El Portus

Sights & Excursions

The area has many archaeological sites and a rich history from the Romans and Carthaginians. Cartagena’s festivals to note include Easter festivities, a world music festival, La Mar de Musicas in July, the Flamenco festival Cante de las Minas in August and the parades of Carthaginians and Romans in September.

Cartagena
In Spain’s principal naval base, once raided by Drake, visit the Roman theatre, the craftwork centre specialising in pottery, grass and embroidery or indulge in the fine gastronomy offered by a wealth of fine restaurants.

Murcia
This cosmopolitan city is the capital of the region. Don’t miss a visit to the historical centre where there are plenty of shops and street markets, or to the cathedral and the museum of 17C sculptor, Salzillo.

Jumilla & Yecla
Visit their castles or 100 year-old wineries such as Bodegas Castano or Casa de la Hermita.

Mar Menor & Cabo de Palos
Mar Menor is the largest lagoon in Europe and offers an abundance of watersports. Cabo de Palos is a small fishing village overlooking the lagoon. This is the area to try some of the best paellas in the region.

Street Markets
The markets of Cartagena, Mazarron and Cabo de Palos are worth a visit.