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Murcia San Javier Airport Guide | Car Hire, Transport & Facilities
Nestled along the stunning Mediterranean coast of Costa Cálida, Murcia-San Javier Airport serves as a convenient gateway to southeastern Spain’s most beautiful destinations. Located just 30 miles from Murcia city and 20 miles from historic Cartagena, this compact regional airport provides easy access to the Mar Menor lagoon, pristine beaches, championship golf courses, and charming coastal towns throughout the region.
Important Update: Murcia-San Javier Airport (MJV) ceased commercial operations in January 2019, with flights transferring to the new Región de Murcia International Airport (Corvera/RMU), located 15 miles southwest of Murcia city. However, San Javier remains active as a military airfield and maintains car hire facilities for those needing local transportation.
Car Rental Murcia
For current commercial flights to Murcia region, please refer to our comprehensive Murcia-Corvera International Airport Guide.
Car Hire at Murcia San Javier Airport
Why hire a car in Murcia?
The quickest and most convenient way to explore Costa Cálida’s diverse attractions is with your own rental vehicle. From San Javier’s coastal location, you can reach:
- Murcia city center: 40-minute drive northwest
- Cartagena: 30-minute scenic coastal drive southwest
- La Manga Club: 15-minute drive to championship golf resort
- Los Alcázares beaches: 10-minute drive to Mar Menor lagoon
- Mazarrón coast: 40-minute drive to stunning Mediterranean beaches
- Águilas: 60-minute coastal route to southern Costa Cálida
Having your own vehicle provides the freedom to explore hidden beaches, authentic Spanish villages, and regional attractions at your own pace without relying on limited public transport schedules.
Car Rental Companies at San Javier Airport
International & Local Providers:
Well-known international supplier Europcar and Spanish firm Centauro have car hire desks located in the Arrivals hall. Additional local car rental companies serving the Mar Menor and Costa Cálida region can be found in our comprehensive ListMyBizMurcia Car Rental Directory.
Vehicle Collection: Rental cars are collected from the airport car park, located directly in front of the passenger terminal and easily accessible on foot from the Arrivals area.
Save Money with Local Car Rental Companies
Smart Tip: While airport rental desks offer convenience, local car rental companies in nearby towns like Los Alcázares, San Javier town, and Mazarrón often provide significantly better rates—sometimes 40-60% cheaper than airport locations—with free local delivery or pickup services.
Browse trusted local car rental companies on ListMyBizMurcia:
- Competitive daily rates from €17/day
- No hidden airport surcharges
- Free delivery to accommodation in many cases
- Personal service from established local businesses
- Flexible booking with family-run companies
Compare Local Car Rental Prices →
Essential Documents for Car Hire Collection
When collecting your rental vehicle at San Javier Airport, you must present:
✅ Valid driving licence – Both parts of your UK driving licence (photocard and paper counterpart if issued before 2015)
✅ Credit card – The same credit card used for booking (debit cards often not accepted)
✅ Booking confirmation – Printed or digital verification of your reservation
✅ Passport or ID – Valid identification for international travelers
✅ Insurance documents
– If using your own coverage rather than rental company insurance
Additional Requirements:
- Minimum age: Usually 21-25 years depending on vehicle category
- Driving experience: Typically 1-2 years minimum
- International Driving Permit: May be required for non-EU licenses
For comprehensive car rental FAQs and Spanish driving requirements, visit our Murcia Car Hire Guide.
Driving in Murcia Region – What You Need to Know
Spanish Road Rules & Regulations
Mandatory Equipment in Your Vehicle:
- ✅ Two warning triangles – Required by Spanish law
- ✅ Fluorescent safety vest – One for each vehicle occupant
- ✅ Spare bulbs – Replacement headlight/taillight bulbs
- ✅ First aid kit – Recommended but not mandatory
Most reputable rental companies include these items as standard—verify before departure.
Explore Murcia Region from San Javier Nearby Destinations & Attractions
Los Alcázares (10 minutes)
- Beautiful Mar Menor lagoon beaches
- Family-friendly shallow waters
- Water sports and sailing
- Beachfront promenade with restaurants
Santiago de la Ribera (5 minutes)
- Charming coastal town
- Weekly markets
- Marina and seafood restaurants
- Relaxed Spanish atmosphere
La Manga (15 minutes)
- Championship golf courses
- Mar Menor lagoon and Mediterranean Sea
- Water sports paradise
- International resort amenities
Cartagena (30 minutes)
- Ancient Roman port city
- Roman Theatre and archaeological sites
- Historic castle with panoramic views
- Vibrant harbor and shopping districts
Murcia City (40 minutes)
- Stunning baroque cathedral
- Authentic Spanish tapas culture
- Historic plazas and architecture
- Shopping and cultural attractions
Mazarrón & Bolnuevo (45 minutes)
- Pristine Mediterranean beaches
- Unique erosion rock formations
- Traditional fishing villages
- Authentic coastal Spanish living
For comprehensive destination guides, local recommendations, and insider tips, explore our Complete Murcia Region Travel Guide.
Car Rental Murcia
Parking in Spain
Spanish parking regulations can seem confusing initially, with rules varying by day, week, and even month. Here’s what you need to know:
Colour-Coded Parking Zones:
- 🔵 Blue zones (Zona Azul): Pay-and-display parking, typically limited to 1-2 hours
- 🟢 Green zones: Resident parking priority with visitor time limits
- ⚪ White lines: Free unrestricted parking (rarest option)
- 🟡 Yellow lines: No parking or stopping at any time
Alternating Street Parking: In many Spanish towns, parking alternates between street sides on different days. Look for signs indicating:
- Odd-numbered days: Park on odd-numbered building side
- Even-numbered days: Park on even-numbered building side
Parking Tips:
- Use supervised car parks (parkings) in city centers for stress-free parking
- Download parking apps like “ORA” for easy payment in blue zones
- Avoid blocking dropped curbs (yellow paint) which can result in towing
Fuel Stations
Fuel Types:
- Gasolina: Unleaded petrol (95 or 98 octane)
- Gasóleo/Diesel: Diesel fuel
- Sin Plomo: Unleaded (literally “without lead”)
Fuel Stations: Most Spanish petrol stations (gasolineras) are full-service with attendants, though self-service is increasingly common. The majority accept credit cards at the pump, though smaller rural stations may be cash-only.
Fuel Policy: Rental cars typically come with a full tank and should be returned full to avoid hefty refueling charges. Plan your final fill-up close to the airport for best value.
Toll Roads (Autopistas)
Spain’s autopistas de peaje (AP motorways) are toll roads with charges paid at booths. Key routes in Murcia region:
- AP-7: Major coastal motorway connecting Cartagena, Murcia, and Alicante
- Tolls vary by distance traveled
- Accept cash and credit cards
- Keep your ticket from entry point to calculate toll at exit
Free Alternative Routes: National roads (marked ‘N’) run parallel to most toll motorways and are free, though journey times are longer with more traffic.
Speed Limits
- Urban areas: 30-50 km/h (20-30 mph)
- Rural roads: 90 km/h (55 mph)
- Dual carriageways: 100 km/h (62 mph)
- Motorways: 120 km/h (75 mph)
Speed cameras are common, and Spanish police conduct frequent checks. Fines are issued on the spot with immediate payment expected.
For comprehensive driving tips, local routes, and hidden gems to explore, visit our Complete Guide to Driving in Murcia Region.
Airport Transport Options
axis from San Javier Airport
Official Taxi Service: Taxis are provided by Unión Radio Taxi Mar Menor and depart from directly outside the passenger terminal. A separate taxi rank serves passengers traveling to Santiago de la Ribera.
Approximate Taxi Fares:
- 🚕 San Javier Airport → Murcia city center: €45-55 (40-50 minutes)
- 🚕 San Javier Airport → Cartagena: €30-40 (25-30 minutes)
- 🚕 San Javier Airport → Los Alcázares: €10-15 (10 minutes)
- 🚕 San Javier Airport → La Manga: €20-25 (15 minutes)
- 🚕 San Javier Airport → Mazarrón: €50-60 (45 minutes)
Taxi Tips:
- Fares increase evenings, weekends, and holidays
- Luggage may incur small surcharge
- Agree on approximate fare before departure
- Receipts available upon request
Save Money: For better value, consider booking a private airport transfer through local companies listed on ListMyBizMurcia, often offering fixed prices and meet-and-greet service.
Browse Airport Transfer Services →
Buses from San Javier Airport
Local Bus Connections:
Buses depart from outside the passenger terminal to Santiago de la Ribera, where passengers can connect to broader Región de Murcia Transporte bus services.
Key Bus Routes from Santiago de la Ribera:
- Route 70: To Murcia city center (approximately 60-75 minutes, €3-4)
- Connections to Cartagena, Campoamor, and Alicante
Important Limitations:
- ⚠️ Bus service ceases after 18:45 (6:45 PM)
- ⚠️ Journey times significantly longer than driving
- ⚠️ Infrequent schedules, especially weekends
- ⚠️ Not practical for passengers with significant luggage
Bus Tips: Buses are the most economical option for budget travelers with light luggage arriving during daytime hours. However, for convenience and time efficiency, car rental or private transfers are strongly recommended.
Alternative Transport Options
Private Airport Transfers: Pre-booked private transfers offer the convenience of taxis with fixed pricing and no waiting. Many local companies on ListMyBizMurcia provide:
- Fixed-price door-to-door service
- Meet-and-greet at Arrivals
- Child seats available upon request
- Large vehicle options for groups/families
- Often cheaper than taxis for longer distances
Rideshare Services: Uber and Cabify operate in Murcia region, though availability at San Javier Airport may be limited compared to major cities.
Compare Transport Options on ListMyBizMurcia →
Essential Local Services on ListMyBizMurcia
Make your Murcia stay perfect with trusted local businesses:
🚗 Car Rental Directory – Compare local companies with best rates 🚕 Airport Transfers – Pre-book reliable transport
🏨 Accommodation – Hotels, villas, and vacation rentals 🍽️ Restaurants & Dining – Best local and international cuisine ⛳ Golf Courses – Championship courses and tee times 🏖️ Beach Services – Equipment rentals and water sports 🏥 Healthcare – English-speaking doctors and clinics 🏠 Property Services – Real estate and property management
Your complete guide to Murcia region businesses and services – all in one trusted local directory.
ℹ️ Additional Information
Airport Code: MJV (IATA) / LELC (ICAO)
Location: San Javier, Murcia, Spain
Distance to Murcia City: 30 miles (48 km)
Distance to Cartagena: 20 miles (32 km)
Current Status: Military airfield with limited civilian services
For Current Commercial Flights: Visit Región de Murcia International Airport (Corvera) – Your new gateway to Costa Cálida.
