Cartagena, Spain: Everything you need to know

Cartagena, Spain: Everything you need to know

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Have you ever heard of the charming little city Cartagena, in Spain? This really is a hidden gem in the south of Spain that everyone should visit! Whether you're fascinated by history, a lover of the outdoors or simply looking for a cute, inexpensive city to check out - Cartagena should be added to your travel list! I've broken down all my top tips for visiting the city and surrounding areas - from places to eat and drink to hikes to day trips. You definitely won't be short on things to do and places to see.

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When to visit...

Festivals

A great way to figure out when you should visit any town in Spain is to look into when they have their local festivals. Cartagena has a handful of local festivals but the one I would suggest is the Fiestas de Carthagineses y Romanos. This is a really unique celebration in Cartagena where people dress up as their associated "tribe," either the Carthagineses or the Romans. The festival recreates the 209 BC 'conquest' of Cartagena by the Roman troops and the Carthagineses who fight to defend their land. The week of celebrations alternate days for each "tribe" and there's a huge parade on Saturday where both tribes march through the city.

If you'd like to visit in springtime then Semana Santa could be an excellent time to come to Cartagena. Semana Santa is basically a week of Easter celebrations that happens throughout all of Spain, with some towns having very impressive processions (like Sevilla). Cartagena also has some wonderful processions, including the silent procession where everyone is completely silent and all of the lights are turned off on the street. It's quite meditative and a very interesting sight to see! I've been to Semana Santa in Cartagena twice and I always enjoy it.

Where to eat and drink...

Mesón El Galgo

This is my absolute favorite restaurant in Cartagena. It's decently priced, has all the classic Spanish tapas and raciones and very typical Spanish vibes. It feels super local. I would definitely recommend this spot!

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Villa Esperanza

This is a family-run business in a beautifully restored estate, which the family restored themselves. You'll find delicious cocktails here, as well as some tasty batidos. The decor is vintage and gives such a cool vibe. One of my all-time fave places in Cartagena.

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VINARTE

This is a great little wine and cheese bar. I suggest getting the cheese plate where you can sample several different cheeses and ask for a great wine pairing. Make a reservation, as the place is small and on weekends it will be busy.

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CafeLab - Casas Del Rey

My favorite cafe in Cartagena! This is a very hispter-type place, which serves 'brunch' and coffee of all sorts (including iced coffee). You won't find stuff like this in normal Spanish cafes, so if this is what you're looking for in the morning then visit CafeLab!

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La Uva Jumillana

One of my favorite tapas bars in Cartagena. I've been here on several visits to the city and it never disappoints. You have your classic tapas, as well as some more specific to the area. And of course great tinto de verano!!

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Club Náutico El Chalet

This is a great restaurant to sit down and enjoy some proper good seafood. Right in the port on the way to the lighthouse you'll find this seafood spot with some calming views of the harbor.

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La Malaka Cafe

This is another hipster-type cafe in Cartagena which specializes in some really tasty cakes. They also have various breakfast toasts, but I was rather underwhelmed by them (especially considering the price). The cakes/brownies, however, are to die for!

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Gelateria Del Bianco

This is a gelato spot on the main street in the city centre run my a slightly cranky Italian man. While it's not the friendliest customer service, the gelato is exquisite!

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Mastia Craft Beer

This is a local bar which serves craft beers. I'm a craft beer fiend so I always love to try some microbrews when I'm traveling.

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La Galeria

A gorgeous terrance to sip coffee, a batido or cocktails. I went here once and ordered a cocktail and the owner simply gave me the bottle of vodka to make the drink as strong as I liked. I've never experienced anything like it!

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For the history buffs...

Teatro Romano de Cartagena

This is an ancient Roman theatre in the heart of Cartagena. I would classify this as a must visit for anyone, whether or not you love history. It's quite a site to be seen and has been expertly restored. There's a ticket you can buy that covers the Roman Theatre, the Castle and panoramic elevator, as well as the Roman Forum museum - definitely get this ticket! You'll save money and everything the ticket includes is worth it to check out.

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Civil War Museum

This was a very interesting museum to visit and gives you a lot of information on the Civil War and how it impacted the people who lived in Cartagena at the time. If you visit the city you have to experience this museum. It is also right near the panoramic elevator.

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Museo Foro Romano. Molinete.

This is part of the joint ticket I mentioned in the Roman Theatre post. You'll be able to walk through and explore the ruins of a Roman Forum at this museum. There are some local cats that have gotten quite cozy here too, which was a plus for me!

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House of Fortune

This is an underground museum of the ruins of a 1st century house. You'll learn about everyday life for Romans at this time and see plenty of artefacts. There's a beautiful and well preserved mural of a swan, along with other murals and mosaics for you to appreciate and enjoy.

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Muralla del Mar, Cartagena

These defensive stone walls protected the city since the 1600s and have some wonderful views of the sunset on the harbour.

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Beaches and swimming spots...

Cala Cortina

This is a cove that's walkable from the port, but is quite a walk. I've done it and it's definitely worth it if you can't visit any beaches or coves outside the city. In summer it can be very crowded, but in springtime it's more tame. You can snorkel around the cove and explore the abandoned forts on the cliffside.

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Playa de Portús

This beach in El Portús is great for a chill day trip from the city. You can snorkel here and see a lot of wonderful sea life!

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Mirador de Amalia

This is a great spot to swim and snorkel in Algameca Chica. You park in the tiny town and then walk to the cove. Make sure you bring goggles for snorkelling and water shoes or flippers. There's an arch formation in the cliffside that goes into the water and forms a small underwater cave that you can swim through. It's a really cool spot!

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Isla de la Torrosa

You have to work for this one! After about a 2 1/2 hour hike you'll find this exquisite little beach with water on both sides. It's such a unique place and the water is crystal clear. It's another good snorkelling spot. Make sure you bring food and lots of water because there is nothing else around.

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Day trips and short excursions...

Caravaca de la Cruz

This is a great day trip from Cartagena if you have a car. The city has the Basilica Shrine of Vera Cruz, with its distinctive Caravaca Cross and Baroque facade. The Museo Arqueológico Municipal de la Soledad is housed inside an old church and shows Neolithic, Roman and medieval finds. I also suggest visiting the Caballos del Vino museum to learn more about their unique local festival. For lunch in the city I suggest Bar 33 for some delicious and cheap tapas! On the town's outskirts, Fuentes Del Marqués park has natural springs and a nature centre worth visiting. You can also combine visiting the city with a dip in Salto del Usero in Bullas, which isn't far. If you can, I suggest visiting the city when they have their local festival at the beginning of May. There are horse riding competitions through the city streets and the horses are decorated in extravagant robes created by locals. This is something on my bucket list to attend after visiting the museum!

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El Portús

This is a great day trip spot from Cartagena. Especially if you go for the kayaking excursion which sets off from here and takes you around to a remote beach to swim and snorkel. Then you climb up a small cliff to zip-line down into an underwater cave. It was one of the coolest experiences I've ever done and I would recommend to anyone interested in adventurous activities! You can also swim in El Portús and it's a great spot for snorkelling. I've even seen an octopus!

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Algameca Chica

This is a great half-day trip from Cartagena city. It's a quick drive from the city centre. You can snorkel in the cove - but make sure you bring some swim shoes because the rocks are sharp and you'll need to manoeuvre your way on and off them to get in and out of the water. After you've had a good swim, head over to the Moroccan restaurant (you need to make a reservation). This is probably the greatest restaurant I’ve ever eaten at with the kindest owner. It feels like you’re being fed by your family.

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Salto Del Usero

This is a great day trip on its own or something you can add to your visit to Caravaca de la Cruz if you have time. From the car park it's a short 20 minute walk to the natural park where you'll find a cute little waterfall into a river where you can swim. The water is quite cold since it's from the mountains, but on a sunny day it's very refreshing.

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La Manga

This is a resort/beach town that's very populated during the summer. The beach is normally quite calm and warm, unless there is a storm which could make some nice waves for surfing. There are some clubs here to go out at night, as well as bars and restaurants.

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Cala dorada

This is a great hike in the area (you'll need a car to get here). You can simply go for a hike and picnic or you can also enjoy a swim in the lovely cove among the gold sand beach.

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Mazarrón

This is one of my favorite excursions I’ve done from Cartagena. You can go to this lovely coastal town to enjoy the beach, eat delicious seafood and explore the mountains nearby. Tucked away in the mountains of Mazarrón you’ll find abandoned mines that span multiple peaks. This is like a playground for adults! It’s so interesting wandering through the abandoned buildings and ruins of the mines. You’ll get incredible views of the landscape. I suggest going for the sunset as the colors of pink in the sky enhance the colorful minerals in the mountains. Absolutely gorgeous and not crowded at all!

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Hikes

Pico De La Muela

This is an easy to medium hike to the top of La Muela. It's about one hour to get there from the start of the trail. As you ascend the mountain range, you'll have increasingly beautiful and expansive views of the coastline. Once you've made it to the flatter part of the trail towards the top, you will find a green metal staircase which will take you to the peak of La Muela. This is a fun, if slightly nerve racking climb because the staircase does move a bit as you're stepping up or down. Just another reason to do the hike, for the thrill! There are many trails that stem off from this one and you can continue walking along the coast edge or through the mountains in the area. Just make sure you know how to get back to your starting point! Note on how to find the trail: When you leave the small dirt parking lot and go towards the trail, you'll need to jump over the barrier fence or squeeze yourself through a small passage. This is completely legal to hike here, they just have it fenced off so cars and motorbikes don't drive there.

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Castle of La Atalaya

This is a short, relatively easy hike walkable from the city centre. A perfect start to the day with impressive views of Cartagena and the coast from the castle at the peak.

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Batería de Castillitos

This is an excellent hike in the mountains surrounding Cartagena. You will need a car to get to the start of the trail. You'll walk for about 10 minutes before you arrive to the incredible fort which was built to resemble a castle. The style is so unique and interesting and makes for a very special hike on the cliffside.

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Cala Reona

This is an easy/medium hike along the coast which takes you from La Cala Reona to Cala Dorada and Playa del Calblanque. The path can get quite narrow and at one point you are holding onto a rope connected to the cliffside because the walking path is so small. Besides this, the hike is pretty standard. Sometimes people are mountain biking here (which I personally don't think they should be doing because the path can be so narrow, but that's just my opinion), so make sure you look out for them. They don't always look out for you!

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Everything else...

Castillo de la Concepción

This castle and park offers some lovely panoramic views of the city. You can visit by buying a ticket to see the Civil War museum, which gives you access to the panoramic elevator to the castle and park.

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Naval Museum Cartagena

In this naval museum you'll find a model of the peral submarine invented by Isaac Peral. This was the first electric-powered submarine and was launched in 1888.

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National Museum of Underwater Archaeology

This is the local museum of underwater archeology. Your visit offers a journey through the history of maritime activities, trading and transportation, with particular emphasis on the Phoenician and Roman times. There is also an outstanding collection of seven scale models of ancient ships, and even an exact replica of a galley ship.

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MURAM

The MURAM is the Modern Art museum in Cartagena. This museum sits inside the Palacio Aguirre, one of the most architecturally important buildings of Cartagena's modernist movement. The museum hosts exhibitions throughout the year and admission is free.

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Sacred Heart of Jesus

This is a beautiful building which is great for photos.

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Faro De Navidad, Cartagena

This is a nice walk to do in the city, which takes you all the way out to the end of the harbour.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

iliketravelandmovies

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Hi! I'm Kylie, a passionate traveler based in the beautiful city of Dublin, Ireland. I have a deep love for exploring new places and sharing my experiences with others. Whether it's uncovering hidden gems in Dublin, wandering through the charming streets of European cities, or immersing myself in the culture and language of a new destination, I live for the thrill of discovery and connection. I approach travel with a blend of curiosity, spontaneity, and meticulous planning to ensure memorable and hassle-free experiences. I firmly believe that travel has the power to inspire, educate, and connect us to the world around us. It's about stepping out of our comfort zones, learning from different perspectives, and creating lasting memories. From hidden gems and local favourites to must-see attractions and events, I'm here to provide you with insider knowledge to make your trip to Dublin and Ireland truly unforgettable. Whether you're interested in exploring historic sites, sampling the best of the Dublin food scene, or immersing yourself in nature, I'm here to help you navigate the ins and outs of traveling in Ireland. Let me be your go-to resource for making the most of your time in the Emerald Isle!

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