Travel information for tourists
The history of Murcia is full of surprises. The city was founded by the Moors. The settlement in this part of Spain can mainly be credited to fertile lands on the banks of the river Segura. While the valley has been inhabited for almost 2000 years, the foundation of the city was not laid until the nineth century.
If you are visiting Murcia, you head over to San Pedro or Santa Catalina and the Plaza de las Flores for a stunningly picturesque view of the city. Also, take the time out to end your tour of the city in the gorgeous Paseo del Malecón, a stretch of land which joins the irrigated green lands of the region with the urban area of the city. The old town, located on the banks of the Segura river, is a popular destination for tourists who come to do some sightseeing and has retained its historical streets named after the guilds that worked there.
The best place to go for an incredible view of the city is the La Fuensanta Sanctuary in the mountains behind Murcia. From El Valle the views are also excellent. The moorish castle is another spot which should not be missed. The fortress can be seen from anywhere in the city, because it has been constructed by the Muslims on the summit of the Monteagudo mountain.
The Costa Calida, the sandy coast of Murcia and La Manga are by far the most wellknown attractions for beach lover and watersport enthusiasts. The beaches between Aguilas and Mazarron are less crowded than the beaches in resorts like La Manga.
La Manga del Mar Menor is a twenty two kilometer long strip which separates the Mar Menor, a salty lagoon from the Mediterranean Sea. From scubadiving to water skiing, from kayaking to windsurfing or sailing, you name it and you are bound to find it at La Manga and the Costa Calida.
Currently Murcia is served by San Javier airport with many international flights from all over Europe, but mainly from the United Kingdom. The nearby airport of Alicante is not far away and offers a bigger choice of international airlines, including low cost carriers. Because San Javier is also a military airfield a new civil airport (Corvera) has been built. Once opened this private airport should be able to handle more flights than San Javier.
Car hire at Murcia airport is relatively cheap, but it is still a good idea to compare prices before booking a rent a car online. Check the small print and make sure to find out what insurance cover is offered by the local car hire company and if you have to pay for a full tank of petrol when you collect the vehicle.
