Why Choose Cartagena?
Here at Si Spain, we welcome the news that P&O Cruises is bringing cruise tourists to the city of Cartagena for the very first time this summer.
It very much remains a traditional Spanish city with an abundance of history, making it a charming tourist hotspot for native and foreign tourists alike.
Neighbouring towns and urbanizations within 10 minutes drive of the city are currently seeing a housing development surge. We have new build villas and apartments in locations such as Mar De Cristal, Playa Honda and Cala Medina listed on our website. These are handpicked by Si Spain as they cater to our UK buyers searching for holiday homes and holiday lets surrounded by traditional Spanish coastal resorts, towns and countryside.
So why has P&O chosen Cartagena as a destination point, and why should you consider it as a holiday home location? We thought that we'd give you a little overview of what the beautiful city has to offer…
Steeped in history (and military conflict)
Sitting comfortably on the southeastern coast of Spain, Cartagena holds a rich history:
- The city was founded by the Carthaginians around 200 BCE due to both her strategic position on the coast as well as her plentiful silver mines
- Cartagena was then captured by the Romans in 209 BCE helping them power over Spain
- Further conflict then occurred in 425 as the Goths lay waste to the city.
- Even as late as 1936-39 Cartagena was still experiencing turmoil, acting as a Republican naval base during the Spanish Civil War.
It is, therefore, no surprise that Cartagena holds several museums that tell the story of its rich and checkered past. These include La Casa de la Fortuna, El Barrio del Foro Romano, El Museo Naval de Cartegena, and El Museo Nacional de Arqueologia Subacuatica to name a few.
El Portal Museo Arqueologico, in particular, is only a few meters from the popular El Corte Ingles shopping centre. And the old town walls built by the Carthaginians are still visible after thousands of years in the Muralla Punica Interpretation Centre, offering a fascinating insight into Carthaginian conflict at the time.
This just scratches the surface. For more information on Cartagena's captivating history visit https://www.britannica.com/place/Cartagena-Spain
Spectacular at night
Cartagena's city is dazzling at night. This is when Cartagena's true beauty is revealed. For a city centre, the mood on an evening is calm and quiet, unless it's Fiesta time when the city comes alive.
The small artisans are open at this time, alongside the restaurants with their abundant outdoor seating. The cuisine is varied, but you'll soon be able to find a place serving the traditional Spanish and regional food you'd expect from such a city. The pockets of green spaces with towering palm trees offer a stunning setting for dinner.
For true foodies, we say don't forget to try the Cartagena Tapas Trail…For more information see: http://www.pocruises.com/cruise-destinations/cartagena-cruises/
One detail about Cartagena becomes more apparent at night: the statues. Perfectly lit, these statues are dotted among the city providing a further glimpse into Cartagena's history – perfect to experience during a warm evening's stroll.
The 'Waiting Soldier', for example, sits within jumping distance of Cartagena's town hall (otherwise known as Ayuntamiento Cartagena in Spanish). Today, the town hall acts as 'the administrative home of the Council of Cartagena', and in addition to this, there are two exhibition halls as well as a spacious car park a short minute walk away. For further information see: https://murciatoday.com/palacio-consistorial-cartagena_12385-a.html
Stunning Beaches
Although Cartagena's history is one of its defining features, there are many other attractions for those who don't fancy trawling the halls of museums.
Beaches such as Cala Cortina are secluded and isolated from the influx of summer tourists. You have to be in the know to know about this one. In addition to the solitude, you can snorkel. There is also a play area for the children and you can take a peaceful break at the bar or perhaps the restaurant which provides,“some of the best fresh seafood dishes in the area” (Source: https://www.expatica.com/es/out-and-about/Best-beaches-in-Murcia-Spain_618879.html)
Playa de Paraiso is suitable for watersport enthusiasts, as various activities from paddle boarding to jet skiing can be found here. You'll also find further restaurants and bars to compare tapas offerings from elsewhere.
Year round sunshine
Inclement weather is nothing to fear in Cartagena… The city, as part of the Murcia region, does not experience extreme wind or rain. In fact, the speed of wind and chance of rain remain relatively constant throughout the year. In August, for example, the chance of rain is 1%! Wind speed too never reaches higher than 11mph throughout the year. (Source: https://weatherspark.com/y/42416/Average-Weather-in-Cartagena-Spain-Year-Round)
Local Markets
The weekly street markets in Cartagena offer a great chance to do the weekly shop from buying fresh fruits and vegetables grown locally, to baby clothes. The market is often buzzing with people. We say, don't be afraid to bargain for produce and explore every inch of the plaza to experience the market at its best.
For more on Cartagena's street markets see: https://murciatoday.com/weekly-markets-in-the-municipality-of-cartagena_16893-a.html
Great travel links
Surprisingly, Cartagena serves the same purpose as it did upon its foundation in 200 BCE - its strategic position. Of course, the definition is certainly not the same to us as it was to the Romans, it is now more thankful for its rail connections to Murcia, Madrid and Valencia (where the annual Tomatina takes place). The city has plans to expand its connections to wider Spain too, as native tourism continues to increase year-on-year.
The more familiar holiday resort of Costa Blanca is also only a two-hour drive from Cartagena. This is another example of the city's connection to the wider area and another opportunity for a day out. Here, there is 'Aqualandia' (as well as 'Mundomar' famous for its dolphin shows). These are just a couple of destinations familiar to many as the most prominent and well-known water parks in Europe. They serve as an excellent day or two out with the children. 'Aqualandia' specifically, has landscaped gardens that set it apart from the rest, and the car parking is free. What's not to love?
And as you drive up the AP-7 you'll find several family beach resorts dotted along the Costa Calida coast, including the La Manga strip, Los Alcazares and San Javier. It's just a rental car and traffic free drive away.
Discover our Cartagena properties
Properties within 10 minutes drive of the charming city of Cartagena are available from as little as €140,000. You will find these on the Si Spain property pages, or get in touch. We'll be happy to give you more details about the city and surrounding areas.
