10 Best Things to Do in Cartagena, Spain

Founded in 227 B.C. by the Carthaginian Hasdrubal the Fair, Cartagena, a vibrant port city on Spain’s southeast Mediterranean coast, has a long history with numerous monuments documenting the legacy of many civilizations.

As a relatively small city, it’s easy to explore by foot, visiting sites such as the remains of the Punic Walls, the Iberian Peninsula’s second-largest Roman Theatre, and stunning Art Deco buildings. You can finish your day with a leisurely harbor cruise, which offers picturesque panoramic views of the city and the port. Moreover, maritime enthusiasts will find joy in the Naval Museum, which features a model of the world’s first submarine, invented by Cartagena-born Isaac Peral and launched in 1888.

Tour the Roman Theatre

Address: Palacio Pascual del Riquelme, Pl. Ayuntamiento, 9, 30202 Cartagena, Murcia, Spain

Phone: +34 968 50 48 02

Website: Visit website

Cartagena boasts the second-largest Roman Theatre on the Iberian Peninsula, dating back to the first century. This historical site can accommodate over 6,000 people and is accessed via a pink building that houses the Roman Theatre Museum. The museum exhibits a vast collection of Roman statues and artifacts, leading into the theatre itself via a glass bridge.

Understand Ancient History at the Punic Wall

Address: C. San Diego, 25, 30202 Cartagena, Murcia, Spain

Phone: +34 968 50 00 93

Website: Visit website

The Punic Wall Interpretation Center offers insights into Cartagena’s oldest parts, protected under glass walkways. A video presentation elucidates the founding of Cartagena and its historical value, especially given the rarity of Punic remains in Spain. Notably, excavations revealed the 16th-century Hermitage of San Jose, showcasing intriguing burial niches with bones and skulls.

Marvel at Casa de la Fortuna

Address: Pl. de Risueño, 14, 30202 Cartagena, Murcia, Spain

Phone: +34 968 50 00 93

Website: Visit website

During its time in the Roman Empire, Cartagena prospered, thanks to trade and rich silver mines. The Casa de la Fortuna, a well-preserved Roman villa from the first century, features impressive floor mosaics and colorful wall paintings, including the famous swan image. Furthermore, the villa’s original expanse and Roman road remnants evoke the lifestyle of wealthy merchants from that era.

Climb the Concepcion Hill

Address: Parque Torres, 30202 Cartagena, Murcia, Spain

Website: Visit website

The 13th-century Castle of Concepcion dominates Cartagena’s skyline. Prior to its conquest by King Alfonso X of Castille, this site housed a Roman temple and an Arab Alcazar. Access the castle via a charming path through a landscaped park filled with flowers and statues. This historic site frequently hosts exhibitions, making it a cultural hub.

Discover Art Deco Along Calle Mayor

Address: C. Mayor, 30201 Cartagena, Murcia, Spain

Calle Mayor serves as Cartagena’s primary pedestrian shopping street, lined with impressive Art Deco architecture. In the early 20th century, the mining industry fueled the city’s wealth, resulting in the construction of lavish townhouses and public buildings, including the triangular Town Hall and the cultural casino.

Be sure to visit the former Grand Hotel, now a bank, and the Casa Aguirre housing the Museum of Regional Modern Art. Don’t forget to stop by La Tartana, Cartagena’s most traditional bar for a refreshing break.

Ride the Waves on a Harbor Cruise

Address: P.º Alfonso XII, 30201 Cartagena, Murcia, Spain

Phone: +34 968 50 00 93

Website: Visit website

Cartagena’s natural, sheltered port has been a coveted location throughout history. Experience breathtaking views of the city with an engaging harbor cruise, featuring paths leading past castles that guard the entrance to the port. There are two available options: a catamaran and a closed boat with a sundeck, departing from the quay.

Learn about Cartagena’s Naval History

Address: P.º Alfonso XII, s/n, 30201 Cartagena, Murcia, Spain

Phone: +34 968 12 71 38

Website: Visit website

Given its maritime legacy, it is no surprise that Cartagena hosts numerous venues dedicated to naval history. The Naval Museum, housed in an elegant 18th-century waterfront building, showcases an extensive collection of model ships, naval uniforms, medals, and the historic Peral submarine built in the late 19th century.

Shiver at the Spanish Civil War Museum

Address: C. Gisbert, 10, 30202 Cartagena, Murcia, Spain

Phone: +34 968 50 00 93

Website: Visit website

The Spanish Civil War cast a shadow over Cartagena, bringing suffering and destruction from 1936 to 1939. The Spanish Civil War Museum, formerly a shelter for citizens, stands as a poignant testament to the hardships endured during this period of turmoil in Spain’s history.

Become a Moor or a Roman

In September, visitors have a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in history during the Moors and Christians festival, which spans two weeks. This vibrant celebration features reenactments of historical battles, with hundreds of participants donning elaborate costumes. The festivities take place within the Feria precinct, where revelers enjoy food and drink in a lively atmosphere.

Explore Underwater Archaeology at ARQUA

Address: P.º Alfonso XII, 22, 30202 Cartagena, Murcia, Spain

Phone: +34 968 12 11 66

Website: Visit website

Located along the waterfront, ARQUA serves as the national center for maritime archaeology. This innovative museum and research facility showcases an impressive collection of underwater artifacts, most notably a treasure trove of 14.5 tons of gold and silver coins retrieved from the fregatte Nuestra Señora de las Mercedes, which sank in the early 19th century.