Elche is one of those places that somehow manages to stay under the radar despite having pretty much everything you’d want from a Spanish holiday.
Most people fly into Alicante, drive straight past it and head for the beaches. Big mistake.
Because tucked away just a short distance from the coast is a city packed with palm trees, history, fantastic food and a much more authentic Spanish atmosphere than many of the larger Costa Blanca resorts.
In fact, Elche is home to the largest palm grove in Europe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enough sunny plazas and tapas bars to keep you happily distracted for days.
It’s not a place of all-night beach parties or towering hotel complexes. Instead, Elche offers something a little different.
Think relaxed Spanish living, beautiful parks, traditional restaurants and easy access to both the beaches and attractions of the Costa Blanca.
If you enjoy discovering places that still feel genuinely Spanish, Elche might end up being one of your favourite holiday finds.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Region | Costa Blanca, Spain |
| Province | Alicante |
| Nearest Airport | Alicante–Elche Airport |
| Flight Time (UK) | 2.5–3 hours |
| Transfer Time | 15–20 minutes |
| Best For | Couples, Culture Lovers, Foodies, City Breaks |
| Famous For | Palm Groves, UNESCO Heritage Sites, History |
Best Holiday Deals to Elche
Elche isn’t as heavily marketed as nearby coastal resorts, which can actually work in your favour when it comes to finding value for money.
You’ll often find excellent hotel deals compared to some of the more tourist-heavy destinations along the Costa Blanca.
We recommend booking with TUI Holidays for everything packed into one, easy booking.
Whether you’re looking for a short city break or a longer Costa Blanca holiday, it’s worth comparing prices across several providers before booking.
Tip: Spring and autumn often offer the best combination of weather, lower prices and fewer crowds.
Where to Stay in Elche
Accommodation in Elche ranges from modern city hotels to boutique properties and countryside retreats.
Elche City Centre
Perfect if you want everything within walking distance.
You’ll be close to:
- Restaurants
- Historic landmarks
- Shopping areas
- Museums
- Local markets
Near the Palm Groves
A fantastic option for visitors looking for a more peaceful stay surrounded by greenery.
Ideal for:
- Couples
- Relaxing breaks
- Scenic walks
- Photography enthusiasts
Coastal Areas Nearby
If you want beach access as well as city life, consider staying near:
- Arenales del Sol
- Santa Pola
- La Marina
These locations offer the best of both worlds.
Getting Around: Do You Need a Car?
For exploring Elche itself, you won’t need a car.
The city centre is compact, easy to navigate and well connected by public transport.
However, if you’re planning to explore more of the Costa Blanca, hiring a car can be a great idea.
Popular day trips include:
- Alicante
- Santa Pola
- Guadalest
- Villajoyosa
- Altea
- Calpe
We recommend booking with Europcar for a safe, reliable service:
The roads are excellent and driving around this part of Spain is generally straightforward.
Best Things to Do in Elche
Book your trips in advance using GetYourGuide or Viator.
One thing that surprises many visitors is just how much there is to see here.
Visit the Palmeral of Elche – This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the city’s biggest attraction. With hundreds of thousands of palm trees spread throughout the city, it creates an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Spain. Walking beneath the palms on a warm evening feels more like North Africa than Europe.
Explore Huerto del Cura – Often considered the most beautiful garden in Elche. You’ll find: Exotic plants, Rare palm trees, Shaded walkways & Peaceful ponds. It’s the perfect place to escape the afternoon heat.
Discover the Basilica of Santa Maria – One of the city’s most important landmarks. The church dominates the historic centre and plays a major role in Elche’s famous annual cultural celebrations.
Wander Through the Old Town – The historic centre is packed with charming streets, local cafes and traditional Spanish architecture. Unlike some tourist hotspots, you’ll often find yourself surrounded by locals rather than holidaymakers.
Visit the Archaeological and History Museum – A great introduction to the area’s fascinating past, from ancient Iberian settlements through to Roman and Moorish influences.
Take a Day Trip to Alicante – Just a short journey away, Alicante offers beaches, shopping, a marina and the impressive Santa Bárbara Castle.
Best Beaches Near Elche
Although Elche itself isn’t directly on the coast, some of Costa Blanca’s best beaches are only a short drive away.
Arenales del Sol – A long stretch of golden sand backed by dunes and crystal-clear water. Popular with families and couples alike.
El Altet Beach – A quieter option perfect for long walks and escaping the busier resorts.
La Marina Beach – One of the most beautiful beaches in the area. Wide, sandy and surrounded by natural dunes.
Santa Pola Beaches – Ideal for families thanks to calm waters and plenty of nearby facilities.
Food and Restaurants in Elche
Food is a huge part of life in Elche.
This is the kind of place where lunch is never rushed and dinner often starts later than many British visitors expect.
Local dishes worth trying include:
- Paella
- Arroz con Costra
- Fresh seafood
- Tapas platters
- Local wines from Alicante Province
The best restaurants are often the ones filled with locals rather than tourists. If you hear more Spanish than English, you’re usually onto a winner.
Top Tips for Visiting Elche
Visit the palm groves early morning or late afternoon
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the city
Take time to enjoy long Spanish lunches
Combine your trip with nearby beach resorts
Explore beyond the main tourist attractions
Visit local markets for fresh produce and souvenirs
Don’t rush — Elche is best enjoyed at a slower pace
Elche isn’t the loudest destination on the Costa Blanca. It doesn’t need to be. Instead, it quietly offers beautiful parks, fascinating history, fantastic food and a glimpse of everyday Spanish life that many holiday resorts simply can’t match.
You’ll find palm-lined streets, authentic restaurants, stunning gardens and easy access to both the coast and surrounding attractions. It’s relaxed, welcoming and refreshingly different.
The kind of place that doesn’t always make the front page of holiday brochures — but often ends up being one of the most memorable parts of a Costa Blanca trip. Sometimes the places that people overlook turn out to be the ones you can’t stop recommending afterwards.
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