This coastal paradise offers the best of two worlds with pristine beaches along both the Mediterranean Sea and Mar Menor lagoon. Unique crystal-clear waters create dramatic colour contrasts where you can enjoy calm swimming or exciting water sports. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the world-class courses nestled among stunning natural landscapes. The area features therapeutic mud baths and spas utilising mineral-rich waters from the lagoon. Scenic coastal paths wind through protected natural areas like Calblanque Regional Park. After a day of adventure, savour fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants while watching spectacular sunset views across the dual waterscapes.
Cabo de Palos charms visitors with its dual personality as both working fishing village and seaside retreat. The iconic lighthouse stands watch over the rugged coastline where the Mediterranean Sea meets Mar Menor lagoon. Crystal-clear waters reveal world-class diving sites within the protected marine reserve. Wander the marina promenade past colourful fishing boats and waterfront restaurants serving fresh seafood. Discover hidden coves and beaches perfect for swimming and snorkelling. The compact village centre makes exploration easy with coastal paths connecting dramatic cliff-top views.
Cartagena's historic Casco district reveals 3,000 years of Mediterranean history through remarkably preserved ruins. The ancient Roman Theatre overlooks the harbour while Punic walls wind through cobbled streets. Visitors can explore museums housing naval artefacts and pristine Roman mosaics. The walkable district offers seaside charm with palm-lined promenades and waterfront dining. Traditional tapas bars serve local specialities like caldero rice between honey-colored buildings with wrought-iron balconies. Early mornings and evenings provide the most peaceful atmosphere for wandering this ancient port city.
La Azohía offers a serene escape on Spain's Mediterranean coast with pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. The small fishing village maintains its authentic charm away from mass tourism. Historic Santa Elena Tower stands watch over dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise bays. Visitors can snorkel in unspoiled coves or hike scenic coastal paths with panoramic views. Family-run chiringuitos serve fresh seafood caught by local fishermen each morning. With minimal development and traditional white-washed buildings, this peaceful haven provides a genuine taste of Mediterranean coastal life.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Cartagena
Cala Cortina
Cala Cortina offers crystal-clear waters in a sheltered cove just minutes from Cartagena's centre. Enjoy fresh seafood at the beachside restaurant after swimming in the Blue Flag-certified waters.
La Manga Club
8.6/10 (84 reviews)
This Mediterranean paradise offers three championship golf courses and a world-class tennis centre. Enjoy luxury accommodation and fine dining after your sporting pursuits at this premier European resort.
Lighthouse of Cabo de Palos
9.2/10 (63 reviews)
This historic lighthouse rewards climbers with panoramic Mediterranean Sea views after ascending 300 steps. Book a guided tour 48 hours in advance to learn about its rich maritime heritage and architectural significance.
Roman Theater
9.4/10 (126 reviews)
This remarkably preserved Roman theatre from 5 BCE once entertained 7,000 spectators in ancient Hispania. Begin your journey through the museum's underground passages before emerging into the grand theatrical space.
Calblanque, Monte de las Cenizas y Peña del Águila Regional Park
6.6/10 (4 reviews)
Calblanque Regional Park showcases pristine Mediterranean coastlines with golden beaches, salt flats, and mountains. Hike scenic trails to discover secluded coves and observe endangered species in their natural habitat.
Old Cathedral of Cartagena
7.4/10 (8 reviews)
Wander through the haunting ruins of this 13th-century cathedral built atop a Roman theatre. The intertwining Gothic and Baroque remnants tell Cartagena's layered history through stone.
Gran Hotel
7.6/10 (5 reviews)
The Gran Hotel de Cartagena captivates with its 1917 Modernist design featuring a zinc-domed rotunda and intricate ironwork. Admire the striking façade while exploring the city's architectural heritage.
Plage de Calblanque
10.0/10 (1 review)
Explore the great outdoors at Plage de Calblanque, a lovely green space in Cartagena. Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
What to do in Cartagena
From Murcia Cabo de Palos and Cartagena with Teatro Romano
"This is a very beautiful building centrally located which allows you to walk to the most interesting places to visit in the city. Its rooms are comfortable with everything you need. The breakfast is delicious and very varied. Staff are great and helpful. Parking can be done in the near Plaza España and you can get a discount with a hotel voucher"
"Excellent location, beautiful property, and affordable. Would like to come back but management communication tools must be used more effectively.
Poor communication with reception caused duress and stress during our travel delay, as there was no way to determine if they could hold our room if we checked in late or a day later.
I contacted them four times through the Expedia app weeks and days before arriving, and they did not respond at all.
Three phone calls to reception went unreturned,...
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
You'll find cheap prices on Expedia for your Cartagena getaway. However, factors like the length of stay, hotel choice and season will determine how much your holiday to Cartagena costs.
What are the cheapest months to go to Cartagena?
You can generally find reduced prices and better availability in November, December and January. Explore our cheap Cartagena holiday packages and you could land some great off-season discounts.
How many days is enough for Cartagena?
To get the most out of a Cartagena holiday, we suggest booking for 3 days. Split your time between visiting Playa de El Portús, Old Cathedral of Cartagena and other major sights, in addition to experiencing neighbourhoods like Cartagena Casco and Hondón. If you've got some time to spare, include a day trip in your Cartagena holiday itinerary.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Cartagena?
Cartagena is a good holiday destination with attractions like Punic wall of Cartagena among the many things to keep you busy. Whether you're travelling with the family or getting away with friends, a Cartagena holiday promises fun for everyone.
How to find the best Cartagena package deals?
Finding a cheap Cartagena package deal is a cinch with Expedia. Once you've entered your trip dates and destination under our "Packages" tab, set your budget, add a couple of filters and browse what's available. You can customise your search by "Amenities," "Property type," "Popular locations" and more. Sort the results by "Price: low to high" to discover the most wallet-friendly Cartagena package deals. Want a simple trick to score the biggest savings? Have some flexibility with your departure dates and consider travelling on a weekday, when prices are usually lower.
Is it cheaper to book a Cartagena holiday as a package?
Expedia holiday packages are designed to help you keep more cash in your pocket. Bundle your car rental, hotel and flight into one great-value price and enjoy significant savings. You'll typically snag a better deal than booking each component separately. And you'll still get the freedom to create a customised Cartagena holiday by choosing your preferred type of stay, airline and car class.
When to book a holiday package to Cartagena?
If you're considering a spur-of-the-moment Cartagena holiday, browse our last-minute deals that can be booked up to a week before you go. Don't want to leave things to the last minute? You can score sensational deals on your hotels and flights by booking ahead.
How to plan a trip to Cartagena?
Choose the right time to travel: Your schedule, favourite season and the type of weather you like can all influence your decision on when to go to Cartagena.
Set a budget: Consider expenses such as food, flights and transportation when working out how much to save for your trip to Cartagena. Then, pick a hotel that fits your budget, whether that's an affordable option or a lavish retreat.
Decide how long to go for: Now that you're more familiar with Cartagena, you can figure out the ideal length of your holiday. Pull together a draft plan and give yourself enough time to cover everything you want to see.
Bundle your bookings: With your travel dates in place, you can combine your car rental, hotels, flights and more into a customised Cartagena holiday package.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.