Welcome to Cartagena, a city where over 3,000 years of history unfold right before your eyes. This gem on Spain's Costa Cálida is a favored stop for major cruise lines such as MSC Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises, and P&O Cruises.
What makes Cartagena special for cruisers is its incredibly accessible port, allowing you to step off your ship and almost immediately into ancient Roman ruins and charming pedestrian streets.
Its appeal lies in this seamless blend of history, culture, and seaside ambiance, all within a short walk.
The crown jewel of Cartagena is the magnificent Roman Theatre of Cartagena, a wonderfully preserved amphitheater built in the 1st century BC that is just a short walk from the port.
For breathtaking panoramic views of the city and harbor, take the panoramic lift up to Concepción Castle.
Another must-see is the National Museum of Underwater Archaeology (ARQVA), located on the waterfront, which houses fascinating treasures recovered from ancient shipwrecks.
A stroll down the Calle Mayor, the main pedestrian street, reveals beautiful modernist architecture and leads directly to the town hall square.
Last updated on July 6, 2025
A popular excursion is to the city of Murcia, the region's capital, located about 45-50 minutes away by car or bus. It's known for its stunning Baroque cathedral, lively tapas bars, and beautiful plazas.
For a unique beach experience, consider a trip to La Manga del Mar Menor, a narrow strip of land that separates the Mediterranean Sea from the Mar Menor, Europe's largest saltwater lagoon. It's approximately a 30-40 minute drive from the port and offers calm, warm waters ideal for swimming and water sports.
Last updated on July 6, 2025
The cruise port in Cartagena is ideally located right at the foot of the city's historic center. Passengers can walk from the ship to the main promenade and attractions in less than five minutes.
No shuttles are required to reach the downtown area, making independent exploration extremely easy.
Cruise ships dock directly at the Muelle de Cruceros, so tendering is not necessary. The modern terminal area itself has tourist information, some small shops, and cafes right on the waterfront.
Last updated on July 6, 2025
The official currency in Cartagena, as in the rest of Spain, is the Euro (€). US Dollars are generally not accepted in shops or restaurants.
ATMs are widely available throughout the city center, just a short walk from the port, for withdrawing Euros.
Credit cards, particularly Visa and Mastercard, are accepted in most establishments, including museums, shops, and restaurants in tourist areas.
Last updated on July 6, 2025
Cartagena is considered a very safe city for tourists to explore. The main tourist areas, from the port through the historic center, are well-policed and pedestrian-friendly.
As in any popular destination, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and take standard precautions against pickpocketing, especially in crowded places. However, violent crime is very low, and visitors will feel comfortable walking around independently during the day.
Last updated on July 6, 2025
Cartagena enjoys a Mediterranean climate with over 300 days of sunshine per year. Summers (June-September) are hot and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 25-32°C (77-90°F).
Spring and autumn are very pleasant, with mild temperatures perfect for sightseeing.
Winters are mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below 10°C (50°F). Rain is most common in the autumn and winter months, but prolonged periods of rain are rare, making it an excellent year-round cruise destination.
Last updated on July 6, 2025
The main attractions in Cartagena are concentrated in the historic center, making the city exceptionally walkable and requiring no transportation for most visitors.
For those wishing to go further, taxis are readily available near the cruise terminal.
A popular option is the Cartagena Tourist Bus, a double-decker hop-on, hop-off service that circles the city's main sights, including the Concepción Castle.
While public buses are available, they are typically not needed by cruise passengers focusing on the main historic area.
Last updated on July 6, 2025
The best shopping can be found along the Calle Mayor and adjacent pedestrian streets, which are lined with a mix of local boutiques, Spanish brands, and souvenir shops.
Look for local specialties such as handcrafted leather goods, ceramics, and gourmet food products from the Murcia region, including local wines and cheeses. For a wider selection, the El Corte Inglés department store is a short taxi ride away.
Prices in most shops are fixed, so haggling is not common practice.
Last updated on July 6, 2025
Private day tours offer a flexible and personalized way to see Cartagena, allowing you to set your own pace and focus on the sights that interest you most. A popular option is a half-day tour, which provides a comprehensive look at the city's highlights, perfect for visitors with limited time.
At the Punic Wall Interpretation Centre, you can see the remains of the original defensive wall built by the Carthaginians in the 3rd century BC. This site offers a unique look into the city's founding and includes an ancient burial crypt.
A private historical Roman walking tour immerses you in the world of ancient Carthago Nova. A guide will lead you through the city's most impressive Roman ruins, including the magnificent Roman Theatre and the bustling Roman Forum district.
Take in amazing scenery on a chauffeured trike tour through the mountain range between Cartagena and the beautiful Mar Menor. Your journey showcases the extraordinary sights of the old mining area, contrasting traditional Spanish villages with 5-star golfing complexes. The tour also passes through the region's rich agricultural lands, full of lemon and orange groves. Each trike accommodates two passengers.
Join a private guide for a 4-hour walking tour focused on Cartagena's Roman past. You will discover the legacy of the Roman Empire in this important Mediterranean city. This tour includes visits to key historical sites like the Punic Walls, the Roman House of Fortune, and the impressive Roman Theatre. A ride on the panoramic elevator is also included.
Discover the wonderful coastal town of Cartagena on this completely private excursion with your own official guide. Explore the city's ancient history by visiting Roman archaeological sites, including the theatre and the Roman neighborhood. You'll also admire beautiful modern architecture, such as the Consistorial Palace built between 1900 and 1907.
Feel like a rock star as you are chauffeured on a trike through the beautiful city of Cartagena and its scenic mountain ranges. Your journey takes you between Cartagena and La Azohia before dropping down to the beautiful village of Cabos de Palos. Enjoy a fabulous refreshment break overlooking the sea before your trike whisks you back. Please note that each trike accommodates a minimum and maximum of two passengers.
Embark on a tour that explores the highlights of both Murcia and Cartagena. In Murcia, you will visit the Royal Casino, the Fuensanta Sanctuary, and the magnificent Cathedral, which features four distinct architectural styles. The tour also delves into the Roman past of the important Mediterranean city of Cartagena.
Discover the highlights of enchanting Cartagena on a dynamic and entertaining walking tour with a local guide. Your visit will take you through the city's old quarter to explore its most significant sights. The tour begins by surrounding the historic 18th-century wall.
Explore the extraordinary charms and fascinating history of Cartagena on a guided walking tour. Learn about the city's ancient past, which dates back to the Carthaginians in 228 BC. Discover why Cartagena is considered the Capital of the Region of Murcia and the 7th most populated city in Spain as you wander its charming streets and squares.
Travel in a comfortable van from Alicante, enjoying beautiful mountain views on your way to the Caves of Canelobre. Take a guided tour inside the 145-million-year-old caves to see impressive stalactites and stalagmites and learn about their history, including use during the Spanish Civil War. The tour concludes with a visit to the historic village of Busot and its Museum of Ethnic Music.
Experience the flavors of the Roman Empire with an authentic Roman wine tasting. This tour transports you back 2000 years with a visit to the Roman house, Casa de la Fortuna, in Cartagena. You'll have the unique opportunity to taste wines as the Romans did.
Explore thousands of years of history on a walking tour of Cartagena's most prominent historical sites. Visit popular landmarks including the City Hall and famous squares like Plaza San Francisco. You will also stroll down the popular pedestrian street, Calle Mayor, and see impressive military fortifications like the defensive city walls and a medieval fortress.
Get ready for attention as your chauffeured trike takes you to local beauty spots for fantastic photo opportunities. Your chauffeur is also happy to take great snapshots for you. This tour is perfect for capturing the best images of your trip, with each trike accommodating a maximum of two passengers.
Join a professional guide for a 4-hour private walking tour through 20 centuries of Cartagena's history. Discover the city's Roman heritage and stroll its Modernist streets, visiting the inside of the Roman Theatre and the Interpretation Center of the Punic Walls. You will also enjoy an exterior visit of La Concepción castle and ride the panoramic elevator for views of the Royal Marine.
Enjoy a special private tour for just your party, visiting both Cartagena and the regional capital, Murcia. The excursion includes a panoramic drive to Murcia through the foothills of the Sierra de Carrascoy. A stop is made at the baroque Shrine of Fuensanta, situated in the foothills of the mountains.
Learn to breathe underwater and enjoy the sea like never before on this unique marine experience. Discover the feeling of complete weightlessness as you learn to develop your skills in the marine environment. This tour allows you to truly feel like a fish in the water.
Embark on a 4-hour tour by Wrangler Jeep to the historic mountaintop batteries of Castillitos. Ascend winding mountain roads for spectacular Mediterranean views before exploring the massive fortifications which were once part of Cartagena's shore defenses. Inside, you will see two colossal Vickers guns after a short walk to the entrance.
Enjoy a horseback riding tour through the unique environment of Calblanque Regional Park, suitable for all ages and experience levels. After a 35-minute transfer to a family ranch, you will spend an hour and a half riding along paths and trails of great natural interest. Your horse will be specially chosen for you to ensure a comfortable ride. Please note the ranch does not have tourist facilities.
Discover the Roman past of Cartagena on this half-day private shore excursion. The tour includes a ride on the panoramic elevator up to the esplanade of Concepción Castle. From this viewpoint, you will enjoy an exterior visit of the castle and take in panoramic pictures of the city.
Embark on a delicious adventure to enjoy tasty local cuisine through a tapas tour. This experience combines food with culture, allowing you to get to know different historical influences on the city. The tour focuses on two key eras: the legacy of the Roman Empire and the customs and decoration of the early 20th century.
Discover the main highlights of both Cartagena and Murcia in one day on this guided shore excursion. In Cartagena, learn about its ancient history and see top landmarks like the Cervantes House, the Grand Hotel, and the Roman Theater. Then, follow a local guide through Murcia’s historic streets to admire famous landmarks including the Cathedral Church of Saint Mary and the 19th-century Real Casino de Murcia.
Enjoy the seabed with a snorkeling excursion in the marine reserve of Isla de Tabarca. Using just goggles, a snorkel, and fins, you can observe diverse marine fauna at a shallow depth. This is a fantastic way to discover the different parts of this nearby island paradise.
Showing 1 ship in port and 10 ships in the area
Last updated on June 13, 2025
Most main attractions are within easy walking distance from the cruise terminal; taxis are available at the port for further destinations.
Must-see attractions include the impressive Roman Theatre, the Roman Forum, Concepción Castle, and a stroll down the main shopping street, Calle Mayor, all easily accessible on foot.
Savor local tapas and try "caldero," a traditional rice and fish dish, at restaurants along Calle Mayor or near the marina. Local wines from the Murcia region are also recommended.
The local currency is Euro (1 USD = 0.86 EUR). The local currency is the Euro (€). ATMs are readily available throughout the city center, a short walk from the port, for withdrawing cash; credit cards are widely accepted.
Expect warm to hot, sunny weather during the main cruise season (spring to autumn); pack light clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes.
Cala Cortina is the closest beach, reachable by a short taxi ride (around 10 minutes) or a scenic 30-40 minute walk; it offers calm waters and basic facilities.
Many key sites are walkable, making independent exploration easy and cost-effective; cruise line excursions can be convenient for guided experiences or trips to places like Murcia.
Explore Calle Mayor and its side streets for local crafts, ceramics, leather goods, and regional food products like salted fish (salazones) or local wine for souvenirs.
Consider a trip to the historic city of Murcia (approx. 45-60 minutes by bus or taxi) or the unique coastal spit of La Manga del Mar Menor for its beaches.
Cartagena's magnificent Roman Theatre, a key attraction today, was only rediscovered by chance in 1988 during construction work.
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