MURCIA has relaunched its popular Tourist Voucher, offering visitors 50 per cent off stays at 71 hotels, campsites, rural houses, and tourist apartments across the region. Funded with €500,000, the programme aims to attract visitors outside the summer months and support local tourism businesses.
How the tourist voucher works
The vouchers are available to anyone living in Spain who books at least two consecutive nights at a participating accommodation. Visitors can claim them through the regional tourism website, www.turismoregiondemurcia.es, or directly with hotels, campsites, rural houses, and tourist apartments included in the programme. Local travel agencies also participate, allowing visitors to combine stays with guided tours, wine tastings, or nature excursions.
The programme runs in two phases:
By spreading the initiative across two periods, Murcia aims to maintain visitor numbers beyond the summer season and support local tourism businesses year-round.
Some great places to visit in the Region of Murcia
Moratalla: Medieval charm and nature Trails
Located in northwestern Murcia, Moratalla is a hidden gem surrounded by pine forests and rugged mountains. Visitors can explore its medieval streets, historic churches, and ancient castle ruins. The region is also home to prehistoric cave paintings at Peña Rubia, which offer a fascinating glimpse into early human life. Hikers and nature lovers will find trails through the Sierra de Moratalla particularly rewarding, with panoramic views of the valley below.
Caravaca de la Cruz: A holy city
One of only five holy cities in the world, Caravaca de la Cruz is a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts. Its Sanctuary of the Vera Cruz attracts pilgrims year-round, while the town’s narrow streets, traditional plazas, and local markets provide a charming atmosphere. Visitors can also enjoy nearby rural landscapes for hiking or cycling excursions, making it a perfect blend of culture and nature.
San Pedro del Pinatar: Coastal nature and relaxation
This coastal town is famous for its Mar Menor salt flats, home to flamingos and other migratory birds. The natural mud baths are said to have therapeutic properties, attracting wellness-seekers from across Spain. Visitors can explore the Las Salinas Nature Reserve, walk along wooden boardwalks, or enjoy a bike ride along the coastline. San Pedro del Pinatar is ideal for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
Mazarrón: Beaches and marine adventures
Mazarrón offers golden sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent diving spots. The Playa de Bolnuevo is famous for its unique rock formations, while the Mazarrón Marina provides opportunities for boat trips and water sports. History lovers can explore the Roman ruins of Baria, highlighting the area’s ancient past. Mazarrón perfectly combines seaside relaxation with outdoor adventure.
Cartagena: History meets modernity
Cartagena is a historic port city with layers of Roman, Moorish, and modern architecture. The Roman Theatre, discovered in 1988, is a highlight for any visitor, while the National Museum of Underwater Archaeology (ARQUA) offers insights into Mediterranean maritime history. The city’s vibrant old town is lined with cafés, tapas bars, and cultural attractions, making Cartagena a perfect destination for a mix of sightseeing and culinary exploration.
Murcia City: Culture, tapas, and winding streets
The regional capital, Murcia City, offers a rich cultural experience combined with modern amenities. Visitors can admire the Cathedral of Murcia and the stunning Real Casino, then stroll through the Plaza de las Flores and sample local tapas. With its lively markets, art galleries, and riverside walks, Murcia City provides a balance of history, gastronomy, and urban charm.
Jumilla: Wine country and hidden villages
For wine lovers, Jumilla is an essential stop. Surrounded by vineyards producing some of Spain’s best red wines, visitors can tour local bodegas, sample wine, and enjoy the Castle of Jumilla, a medieval fortress offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The town’s small squares, historic churches, and local restaurants make it a relaxing and authentic Murcian experience.
Ricote Valley: Scenic villages and riverside walks
The Ricote Valley is a lush, fertile area along the Segura River, dotted with charming villages like Ricote, Archena, and Abarán. Visitors can wander cobbled streets, admire traditional Moorish architecture, and enjoy the peaceful riverside landscapes. The area is perfect for hiking, cycling, or just discovering rural life in Murcia far from the usual tourist spots.
Supporting local tourism year-round
Tourism in Murcia reached record levels this summer, with nearly 490,000 visitors between June and August, a 3.2 per cent increase over 2024. Weekend breaks remain the most popular, particularly for those exploring Moratalla, San Pedro del Pinatar, Murcia City, Cartagena, Jumilla, and the Ricote Valley.
Since 2021, more than 9,400 vouchers have been issued, generating over 21,000 overnight stays and €2.5 million in direct revenue. With the relaunch of the Tourist Voucher, Murcia continues to position itself as a year-round destination, offering visitors culture, nature, wine, and coastline, now at half the price.
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