Built between the 5th and 1st centuries BC, Cartagena’s Roman Theatre wasn’t discovered during modern times until 1988, following which a massive restoration took place. In 2008, the newly discovered theatre was opened to the public along with a museum, once again inviting visitors into a grand space that, during Roman times, welcomed some 6,000 spectators.

The theater is situated on a vista-rich city hillside, from which the stadium seating was carved out of the actual rock below. During a visit, you can explore the different corners of this conserved space, as well as check out the museum, which offers an in-depth overview of the archaeological remains along with informative panels explaining the restoration

Website: https://teatroromano.cartagena.es/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/teatroromanodecartagena/?locale=es_ES

Google Maps Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/KP6fdst8cTWVPoVp8

Unfortunately, this historic building lies in ruins following bombing during the Spanish Civil War.

The facade and foundations can be viewed as part pf the Roman Theatre Museum tour.

As an important naval base, Cartagena is surrounded by many batteries and fortifications dating back many years. 

The main fortification for visitors is the Christmas Fort (Fuerte de Navidad).

Here you will learn in detail about the defensive system of Cartagena throughout history. It is the only shore battery adapted to show military and daily life in a nineteenth-century fortress. Nestled on the right bank of the bay and next to the lighthouse of the same name, the Christmas Fort bears witness to the political, social and military developments of the last centuries.

Tour the armoured structures, learn how to handle a cannon and discover what the diet and rest of the gunners were like. End your visit by enjoying the magnificent views from the terrace.

Reachable by car or tourist boat.

To find out more about this and other batteries and fortifications surrounding Cartagena, visit https://turismo.cartagena.es/arquitectura_defensiva.asp?tipo=3&idioma=2

The Naval Museum of Cartagena is located on the ground floor of the building built in the 18th century as the Prisoners and Slaves Barracks, which became the Marine Instruction Barracks after the Civil War. In 2005, it was remodelled to host one of the campus of the Polytechnic University of Cartagena, reserving part of its space for the Naval Museum.

In 2013, the museum was expanded with the inauguration of the Isaac Peral Hall in the former Workshop of Calderería del Arsenal. After the rehabilitation of the ship, the Peral Submarine moved from the seafront to undertake its restoration and its adequate exposure to the public, becoming the main piece of the museum. In the same space, the Legacy of Isaac Peral is displayed, which contextualizes the important contribution of the Cartagena sailor to scientific and military history.

The collection offers a tour of the history of the Navy in the city of Cartagena and is divided into different thematic areas.

Website: https://www.fundacionmuseonaval.com/museonavalcartagena.html

Google Maps Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/diwXMrZnTBBdsjen8

The open-air monument of the Peral submarine is located in front of the sea, on the Paseo de Alfonso XII, next to the Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Navigation, and near the Marina of the city of Cartagena. This is a replica of the original submarine. The real one can be seen in the Naval Museum.

The Peral submarine is a 22-meter-long torpedo submarine, built in the 1880s, capable of reaching 11 miles per hour sailing on the surface and 10 miles per hour submerged. It could dive up to 300 meters deep and had two propellers driven by 30 hp electric motors.

It was designed to be maneuvered by two crew members and had numerous instruments that allowed navigation. Its interior was painted white and carpeted with rubber, while the exterior is grey. The Peral submarine was the first ship of its kind and is considered one of the city's most emblematic monuments.

Google Maps Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/MbBPRBbxD57cVVxq8

The Historical Military Museum of Cartagena is dedicated to the land forces of Spain’s military.

The building itself is worth visiting and the museum has been beautifully developed within its courtyards and two floors. It is within the confines of the old artillery park and today holds the largest collection of artillery in Europe. There are various examples of military hardware from around the world on display including tanks and mobile missile launchers. There is also a gallery full of uniforms through the centuries.

You can also view the world’s biggest collection of military models as verified by Guinness World Records. It consists of 2,815 pieces! Of particular interest is the story of the SS Castillo de Olite, a ship carrying Natioanlist troops at the very end of the civil war. She was sunk by Republican artillery having not received an order to retreat due to a broken radio. Nearly 1500 people died and this incident represents the greatest loss of life from the sinking of a single ship in Spanish naval history.

Website: https://www.turismoregiondemurcia.es/en/museum/military-historical-museum-56/

Google Maps Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/2XYiLnqwVocp9Gsg7

Amphorae, lead ingots, anchors... even a life-size model of a Roman merchant ship. This is just a part of the collection on display in this museum dedicated to the exhibition of objects found in underwater archaeological excavations.

The visit offers a journey through the history of maritime activities, trading and transportation, with particular emphasis on the Phoenician and Roman times. There is also an outstanding collection of seven scale models of ancient ships, and even an exact replica of a galley ship.

Website: 
https://www.cultura.gob.es/mnarqua/home.html

Facebook: 
https://www.facebook.com/museoarqva

Google Maps Link: 
https://maps.app.goo.gl/GHRqD5ur8gcQk1nV9

Along the coastal front of the Calblanque Regional Park are a series of beaches and small coves, which are characterized by their fine, golden sands and their almost unspoiled state.

Its great natural wealth is based on the arid mountain ranges, long beaches of golden and ochre sand, solitary coves and the beautiful formation of fossil dunes, white salt flats and mountain massifs that contrast with the blue of the sea.

The beaches that can be enjoyed, always bearing in mind that in some cases access may be somewhat difficult and that we must preserve the natural environment in which they are located, are:

East Sector:

- Clablanque - Cala Arturo

- Cala Magre

- Cala de Los Dentones

West Sector:

- Parreño

Beach - Negrete

Beach - Long

Beach - Las Cañas Beach

Within the Calblanque Regional Park is also located the Cala del Barco, a small beach whose access is through the tourist complex of the La Manga Club Golf Course.

Urban beach located 11 km from Cartagena.

Divide into two areas, a pebble beach and general public access. Separated by a promontory is Cala Morena.

The beach has many amenities, and is located near a marina. Its waters are calm, and its grey sand is of intermediate texture. Next to it is a naturist campsite.

Google Maps Link: 
https://maps.app.goo.gl/2YBZB8QveBUqudUX9

This Nature Reserve represents one of the last untouched areas along the Mediterranean coastline and is truly unspoilt. Its enormous natural wealth is based on its arid mountains, its long, ochre and golden-coloured beaches as well as its lonely coves, the formation of its fossil dunes, its white salt lakes and its mountain massifs, which contrast with the blue sea. There are no facilities here (apart from some toilets at the visitors centre).

The Regional Park of Calblanque, Monte de las Cenizas and Peña del Águila is an area located on the easternmost portion of the coast of the Region, south of the Mar Menor.

It has 17 types of habitats, the most characteristic vegetative communities being the groves of Tetraclinis articulata, Ibero-African endemism. In relation to the fauna of the park, the Fartet (Aphanius iberus) stands out, and other species such as the runner toad in bushes, the Iberian skink on the beach and sandy areas and the rock-dwelling birds of prey.

Google Maps Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/9ahfZn6e2ooc1yWR8

Sierra de La Muela, Cabo Tiñoso and Roldán Natural Area Located on the coast of the Region of Murcia, west of Cartagena, the Cabezo de Roldán is a cliff mountain range of high ecological, geomorphological and cultural interest.

Its flora has numerous species exclusive to the area and many others that it shares with North Africa. The Cartagena cypress (Tetraclinis articulata), the Cartagena immortelle (Limonium cartaginense) and the cornical (Periploca angustifolia) stand out.

In terms of fauna, birds of prey such as Bonelli's eagle (Aquila fasciata) or peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) that fly over the peaks stand out, and mammals such as the genet (Genetta genetta), the Moorish hedgehog (Atelerix algirus) or the shrew (Suncus etruscus), along with reptiles such as the red-tailed lizard (Acanthodactylus erythrurus) or the ocellated lizard (Lacerta lepida) that roam the environment.

Mount Roldán, due to its proximity to the city of Cartagena and its attractive landscape, is very popular for hiking, cycling, mountain running and all kinds of recreational activities.

Google Maps Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/bdzCGmrF81RGJcYv8

The Holy Week in Cartagena is one of the greatest treasures of the city. Its processions, at night or in the early hours of the morning, are lived with so much excitement that even the tourists will not be able to avoid feeling involved in the devotion and dedication.

What makes the processions of Cartagena different is their perfect order and absolute silence, which has been inherited from the military past of the city. You will be impressed by the simultaneous movements of the hoods in the narrow streets of the city; by the richness of polychromes in the stunning thrones, and by the illumination provided by some special lamps called "cartelas".

More information can be found at the official website: https://semanasanta.cartagena.es/index.asp

The spectacular Cartagena Carnival, held in February each year, is one of the most important of the local festive cycle.

During its celebration, parades, dances, costume contests and chirigotas take place, which every year see an increase in the participation of Cartagena residents and visitors.

You can find out more information on their official website and Facebook (details below)

Website: https://carnaval.cartagena.es/index.asp

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FederacionCarnavalCartagena/

For ten days during the 2nd fortnight of September, Cartagena hosts the annual Carthaginians and Romans Festival.

A huge festival site is transformed into an ancient city where both locals and tourists take part in the re-enactment of historical events which took place in the city during the Second Punic War. This huge camp, located next to the Estadio Cartagonova, is home to many temporary bars, food stalls and craft markets where participants, dressed in elaborate costumes, come to enjoy the festivities.

Major events which are commemorated include the foundation of the ancient city of Carthage (Qart Hadasht) by the Carthaginian general Asdrubal the Beautiful around 227 BC, the departure of Hannibal to Rome and the conquest of the city by Scipio Africanus in 209 BC.

Official Website: https://cartaginesesyromanos.es/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CarthaginesesyRomanos/

Featuring some of the largest rock bands in the world, Rock Imperium Festival is a festival dedicated to hard rock and heavy metal music that has been held annually since 2022, usually during the month of June.

It is held in the Cuesta del Batel Park in Cartagena (Region of Murcia).

Website: 
https://www.rockimperiumfestival.es/en/

Facebook: 
https://www.facebook.com/rockimperiumfestival/?locale=es_LA

Google Maps Link: 
https://maps.app.goo.gl/Vc5W3cjfTFTFCA3u6

Everything you need to shop is in downtown Cartagena: food, beauty, footwear, culture, home, hospitality sector, children, jewellery, fashion, gifts, health, services, technology.

Go to the downtown area to enjoy a purchase with the added value of a walk through the most emblematic area of the city, where everything is close and each street is different from the previous one, both architecturally and for its commercial offer.

Park in the underground car park at the port and wander up past the Roman Theatre museum to find the downtown area.

The largest shopping mall in Cartagena, full of small shops of all kinds. Everything is designed to offer complete services for leisure: whim shops, useful shops, restaurants, cafes, cinemas, a bowling alley.

Lux cinemas. It has two floors and three levels. Structured in a simple triangular shape, with two rises at the two vertices adjacent to the entrance.

Opening hours: Monday to Thursday: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. h.De Friday to Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 a.m.Sunday: 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.

Services: Public toilets - Adapted public toilets - Baby changing facilities - Breastfeeding area - Escalators - Lifts - Free Wi-Fi in the restaurant area - Taxi rank - Underground parking - ATMs.

Website: https://espaciomediterraneo.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/espaciomediterraneoct/?locale=es_ES

Google Maps Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/BpXhgJhQm1qBDmxu7

Santa Florentina Market is one of the most famous food markets in the city.

It has over 50 stalls selling all kinds of different fresh produce.

Website: 
https://www.mercadosantaflorentina.com/

Facebook: 
https://www.facebook.com/MercadoSantaFlorentina/

Google Maps Link: 
https://maps.app.goo.gl/FZJvLsoUTodiEL5F8

Rated as the 2nd best restaurant in Cartagena, with hundreds of positive reviews on TripAdviser, the Curry Corner is an Indian restaurant serving quality Indian food with excellent customer service.

They offer a wide range of Indian dishes, are vegetarian friendly and have vegan and gluten free options.

Tel: 633 43 81 93

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thecuryycorner/

Google Maps Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/JFoNms2XcchRHcdb8

Sibuya Urban Sushi Bar, a super Japanese restaurant, is part of a chain with over 50 restaurants throughout Spain.

Wakame Salad, Sunomono, Tori Katsu, Takoyaki, Miso Soup, Baos, Noodles, Makis, Uramakis, the delicious and artisanal Gunkan, Nigiris, Sashimi... or the acclaimed Sake Sibuya, are some of its dishes.

Tel: 868681820

Website: 
https://sibuyaurbansushibar.com/restaurante-japones-cartagena/

Facebook: 
https://www.facebook.com/sibuyaurbansushi

Google Maps Link: 
https://maps.app.goo.gl/VVZ2ABPozCisW7rp6

Luces Restaurante is a modern restaurant with creative, Mediterranean cuisine that will turn your visit into an unforgettable dining experience.

You will be able to pair your dishes with their exclusive and magnificent selection of wines from around the world. Renowned for the attention and service of their team.

Tel: 
671 15 73 05

Website: 
https://luces.me/

Facebook: 
https://www.facebook.com/luces.me/?locale=es_ES

Google Maps Link: 
https://maps.app.goo.gl/5thBLamFH257cfFS6

El cantón Cartagena, near the Roman Theatre, offers its diners Mediterranean and Spanish cuisines.

Renowned for its varied menu, including tapas, and excellent customer service.

Tel: 630 85 17 43

Website: https://elcantonbar.es/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/El-Cant%C3%B3n-Cartagena-100063575712488/

Google Maps Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/PcQPLz2m9STi41VD7

The key to this restaurant bar is its Spanish cuisine. Try some enticing tapas, a generous laing or a tender sardine at Albedrío. Many diners come to try their perfectly crafted fruitcake, amazing cheesecake, and delicate ice cream. 

Renowned for its great service. It has sister restaurants in Lorca and Murcia.

Tel: 637 645 075

Website: https://albedrio.es/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/albedrioLorca/?locale=es_ES

Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Uc7Q11YnvPduJjxR6

Alacena de María is a cozy place where you will find authentic Spanish traditional recipes in which chef Javier Mateo brings a touch of fusion and creativity to each dish.

Javier Mateo can be considered one of the most innovative chefs of the traditional cuisine in Cartagena, where in each dish he offers authentic traditional flavours.

Tel: 
642 45 11 70

Website: https://laalacenademaria.es/

Facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/alacenademaria/?locale=es_LA

Google Maps Link: 
https://maps.app.goo.gl/tWDu2nxBi99CTAXj8

The views of Town Hall Square from the windows of this bar offer you a fabulous memory. Order some enticing empanadas or some tender tapas at El Soldadito de Plomo cafe/bar. 

The homely atmosphere of this place allows guests to relax and unwind. 

Tel: 868 06 83 04

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elsoldaditodeplomocartagena

Google Maps Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/dHVyYJu5Zh6qejm36

Gastrobar La Fábrica Brew-Pub micro-brewery prides itself on is its Mediterranean and Spanish cuisines. The Brew-pub Factory is a gastronomic-brewing project with a very clear objective: to offer products of the highest quality with a tapa + beer format.

Enjoy a fantastic pairing menu with an explanatory tour of the manufacturing process.

Tel: 633 58 93 59

Facebook: 
https://www.facebook.com/asesorgastronomico.net/

Google Maps Link: 
https://maps.app.goo.gl/cM6CK4LFaCYxtx4y5

Renowned for its tapas and traditional Spanish fare, Colmao is a bar/restaurant is located in downtown Cartagena.

Expect great food, a good atmosphere and excellent service.

Tel: 621 20 32 73

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ColmaoTheMarket/

Google Maps Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/y6fsmWFph6hT3pkX7

Restaurante La Herradura, located in Cartagena, is an Argentinian restaurant specializing in grilled meats of both Argentine and national origin.

La Herradura is a journey through the Argentinian countryside: The traditional Creole grill called "a la cruz" as well as their grill with cuts of the best meat in an exclusive place and with spacious rooms decorated with a traditional Creole decoration will make a very special day.

Tel: 656 26 45 14

Website: https://laherradurarestaurante.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RestauranteasadorargentinoLaHerradura/about?locale=es_ES

Google Maps Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/iXYhTZNASRZL1yaLA