10 Reasons to Visit the Murcia Region
1. The weather in Murcia is great!
The Murcia region is great for some all round sunshine. It sees more than 300 days of sunshine a year and even Autumn and Spring can be agreeably warm. With average temperatures as high as 26 degrees in October and May, Murcia makes a great winter sun destination. Its appeal all year makes it a great choice for both families and couples looking for a break in the sunshine.
2. A less crowded area of Spain
Lesser known and slightly under the radar, the Murcia region is a great choice if you want to enjoy Spain without the crowds. Its neighbours Valencia and Andalucia tend to be the ‘go to’ for families and couples looking for some Spanish sun and seaside fun. However, the Murcia region offers everything you could ask for; great beaches, international airports, good transport, excellent cuisine and all at a lovely slower pace of life without the crowds. It is a great place to visit.
3. Fiestas
The Murcia region has wonderful fiestas throughout the year, making it a great destination to experience authentic Spanish culture. Easter week can be a great time to visit Murcia with religious processions, grand parades, folklore, music, dances and regional food specialities. The traditional 3 Kings celebrations in early January (6th January) is one of the biggest in the year and another great time to visit. Street parades, food, music and treats for the kids make for a stunning spectacle. Many towns and cities across the Murcia region also have their own Fiesta days.
4. Stunning Murcia Coastline
One of the best reasons to visit the Murcia region has to be the beautiful beaches. Combine this with the 300 days of sunshine and it makes for a perfect holiday destination. There are many beautiful sandy beaches (with car hire and a bit of exploring you will find many almost empty stretches of sand) across the region from stunning Callblanque to Cortina Cove, and many more beyond.
Cabo de Palos is the base for some of Europe’s best scuba diving, and snorkelling is very popular here too. There are pretty harbours dotted along the coastline, natural coves and incredible beach bars serving fresh traditional Spanish cuisine.
5. History and Culture
The Murcia region is full of history, with an amazing range of influences evident today, from the Romans to the Moors. You’ll find plenty of well preserved Roman history in the stunning town of Cartagena, beautiful historic sites including the Catedral de Murcia and Real Casino in Murcia itself, and picturesque castles, caves, monasteries and hill top towns across the region. It really is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts.
6. Food
The region of Murcia is a great place to enjoy authentic Spanish food from tapas and seafood to paella and pastries. The region is lovingly known as Europe’s Orchard, with its location and climate allowing you to experience the ultimate mediterranean cuisine. There are huge numbers of excellent seaside beach bars that serve fantastic fresh food and incredible variety for families looking for good quality, inexpensive dining.
7. Travel to and from Murcia
The Murcia region is served by its own International airport, receiving regular flights from across Europe, including London, Birmingham, Bristol., Manchester, Dublin, Barcelona and Madrid. Alicante airport is also a good option and just a 50 minute drive from Murcia city. There are plenty of car rental options available making your onward travel easy from either airport.
8. Murcia’s compact nature
The compact nature of the Murcia region makes it another great choice for families, couples and solo travellers. It is easy to see a lot in a relatively short time; you can drive the length of the region in just over 2 hours. What is great is that you will see huge variety in that time – beaches, regional parks, harbours, villages, histrionic buildings and pretty towns. There are regular bus and train services between larger cities and towns, but having your own rental car is a great option to thoroughly explore this lovely region.
9. Accommodation in Murcia
The Murcia region has an excellent range of accommodation options including hotels, apartments and self catering villas. Prices remain reasonable and there are choices for all budgets from quality budget rooms to luxury hotels. There are plenty of lovely self catered villas for families or large groups along the coast, with many right beside the sea.
10. A great choice for families
Murcia is excellent value for money compared with many better known parts of Spain, making it a great choice for a family holiday. The range of things to do and places to visit also makes it an exciting place with children as there is so much on offer. You will discover great child-friendly shopping centres, playgrounds, beach front climbing frames, water parks, zoos and golf courses. Plus, with so many outdoor activities, including beaches, regional parks, boat trips and long walks, Fiestas, and beautiful towns and villages there is something for everyone.
