taste a variety of locally brewed beers.
Day 5

La Manga and Playa Paraíso

  • Take a day trip to La Manga, a beach resort that is famous for its crystal clear waters and golden sands. You may want to rent a bike or a kayak to explore the coastline.
  • Head to Playa Paraíso, a secluded beach with turquoise waters and unspoiled scenery.
  • Have lunch at Restaurante El Zoco, a classic seafood restaurant that serves fresh fish and traditional paella.
  • Go to the Parque Regional de Sierra Espuña for a hike in the mountains. It is a serene and authentic spot, away from the tourist crowds.
  • For dinner, eat at La Mafia se sienta a la mesa, a quirky Italian restaurant with Mafia-inspired decor and delicious pizza.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Murcia by plane is to fly into Murcia-San Javier Airport, which is approximately a 30-minute drive from the city center. Airlines such as Ryanair and EasyJet offer direct flights to this airport from various European cities.

Car

If you're driving to Murcia, the best route is to take the A-7 highway, which runs along the coast of Spain. This route offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and takes approximately 4 hours from Madrid and 1.5 hours from Alicante.

Train

While there is no train station in Murcia itself, the nearest station is in the nearby town of Torre Pacheco. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to Murcia city center. Alternatively, you can take a train to the city of Alicante and then transfer to a bus to Murcia.

Boat

Although there are no direct boat routes to Murcia, you can take a ferry from the nearby port of Cartagena, which offers regular connections to other Spanish cities such as Ibiza and Barcelona. From Cartagena, you can take a taxi or bus to Murcia city center.

Bus

The best way to get to Murcia by bus is to take a direct bus from Madrid or Valencia, both of which offer several daily departures. The bus station in Murcia is located in the city center, making it easy to access the rest of the city.

More travel plans

Budget-Friendly Fun: 3 Days in Murcia, Spain

Explore the historic streets of the city by walking tours and visit the impressive Gothic Cathedral, Museo Salzillo, and Castillo de Lorca with the nominal entrance fee. Try delicious local dishes at family-owned cafes and restaurants without breaking the bank. Relax on the sandy beaches on the Costa Cálida for a stress-free day trip from Murcia.

5-Day Weekend Getaway to Murcia, Spain

As a tourist, Murcia is an amazing destination for relaxation and exploration. You can walk through the stunning neighborhoods adorned with colorful homes, visit the must-see Cathedral de Santa Maria, and gorge on authentic Spanish cuisine. The mineral-rich waters of the nearby Mar Menor adds an extra layer of relaxation with its therapeutic properties and stunning beaches.

Murcia in Love: A Romantic Day Trip Guide

A romantic trip to Murcia, Spain promises a perfect blend of stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. With its charming medieval buildings, vibrant traditional markets and scenic seaside promenades, Murcia exudes an unmistakable old-world charm. From exploring its many historical marvels to savoring its delightful paella and wine, a trip to Murcia is an ideal way to kindle romance and make unforgettable memories.

Murcia Magic: A Budget-Friendly Family Adventure!

Murcia, located in southeastern Spain, offers a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip. Known for its warm, Mediterranean climate and stunning natural landscapes, families can explore the region's beautiful beaches, visit the Terra Natura Murcia zoo and water park for a day of fun-filled activities, and discover the rich history and culture of Murcia's charming Old Town, with its ancient architecture and bustling squares. With its leisurely pace of life and plenty of attractions suited for all ages, Murcia promises an unforgettable family vacation.