Murcia

Located just a few short miles from the coast, Murcia is Spain's seventh largest city and with a population of around half a million, the most populous in the autonomous Region of Murcia. Typified by its hot summers and mild winters, the history of Murcia goes back more than 1,200 years and has been known as "Europe's Orchard" due to its reputation for producing the finest fruits. The Parque Regional de Carroscoy y el Valle also lies to the south of the city and there are a number of hotels and apartments in Murcia, including the sumptuous Rose Victoria Hotel with its café bars and delicious restaurant, provide fantastic access to this rural paradise – meaning you can avoid the hustle and bustle of the city if you so wish.

The city itself is also a fantastic place to explore and its rich cultural heritage is to be found on almost every corner. If you are more inclined to see the urban centre of Murcia, then the Hotel NH Amistad Murcia or the Hotel El Churra offer fantastic central locations for you to begin your explorations. The Cathedral of Murcia, built between 1394 and 1465, offers a perfect example of Castilian Gothic architecture and is extremely impressive. Located in the Plaza Cardenal Belluga, other buildings of note include the 18th century Bishop's Palace and the Town Hall – all of which can be enjoyed within a short walk from your hotel or apartment in Murcia.

The traditional centre of town is marked by the Glorieta which stands on the banks of the Segura River surrounded by luxurious apartments. Hotels and apartments which provide easy access to this part of town include the Pension Segura and the Hotel Casa Emilio, which also have fantastic views of the river itself. However, regardless of where you decide to spend your time in Murcia, the comprehensive provision of buses, trams and trains mean getting around is simple and relatively cheap. Visiting other tourist attractions, such as the 11th century Monteguado Castle and the 17th century Almudi Palace, is easy when you take advantage of Murcia's effective public transport system.