Nearby Destinations: Costa Blanca

Guadalest & Coastal Highlights

Guadalest (El Castell de Guadalest): This picturesque village perches dramatically on a rock. It features a historic castle, a beautiful reservoir, and unique miniature museums.

Transportation: Driving is optimal; organized bus tours from Benidorm/Alicante combine Guadalest with other sites. Find Day Trips on GetYourGuide

More Nearby Destinations

Altea: White-washed old town, blue-domed church, artisan shops, stunning views. Easy by TRAM.
Calpe: Imposing Peñón de Ifach rock, long sandy beaches, bustling fishing port. Accessible by TRAM.
Elche: UNESCO-listed Palm Grove, one of Europe's largest. Reach by regional train or bus.
Villajoyosa: Colorful fishing village, home to Valor chocolate factory for tours and samples. Accessible by TRAM.

Natural Escapes

The Costa Blanca's surroundings offer beautiful natural retreats, perfect for a change of scenery and outdoor activity.

Water Destinations

Discover refreshing waterfalls and island marine reserves with clear waters.

Coastal & Island Trips

Fuentes del Algar: Natural waterfalls and pools, refreshing in warmer months (May-Sept).
Tabarca Island: Marine reserve off Santa Pola, ideal for snorkeling. Ferries run frequently.
Transportation: Fuentes del Algar and Tabarca are popular destinations.

Salt Lakes & Mountains

Explore unique salt lakes for birdwatching and rugged mountain ranges for hiking.

Inland Nature

Salt Lakes of Torrevieja: Unique pink/green lakes, excellent for birdwatching (flamingos).
Sierra de Mariola Natural Park: Inland mountain range, hiking trails, traditional villages.
Salt Lakes are best accessed by car; Sierra de Mariola ideal in spring/autumn.

Cultural Excursions

Historic Sites

Castell de Xàtiva: Historic castle, impressive fortifications, panoramic views.
Ontinyent: Charming historic center with 'Pou Clar' natural pools.
Xàtiva is accessible by train from Valencia, requiring a connection from Costa Blanca.
Ontinyent also requires specific transport planning.

Wine & History

Requena-Utiel Wine Region: Numerous bodegas for tours and tastings.
A significant wine-producing area known for its local wines.
This region generally needs driving or joining an organized tour from Valencia.
Check winery opening hours and booking requirements.

Travel Essentials

Currency:Euro (€)
Electricity:Type F (2-pin), 230V
Time Zone:CEST (UTC+2)
Emergency No.:112

Calling Code:+34
Driving Side:Right
Tap Water:Generally Safe
Language:Spanish & Valencian

Consider a Rental Car

If you plan multiple day trips, renting a car offers greater flexibility and access to more remote locations efficiently.

Multi-Day Extensions

Extend your Costa Blanca trip to explore more of Spain or the Valencian Community. These suggestions logical next steps for longer regional travel.

Valencian Coastal Loop

Start in Alicante, explore central Costa Blanca, head north to Valencia (2 days: City of Arts and Sciences, historic center).

Murcia & Cartagena

From Alicante, explore Murcia city (cathedral, tapas) then Cartagena (Roman theater, naval history).

Andalusia Southern Spain

Take a high-speed train or domestic flight from Alicante to Seville or Málaga. Explore Granada (Alhambra), Cordoba (Mezquita).

Beyond the Coast

Expand your journey to mountains or wine regions.

Further Afield Ideas

Link with Pyrenees for mountain adventures.
Combine with Penedès wine region near Barcelona for cava tasting.
Explore Sagunto or Sierra Calderona Natural Park near Valencia.

Dives

For extended stays, dive into specific towns or natural areas.

Longer Exploration

3-4 days in Jávea or Dénia for extensive hiking/water sports.
Explore inland areas like Sierra de Mariola for rural charm.
An overnight stay in Valencia or Murcia city.

Long-Term Stay Benefits

More time to explore:immersion

Local living experience:Authentic discoveries

Flexible schedule:Relaxed pace

Cost savings:Apartment rentals

Community integration:Local connections

Seasonal enjoyment:Diverse activities

Suggested Routes

Consider linking the Costa Blanca with a trip to the Pyrenees for mountain adventures.
Combine it with a visit to the Penedès wine region near Barcelona for cava tasting.
These extended trips allow for a more varied exploration of Spain.

Planning Your Excursions

Maximize your exploration of the Costa Blanca and its surrounding regions with thoughtful planning.

Strategic Day Trip Planning

1

Group Destinations

Combine nearby attractions like Altea and Guadalest for efficient travel.

2

Check Opening Hours

Verify seasonal and holiday hours for attractions and restaurants before your visit.

3

Book Ahead

For popular tours or unique experiences, reserve in advance to secure your spot.

What to Bring

Comfortable walking shoes
Sunscreen and a hat
Reusable water bottle
Swimwear (for beaches/lakes)
Camera for scenic views
Portable power bank

Digital Tools

Offline maps (Google Maps)
Translation app (Google Translate)
Public transport apps (e.g., Moovit, TRAM)
Messaging app (WhatsApp for local contact)
Digital ticket storage
Online booking confirmations

Why Take Day Trips?

Diverse Scenery

Experience the transition from coastlines to mountains, demonstrating the region's natural diversity.

Cultural Richness

Discover historical sites and local traditions beyond the main resorts, adding depth to your trip.

Local Flavors

Taste regional specialties in authentic settings, moving beyond typical tourist menus.

Embrace Exploration

Each day trip offers an unique perspective on the region's beauty and heritage, enriching your Costa Blanca experience.

Nearby Destinations