Two to three days works well. That gives you time for the cathedral and historic center in day one, then a day trip to Cartagena or Tabarca Island without feeling rushed. Most visitors book one guided walk and one longer excursion.

Yes, especially for the cathedral and historical center. A local guide explains the baroque architecture and layers of history in ways a solo visit won't. Many tours last two hours and include cathedral entry - good value if you want context, not just sightseeing.

Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are ideal - warm without the summer heat. The cathedral and markets are comfortable to explore on foot during these months. Summer crowds and heat make walking tours less pleasant.

The center is walkable, and private transfers are popular if you're arriving from Alicante airport or nearby resorts. Day trips to Cartagena or the coast usually include transport, so check what's included with your booking.

You can absolutely walk the center solo - it's not huge. But many visitors book either a scavenger hunt game or a short intro walk first to get oriented and know which sights matter most. It helps you skip the fluff.

Cartagena (with its Roman theater) and Tabarca Island are the main ones people book. Both are doable as half or full-day trips from Murcia. Check transport details when you book - some include it, some don't.

The historic center has some cobbled streets and hills around the cathedral, so it's patchy. Private guides can usually suggest flatter routes, and private transfers mean you don't rely on public transport. Contact your tour operator before you go with specific access needs.