With an average of 283 hours of monthly sunshine and summer temperatures regularly exceeding 30C, the rain really does stay mainly on the plane
A Spanish city has been crowned the ‘sunniest city in Europe’, making it an irresistible destination for sun-seekers. Research by holiday rental booking portal Holidu uncovered the continent’s most sun-drenched cities, with eight of the top ten located in Spain.
Nestled in the southeast region of Murcia, Cartagena enjoys an enviable Mediterranean climate, vibrant culture and a surprisingly affordable cost of living. The historic port city, founded by the Carthaginians in roughly 220BC, boasts an average of 283 hours of sunshine per month — more than any other European city. This abundance of sun translates into warm, inviting weather for most of the year, with annual averages hovering around a temperate 19C.
From June to September, daytime highs typically range between 28C and 31C, with July and August often seeing the mercury soaring even higher. Rainfall is scarce, especially in the summer, ensuring long, dry days perfect for exploring the city or relaxing by the sea.
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One of Cartagena’s most attractive features is its affordability. The average price for a pint of local draught beer is just £2.50, a fraction of what you’d pay in London or other major UK cities. Dining out is also budget-friendly, with inexpensive restaurant meals averaging around £10.
This low cost of living extends to public transport and accommodation, making Cartagena an excellent choice for holidaymakers looking to make their money go further. Getting to the city is cheaper and easier than ever, with a host of budget airlines flying to nearby airports, including Murcia, which is less than half an hour away from Cartagena. The quickest routes from London take around two and a half hours, and flights from the UK can be found for as little as £34 with Ryanair.
Beyond its sunshine and value, Cartagena is rich in history, art and culture. Founded over two millennia ago, its streets are lined with remnants of Roman, Carthaginian and Moorish civilizations.
The city is home to the first-century BC Roman Amphitheater, one of Spain’s most impressive ancient monuments, and the charming old town is filled with lively squares, tapas bars and boutiques.
Concepción Castle offers panoramic views of the city and harbour, while the ancient city walls and abundant archaeological sites tell the story of Cartagena’s strategic maritime importance.
The city’s coastal location means beautiful beaches are always close at hand. The nearby shores of La Manga and Calblanque are renowned for their pristine sands and clear waters, ideal for swimming, sunbathing and water sports during the long, hot summers.
Despite its many attractions, Cartagena remains less crowded than Spain’s more famous tourist hotspots, giving visitors a chance to experience authentic Spanish hospitality and vibrant local life without the overwhelming crowds.
Seasonal festivals, such as the Mar de Músicas, bring international artists and a lively atmosphere to the city each summer.
With its rich history, stunning coastline and unbeatable value, Cartagena is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by anyone in search of sunshine, history and adventure.
