‘Stop flying to Barcelona and Malaga – this city is better’ | Europe | Travel

A British expat has stumbled upon a “hidden gem” in Spain – and she’s now living her best life there.

Jade Gartshore (@jadeinspain), originally from Leicester, has taken to TikTok to express her adoration for Murcia, the city she now calls home. The capital of the Region of Murcia in south-eastern Spain is rich with history and cultural heritage, sitting on the Segura River’s banks.

It showcases an architectural blend of Moorish, Gothic, and Baroque styles, featuring stunning landmarks like the Cathedral of Santa María and the opulent Real Casino de Murcia.

Despite its beauty, Murcia, often dubbed “La Huerta” for its lush orchards, remains relatively undiscovered by tourists, welcoming 1.1 million international visitors in 2024 – a stark contrast to Barcelona’s 15 million tourists last year.

In her viral video, Jade exclaims: “I left the United Kingdom to move to Murcia, Spain. I am so in love. Look at this, this is my morning walk,” as she pans over a scenic seascape.

“I can’t believe I live in such a beautiful place in the world. One of my favourite things about living in Murcia is actually that it’s a hidden gem.”

She continues: “I love that people don’t really come here and that it’s a very special place because I feel that if I lived in Barcelona or somewhere else, it wouldn’t have the same feel.”

Looking for inspiration of things to do in Murcia? There’s plenty to enjoy there.

The Murcia Cathedral is the city’s most iconic landmark. Its stunning mix of Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture is mesmerising. Climb the tower (Torre de la Catedral) for panoramic views over the city.

Then stroll through the historic centre. It is a labyrinth of narrow streets, charming squares, and beautiful historic buildings.

Next, visit the Real Casino de Murcia. This historic building blends a variety of styles, including Moorish and modernist.

Or relax at Floridablanca Garden. One of the oldest public parks in Spain, this is perfect for a peaceful break surrounded by lush greenery, fountains, and sculptures.

Considering a getawy to Murcia?

Here’s your guide to reaching this serene Spanish haven:.

1. By Air: A quick 2.5 to 3-hour flight from major UK airports like London, Manchester, and Birmingham will get you straight into Corvera International Airport (RMU), just 12 miles from the heart of Murcia city.

Budget-friendly options are available with carriers such as Ryanair and easyJet.

2. By Train: Enjoy a scenic train ride with multiple transfers, taking approximately 19 hours and 54 minutes from London to Murcia, with routes passing through Paris and Alicante.

3. By Bus: For those who don’t mind lengthy journeys, buses are available although they take longer, expect around 35 hours on the road, with layovers in cities such as Paris.

4. By Car and Ferry: If you prefer driving, embark on an adventure with a car ferry from the UK to Spain, followed by a drive down to Murcia, a rewarding route for those with time to spare.