Home to historic museums, impressive churches and archaeological sites, Cartagena is a city bursting with culture. The city dates back to 220 BC and was a prominent harbour town and major naval station on the Mediterranean coast.
Things to do in Cartagena
Cartagena’s biggest attraction and most-iconic landmark is the Roman Theatre Museum. Built between the 1st and 5th centuries, the theatre boasts incredible Roman architecture and exhibits archaeological items found around its circumference. Take a guided tour to learn about the city's history.
Palacio Consistorial is one of the city's most picturesque palaces. Built in the 1900s, the palace boasts French architecture, a marble facade and delicate stained-glass windows. Culture vultures and historians alike will enjoy a guided tour of the palace rooms and the grand staircase.
Looking to learn about the city’s history? Take a trip to the Archeological Museum to learn about Cartagena’s historical development, explore the changing civilisations and marvel at the remains of Greek ceramics and Bronze Age pottery.
The archaeology exhibits continue at the National Museum of Underwater Archaeology, where display rooms explain the process of underwater archaeology. In the main hall, a Roman boat hangs from the ceiling, while side rooms feature vast collections of relics and artefacts relating to the Mediterranean maritime trade.
Getting around Cartagena
San Javier Airport sits just 30 minutes outside Cartagena, while Alicante–Elche Airport is just under an hour’s drive away. Cartagena is compact enough to be explored on foot, while local buses and taxis are also available.