Compare Murcia holidays

An hour inland from the Med, Murcia is a balmy, subtle Spanish secret with lots to offer. Go on holiday to Murcia for the mouth-watering tapas and the cultural old town, as well as the proximity to both blissful beaches and wonderful walking. Or go simply for a good time: this leafy university city gets very lively at the weekend.

Savour some of Spain’s top tapas

Many Iberians reckon that Murcian chefs cook up Spain’s best tapas. The location helps: Murcia is surrounded by famously fertile lands, and is close enough to the Mediterranean to receive daily fresh fish.

All Murcia holidays should involve sampling the town’s celebrated tapas bars, washing everything down with glugs of the local Monastrell red.

Take in historical wonders and waterside views

Murcia’s magnificent cathedral is just one example of its historical bounty, which also includes Moorish city walls and gorgeous convent cloisters. Murcia is a cheap cultural date too: many of its attractions are free or bargain-priced to enter.

In a 300-year-old ritual, Murcianos stroll the riverside Paseo del Malecon at dusk. The Rio Segura’s floodlit footbridges make it desperately romantic.

Keep it cool and contemporary

Murcia’s history does not mean it is stuck in the past. A large student population ensures a pulsating nightlife scene, with bars and restaurants to suit all budgets – great news for those seeking the cheapest packages.

Modern art-lovers are also in luck, thanks to a recent glut of forward-thinking gallery spaces.

Explore the surrounding area

Surrounding Murcia is the vast huerta (garden), known for its superior produce. Alongside its lemon groves and date palms are pine forests, mountain foothills and preposterously pretty hamlets; in short, walking heaven, with the happy bonus of well-waymarked routes.

You’re also within an hour of the Med, and some surprisingly deserted beaches.