COSTA BLANCA & ALICANTE
The Costa Blanca is a sun-drenched haven on Spain’s eastern coast, celebrated for its stunning beaches, rugged mountains, and vibrant seaside towns. This region combines modern resort life with ancient history.
This is a land of beautiful contrasts, from the bustling city of Alicante and the iconic Benidorm skyline to the tranquil mountain villages and hidden coves of its shoreline.
Most Popular Attractions
Alicante City Core:
Santa Bárbara Castle: A majestic fortress with incredible panoramic views over the city and the Mediterranean Sea, one of Spain’s largest medieval fortresses.
Explanada de España: A beautiful marble-tiled promenade lined with palm trees, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Co-Cathedral of St. Nicholas: An impressive church with a stunning blue dome, an important example of Spanish Baroque architecture.
Barrio de Santa Cruz: The city’s oldest and most charming neighborhood, with narrow, winding streets and colorful houses that wind their way up the hillside to the castle.
Alicante Harbour: A lively port with a beautiful marina, perfect for dining and enjoying views of the sea.
Alicante Town Hall: A beautiful Baroque-style building in the city center.
Gravina Museum of Fine Arts (MUBAG): Located in a historic building, this museum showcases a collection of works by local artists.
Alicante Museum of Contemporary Art (MACA): A museum with an impressive collection of 20th-century art.
Central Market: A vibrant and bustling market in a beautiful modernist building, perfect for experiencing local life and food.
Tabarca Island: A small, inhabited island accessible by ferry, known for its marine reserve and clear waters.
The Northern Costa Blanca Coastline & Towns:
Benidorm: Famous for its impressive skyline, lively nightlife, and beautiful beaches like Levante and Poniente.
Altea: A picturesque town known for its charming old town of whitewashed houses and its blue-domed church, offering stunning views.
Calp: A coastal town dominated by the iconic Peñón de Ifach, a massive limestone rock formation that is a nature reserve.
Denia: A vibrant port town with a beautiful castle, a ferry terminal to the Balearic Islands, and a great culinary scene.
Jávea (Xàbia): A beautiful resort town with stunning beaches and coves, including the popular Arenal beach.
Moraira: A charming coastal town with a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful coves.
Guadalest Valley: A dramatic inland valley with a famous castle and a unique village perched on a rock.
Fonts de l’Algar: A series of waterfalls and natural pools perfect for a refreshing swim in a beautiful natural setting.
Cova de les Calaveres (Cave of Skulls): A large cave near Benidorm with impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
Villajoyosa: A colorful fishing town with beautiful houses painted in vibrant colors and a chocolate museum.
The Southern Costa Blanca Coastline & Towns:
Elche: Known for its extensive palm groves (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and its famous Mystery Play, a unique medieval drama.
Orihuela: A historic city with an impressive cathedral and a rich artistic and cultural heritage.
Torrevieja: A popular coastal town with large salt lakes, including the striking pink-colored “Laguna Rosa.”
La Mata & Torrevieja Salt Lakes Natural Park: A protected natural area with large salt lakes that are home to many species of birds.
Guardamar del Segura: A coastal town with a long, sandy beach backed by beautiful dunes and a protected pine forest.
Santa Pola: A bustling fishing port known for its salt pans, which are a major stop for migrating birds.
Crevillent: A town with a rich history of carpet and rug production, nestled at the foot of the Sierra de Crevillent.
El Clot de Galvany Nature Reserve: A protected natural area near the coast with wetlands, dunes, and diverse wildlife.
Rojales: A traditional Spanish town known for its caves dug into the hillside, many of which have been converted into homes and art galleries.
Activities & Experiences
Explore the Historic Old Town of Altea: Wander through the cobbled streets of this charming town, famous for its whitewashed houses and blue-domed church, the Church of Our Lady of Consolation. The winding alleys are filled with artisan shops, art galleries, and small cafes.
Hike to the Faro de l’Albir Lighthouse: This scenic 5.5-km round trip walk offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. The path is paved and accessible for most fitness levels, ending at a restored lighthouse with spectacular coastal views.
Discover the Castle of Santa Bárbara: Take a lift or a scenic walk up to one of Spain’s largest medieval fortresses, perched atop Mount Benacantil. The castle offers incredible 360-degree panoramic views of Alicante city, the harbor, and the surrounding coastline.
Go on a Wine Tasting Tour in the Vinalopó Valley: Escape the coast and explore Alicante’s rich wine country. Visit local wineries to learn about the region’s unique grape varietals like Monastrell and Moscatel, and sample some of the finest vintages.
Kayak or Snorkel around Tabarca Island: Take a boat trip to Tabarca, Spain’s smallest inhabited island. The island is a designated Marine Reserve, making it a perfect spot for snorkeling or kayaking to see the abundant underwater life.
Visit the Canelobre Caves: Located in Busot, these impressive limestone caves are home to a massive 70-meter-high vault, one of the tallest in Spain. They also feature incredible stalactite and stalagmite formations, which are often used for concerts.
Learn to Kitesurf in Santa Pola: Known for its flat, shallow waters and consistent winds, Santa Pola’s beaches are an ideal spot to take a kitesurfing lesson, whether you’re a beginner or looking to improve your skills.
Explore the Fonts d’Algar Waterfalls: Drive inland to Callosa d’en Sarrià to discover a series of natural pools and small waterfalls. It’s a great place to cool off during the summer months and enjoy a scenic walk along the crystal-clear Algar River.
Enjoy a Gastronomic Experience at the Central Market: Immerse yourself in the vibrant Mercado Central of Alicante. Sample local cheeses, cured meats, and fresh seafood, and don’t miss the chance to try some of the region’s famous produce like turrón (nougat) or Valor chocolate.
Walk the Paseo de la Explanada: Take a leisurely stroll along Alicante’s iconic waterfront promenade, lined with palm trees and a beautiful tile mosaic that looks like a wave. The path is a perfect spot for people-watching, enjoying a drink, or simply taking in the sea breeze.
Visit a Turrón Museum in Jijona: Learn about the history and production of this classic Spanish sweet, which has been made in the town of Jijona for centuries. Many factories offer tours and tastings, especially in the lead-up to Christmas.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is King for Exploration: While cities like Alicante and Valencia are well-served by public transport, a rental car is the best way to explore the Costa Blanca. It gives you the flexibility to visit the picturesque coastal towns, hidden coves, and the scenic inland areas at your own pace. The A-7 highway connects the major coastal towns.
Efficient Tram System: The Alicante Tram (TRAM d’Alacant) is a fantastic way to get around the coast without a car. It connects Alicante city to major towns like Benidorm, Altea, and Denia. It’s a scenic, affordable, and stress-free way to travel between these destinations.
Buses are a Good Alternative: The bus network is extensive and connects many of the smaller towns and villages not on the tram line. The main bus station in Alicante is a hub for both local and long-distance travel.
Airport Transfer: Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport (ALC) is well-connected to the city center and other major towns. The C-6 airport bus is a direct and affordable option to get to Alicante’s central bus station and other key stops.
Late Dining Culture: Just like in the rest of Spain, locals on the Costa Blanca eat lunch and dinner late. Many restaurants don’t even open for dinner until 8:30 PM, and it’s common to eat even later, so adjust your schedule accordingly to dine with the locals.
Embrace the Paella: The region of Valencia (which includes Alicante) is the birthplace of paella. While you’ll find it everywhere, seek out an authentic paella restaurant, especially in the coastal towns, where fresh seafood paella is a must-try. The most traditional paella is made with rabbit and chicken, but there are countless delicious variations.
Seasonal Rhythms: The Costa Blanca is a popular destination for visitors from all over Europe, and its rhythm changes throughout the year. The summer months (July and August) are extremely busy and hot, while the winter months are quieter but still have pleasant temperatures. For a balance of good weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting in the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October).
Hidden Gems
Península del Peñón de Ifach: Located in Calpe, this dramatic limestone rock is a Nature Park and a great spot for hiking. Climbing to the top offers incredible panoramic views of the coastline, and you can often see peregrine falcons.
The Barrio de Santa Cruz: This old neighborhood in Alicante city, located on the slopes of Mount Benacantil, is a hidden gem. Its narrow, winding streets, colorful houses, and an abundance of flowers make it a charming place to get lost and discover small tapas bars and local life away from the main tourist crowds.
Guadalest Valley: Drive inland from the coast to this stunning valley, home to the picturesque village of El Castell de Guadalest, perched on a mountaintop. It’s famous for its medieval castle and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and a turquoise reservoir.
San Juan Beach (Playa de San Juan): While Alicante’s main beach is popular, San Juan beach is a vast, sandy stretch north of the city that is less crowded and more scenic. It’s a perfect spot for a long walk or a relaxing day by the sea.
Top Restaurants
El Portal Taberna & Wines [$30-$50] – A chic and lively spot in Alicante city, known for its creative tapas and extensive wine list in a stylish setting.
La Taberna del Gourmet [$30-$50] – An Alicante institution near the Explanada, famous for its high-quality, traditional Spanish dishes, fresh seafood, and gourmet tapas.
Bodega La Taberna de Luceros [$20-$40] – A classic and authentic bodega in Alicante, offering a wide selection of Spanish wines and traditional tapas in a rustic atmosphere.
Bar Manero [$30-$50] – A high-end tapas bar in Alicante with a sophisticated, vintage feel, offering excellent charcuterie, premium canned goods, and creative tapas.
Sento Mucho [$20-$40] – A small, popular bar in Alicante known for its great value and delicious montaditos (small sandwiches) with a wide variety of fillings.
Taberna D’Aqui [$25-$45] – A cozy and popular tapas bar in El Campello, known for its traditional Spanish cuisine and fresh seafood.
Ca Tono [$25-$45] – A classic spot in El Campello, known for its traditional rice dishes and fresh seafood.
Restaurante Los Mellizos [$30-$50] – A traditional restaurant in El Campello, famous for its fresh seafood and grilled fish.
Mesón de Laura [$25-$45] – A classic and well-regarded spot in Altea, known for its traditional Mediterranean and Spanish cuisine.
Restaurante La Costera de Altea [$30-$50] – Located in the charming old town of Altea, this restaurant is known for its traditional paellas and seafood.
Restaurante La Cava Aragonesa [$25-$45] – A long-standing restaurant in the heart of Benidorm’s old town, famous for its extensive wine cellar and traditional tapas.
Restaurante El Pòsit [$30-$50] – A classic restaurant in the heart of Villajoyosa’s port, known for its fresh fish and traditional seafood dishes.
Ca Xoret [$25-$45] – Located in the town of Finestrat, this traditional restaurant is known for its excellent rice dishes and meat cooked on the grill.
Restaurante Venta La Montaña [$20-$40] – A traditional country-style restaurant in the mountains near Busot, famous for its home-cooked food and grilled meats.
Bar Rte El Paraiso [$20-$40] – Located in the charming town of Sax, this restaurant is a local favorite known for its traditional homemade food.
Restaurante Xiri [$25-$45] – A traditional restaurant in the town of Agost, specializing in local cuisine and grilled meats.
El Rincón de la Bahía [$25-$45] – A restaurant in the port of Santa Pola, famous for its traditional seafood dishes and great views.
Restaurante Nou Palas [$25-$45] – A traditional restaurant in the town of Crevillent, known for its excellent local rice dishes.
Mesón de L’Ermita [$25-$45] – A traditional spot in the historic town of Orihuela, known for its local and regional cuisine.
Rte. Casa Pardo [$25-$45] – A family-run restaurant in the town of Torrevieja, known for its traditional Mediterranean dishes.
Mesón La Posada [$25-$45] – A traditional and cozy restaurant in the town of Guadalest, known for its homemade food and spectacular views.
Restaurante La Barraca [$30-$50] – A classic paella restaurant located on the beach in the cove of El Portet, near Moraira, offering spectacular views.
Restaurante El Racó de Pere i Pepa [$25-$45] – A traditional restaurant in the town of Mutxamel, known for its authentic Valencian cuisine.
Restaurante El Baret de Miquel [$25-$45] – A small and humble restaurant in the town of Monóvar, famous for its home-cooked meals and traditional wine.
La Ereta [$60-$90] – Located on Mount Benacantil with stunning views of Alicante city, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers creative and avant-garde cuisine inspired by the region.
Templo de la Arroceria [$30-$50] – A modern restaurant in the city of Alicante that offers a creative and contemporary approach to traditional rice dishes.
Casa de Comidas Candi [$40-$60] – A modern and popular restaurant in the city of Alicante, known for its creative Mediterranean and Spanish fusion cuisine.
Restaurante Terre [$40-$70] – A trendy and stylish restaurant in Alicante city, offering creative Mediterranean cuisine with a modern touch and a great terrace.
Mimar [$30-$50] – A modern tapas bar in Alicante city with a focus on creative seafood dishes and fresh, high-quality products.
Restaurante Oustau de Altea [$40-$60] – Located in the old town of Altea, this restaurant offers creative Mediterranean cuisine with French influences.
Restaurante El Xato [$80-$120] – This Michelin-starred restaurant in the town of La Nucía offers a modern tasting menu that pays homage to local products and traditions.
Audrey’s Restaurant [$70-$100] – A Michelin-starred restaurant in Calpe, offering a sophisticated and creative tasting menu inspired by Mediterranean cuisine.
Restaurante Beat [$80-$120] – Located in Calpe, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers a creative and modern menu with a strong focus on local and seasonal produce.
Toni Cantó [$60-$90] – A high-end restaurant in the town of Pego, known for its creative, modern cuisine and use of local, seasonal ingredients.
Restaurante L’Escaleta [$150-$200] – A two-Michelin-starred restaurant located in the town of Cocentaina, offering a unique and sophisticated gastronomic experience with a focus on local produce.
Brel [$40-$60] – A modern restaurant in the town of Elche, known for its creative Mediterranean cuisine and stylish atmosphere.
Restaurante Rincón de Capis [$30-$50] – A creative tapas bar in the town of Villena, offering a modern take on traditional Spanish dishes.
Restaurante Alfonso [$30-$50] – A popular restaurant in the town of Elda, known for its modern and creative approach to traditional cuisine.
Ciro Ristorante [$30-$50] – A modern and stylish restaurant in the town of Altea, offering creative Italian-Mediterranean fusion cuisine.
Restaurante Quique Dacosta [$200-$300] – A three-Michelin-starred restaurant in Dénia, considered one of the best in the world, offering an avant-garde and highly conceptual dining experience.
Diferente [$100-$150] – Located in the port of Jávea, this fine dining restaurant offers a creative and modern tasting menu in a chic atmosphere.
La Finca [$120-$180] – A Michelin-starred restaurant in Elche, offering a sophisticated and refined menu with a strong focus on local products and flavors.
Restaurante El Claustro [$60-$90] – A fine dining restaurant located in the stunning historic Parador hotel in Orihuela, offering traditional cuisine with a sophisticated touch.
Restaurante L’Atelier [$70-$100] – A high-end restaurant in the town of Dénia, known for its creative and elegant tasting menu.
Mercado Central de Alicante [$15-$30] – Not a single restaurant, but a bustling market in the city center with a number of food stalls and bars, perfect for a casual and authentic tapas experience.
Bodega El Pimpi [$20-$40] – A classic and traditional spot in the heart of Alicante, known for its great vermouth and traditional tapas in a rustic setting.
Cerveceria El Raco de Amador [$20-$30] – A casual and popular beer hall in Alicante, known for its excellent fried seafood and bustling atmosphere.
Bar Nou [$20-$30] – A simple, no-frills bar in the old town of Alicante, known for its delicious fried seafood and a strong local following.
La Vereda [$20-$40] – A unique and cozy tapas bar in the city of Alicante with a focus on traditional cuisine and a great selection of Spanish wines.
A Casa del Pescador [$30-$50] – A restaurant in the port of Villajoyosa, known for its excellent fresh fish and unique atmosphere.
Restaurante El Portet [$30-$50] – A beautiful restaurant with a terrace in the cove of El Portet, near Moraira, known for its fresh seafood and breathtaking views.
Restaurante Casa Julia [$30-$50] – A traditional restaurant in the charming town of Agres, known for its local mountain cuisine and rustic feel.
Restaurante Los Almendros [$25-$45] – A popular restaurant in the town of Petrer, famous for its traditional food and great value.
Restaurante El Papi [$25-$45] – A classic spot in the town of Aspe, known for its excellent paellas and traditional cuisine.
Restaurante El Muelle [$30-$50] – A classic seafood restaurant in the port of Torrevieja, with a reputation for excellent quality and service.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
El Portal Taberna & Wines: Located near the Plaza de la Montañeta in Alicante, this is an award-winning “Krug Ambassade” venue known for its lavish, seasonally changing decor and world-class mixology.
26 Lounge Bar: A sophisticated spot in Alicante’s historic center (Barrio), offering a relaxed atmosphere and a high-quality menu of signature cocktails.
Gatsby Cocktail Bar: Situated in the heart of Alicante’s nightlife district, this 1920s-themed bar specializes in gin-based drinks and classic cocktails with a vintage flair.
Sky Bar Alicante: Perched atop the AJ Gran Alacant or similar hotel heights, this rooftop venue offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the Santa Bárbara Castle, perfect for sunset drinks.
Confetti Playa: Located at San Juan Beach, this trendy spot blends the relaxed vibe of a beach bar with the expertise of a high-end cocktail lounge.
Kandhavia: Found in the center of Alicante, this bar is famous for its vibrant atmosphere and creative presentations, making it a favorite for the pre-clubbing crowd.
La Milagrosa Rooftop: Tucked away in the historic center of Alicante, this terrace provides an intimate setting with direct views of the illuminated castle walls.
L’Alabardero: A classic establishment in Alicante’s port area, known for its professional service and traditional cocktails served in an elegant, maritime-inspired setting.
Bay Club Altea: Located in the picturesque Luis Campomanes marina (Marina Greenwich) in Altea, this upscale bar offers sophisticated cocktails right on the water’s edge.
La Siesta: An iconic, bohemian-chic beach bar in Jávea (Xàbia) located right on the pebble shore, famous for its fresh fruit mojitos and Mediterranean views.
Botanico: Situated in the heart of Denia, this lush, garden-inspired bar offers a creative fusion of botanical ingredients and premium spirits.
Mombasa: A popular African-themed bar in the center of Elche, offering a unique aesthetic and a deep menu of exotic long drinks and cocktails.
Ammos: Located on the Arenal Beach in Jávea, this stylish venue transitions from a trendy café to a vibrant cocktail spot as the sun goes down.
Magic Robin Hood – Richard the Lionheart Pub: A themed pub in the Alfaz del Pi area that offers a surprisingly robust cocktail menu within a medieval-inspired resort setting.
Nossa Guest Club: An exclusive spot in Torrevieja that combines luxury service with a modern cocktail menu overlooking the salt lake region.
Marmarela: Located in the Port of Alicante, this massive Mediterranean club features an open-air terrace, a swimming pool, and sets from international DJs during the summer months.
Havana Barrio: A staple of Alicante’s old town nightlife, this club offers a mix of commercial hits and Latin rhythms in a high-energy, crowded setting.
Hall de Lux: Situated in the industrial area of Alicante (Polígono Babel), this is a premier venue for house and electronic music fans, known for its impressive sound system.
KU Discoteca Benidorm: One of the most legendary clubs on the Costa Blanca, located on the main road outside Benidorm, famous for its UFO-shaped architecture and massive parties.
Penelope Benidorm: An iconic Benidorm institution with its distinctive white decor and hilltop location, offering multiple rooms playing everything from house to R&B.
Benidorm Palace: While famous for its cabaret shows, this massive venue in Benidorm transforms into a sophisticated late-night spot with live music and dancing.
Velice Discoteca: The largest club in Torrevieja, featuring several different environments including a garden terrace and a main room dedicated to the latest hits.
Acapulco Alicante: A long-standing club in the city center that caters to a slightly more mature crowd with classic hits and a refined atmosphere.
Saxo Disco Garden: A unique venue in Moraira that combines a garden setting with live music performances and a dance floor that stays busy until the early hours.
Ocean Costa Blanca: A stylish beachfront club in Dénia that offers a luxury VIP experience, electronic music, and themed summer parties.