Holiday rentals in Murcia

The laid-back town of Murcia in southeastern Spain is the capital of the broader Murcia region, which is famous for its fresh produce and is often referred to as “la huerta” (the orchard) of Europe. The surrounding countryside is replete with gardens, citrus orchards, and rice fields. There are spectacular beaches about an hour’s drive away, and the area benefits from a temperate Mediterranean climate, with long, sunny days in the warmer months. Murcia is home to three university campuses, which means a large student population and a vibrant nightlife, with an abundance of restaurants, cafes, bars, and clubs.

The city’s diverse history is reflected in architecture that spans from the Renaissance to the modern. The Murcia Cathedral is a fascinating spot to visit, as is the Plaza de las Flores, where you can dine outdoors and watch locals going about their daily lives. South of the city of Murcia are some large and impressive Roman ruins, which were only discovered in the 1980s.

Murcia’s Mediterranean climate makes for fairly temperate weather all year round. The area is cooled by sea breezes in the warmer months, and during winter, Murcia is protected from cold northerly gusts by surrounding mountains. Summer can still get quite hot and humid, especially in July, though this is also when the days are long and the weather is ideal for swimming and visiting nearby beaches.

Spring could be the perfect time to secure your Murcia villa, as the weather is a bit milder, ideal for picnics, al fresco dining, and exploring Murcia’s city sights. Visit the week after Easter for a chance to witness the Spring Fiestas, a citywide celebration of the region’s fertile lands, complete with parades, dancing, and fireworks. Autumn is also a lovely time to visit, although it can become cool and cloudy. Although temperatures drop in winter, Murcia remains warm enough most days to enjoy the outdoors, and there are plenty of restaurants and shops to explore when you want to stay indoors.

San Pedro del Pinatar Regional Park

You’ll find the regional park of San Pedro del Pinatar between the salty lagoon of Mar Menor and the Mediterranean Sea. Less than a 40-minute drive from the city centre, this spectacular wetland includes salt flats, pine groves, and sand dunes as well as a host of birdlife, including gulls, albatrosses, and even pink flamingos, which migrate to the area in the cooler months of the year.

Murcia Cathedral

In the centre of the city, you’ll find the grand Murcia Cathedral, best known for its blend of architectural styles reflecting the city’s history: Renaissance, baroque, rococo, and neoclassical. The cathedral also has an impressively tall bell tower rising 93 metres into the air, which took over 250 years to construct.

Museo de Bellas Artes de Murcia

A short walk from the Murcia Cathedral, you’ll find the small yet beautifully designed Museo de Bellas Artes de Murcia. As well as offering a glimpse into life in Murcia, this museum showcases a range of art from local, national, and international artists from the 16th century to modern times.