Cartagena & Murcia: Costa Cálida's Historic Cities

Cartagena has over 2,200 years of documented history. Founded by Carthaginians in 227 BC, it became a major Roman settlement called Carthago Nova. The Roman Theatre, uncovered in the 1980s, is well-preserved and central to the city's archaeological museum route.

Today Cartagena operates as Spain's third-largest port and main naval base. The harbor area contains 19th-century buildings, restaurants, and the active commercial port. The city maintains both its military function and civilian population of around 220,000 residents.

The city's identity stems from its role as both a regional capital and university hub. Over 45,000 students bring energy and innovation, while local families maintain traditions passed down through generations. Markets overflow with local produce, tapas bars serve recipes unchanged for decades, and festivals celebrate everything from Holy Week processions to harvest celebrations.

Both cities operate on authentic Spanish rhythms. Local businesses follow traditional Spanish schedules with afternoon closures. Restaurants fill with Spanish families and students rather than tourists, offering better value and more genuine cuisine.

Markets overflow with fresh regional produce. Cafés serve proper Spanish coffee. Shops stock items for daily Spanish life rather than holiday souvenirs. You'll experience Spain as locals live it, making these cities perfect for understanding your adopted region beyond the beach.

Murcia has high-speed rail connections to Madrid (4 hours) and regional train service. Both cities connect to the AP-7 motorway system. Cartagena is 15-20 minutes from Costa Cálida beaches and the Mar Menor lagoon.

The cities are 48 kilometers apart with regular bus connections and a 45-minute drive via the A-30 motorway. Many people work in one city and live in the other, or visit both for different purposes.