Cartagena
Region of Murcia, Spain• Population: 216,000
About Cartagena
Cartagena is a historic port city on Spain's Mediterranean coast, renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved Roman and Carthaginian ruins. Founded in 227 BC as Carthago Nova, this naval stronghold boasts over 2,500 years of history visible in its stunning archaeological sites, including a magnificent Roman Theatre and ancient defensive walls. The city perfectly blends its rich maritime heritage with modern attractions, featuring Art Nouveau architecture, excellent museums, beautiful beaches nearby, and a vibrant culinary scene. Its strategic location makes it an ideal base for exploring both cultural treasures and the stunning Costa Cálida coastline.
With 8 beautiful beaches nearby, Cartagena is also a perfect destination for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts.
Top Attractions in Cartagena
historical
Augusteum
Remains of the ancient Roman priests' college dedicated to Emperor Augustus. Features original marble floors and reconstructed columns in this atmospheric archaeological site. Open Tue-Sat 10am-2pm and 5pm-7pm, Sun 10am-2pm. Admission: €2.50. Located at Calle Caballero, 6.
Batería de Castillitos
Spectacular coastal military battery from 1933 featuring massive cannons and stunning Mediterranean views. Located on a dramatic clifftop 30 minutes from Cartagena, popular for photography. Always accessible and free. Located at Cabo Tiñoso.
Casa de la Fortuna
Roman house from the 1st century BC featuring beautiful mosaics, wall paintings, and household objects. Named after an inscription found at the site wishing good fortune to its inhabitants. Open Tue-Sat 10am-5:30pm, Sun 10am-2pm. Admission: €2.50. Located at Plaza del Risueño, 14.
Castle of La Concepción
Medieval castle atop Cerro de la Concepción hill offering panoramic views of the city and port. Houses the Centre for the Interpretation of Cartagena's History. Accessible by panoramic elevator. Open Oct-Mar: 10am-5:30pm; Apr-Sep: 10am-7:30pm. Admission: €3.75 including elevator. Located at Parque Torres.
Punic Wall Interpretation Centre
Remains of the 3rd-century BC Carthaginian defensive wall, one of the few Punic constructions preserved in Spain. The interpretation center showcases the wall's history and Cartagena's Carthaginian period through interactive displays. Open Tue-Sat 10am-5:30pm, Sun 10am-2pm. Admission: €3.50. Located at Calle San Diego 25.
Roman Forum District
Archaeological complex including the Decumanus Maximus (main Roman street), thermal baths, and the Atrium Building. The site showcases daily life in Roman Carthago Nova through well-preserved remains and multimedia presentations. Open Oct-Apr: Tue-Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 10am-2pm; May-Sep: Tue-Sat 10am-8pm, Sun 10am-2pm. Admission: €6. Located at Plaza del Ayuntamiento.
museum
National Museum of Underwater Archaeology (ARQUA)
Spain's premier underwater archaeology museum displaying treasures from shipwrecks, including Phoenician, Greek, and Roman artifacts. Features the spectacular Mazarrón boats and interactive exhibits about maritime heritage. Open Tue-Sat 10am-8pm, Sun 10am-3pm. Admission: €3, free on Saturdays from 2pm. Located at Paseo Alfonso XII, 22.
Naval Museum
Maritime museum in the former Naval Instruction Barracks showcasing Cartagena's naval history, ship models, navigation instruments, and the legacy of Isaac Peral's submarine. Open Tue-Sun 10am-2pm. Admission: €3. Located at Paseo Alfonso XII, Muralla del Mar.
Where to Stay in Cartagena
Luxury Hotels (5★)
Grand Hyatt La Manga Club Golf & Spa
World-class resort 30 minutes from Cartagena offering championship golf courses, luxury spa, and multiple restaurants. Features elegant rooms, tennis courts, and direct beach access on the Mar Menor.
Hotel La Manga Club Príncipe Felipe
Exclusive 5-star hotel within La Manga Club resort. Features spacious rooms with golf course views, multiple pools, spa access, and fine dining restaurants. Perfect for golf enthusiasts.
Posadas de España Cartagena
Luxury hotel on the waterfront with panoramic views of the port and Mediterranean Sea. Features a rooftop terrace, gourmet restaurant, and easy access to the historic center. Modern rooms with maritime-inspired decor.
More Accommodation Options
Cartagena offers 10 hotels across all price ranges, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly options.
Browse all hotels in Cartagena →Beaches Near Cartagena
Cala Cortina
Small urban beach with crystal-clear waters, protected by cliffs on both sides. Popular with locals, featuring golden sand and excellent facilities. Perfect for families with calm waters and nearby restaurants.
Cala del Pino
Small hidden cove near La Manga, accessed by footpath. Rocky beach with pine trees providing shade. Excellent for snorkeling with underwater rock formations and marine life.
Calblanque Natural Park Beaches
Series of unspoiled beaches within protected natural park. Golden sand dunes, crystal waters, and important wetlands. No development preserves the pristine Mediterranean landscape.
La Manga del Mar Menor
Famous 22km sand strip between Mediterranean and Mar Menor. Multiple beaches with calm, shallow waters on the Mar Menor side and waves on the Mediterranean side. Full resort facilities.
Playa de Islas Menores
Calm beach on the Mar Menor side with shallow, warm waters ideal for children. Therapeutic mud baths available. Traditional fishing village atmosphere with waterfront restaurants.
Playa de La Azohía
Traditional fishing village beach with dark sand and pebbles. Authentic atmosphere with colorful fishing boats. Good seafood restaurants and diving center for Islas Hormigas marine reserve.
Playa de Levante
Long sandy beach on Cabo de Palos with fine golden sand and moderate waves. Popular for water sports, especially windsurfing and kitesurfing. Good facilities and seafront promenade.
Playa del Portus
Secluded pebble beach in a horseshoe-shaped bay surrounded by mountains. Popular for snorkeling and diving with clear waters and rich marine life. Limited facilities maintain its wild character.
Where to Eat in Cartagena
El Barrio de San Roque
Mediterranean
Stylish restaurant in the old fishermen's quarter serving modern interpretations of regional dishes. Excellent wine list and romantic courtyard setting.
El Mosqui
Traditional Tapas
No-frills tapas bar famous for generous portions and authentic atmosphere. Specializes in fried fish, patatas bravas, and cold beer. A local favorite for over 40 years.
La Catedral
Seafood
Traditional seafood restaurant near the port specializing in fresh local catches and rice dishes. Famous for their calderón (traditional fisherman's stew) and arroz a banda.
La Marquesita
Traditional Spanish
Family-run restaurant since 1975 specializing in Murcian cuisine. Known for zarangollo (zucchini and egg scramble), michirones (bean stew), and homemade desserts.
La Tagliatella
Italian
Popular Italian restaurant in a beautifully restored modernist building. Fresh pasta made daily, wood-fired pizzas, and extensive Italian wine selection.
La Tapetería
Tapas
Modern tapas bar with sleek design and creative small plates. Features molecular gastronomy techniques applied to traditional recipes. Good selection of local wines.
4 more restaurants to explore
Where to Stay in Cartagena
Find the perfect place to stay in Cartagena. Browse hotels, apartments, and vacation rentals across the city. Use the map to find accommodations near your preferred attractions.
Tours & Activities in Cartagena
Quick Facts
- Region
- Region of Murcia
- Population
- 216,000
- Coordinates
- 37.6257°N, -0.9966°W
Find Hotels
Book your stay in Cartagena with our trusted partner Booking.com
Upcoming Events
Puerto de Culturas Summer Program
July-August
Cruces de Mayo
First week of May
Festival Internacional de Jazz
November (1 week)
Carnaval de Cartagena
February (2 weeks before Lent)
La Mar de Músicas
July (10 days)