Cartagena Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Cartagena with this comprehensive travel guide featuring cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, best places to stay, and local cuisine.


Introduction to Cartagena

Cartagena is a port city located in the Murcia region of Eastern Spain. It is known for its rich cultural heritage and historic significance. The city boasts of ancient ruins, world-renowned museums, and a beautiful natural landscape. Cartagena also has a thriving food and wine scene and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

List of Places to Visit in Cartagena

Here are some of the must-visit places in Cartagena:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Roman Theatre Museum: This museum houses the remains of the ancient Roman Theatre, which was discovered in the mid-20th century during a construction project.
  • Cartagena Naval Museum: This museum features the history of the Spanish Navy and has an impressive collection of models of boats and ships.
  • Punic Wall: These ancient walls were built by the Carthaginians in the 3rd century BC and are one of the most well-preserved Punic walls in Spain.
  • Castillo de la Concepcion: This castle was built in the 13th century and offers a stunning view of the city.

Natural Attractions of Cartagena: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cala Cortina: This is a beautiful, secluded beach that is perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
  • The Sierra de la Muela: This is a series of mountain ranges that offer some of the best hiking trails in the region.
  • The Mar Menor: This is a saltwater lagoon located near Cartagena and is perfect for water sports like windsurfing and kayaking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cartagena

The Sierra de la Muela is one of the most popular spots for hiking and biking. The following are some of the best trails in the region:

  • The Sendero del Cid: This is a 45-kilometer hiking trail that runs from Cartagena to Jumilla, passing through the Sierra de la Muela.
  • The El Valle Trail: This is a 20-kilometer trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Cartagena: Activities and Tours

Here are some fun activities to do while in Cartagena:

  • Take a boat tour of the port and see the city from the sea.
  • Visit the local markets and sample the local cuisine.
  • Attend the Festival de Jazz, which takes place annually in November.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cartagena

Day 1: Visit the Roman Theatre Museum and Punic Walls. Day 2: Take a boat tour of the port and visit the Castillo de la Concepcion. Day 3: Hike the Sierra de la Muela. Day 4: Visit the Cartagena Naval Museum and take a tour of the city’s historic neighborhoods. Day 5: Relax at Cala Cortina beach. Day 6: Attend the Festival de Jazz. Day 7: Visit the Mar Menor and enjoy water sports activities.

Food and Drink Scene of Cartagena

Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages in Cartagena:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Arroz de caldero: This is a dish made with rice, fish, and a variety of spices.
  • Pastel de Cierva: A pastry filled with nuts and honey.

Local Beverages

  • Cartagena red wine: This is a dry red wine made from the Monastrell grape.
  • Sangria: A popular Spanish drink made with red wine and mixed fruit.

Where to Stay in Cartagena: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Sercotel Alfonso XIII: A historic hotel located in the city center.
  • NH Cartagena: A modern hotel with a rooftop terrace offering views of the city.
  • Hostal Palas: A budget-friendly guesthouse located in the historic district.

What to Buy in Cartagena: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Ceramics and pottery.
  • Olive oil and wine.
  • Embroidered fabrics and lace.

Local Culture and Customs of Cartagena

Cartagena has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its traditional crafts and festivals. The locals are warm and friendly, and it is customary to greet people with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek.

Best Time to Visit Cartagena

The best time to visit Cartagena is late spring and early fall, between the months of April and June, and September and October when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are fewer.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cartagena

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and wines.
  • Respect the local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Argue with the locals.
  • Leave valuables unattended.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cartagena

Cartagena is a safe city for tourists. However, it is always advisable to take precautions and avoid unsafe areas, especially at night.

Health in Cartagena

Spanish public health care is free for EU citizens. Non-EU citizens are advised to have travel insurance before visiting. Tap water is safe to drink in Cartagena.

Getting to Cartagena: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Cartagena

The nearest airport is San Javier (MJV), which is located about 25 kilometers from Cartagena. Alternatively, the Alicante (ALC) airport is about 100 kilometers from Cartagena.

Bus Stations Near Cartagena

The Cartagena Bus Station is located in the city center and offers connections to many Spanish cities, including Madrid and Valencia.

Other Options

Cartagena can be reached by train, with connections to nearby cities and towns.

How to Get Around in Cartagena

Cartagena is a small city that is easily walkable. Taxis and buses are also available for longer distances.

Where to Go Next from Cartagena: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • La Manga del Mar Menor: A beach resort town located near Cartagena.
  • Murcia: The capital city of the Murcia region of Spain.

Conclusion

Cartagena is a beautiful city with a rich cultural heritage and a stunning natural landscape. With its ancient ruins, world-renowned museums, and beautiful beaches, there is something for everyone in Cartagena. Plan your trip today and experience the best of Spain.

The Roman Theatre of Carthago Nova and Cathedral ruins of Cartagena The Roman Theatre of Carthago Nova and Cathedral ruins of Cartagena Cartagena's City Hall Cartagena's City Hall Peral Submarine near the harbour Peral Submarine near the harbour