Top towns and villages to visit in Costa Blanca

The Costa Blanca lies at the heart of Spain's Mediterranean coast.  The Costa Blanca is a magnificent stretch of coastline stretching for around 240 kilometres. It lies in the province of Alicante and is home to a veritable cultural and natural mosaic of towns and landscapes. The Costa Blanca begins in the north with the town of Dénia and extends south to the town of Torrevieja. It is also a region with many tourist towns, such as Benidorm and Alicante. But there are countless other towns and villages to visit.

                Where to go on the Costa Blanca
 

There are many beautiful places to visit. Here are a few of the Costa Blanca's must-visit towns and villages that you won't want to miss on your holiday:

 Benidorm, the ‘Manhattan of Spain

Its nickname, ‘Spain's Manhattan’, is due to the many skyscrapers along its 6 kilometres of coastline. Benidorm is an ideal town for a holiday on the Costa Blanca, offering everything a top tourist destination should have. With its imposing buildings, long sandy beaches considered to be the finest in Spain and magnificent turquoise waters, Benidorm is a city surrounded by a remarkable landscape. Explore the town's historic centre to see the contrast between modernity and history. Stroll through the narrow-cobbled streets with their white houses, visit the neo-classical San Jaime and Santa Anna churches, relax on the Playa Del Levante, the resort's main beach, or the Plaza Del Castillo, home to the remains of Benidorm castle. One of the city's most beautiful spots is the Balcony of the Mediterranean, a superb lookout situated on a rocky peninsula offering panoramic views of the Benidorm coastline.

Alicante, capital of the Costa Blanca

Alicante is a city full of charm, history, beautiful landscapes, and traditions. Stroll through the picturesque narrow streets of the old town, known as El Barrio, with its colourful facades. Stroll through the ‘mercado central’, one of the most beautiful covered markets in Spain, with its blend of history, modernist architecture and friendly atmosphere. Visit the Santa Barbara Castle, an ancient Muslim fortress dating back to the 6th century, which dominates the city, offering an exceptional view of the city and its surroundings as well as a remarkable page of history. Finally, explore the Santa Cruz district, located at the foot of Santa Barbara Castle. This small, white-painted district is the origin of today's Alicante, with its colourful alleyways, charming staircases and opaline-white facades. Santa Cruz is a must if you want to immerse yourself in the charming, picturesque side of Alicante. For those looking to recharge their batteries and relax, take a stroll along the Explanada de España, the city's main avenue, a promenade lined with palm trees and a floor covered in thousands of small, colourful tiles. San Juan beach is also perfect for those who want to take a break from time on their holiday.

Javea, an old fishing village

Javea is a town with numerous coves and beaches, nature parks such as Montgo, and a historic centre and old town that are highly recommended. With its medieval-style Mediterranean houses, narrow streets and cultural venues, Javea has all the makings of a true Spanish seaside village. The church of San Bartolomé, a magnificent Valencian Baroque building, is a must-see when visiting this typical town. For nature lovers, the multitude of beaches such as Cala Portixol and Cala Ambolo will give you the chance to escape into the turquoise waters while you are in Javea!

Altea, a city of panoramic views

Altea is one of the most picturesque historic centres on the Costa Blanca. With its white-walled houses and blue shutters, you'll feel like you're in a village somewhere in the Greek Isles. Take a stroll through the historic centre and end your visit in the Plaza de la Iglesia, home to the Church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo, which promises a haven of peace and tranquillity! Altea also boasts several viewpoints, thanks to its hilltop location, offering magnificent panoramic views. The Mirador de los cronistas, Mirador Blanco and Mirador Del portal vell will let you marvel at the exceptional views over the rooftops of Altea and the surrounding countryside. 

Calpe, a diverse town

Calpe is everything you could wish for in a day trip full of discoveries. On the one hand, Calpe boasts a wealth of culture thanks to its historic centre, and on the other, a remarkable natural landscape. Explore every nook and cranny of the old town as you stroll through its narrow streets, where you'll find a host of cultural monuments such as the 15th-century fortifications that surround Calpe, the Peça dungeon and the ‘banos de la Reina’, remains of the different civilisations that have lived here. For lovers of the environment, head for the Calpe salt flats, home to a wide variety of flora and fauna in an exceptional setting. You may even catch a glimpse of pink flamingos, ideal for a walk with the family or children!

Villajoyosa, a vibrant and colourful town

Once a fishing village, Villajoyosa is now a picture-postcard destination for many of the world's tourists. A magical place where colourful houses and breathtaking views of the beaches and sea combine perfectly. A visit to this town is a must when you're on holiday in the Costa Blanca region, as Villajoyosa has even been voted Europe's most beautiful secret destination, no less! While you're in the village of Villajoyosa, take a stroll along the beach promenade to admire the old fishermen's houses, all dressed in bright colours that are typical of the Mediterranean. Wandering aimlessly around the old town is surely the best way to discover all its picturesque streets, where charm and historical heritage are in perfect harmony. Don't miss a visit to the Church of the Asuncion and the ruins of the old castle, which retrace the history of the village of Villajoyosa.

Moraira, an authentic atmosphere

If you want to spend a day relaxing, unwinding and strolling along the seafront, Moraira is the place for you! The great thing about this holiday resort is that it's not the first to be featured in a guidebook, so Moraira has managed to retain all its charm and authentic atmosphere. You won't find any big hotels or high-rise buildings here, but a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere with plenty of beaches and coves in the vicinity!