Time-Based Itineraries: Costa Blanca

-Hour Layover in Alicante

Maximize a short visit to Alicante, focusing on city highlights. A condensed itinerary for a quick, memorable experience.

This itinerary is ideal for travelers with limited time but a desire to experience the essence of Alicante.

Alicante Highlights

Morning: Explore Santa Bárbara Castle for panoramic city and bay views.
Lunch: Head to El Barrio (Old Town) for traditional tapas.
Afternoon: Stroll along Explanada de España; visit Postiguet Beach.

Weekend & Week-Long Trips

Plan a comprehensive visit to the Costa Blanca, balancing city exploration with relaxation.

Weekend Getaway 2-3 Days

Combine Alicante's city life with a charming coastal town.

Alicante & Altea

Day 1 (Alicante): Explore Santa Bárbara Castle, Old Town, MARQ Archaeological Museum.
Day 2 (Altea): Day trip to Altea – white-washed old town, church, artisan shops.
Day 3 (Relax): Morning at Postiguet Beach, Mercado Central for snacks, final paella lunch.
Book experiences: Alicante Tours on GetYourGuide

Perfect for a quick escape with cultural and coastal experiences.

One-Week Experience

Dive into both northern and southern Costa Blanca.

Comprehensive Exploration

Days 1-3 (Alicante): City exploration, Elche (Palm Grove), Tabarca Island (swimming, snorkeling).
Days 4-5 (Northern): Base in Benidorm/Jávea. Explore beaches, coves, Montgó Natural Park or Guadalest/Fuentes del Algar.
Days 6-7 (Southern/Departure): Explore Torrevieja's salt lakes, beaches. Depart from Alicante/Murcia.

Two-Week In-depth Exploration

Combine the one-week itinerary with dives into specific towns and inland areas.

Extended Adventures

Spend 3-4 days in Jávea or Dénia for extensive hiking and water sports.
Explore inland areas like Sierra de Mariola for rural charm and nature.
Visit Valencia or Murcia city for an overnight stay.
Enjoy a longer, relaxed beach stay in a quieter town.

Long-Term Stay Recommendations

Ideal for digital nomads or retirees seeking a longer escape.

Extended Living

Consider renting an apartment or villa in quieter towns.
Jávea, Moraira, Altea, or Orihuela Costa a good balance of amenities and a relaxed pace.
Great options for digital nomads or long-term visitors.
Opportunity for integration with local life.

General Itinerary Advice

Flexibility

Allow for spontaneous discoveries and local recommendations.

Pace Yourself

Don't overschedule; relax and savor the Spanish rhythm of life.

Local Insight

Engage with locals for hidden gems and authentic experiences.

Maximize Your Itinerary

Tailor your journey to match your travel style, whether it’s a quick visit, a comprehensive tour, or an extended stay.

Interest-Based Routes

Tailor your itinerary to your specific interests. The Costa Blanca offers routes for history buffs, food lovers, adventure seekers, and families.

History & Heritage Focus

Explore ancient castles, archaeological sites, and historic towns.

Historical Trail

Alicante: Santa Bárbara Castle, MARQ Archaeological Museum, Old Town.
Elche: UNESCO-listed Palm Grove.
Dénia: Discover Dénia Castle.
Xàtiva & Bocairent: Impressive castles and fascinating cave dwellings.

Food & Culinary Experiences

Indulge in local flavors, from markets to Michelin-starred dining.

Gastronomic Journey

Alicante: Enjoy the Mercado Central and numerous tapas bars.
Dénia: Sample fresh seafood and Michelin-starred restaurants.
Valencia: Visit the birthplace of paella, try horchata.
Jijona: Explore the home of turrón (nougat).

Adventure & Outdoor Activities

From challenging hikes to water sports and rock climbing.

Active Exploration

Montgó Natural Park & Serra Gelada: Challenging hiking and coastal walks.
Calpe: Climb the iconic Peñón de Ifach.
Tabarca Island: Excellent for snorkeling in clear waters.
Inland areas: Opportunities for canyoning and rock climbing.

Perfect for active travelers seeking natural thrills.

Family-Friendly Itinerary

Theme parks, natural pools, and sandy beaches fun for all ages.

Family Fun

Benidorm: Theme parks like Terra Mítica, Aqualandia, Mundomar.
Elche: Explore the Palm Grove.
Fuentes del Algar: Swim in natural pools.
Sandy beaches: Enjoy family-friendly beaches in Benidorm and Jávea Arenal.

Specialty Interests

Art & Architecture

Alicante: Visit MACVA (Museum of Contemporary Art) and MUBAG (Gravina Museum of Fine Arts).

Modern Design

Valencia: Explore the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences and its historic center.

Spiritual & Wellness

Altea: Enjoy the peaceful old town. Inland rural areas for tranquility and nature.

Customize Your Trip

Whether you seek adventure, cultural immersion, or relaxation, tailor your itinerary to match your passions.

Budget & Seasonal Plans

Tailor your Costa Blanca trip to your budget and plan your visit around seasonal highlights.

Backpacker's Guide

Economical options for accommodation, food, and activities.

Thrifty Travel Tips

Accommodation: Stay in hostels or budget guesthouses.
Food: Utilize 'Menu del Día' for lunch; buy groceries for breakfast/snacks.
Transport: Rely on public transport (bus, TRAM) and extensive walking.
Activities: Focus on free attractions like beaches, old towns, and viewpoints.

Hydration: Carry a reusable water bottle to save on bottled water costs.

Mid-Range & Luxury Plans

Options for comfortable travel to indulgent experiences.

Flexible Budgets

Mid-range: Comfortable 3-star hotels/apartments; mix local restaurants with occasional nicer meals.
Transport: Public transport with occasional taxis or car rental for day trips.
Luxury: 5-star hotels/private villas, fine dining, private transfers, exclusive tours.
Activities: Spa treatments, sailing charters, private tours.

Seasonal Highlights

The Costa Blanca offers distinct experiences depending on the season.

Summer June-August

Enjoy coastal festivals and outdoor concerts.
The sea is warmest for swimming and water sports.
Ideal for beach holidays and lively atmosphere.

Winter December-February

Mild temperatures perfect for hiking and cycling inland.
Fewer crowds at attractions and lower prices.
Ideal for a peaceful escape and cultural exploration.

Festival & Event-Centered Visits

Plan your trip around local celebrations.

Cultural Celebrations

Las Hogueras de San Juan (Bonfires of St. John) in Alicante (June) is spectacular.
Moros y Cristianos festivals occur in various towns throughout the year (colorful parades).
Check local event calendars for specific festival dates as they vary slightly.
Book accommodation well in advance if traveling during major festivals.

Off-Season Exploration Strategies

Utilize quieter periods for cultural immersion and better deals.

Advantages of Off-Peak

Explore museums and historical sites without crowds.
Enjoy natural parks in cooler, more comfortable weather.
Take advantage of better deals on accommodation and flights.
This results in a more relaxed and authentic experience.

Important Planning Note

Festival Dates

Always check local event calendars for the specific dates of festivals, as they can vary slightly each year.

Booking Ahead

For peak season or major events, booking accommodations and transport in advance is highly recommended.

Plan Seasonally

Align your visit with the season and local events to fully experience the Costa Blanca at its best.

Time-Based Itineraries