44 Most Underrated Cities You Should Visit In Spain

By

Akanksha Sharma

February 23, 2026

28. Cartagena, Murcia: A Phoenician Port's Roman Splendor

N-345 road at El Pino mountain in Cartagena, Murcia, Spain in 2022 January. Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons @Ximonic (Simo Räsänen

Nestled in a deep natural harbor on the Mediterranean coast, Cartagena boasts an astonishingly rich history often missed by travelers. Founded by Carthaginians and thriving under Rome, its crown jewel is a beautifully preserved Roman Theatre, dramatically revealed amidst the modern city. Explore the Punic Wall (one of the few Carthaginian remains in Spain), admire striking Art Nouveau architecture, and delve into naval history at the port. Cartagena offers layers of ancient history combined with a lively port city feel, distinct from typical Andalusian or Catalan destinations.

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