Costa Blanca

Alicante

Alicante is a captivating blend of history, culture, and seaside charm, making it a top destination on Costa Blanca. One of its highlights is the impressive Santa Bárbara Castle, perched on Mount Benacantil, offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean and a glimpse into Alicante’s rich past dating back to the Moors. The city’s vibrant Explanada de España, a palm-lined promenade with a colorful mosaic pathway, is perfect for an evening stroll and is dotted with cafes, street performers, and local artisans.

For beach lovers, Alicante’s Playa del Postiguet is just a stone’s throw from the city center, with golden sands and clear waters ideal for a relaxing day by the sea. Fun fact: Alicante is known as “The City of Light” due to its famously sunny climate, with over 300 days of sunshine each year. And for foodies, Alicante’s local cuisine—especially the rice dish “arroz a banda”—and the region’s sweet dessert wine, Fondillón, are must-tries that showcase the city’s culinary heritage.

Valencia

Valencia, a vibrant coastal city on Spain’s eastern coast, is a delightful blend of ancient history and futuristic design. A must-see is the stunning City of Arts and Sciences, a complex of ultra-modern buildings featuring an opera house, an IMAX theater, and an interactive science museum,. The city’s historic offers a  charm, with the impressive 13th-century Valencia Cathedral, rumored to house the Holy Grail, and the picturesque Plaza de la Virgen.

For nature lovers, the nearby Albufera Natural Park is a serene escape with its vast wetlands, rice paddies, and boat tours—plus it’s the birthplace of paella, Valencia’s most famous culinary export. Another fun fact: Valencia is home to Las Fallas, a unique festival held in March, where locals build and burn giant, intricate sculptures in a spectacular celebration of art and tradition. And, of course, Valencia’s long, sandy beaches and warm Mediterranean waters make it a fantastic spot for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts alike.

Murcia

Murcia, a hidden gem in southeastern Spain, offers a unique mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its baroque-style architecture, the Murcia Cathedral is a standout, with its ornate facade and towering bell tower, providing a glimpse into the city’s rich past. The nearby Real Casino de Murcia, an opulent 19th-century building, is another must-visit, featuring luxurious interiors and a mix of architectural styles, from Moorish to art nouveau.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Murcia’s surrounding landscapes are a delight, with the peaceful Segura River and the scenic Sierra Espuña Natural Park.  A fun fact about Murcia: it’s known as “La Huerta de Europa”  for its fertile lands that produce a large portion of Spain’s fruits and vegetables. Local cuisine reflects this abundance, with dishes like “zarangollo” (a zucchini and onion scramble) and a variety of fresh produce. And with its warm climate and close proximity to the beautiful beaches of the Costa Cálida, Murcia is a fantastic destination for those looking to explore a lesser-known yet captivating part of Spain.

Cartagena

Cartagena is a fascinating port city on the Costa Cálida, renowned for its rich history, ancient ruins, and vibrant maritime heritage. The city’s crown jewel is the Roman Theatre, a well-preserved amphitheater from the 1st century BCE that offers a striking glimpse into its Roman past. Nearby, the Roman Forum District reveals ancient thermal baths, temples, and mosaics, making Cartagena a dream destination for history buffs.

The city’s impressive natural harbor has long been strategically significant, and visitors can learn more about its naval legacy at the National Museum of Underwater Archaeology, showcasing artifacts recovered from sunken ships. A fun fact: Cartagena has a unique festival called “Carthaginians and Romans,” celebrated every September, where locals reenact battles and events from ancient times. With its historic sites, sunny climate, and scenic promenades along the Mediterranean, Cartagena offers a perfect blend of culture, relaxation, and adventure.

​

Salinas

The Salinas de Torrevieja, also known as the Pink Lake of Torrevieja, is a natural wonder on Spain’s Costa Blanca, famous for its stunning pink-hued waters. The lake’s unique color comes from a type of algae and halobacteria that thrive in its high salt concentration, creating a mesmerizing rose-colored effect that makes it a popular spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Beyond its beauty, the pink lake is also a place for relaxation, as its salt-rich waters are believed to offer therapeutic benefits for the skin and joints. Visitors can float in the lake and experience a sensation similar to the Dead Sea. This area, along with the nearby Laguna de La Mata, forms part of a protected natural park, where visitors can enjoy scenic walking trails, bird-watching, and glimpses of flamingos that frequently gather in the shallow waters. The Salinas de Torrevieja provides a truly unique and memorable experience for those exploring Spain’s coastal attractions.

​

Altea

Altea, a picturesque town on Spain’s Costa Blanca, is known for its charming white-washed buildings, winding cobblestone streets, and stunning sea views. One of Altea’s most iconic spots is its old town, where you can stroll up to the beautiful blue-domed Church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo, perched atop a hill with panoramic views of the Mediterranean coastline.

This artistic town has long been a haven for creatives, and its streets are filled with galleries, artisan shops, and studios where visitors can find unique works of art. Altea’s waterfront promenade is perfect for a leisurely walk, offering a mix of cafes and restaurants serving fresh seafood and local cuisine. Fun fact: Altea has been officially designated as one of the most beautiful villages in Spain, thanks to its well-preserved architecture and enchanting atmosphere. With its relaxed vibe, cultural appeal, and lovely beaches, Altea is an ideal spot for those looking for a peaceful yet inspiring getaway on the Spanish coast.