Private Cartagena Shore Excursion

This is the most popular private Cartagena shore trip for those who are only visiting for one day. It includes both Cartagena and Murcia, the capital of the region. In Murcia you visit the impressive cathedral and enjoy some free time, and in Cartagena you visit the famous Roman Theater.

After meeting your guide you start the drive to Murcia, which is about 30 miles away. Murcia was settled by the Moors in the 9th century and then conquered by the Christians in the 13th century. This bustling city is the seventh largest in Spain and is an array of architectural delights.

As you approach Murcia, you stop at the Sanctuary of the Virgin of Fuensanta. This church was built in the late 1700s and is named after the patron saint of Murcia. From here you enjoy stunning views over Murcia and also the beautiful orchards which help produce some of the best fruits and vegetables in all of the Mediterranean.

Upon arrival you enjoy a walking tour of the old town including a visit to the Cathedral which dominates the skyline. This building was built over a 400 year period so you enjoy three different architectural styles, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque. Also in the main square is the colorful Episcopal Palace and a controversial modern addition to the town hall.

Next you walk along Plateria and Traperia which are named after silver and garments because this area is where Murcia's Jewish community sold those items. In Santo Domingo Square you see the popular Casino which was built in the mid-1800s and whose interior was styled after the Alhambra in Granada. It is possible to visit the interior but a small entry fee is required.

After your walking tour you have some free time to stroll or get a snack before you return to Cartagena.

When you arrive in Cartagena you enjoy a walking tour of the old town where more than 2,500 years of history greet you around each corner. In the city streets and squares you will see monumental testimonies of its magnificent historical past, brought by the various civilizations that arrived by the same port you did today. Due to its strategic location on the Murcia coast, Cartagena was developed during the Carthaginian times and was also a very important port city during Roman time.

As part of your walking tour you visit the Roman Theater which is the top site and a highlight for many visitors to Cartagena. The 13th century cathedral sits at the steps of the theater which was only rediscovered in 1987. However today it is one of the most important archaeological sites in Spain.

You also see some impressive buildings such as the town hall which was built in the early 20th century. Your guide will point out more modernist architecture as you walk along the Calle Mayor.

Near the famous sea wall, known as the Carlos III Great Wall, you will see the first submarine prototype, made by the Carthaginian Isaac Peral.

At the end of this private Cartagena tour, your guide will take you back to the pier, or if you prefer you may stay in the old town and walk back on your own.

Mobility: NO wheelchairs