Cartagena
Quick Facts
Language: SpanishCurrency: Euro
Area Codes: 968
Other Cities in this Region
Located in southeast Spain, Cartagena is a small port city that has only recently begun to attract travelers. This quiet, beautiful town has managed to stay relatively tourist-free over the years, but the secret is out; Cartagena, located 29 miles south of Murcia, is a great place to see. The locals are friendly and hospitable, and this magnificent city is known for having some of the best weather in all of Spain. Cartagena is warm and dry virtually the entire year. It is a fabulous place to visit anytime, but Cartagena is especially pleasant in the spring and fall. It has a mild climate that is perfect for traveling throughout the region. The weather almost never becomes too hot or uncomfortable, and the sights and smells of the land are marvelous.
In the 3rd century BC, the Carthaginians founded Cartagena. The city possesses an extremely rich history and culture. It is also Spain's main naval base, in part because of its ideal location. Positioned right on the Mediterranean, many of the country's cities and ports are quite accessible from Cartagena.
The landscaped squares of Cartagena are so magnificent that you can spend hours just sitting and looking. This is an enormously popular activity, and enjoying a Spanish snack while relaxing in one of the squares is a cherished pastime for locals and tourists alike. Do not be alarmed if you find yourself admiring one of the squares for much longer than you would have anticipated. Many of the boulevards in Cartagena are lined with gorgeous palm trees, creating shade and a crisp, clean atmosphere. Cartagena has remained relatively unchanged over the decades. Modern apartment sections have been added to the suburbs because of all of the recent tourism. The buildings and religious structures of the city add to its wonderful culture, and a walking tour of Cartagena is great fun.
Docking & Local Transportation
Cruise ships dock at the Port of Cartagena (968/325-800) located at Plaza Heroes de Cavite. From there, you can walk to the downtown region, or hail a cab
Most people find that Cartagena is a terrific walking city, and you will most likely agree. However, if you desire motorized transportation, you can find taxis waiting for you at the port, or you can call one to pick you up (968/531-313). Or, you can rent a car while in town. Contact Costa Calida (968/515-617), located at Avda. De Colon, 124.
Local Interests
The Museo Salzillo, which is located on Plaza San Agustin, (968/291-893) features the fascinating collection of Francisco Salzillo's haunting yet brilliant polychrome carvings. This is an extremely interesting site, and these figures are carried every Easter during the religious processions.
Perhaps the best way to see the historical sites of Cartagena is through the Puerto de Culturas (Calle Gispert 10, 968/500-093, www.puertoculturas.com/english/epc0101.htm), an association of several of the top sites in the city. Included in the "Puerto" are the Castillo de la Concepción; the Punic Wall Experience, an exhibit incorporating a surviving section of the Carthaginian-era wall that focuses on Cartagena's ancient past; the Spanish Civil War Shelters, a museum built out of a former air raid shelter; and a handful of other points of interest. Full fares for admission range from 2 or 3 for single exhibits to 19.5 for a comprehensive pass.
Activities
Dining
Rincon de Pepe, located at Apostoles 34 only miles away in Murcia, (968/212-239) serves a fabulous selection of Mexican food and only the freshest meat and fish. The menu is incredibly extensive, and the appetizers, especially the shellfish and truffle salad, are delectable. Restaurante Azafrán (Calle la Palma 3, 968/523-172), a stylish joint with an ambitious mission statement, serves up a variety of excellent dishes, including a highly recommended coconut soup. Seafood lovers will enjoy Techos Bajos (literally, "Low Ceilings"; 968/506-375), which brings reasonably priced, fresh fish dishes straight from the nearby fishing port to your plate.