A historic port city on the Mediterranean.
4.9/5 ⭐Google 660+ Reviews | A+ Better Business Bureau
Overview
Cartagena is a captivating port city located on Spain's southeastern Mediterranean coast, in the region of Murcia. With a history stretching back over 2,500 years, it boasts an incredibly rich heritage, having been a strategic naval base for the Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, and Moors. Today, Cartagena is a vibrant blend of ancient archaeological sites, impressive naval architecture, and elegant Art Nouveau buildings, all set around a beautiful natural harbor.
Cartagena is a popular and accessible cruise port of call for Mediterranean itineraries, especially those exploring the Western Mediterranean, North Africa, and the Iberian Peninsula. Cruise ships typically dock directly at the Alfonso XII Pier, which is exceptionally well-located, allowing passengers to walk directly into the city center and its many attractions within minutes. A visit to Cartagena offers cruise passengers a fascinating journey through time, from its well-preserved Roman theater to its modern naval museum, providing a rich cultural and historical experience within a compact and easily explored city.
Discover the jewel in the crown: the Roman Theatre, dating back to the 1st century BC. Begin your visit at the museum, which leads into the ancient amphitheater, offering a step back in time.
Tip: The entrance to the museum is located within the Palacio de Riquelme, near the port.
Take the "Ascensor Panorámico" (Panoramic Lift) up to Concepción Castle, a medieval fortress perched atop a hill overlooking the city and harbor. The castle offers 360-degree views and houses an interpretation center on the history.
Tip: The lift entrance is a short walk from the Roman Theatre.
Walk down Calle Mayor, the elegant main pedestrian street. Admire the beautiful Art Nouveau buildings with their ornate facades, balconies, and intricate details. This street is also home to charming shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Tip: Look up to appreciate the architectural details, and don't miss iconic buildings like the Gran Hotel and Casino de.
Delve into Spain's maritime past at the National Museum of Underwater Archaeology. This modern museum showcases artifacts recovered from shipwrecks, including treasures from the Nuestra Señora de las Mercedes, offering insights into ancient navigation.
Tip: The museum is a short walk from the cruise pier and is highly engaging for those interested in maritime.
Discover the ongoing archaeological excavations at the Roman Forum District. This site reveals a complex of Roman roads, thermal baths, and an Atrium building, offering a glimpse into daily life in Roman Carthago Nova.
Tip: The site provides excellent interpretive displays and walkways, helping to visualize the ancient city layout.
Enjoy a stroll along the marina. Take in the views of the port, admire the yachts, and find a spot at one of the many cafes or restaurants to savor seafood or a refreshing drink.
Tip: The waterfront is lively and perfect for people-watching, especially as ships come and go.
Aboard
Caribbean Princess
From
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
1 Sailing
Feb 24, 2028
Aboard
Wind Surf
From
Barcelona, Spain
1 Sailing
Oct 28, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Wind Surf
From
Barcelona, Spain
2 Sailings
Oct 28, 2027 - Oct 28, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Viking Libra
From
Barcelona, Spain
1 Sailing
Oct 31, 2027
Aboard
Viking Libra
From
Barcelona, Spain
1 Sailing
Apr 27, 2029
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Silver Ray
From
Barcelona, Spain
8 Sailings
Nov 8, 2026 - Nov 3, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Wind Surf for Tauck
From
Barcelona, Spain
1 Sailing
Oct 26, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Viking Neptune
From
Piraeus (Athens), Greece
1 Sailing
Mar 19, 2027
Aboard
Odyssey of the Seas
From
Civitavecchia, Rome, Italy
1 Sailing
Oct 31, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Liberty of the Seas
From
Barcelona, Spain
2 Sailings
May 6 - Jun 18, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Our expert consultants and customer service teams are standing by to help with all of your cruising needs.
[Our Cruise Expert] and his team were absolutely amazing to work with! Our original trip was unexpectedly canceled by the airline, so we decided at the last minute to go on a cruis...
Julia K.
I've booked several cruises with [Our Cruise Expert] in the past 15 years and continue to book with her for my family of five. We just returned from a Western Caribbean cruise on...
John C.
Friendly and professional attention by my senior cruise consultant. Perfect assistance. Thank you
Jose M.
I was having some trouble finding the right cruise for the right price as a single traveler, but thanks to [our Cruise Expert] I was able to find it with Cruise Web. Thank you very...
Camille G.
We have worked with [our Cruise Expert] several times and she makes it so easy and a pleasure to work with. She is very knowledgeable.
Linda F.
[Our Cruise Expert] was informative and very pleasant to work with. I'm not familiar with booking travel online and he made my experience pleasant.
Sharon E.
I am working with [our Cruise Expert] as my travel agent...he has been very helpful...he is very informative and knowledgeable about the places that I want to go on my Cruise....I...
Priscilla B.
[Our Cruise Expert] does an exceptional job of planning (with you) and coordinating a trip of your dreams! I can't wait to get started on the next one.
Sheralyn H.
Great working with [our Cruise Expert]! He was a tremendous help and steered us in the right direction every time! Helped us make memories for a lifetime!
Wendy F.
[Our Cruise Expert] always works hard to secure the bookings we have chosen and guides us through the process. She is always available to help and her advise is spot on.
James C.
