The Regional capital is a fine modern city with excellent shops and many interesting places to visit. There are regular bus services between Murcia and Mazarron / Puerto de Mazarron and taking a bus ride can be a better alternative to a car as parking is at a premium here. Buses also run from here to all parts of the area, including of course La Manga area.

Murcia is a university town and so has a fair amount of nightlife.

Population: 344.904 Altitude: 43m Distance to airport: 45 kms (San Javier) 67 kms (Alicante)
Area: Murcia the Capital of Communidad de Murcia and is situated in the center of the Segura Valley. The City was founded in 825 AD and has an average yearly temperature of 18 C. It is now a modern City that still holds many historic and beautiful buildings (El Palacio Episcopal, Iglesia de San Miguel amongst others).

Useful local phone numbers
Town Hall: 96 822 1933 Tourist Information: 96 835 8600
Airport: 96 691 9000 (Alicante) Bus Station: 96 829 2211
Local websites
Town Hall:www.forodigital.es/ayto-murcia

Cathedral de Santa Maria

Construction began in 1394 on the site of an old mosque; however there's not a hint of 14th century in the splendid western facade. The original Gothic front suffered irreparable damage from a flood of the neaby River Segura in 1735, and was subsequently renovated in the Baroque style. You can climb the tower on the left of the picture to obtain an impressive view of the city.

Inside the cathedral is equally impressive and noted for 16th century style plasteresque decor. In main chapel is an unremarkable urn containing some grisly remains - the heart of Alfonso the Wise, bequeathed by the 13th century king long before his death.
 
There are also many Baroque churches within walking distance in the City providing a wealth of interesting sculpture and religious artefacts.

Glorieta de España

Situated not far from the Cathedral and near the River Segura which runs through the city, the Glorieta is a pleasant place to relax in between shopping or sight-seeing expeditions. There are many such places in the old parts of the city which is only a few minutes walk from here.

Shopping

Many people travel to Murcia to take advantage of the wide range of goods available in the excellent shops.

The Corte Inglés is one of the most popular and have a reputation for extensive stock and quality. As seen in this photo they have one of the most spectacular displays of lights at Christmas. "El Corte" is a houshold name in Spain and their department stores can be found in most large cities.