Cartagena was founded by the Carthaginians, became a major Roman city and is now home to Spain’s main Mediterranean naval base. Its Roman theatre was only rediscovered in 1988.
It is cheaper than the Costa Blanca, and the nearby Calblanque regional park has some of the best unspoilt beaches on the coast.
Climate: Dry and sunny, mild winters, hot summers.
Visiting Cartagena
How long: 1 to 2 days
Don’t miss
- Roman theatre museum
- Concepción castle
- Modernist Calle Mayor
- Calblanque beaches
- Cabo de Palos
What to eat
- Asiático coffee
- Caldero
- Michirones
Tip: Semana Santa here is one of the most impressive in Spain, with military-precision processions.
Plan a visit
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A perfect first day
- Morning: the Roman Theatre museum.
- Afternoon: the Concepción castle and the port walk.
- Evening: the modernist buildings on Calle Mayor and tapas.
Easy day trips
Where to stay as a visitor
For sights and the port.
More of Cartagena
Living in Cartagena
Best for: Budget-minded sun-seekers.
Neighbourhoods and areas
Historic and walkable.
Beach towns 30 minutes away.
Pros
- Cheap
- Sunny
- History
Cons
- Fewer international services
- Hot summers
Cost tiers compare places within Spain (€ = among the cheapest, €€€€ = among the most expensive). Rents change quickly: check current listings for the exact area before you decide.
Thinking of moving?
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Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Cartagena?
1 to 2 days is enough for the main sights: roman theatre museum, concepción castle, modernist calle mayor. Semana Santa here is one of the most impressive in Spain, with military-precision processions.
Is Cartagena expensive to live in?
On our scale it is low (€). It is one of the cheaper places in Spain.
How do I get to Cartagena?
By air: Región de Murcia (RMU), 25 minutes; Alicante (ALC) 1h15. By rail: Trains to Madrid about 4h.
Have you been to Cartagena?
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