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Attractions & Sightseeing

Attractions & Sightseeing

Valencia And Murcia, Spain

Iconic Landmarks

The Costa Blanca offers many iconic landmarks worth visiting. Plan your visits to make the most of these popular sites, ensuring a rich experience.

From medieval fortresses to striking natural rock formations, the region presents diverse points of interest.

Landmarks to Visit

  • Santa Bárbara Castle (Alicante): A medieval fortress overlooking Alicante city.
  • Peñón de Ifach Natural Park (Calpe): A massive limestone rock with spectacular views.
  • Balcón del Mediterráneo (Benidorm): A viewpoint with stunning coastal panoramas.
  • Palm Grove of Elche (El Palmeral de Elche): A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Europe's largest palm groves.

Visitor Information & Tips for Landmarks

Santa Bárbara Castle Alicante

  • Opens daily, hours vary seasonally.
  • Entry is free if you walk up. Lift from Postiguet beach costs ~€3.80 return.
  • Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid heat and crowds.
  • Walking from Barrio de la Santa Cruz presents scenic views and exercise.
  • Panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding areas.
  • Book Santa Bárbara Castle tickets on GetYourGuide

Peñón de Ifach Natural Park Calpe & Guadalest

  • Wear sturdy shoes for the hike; final ascent proves challenging.
  • Book online access during peak season for the tunnel section.
  • Guadalest Valley: Arrive early or late to avoid crowds.
  • Combine Guadalest with nearby Fuentes del Algar waterfalls.

Balcón del Mediterráneo (Benidorm): Visit at sunrise or sunset for the best photography and magical ambiance.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

  • MACVA (Alicante Museum of Contemporary Art): Holds significant 20th-century art by Miró, Dalí, Picasso, and Eusebio Sempere.
  • Gravina Museum of Fine Arts (MUBAG) (Alicante): Concentrates on artists from Alicante province, spanning 16th to 20th centuries.
  • Museo de la Sal (Salt Museum) (Torrevieja): Explores Torrevieja's salt lakes' history and economic impact.
  • Museo del Turrón (Jijona): Dedicated to the history and production of Turrón (nougat), located in its famous town.

Historical Sites

  • Alicante Old Town (Barrio de la Santa Cruz):

    A charming labyrinth of narrow, colorful streets below Santa Bárbara Castle.

  • Dénia Castle (Castillo de Dénia):

    A Moorish fortress with sweeping views over Dénia and the sea; houses an archaeological museum.

  • Altea Old Town (Casco Antiguo):

    Known for its whitewashed houses, blue-domed church, and stunning Mediterranean views.

  • Villajoyosa Old Town:

    Features brightly painted fishermen's houses lining the beach, creating an unique streetscape.

  • Roman City of Lucentum (Alicante):

    Explore remains of the ancient Roman city that preceded modern Alicante, sharing insights into Roman life.

Natural Attractions

The Costa Blanca's natural beauty extends from its iconic white beaches to dramatic mountains and unique wetlands. Enjoy the diverse landscapes.

Beaches & Coastal Wonders

  • Sandy Beaches

    Popular choices include Playa del Postiguet (Alicante), Playa de Levante & Poniente (Benidorm), and Playa del Arenal (Jávea). These present ample space for sunbathing and swimming.

  • Coves & Rocky Beaches

    For a more secluded experience, visit Cala Portitxol (Jávea) or Cala del Moraig (Benitachell). These often hold clearer waters, suitable for snorkeling.

  • Fuentes del Algar

    These natural waterfalls and pools near Callosa d'en Sarrià present a refreshing swimming experience and are a frequented spot.

  • El Palmeral (Elche)

    A vast palm grove, an UNESCO World Heritage site, perfect for a relaxing walk.

  • Parque Natural de la Serra Gelada

    A coastal natural park near Benidorm with dramatic cliffs, walking trails, and lighthouses, presenting stunning views.

  • Montgó Natural Park

    A prominent mountain backdrop to Dénia and Jávea, featuring various hiking trails and diverse flora and fauna.

Wildlife Viewing

Lagunas de La Mata y Torrevieja Natural Park, famous for its unique pink salt lake, suits birdwatching well, especially for flamingos.

Scenic Viewpoints

Discover breathtaking panoramas from Mirador de la Granadella (Jávea) and Mirador de la Cruz de Benidorm, presenting expansive coastal vistas.

Geological Features

Explore the Cova de les Calaveres near Benidorm, a large cave featuring impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

Visual Insight: Santa Bárbara Castle

This image captures the majestic Santa Bárbara Castle overlooking Alicante city and its marina, a prominent landmark of the Costa Blanca.

  • The castle's imposing presence dominates the city skyline.
  • Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
  • It highlights the strategic location and panoramic views available from the fortress.

Hidden Gems

Beyond the well-known sites, the Costa Blanca holds many hidden gems. These present a quieter, more authentic glimpse into the region, away from the typical tourist routes.

Discover charming inland villages, unique geological formations, and serene islands for a connection with local culture and nature.

Charming Inland Villages

Explore these less-traveled villages for a traditional Spanish atmosphere.

Villages & Features

  • Polop de la Marina: A charming inland village with a medieval castle, presenting a tranquil, traditional atmosphere.
  • Bocairent: A historic mountain village with fascinating cave dwellings (Covetes dels Moros) and a medieval quarter.
  • Altea La Vella: The original, quieter part of Altea, inland from the main town, presenting a tranquil escape.

Natural Escapes

Discover serene natural areas and unique coastal towns for a refreshing experience.

Parks & Islands

  • Parque Natural de la Sierra de Mariola: Rugged landscapes and hiking trails inland from Alicante, suiting nature lovers.
  • Isla de Tabarca: A small, inhabited marine reserve island off Santa Pola, featuring crystal-clear waters for snorkeling.
  • Casco Antiguo de Villajoyosa: Less known but charming, with brightly painted houses overlooking the beach, creating an unique scene.

Visual Insight: Torrevieja Salt Lakes

The Laguna Rosa (Pink Lake) of Torrevieja presents an unique natural spectacle, known for its distinct pink hue.

Image Details

This natural attraction suits birdwatching well, with opportunities to spot flamingos, especially during certain seasons.

Explore More History

Dive into the past by visiting additional historical sites that mark the region's heritage.

Further Historical Sites

  • Guadalest Castle (El Castell de Guadalest): Picturesque village perched on a rock, with castle ruins.
  • Old Town Dénia: The historic center, home to Dénia Castle, rich in culture.

These sites present significant insights into the diverse history of the Costa Blanca, from Moorish to Roman times.

Explore Culture

Beyond general sightseeing, engage with cultural institutions to enrich your understanding of the region.

Cultural Highlights

  • MARQ (Provincial Archaeological Museum of Alicante): Showcases history from prehistory to modern times.
  • Teatro Principal de Alicante: Hosts a variety of plays, concerts, and dance shows.
  • ADDA Auditorium (Alicante): A modern concert hall for orchestras and large musical performances.

Many museums feature free entry on certain days; checking their websites beforehand is a good practice.

Affiliate Resources: Attractions & Sightseeing

Attraction Tickets & Tours

Book tickets for landmarks, museums, and guided tours, streamlining your visit.

  • GetYourGuide
  • Search specifically for "Alicante City Tours" or "Benidorm Excursions".

Historical & Cultural Insights

Learn more about the rich history and art of the region before you visit.

Nature & Outdoors Info

Find details on natural parks, hiking trails, and unique landscapes.

  • Local tourism boards for detailed park maps and trails (e.g., Calpe tourism).
  • Resources on birdwatching at the salt lakes.

Maximize Your Sightseeing

Prioritize outdoor attractions during cooler parts of the day, especially in summer. Always carry water and sun protection.

For museums, check for free entry days or times to save on admission.