Choosing to stay overnight in Murcia provides the perfect chance to explore more of this vibrant city than a short day trip would permit. It also allows you the opportunity to visit unique spots around the Murcia region!
While planning our vacation to Murcia, we came across several beautiful places to stay, both in the city and the surrounding area. This blog aims to help you decide where to stay. So, what are the best places to stay in Murcia? Which hotels do we recommend?
Booking.comHow to Get to Murcia in Spain?
Murcia is a lovely city in Spain’s southeast, part of the autonomous community called the Region of Murcia. Getting there is easy, thanks to Murcia International Airport, which connects to a bunch of European cities. If you need more flight options, Alicante’s international airport is just an hour away by car.
Around Murcia, you’ll find other great places to visit. Alicante, with its stunning beaches and lively seafront, is perfect for those who love the sun and the sea. Cartagena, only a 45-minute drive away, is great for exploring old ruins and interesting museums. Elche, with its famous Palm Grove listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another destination you shouldn’t miss, where stroll among thousands of palm trees in Europe’s largest palm garden.
Why is Murcia Worth Visiting?
Visiting Murcia is a highly recommended because of its historical center, special sights, and friendly vibe with great tapas restaurants. Plus, Murcia isn’t overrun by tourists, making it a more authentic Spanish experience.
If you’re into architecture, you’ll love Murcia. The city has a rich history, featuring a mix of cultural and architectural styles, from Gothic to Baroque. Make sure to visit the stunning Murcia Cathedral or the eclectic Real Casino de Murcia, and get a taste of the city’s history and art.
But Murcia isn’t just about history. It’s known as a culinary hotspot, dubbed ‘the vegetable garden of Spain’. Try local dishes, like pastel de carne, and explore the unique tapas available in this region. The city is full of cozy cafes and tapas bars where you can dive into the local food scene.
How Long Should You Stay in Murcia?
We recommend spending two to three days in Murcia to get a full experience. This time frame allows you to properly explore the city of Murcia over two days and also venture to an additional destination nearby.
Start your adventure in Murcia city, where you can spend the first day visiting major Murcia attractions like the Real Casino de Murcia, the cathedral, and the bustling local markets. This is a great way to get to know the city’s rich heritage and lively vibe. On the second day, you can explore more of Murcia’s cultural richness by checking out several of its churches or museums.
The third day is perfect for a trip to either Cartagena or Elche. In Cartagena, dive into the city’s Roman past by visiting the celebrated Roman Theatre. Elche is famous for its stunning palm gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which are a must-see. Alternatively, consider a visit to the pink lakes at the Salinas of Torrevieja and La Mata, or the striking blue waters of the Embalse de Algeciras reservoir.
But honestly, with all these day trips, you could easily stay much longer. Each destination around Murcia offers its own unique set of attractions and experiences. Whether you’re soaking in the historical sites, enjoying nature, or exploring local cultures, there’s enough to fill a week or more. Consider extending your stay to truly absorb everything this enchanting region has to offer without rushing through its beauty.
Where to Stay in Murcia
When you’re planning where to stay in Murcia, aim for the historic heart of the city. Neighborhoods like La Catedral, San Bartolomé, San Lorenzo, and San Pedro are perfect. These areas are just a short walk from all the best sights Murcia offers, including top-notch restaurants and lively squares. Since the historic center is quite small, you can easily walk everywhere, and there’s no single area we’d suggest over any other.
The Best Hotels in Murcia
#1 Hotel Cetina Murcia stands out for its fashionable design, full of vibrant colors and light. The rooms offer plenty of space, comfy beds, and high-end bathrooms. Its central location is ideal, mere steps away from the Murcia Cathedral and close to the Episcopal Palace.
#2 Zenit Murcia enjoys a prime location next to Plaza de las Flores. It is famous for its fantastic rooftop terrace and generous breakfast buffet. It’s no surprise that guests leave such positive reviews.
#3 Barceló Murcia Siete Coronas (formerly Occidental Murcia Siete Coronas) is highly rated for good reason. It boasts a gym, a bar, a daytime restaurant, and a cozy terrace. Guests love its breakfast buffet, the location right in the heart of things, and the exceptionally roomy accommodations.
#4 Catalonia Conde de Floridablanca catches the eye with its inviting outdoor pool. The rooms are comfortably sized, though the decor is somewhat standard; however, the rest of the hotel exudes a charming vibe. It skillfully mixes modern and trendy with vintage touches, like the ornate wooden ceiling in the breakfast area. The pool on the rooftop terrace is a real gem.
#5 Hotel Murcia Rincón de Pepe offers an unbeatable location for exploring the old town. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms with balconies that provide views over the city. The breakfast, location, and clean, spacious rooms get enthusiastic praise in guest reviews.
The Best Hotels in the Murcia Regio
#6 La Casa de las Flores (Cartagena) is named after its facade, which is covered in lush vegetation and colorful flower pots. This boutique hotel features a beautiful rooftop terrace offering city views, and many rooms also have their own private balconies for enjoying the outdoors. The rooms are modern, luxurious, and beautifully furnished, which is one of the reasons why this hotel receives such high ratings.
#7 La Casa de los Coy (Mula) is among the highest-rated accommodations in the region. This B&B, complete with a delightful outdoor pool, earns high praise from guests. They love its suitability as a base for exploring, its stunning authentic architecture, tasty breakfast, charming decor, and its setting in a genuine Spanish village.
#8 Boutique Hotel Colina del Emperador (La Manga del Mar Menor) is positioned spectacularly on a narrow strip of land by the sea. This boutique hotel, run by Norwegian owners, is located directly on two vast, beautiful beaches and also features a swimming pool.
#9 Hotel Boutique Hort de Nal (Elche) is a boutique-style hotel beautifully decorated and situated ideally among the iconic palm trees of Elche. The outdoor pool with sun loungers, the chic decor, the lovely garden, spacious rooms, and friendly staff are all frequently praised in positive reviews.
#10 Bajo El Cejo (El Berro) boasts a magnificent location in the heart of Sierra Espuña park, nestled in a steep ravine surrounded by impressive mountains. Originally homes for coal workers, these buildings were wonderfully restored between 2004 and 2007 into a charming hotel. Its authentic feel with wooden ceilings, the stunning views, outdoor pool, garden loungers, and excellent organic meals with quality wines make this a fantastic choice for staying in Murcia.
Booking.com
