Best Things to Do in Murcia – An Unexplored Spanish Gem

Murcia is a beautiful region present in the southern region of Spain. The entire coastline of the east is along a 250 Kilometer stretch of Mediterranean sea. The City is famous for its rich culture and history that dates back to hundreds of years. The 1700s and 1800s hold a special place in the history of Murcia. The city saw a paradigm shift during this period resulting in the establishment of some of the famous works of art and architecture. Leaving aside history and culture, the city is famous for beaches as it has a 250 Kilometers coastline. In this article, we will unearth the hidden gems of Murcia and comprehensively explore the best things to do in Murcia on your Spain vacation.

Murcia is an offbeat destination and often doesn’t find a place in regular Spain itineraries. While the city is as good as any other city in Spain but somehow it hasn’t come to light yet. Even though it has an international airport and a robust public transport from different parts of Spain, the majority of tourists fail to add in their itinerary. That being said, we have tried to list down the things to do in Murcia that will help to get know the city better.

Things to do in Murcia

1. Murcia Cathedral
2. Terra Natura
3. Real Casino de Murcia
4. Floridablanca Gardens
5. Monteagudo Castle
6. La Mafia

1. Murcia Cathedral

The Murcia Cathedral is a blend of neo-classic and gothic style architecture and tops the list of best things to do in Murcia. The elegance, architecture work and interior brilliance are on para with any other cathedral across Spain. A fascinating fact about the cathedral being, it is built on a site that an established Mosque. The construction of the architectural marvel dates back to late 1300s and the structure came to final shape only in 1430s. Other key highlights of the Cathedral include the 300-meter tall majestic bell tower that consists of 25 bells.

• Address: Plaza del Cardenal Belluga, s/n, 30001 Murcia, Spain
• Opening hours:
  All weekdays: 7 a.m to 1.00 p.m and 5.00 p.m to 8.30 a.m
• Entrance fee: Free entry

2. Terra Natura

Terra Natura is a perfect family-friendly and kid-friendly attraction in Murcia. The place is similar to an animal sanctuary but also has additional activities like waterparks. You will able to witness different species of animals in their natural habitat. One of the preferred activities is the two-hour long night safari. The safari safe and open for people belonging to any age category. The zoo also has few endangered species of mammals namely, the European lynx, Iberian wolf and the brown bear. Moreover, the zoo has over 300 plus animals enough to keep the family occupied for a day-long tour.

• Address: Calle Regidor Cayetano Gago, s/n, 30100 Espinardo, Murcia, Spain
• Opening hours:
  All days: 11 a.m to 8 p.m
• Fare
  Infant: less than 2 years: free
  Children between 2 -12: 14 Euros
  Adults: 18 Euros
  Senior Citizen: 14 Euros

3. Real Casino de Murcia

Ever dreamed of gambling in foreign destinations and satiate your guilty pleasures, then Real Casino de Murcia is the perfect casino for you. The casinos are open to the public during specific hours else entry is a luxury only for people with membership. If you are not into gambling, you can still visit the place and enjoy the grandeur and richness of the structure. Only can only imagine the elegance and magnificence of the structure as nearly 10 million dollars was invested in revamping the structure.

• Address: Calle Trapería, 18, 30001 Murcia, Spain
• Opening Hours:
  Alldays: 10.30 a.m to 7 p.m
• Entrance fee: 8 Euros for adults

4. Floridablanca Gardens

Parks and gardens are integral parts of city administration in Spain. You will find at least a couple of parks in most cities in Spain. Similar to other cities, Murcia is no less. Floridablanca Gardens is one of the highlights and best things to do in Murcia. The park gets its name from a Spanish statesman Jose Monino. In addition, you will find a statue of the statesman at the park’s entrance. Gardens is a good place to relax in the evenings with your loved ones. The park is colourful as it is full of flower beds. In addition, Terra Natura and Floridablanca Gardens are close to each other and hence can be an ideal one-day itinerary from Murcia.

Address: Calle Proclamación, 6, 30002 Murcia, Spain
Opening hours: 10 a.m to 7 p.m throughout the week
Entrance fee: Free

5. Monteagudo Castle

Monteagudo Castle bit away from the city centre of Murcia. In fact, it’s on the outskirts of the city on rocky terrains. There are many documentaries on this castles capturing its long and intriguing history. As per the folklore, Emir of the Taifa of Murcia was a prisoner in this castle. Even though the castle has millions of things to explore, the entry of visitors to the castle is restricted. However, the visually appealing facade is what makes it one of the top things to do in Murcia.

• Address: 26 Diseminado, Av. Constitución, 30160 Monteagudo, Murcia, Spain
• Opening timings:
  Sunday: 10 a.m to 2 p.m
  Monday: Closed
  Other days: 10 a.m to 2 p.m and 5 p.m – 7 p.m

6. La Mafia

Like other cities in Spain, Murcia also has quite an impressive gastronomy. La Mafia is the paradise for foodies and has a track record of serving delicious local cuisines. The restaurant is spread across a two-story building and usually occupied with private events and parties. Few unique serving includes beef stuffed lasagna, homemade sauce with braise chicken and four-layer cheese pizza. However, none of the serving is fulfilling without a dessert.

• Address: La Mafia Murcia , Plaza Santa Isabel, 3, Murcia, Spain
• Opening Hours: 1:30–4 pm, 8:30 pm–12 am throughout the week.

Murcia is indeed an unexplored gem longing to be explored. If you are an ardent traveller who believes experiences culture through eyes of local, Murcia will surely interest you. However, given its an offbeat destination expert planning would be required. If Spain is in your bucket list and need help in planning, reach out to travel consultants at Pickyourtrail for a hassle-free experience. Also, check out their Spain packages for the best prices in the market. You can also drop a WhatsApp enquiry for further details and information.