Murcia, Spain with Julia Bradbury

Follow in the footsteps of Julia Bradbury's podcast with our guide to Murcia in Spain...

Murcia is a city and region located in southeastern Spain and is famous for its tapas, vineyards, scenic hiking trails and lively fiestas. 

First stop - the Cathedral Church of Saint Mary, also known as the Cathedral of Murcia, a beautiful birthday cake of a building located on the city’s main square. The cathedral dates back to 1388 and took four centuries to complete. Its unusual mix of gothic, baroque and renaissance architectural styles makes it one of the most spectacular cathedrals in Spain. Insta at the ready.

They don’t call it the Bridge of Dangers for nothing.  In the 18^th century the bridge was frequently damaged by flooding from the River Segura. So, to allay locals’ fears,  a statue of Our Lady of Dangers was incorporated into the structure when the bridge was rebuilt. If you stop for a moment, you'll notice that locals still make the sign of the cross when walking or driving over the bridge. 

The Plaza de las Flores is located in the old quarter of Murcia and takes its name from the flower market that once took place on the square. Surrounded by flower stalls as well as shops, cafes and restaurants, it’s one of city’s prettiest squares and a great spot to enjoy a coffee in the sunshine. 

Serving delicious local cuisine for over 90 years, Restaurante Hispano is the place to try tapas in Murcia. Since taking over the family business, the Abellán brothers (Rocío, Saki, Balta and Nacho) have added their own modern twist to traditional tapas – try the salty tomato ice-cream for the ultimate flavour kick.

Restaurante Hispano, Calle Radio Murcia, 4, 30001 Murcia

Sierra Espuña contains Murcia's largest forest and is recognised as an outstanding area of natural beauty. Its lush green landscape is thanks to reforestation campaigns carried out towards the end of the 19th century by Murcian philanthropist Ricardo Codorníu. Expect Mediterranean views and fragrant bursts of  pine, rosemary and lemon as you wander the park's hiking trails. 

Located around 80km from the Mediterranean, Jumilla (north east Murcia) offers the perfect climate for wine-growers.  Bodegas Carchelo manages 110 hectares of vineyards in Jumilla at the foot of Sierra del Carche. The family-run winery specialises in producing high quality Crianza red wine and is 

 open to visitors from 9am -12pm on weekdays and 16:00 - 18:00 on weekends. Advance booking is required for all visits. 

Bodegas Carchelo, Casas de la Hoya S/N, Apartado de correo 36, 30520 Jumilla, Spain

TRYP Murcia Rincón de Pepe is the perfect base for a trip to Murcia. Located right in the centre of Murcia, just steps from Murcia Cathedral, the old town and the Mercado de Correos gastromarket, you'll find rooms are bright and modern with excellent on-site facilities including restaurants and fitness centre.

Flights to Murcia