Why Murcia is such a hit with tourists
Ever wondered what the big deal is with the Region of Murcia and why holidaymakers are so drawn to it?
There is no end of reasons why the Region of Murcia is such a hit with tourists. From the beautiful weather almost all year round to the wealth of cultural, gastronomic, historical, and sporting activities on offer, it’s hard to find an excuse not to go and visit this gorgeous corner of southeast Spain!
Tourists who come to visit the Region of Murcia, even if they spend a lot of time on the beautiful long and sandy beaches, always like to try and take in some culture. That often means a visit to the historical town centres and to the heart of the Region’s cities to see the sights, such as the museums, historical buildings, and entertainment venues.
Murcia has so much to offer throughout the day, from tapas to beautiful architecture. There is a little bit of everything for everyone. Here’s a look into the top places to visit during the day.
Castle of Lorca and Jumilla Castle
There are dozens of castles and ancient monuments to visit in the Region of Murcia. Two that are a must see are the Castle of Lorca and The Castle of Jumilla.
Who created both castles?
The Castle of Lorca is believed to have been built in the 9th Century and has been speculated to have been built during the Muslim rule, however in the last half of the 13th Century it was completely rebuilt by Christians leaving very little trace that it was a Muslim fortress. It is one of the largest castles throughout all of Spain and is located on the top of a hill making it the hallmark of the city.
Jumilla Castle on the other hand was constructed in the Bronze Age and was later used by the Romans in 190BC. The Romans defensive walls still remain today even after it fell into ruins and was used throughout many wars as a place of refuge and even a prison. It was not until 1971 that a successful restoration plan was set in place.
Why are they worth visiting?
Amongst the variety of Castles Murcia has to offer, The Castle of Lorca and the Jumilla Castle are a must visit. Both are placed on the tops of hills and are accompanied by breathtaking views and are the perfect daytrip for those interested in learning more about the history of Murcia.
The Cartagena Roman Theatre Museum
The port city of Cartagena, especially, has a historical background stretching back a long way, and to this day the Roman remains of the important trading settlement of Cartago Nova are being uncovered and displayed to the public in the form of museums and the Roman amphitheatre.
What is there to visit?
The Cartegena Roman Theatre Museum is a must visit when travelling to Murica. It is the most visited museum within all of Murcia due to the restoration of the Roman Theatre within it. After being used as a theatre for around 200 years and then abandoned it was utilised as a marketplace and then made into small dwellings. Throughout the years the Theatre became buried until it was cleared and then later excavated by Rafael Moneo.
Reasons to visit the Cartagena Roman Theatre Museum
This extraordinary Theatre once seated 6000 spectators so is no small spectacle to witness. If you are a lover of Roman history this is most definitely the perfect choice for you as this museum is home to beautiful archaeological items and underwater artefacts alongside being able to step inside of the restored amphitheatre.
You can even enjoy free guided tours of many of Murcia’s most important cultural and historical sites to get to learn more about them when you visit.
Wine tasting
What many people don’t know is that Murcia is also a wine-producing region. The most famous wines from Spain are associated with the northern areas of La Rioja and Ribera del Duero, but the southern Spanish wines are just as good and even have their own DPO, a Denomination of Protected Origin which certifies that they are made solely in this area and are a recognised cultural asset of the region.
Where are the best wine-making towns?
One popular activity that many people like when they come to Murcia is taking a tour of one of the wine-making towns – either Jumilla, Bullas or Yecla – and (of course!) tasting the wines.
Why not give Wine tasting a go?
You can book your place on one of these so-called ‘Wine Routes’ and have local experts explain to you, in English, how the wines are made and walk you through the process of wine tasting. Not only will you learn more about the culture behind growing and making wine but you get the opportunity to taste the wines and learn how to appreciate them.
Murcia is not just perfect for daytime activities. If you are looking for something to do during the nighttime, Murcia is also the place for you.
Top Casino to visit in Murcia
The Orenes Gran Casino
The Orenes Gran Casino Murcia, which is located on the capital city’s Avenida de Juan de Borbón, is a leisure and entertainment spot that players and visitors to the Region can enjoy. Their state-of-the-art-slots are open 18 hours a day, so it’s easy to find a time to slip in and take in the unique cultural offering they have. And if you’re looking to get some practice in before trying the slots for real, it’s a good idea to try some free demo slots online.
This casino features two areas, one specified to slot machines and one specified for table games such as American Roulette, Poker and many more. The Orenes Gran Casino also offers signature cocktails and top-quality cuisine, perfect for a night out in Murcia.
Why Murcia’s Casinos are worth the visit
To match your extraordinary daytrips, it is worth making your night just as worthwhile. With Orenes being centred directly in the heart of the city it is perfectly located if you are staying in the centre and is said to be a truly innovative gambling experience.
Top places to dine out
Tapas are the perfect way to end your day in Murcia. With various places to try from El Togo II, El Pasaje de Zabalburu to Plaza de Las Flores, the list is endless for great Tapas in Murcia. All ranging from 4+ stars they are the perfect places to try if you have a love for seafood or are looking to try the local cuisine.
When going to the Region of Murcia on vacation, the cost of travel, food and transport is relatively affordable in comparison with Northern European countries. Even within Spain, Murcia is recognised as being one of the more affordable places to buy or rent property, and this is reflected in the cost of living, which means your money goes much further when you take a vacation in Murcia, but still with the same high-quality standards as in other holiday destinations.
With all this and more, it’s almost no wonder that so many people who come to visit the Region of Murcia as tourists – whether it’s in the pleasantly temperate winter or the sizzling summer – eventually choose to either move to live in this appealing corner of the Mediterranean coast or to purchase a holiday home here so they can come and visit whenever they like. The people are so friendly, and the place has such a charm that even tourists who have just visited the Region of Murcia once feel a certain strange connection to it that is hard to put into words.
