The Best Hotels in and Around Murcia for Every Traveller

Set on the main road that cuts through the resort town of Los Alcázares, Hotel 525 provides easy access to both Murcia airport and the beaches of Mar Menor. Its modern facilities include an indoor and outdoor jacuzzi, a rooftop pool with distant lagoon views, and a kids’ club to keep the little ones happy while parents unwind at the spa. It’s a great base for day trips — but make sure you plan a few days to unwind at the hotel too.

You wouldn’t guess Occidental Murcia Siete Coronas dates back to the 1970s at first glance. A glossy makeover has brought it bang up to date, with contemporary interiors and mod cons like speedy wifi and flatscreen TVs. Ask for a room at the front for views over the nearby Segura River and mountains on the horizon. The food is a big draw here — fuel up on the menú del día before an afternoon out exploring.

Just a short amble from Murcia’s historical centre, this handsome red-brick hotel is well located for delving into the city’s past. A thick wedge of Spanish tortilla from the breakfast buffet will set you up for the day – the nearby Jardín De Floridablanca is a great place to start your sightseeing. When you’re done, return in time for cocktails and tapas at the hotel bar – then slip between the crisp sheets of your queen-size bed for a sound night’s sleep.

A shimmering gold reception desk and dazzling geometric tiling welcome guests at the Hotel Cetina Murcia, and this eye-catching theme extends to the guest rooms too. Think warm wooden floors, mini Smeg fridges and geometric headboards behind queen- and king-size beds. The city centre location means you’re right around the corner from the best sightseeing and dining spots in town.

Set in Murcia’s commercial centre, Tryp Murcia Rincón de Pepe puts you within easy reach of Murcia’s top attractions – including the fabulous Baroque cathedral. When you need to refuel, the hotel’s main restaurant is definitely worth wandering back for – dating back to 1925, it’s something of a culinary institution, with traditional Murcian tapas and Mediterranean cuisine on the menu. Its bar is also steeped in history, featuring part of the original 11th-century Moorish city wall.

The port city and naval base of Cartagena is central to Spain’s maritime history, and the NH Cartagena is perfectly placed for anyone with an interest in learning all about it. The city’s naval museum is steps from the hotel, as is the quay where you can hop on a history boat tour led by a local. Most rooms offer clear views over the harbour and the historical buildings surrounding it.

Combine a golfing trip with Murcia’s history and culture by staying at La Manga Club, one of the original golf resorts in Spain. La Manga Club offers a range of sporting activities across a staggering 560ha (1400 acres) of grounds – though most of it is still dedicated to golfing. If you’ve come to unwind, head to the hilltop spa for a soak while enjoying superb views and contemplating which of the dozen or so restaurants to dine at next.

A modern take on the 15th-century citadel that once stood in its place, the Parador de Lorca fits seamlessly into its arid and rocky surroundings. Remnants of Castle Lorca have been integrated into the building, imbuing the hotel with a real sense of history. That said, there is no shortage of 21st-century comforts either – guests can spend their time in the heated indoor swimming pool and the full-service spa for maximum indulgence. And don’t forget dinner at the Helios Restaurant for local tapas favourites and twinkling views over the city of Lorca.