Murcia - the orchard of Europe

From the warm inviting climate and sweeping landscape of fields and valleys to the shopping malls and lively restaurants, Murcia is a city of diversity. Modern resorts are minutes from traditional villages. Tour one of the vineyards to sample the local produce, pick fresh seafood from the harbourside market and sample sun ripened fruit from the finest orchards in Europe. Wander through the city streets to see Gothic style cathedrals and Baroque mansions or take a bus out to the mountain ranges for views out over Murcia and the shimmering Mediterranean Sea. Take a traditional siesta before dining on tapas and sangria. Make your trip to this idyllic peninsula a memorable one.

Why Go?
Ancient monasteries, Gothic architecture, holy festivals and a diverse landscape of mountains and coastline attract travellers to Murcia every year. Explore the historic sights of the city plaza, swim in the Mediterranean Sea and sample the finest wine Murcia produces from its vineyards.

When To Go?
Murcia benefits from a Mediterranean semi-arid climate. The rainy season is a brief yet heavy downpour lasting a few days during September. May to August tend to be the warmest months and are considered the busiest. For a quiet stay travel to Murcia in late October, where tourists can still sunbathe but avoid the beach crowds - the average temperature is 18°C.

How To Get There?
Murcia is served by Murcia-San Javier Airport (MJV) located 45km (28 miles) southeast of the city centre. Fly direct from 15 airports in the UK. Scheduled flights are available from several European cities. Passengers can also fly to neighbouring Alicante Airport and take the train to Murcia; the journey lasts approximately 1.5 hours. Flying to Murcia from the UK takes 2.5 hours.

Must See
No trip to Murcia would be complete without visiting the Mar Menor, a salt lagoon and the largest natural lake in Spain. Rise early and avoid the afternoon crowds to secure your place by the water’s edge. The mud within the lagoon has therapeutic properties famed to heal and beautify. Mar Menor is linked to the coast by a narrow strip called La Manga; sunbathe on the white sand beach and watch the sunset over the mountain backdrop.