Cartagena Cruises
One of Spain’s most important port cities for over 2000 years, Cartagena is bursting with history and culture. Originally built over five hills by the Romans, Cartagena is strategically placed on the Mediterranean coast and boasts some wonderful architecture and historic monuments. They include Casa de la Fortuna, a villa with murals and mosaics, and the medieval Castillo de la Conception, which served as a fortress for the Carthaginians, Romans, Visigoths, Arabs and Castilians, and overlooks the city's stunning natural harbour.
Many of the buildings from Roman Cartagena have disappeared, but some important sites remain, including the amphitheatre which dates from around 100BC.[ReadMoreMob] Cartagena is also home to a number of Modernist buildings that were designed and built by the pupils of Antoni Gaudi, the world famous architect renowned for designing the stunning La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. The city’s tapas bars and vibrant bars on the marina offer some fabulous local wining and dining.
Top Experiences
Roman Cartagena
Layers of history and Classical remnants abound throughout Cartagena, from the Roman Theatre and Museum to the Casa de la Fortuna and the Punic wall, the first defensive wall of Cartagena, which dates all the way back to the 3rd Century BC.
Cartagena's Maritime History
The impressive Muralla del Mar ('Sea Wall') delimits Cartagena’s old quarter. Elsewhere, the National Centre for Underwater Archaeological Research reveals aspects of naval construction, trade and navigation that since ancient times.
Mining
In the wider region of Murcia, the Sierra Minera and La Unión area is rich with metals and remains, like an open-air mining museum. Agrupa Vicenta at La Unión is a true highlight, plunging 80 metres beneath the surface to a rust-red lake at its bottom.
Discover the sweet flavours of Licor 43
Distilled in Cartagena and produced at a rate of up to 5,000 bottles per hour, Licor 43 is said to be the most sold liqueur in Spain. The name derives from the 43 ingredients used in its creation, including citrus fruit juices, spices and herbs.
Cruises to Cartagena
Discover Spanish Traditions • S2225
- Visit the stunning Alhambra Palace
- Experience Tapas & Flåmenco in Andalusia
- Discover the origins of Paella in Valencia
Ancient walls of the Med with Malta • T2229
- Delve into history & culture of the Med
- Explore the fortified Castello district in Cagliari
- In Melilla visit the fortified Spanish exclave
World Cruise • S2402
- Experience the thrill of an around the world voyage on Borealis
- Discover a mix of cultural, historical and natural wonders
- Explore Sydney, Singapore and Mumbai, and evel in the beauty of New Zealand
Mediterranean Islands with Cyprus • T2302
- Discover the Acropolis of Lindos
- See Mount Etna when cruising the Messina Strait
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Visit Pasteis de Belém bakery to enjoy a pastel de nata tart
Greek Islands and Corinth Canal • M2311
- Sail the extremely narrow Corinth Canal
- Discover the archaeological site of Olympia
- Explore the Acropolis & Parthenon in Athens
Renaissance Italy, the Adriatic & Amalfi Coast • S2309
- Experience a journey through centuries of history in Italy and the Adriatic
- Delve into the influences of the Renaissance and Venetians
- Revel in the scenic beauty of the Amalfi Coast, Bay of Kotor and more
Corinth Canal & the Greek Islands • M2412
- Experience an awe-inspiring navigation of the Corinth Canal, only possible thanks to record-breaking Braemar’s smaller size.
- Discover the highlights and ancient sites of Greek islands such Crete, Rhodes and Kefalonia
- On the Greek mainland, take in the world-renowned wonders of Athens and Olympia
Spain & Portugal with the Fleet in Funchal • T2328
- Be part of a memorable day of celebration at the ‘Fred. Olsen Fleet in Funchal’ event
- Delve into the history of ‘Hispania’ in cities linked to the Romans and Carthaginians
- See ancient amphitheatres, fortifications and explore archaeological sites
Discovering the Ancient Empires of the Eastern Mediterranean • T2404
- Delve into the influences of ancient empires and kingdoms
- Explore some of the world’s great ancient sites
- Highlights include Athens’ Acropolis and Malta's Grand Harbour
Discovering the Scenic Amalfi Coast • S2320
- Experience Italy’s beautiful Amalfi Coast to the full, from Borealis and ashore
- Revel in the coastal scenery, discover Roman sites and more, in Amalfi, Sorrento & Salerno
- Away from Amalfi, there are chances to explore ancient Rome and Cagliari
