DK Travel : Costa Blanca

Sun, sea and sand are excellent reasons to visit the Costa Blanca, but its attractions don’t stop there. Inland, you can explore magnificent Natural Parks, wild sierras and remote hill villages, or visit historic towns with fascinating museums and a wealth of fabulous architecture. The engaging capital cities of Alicante (Alacant) and Murcia are crammed with great shops and tapas bars, and a string of lively resorts along the coast offers splendid beaches, fantastic nightlife and plenty of opportunities for fun. Best of all, there’s always a secret cove or rugged cape to be discovered if the crowds get too much.

Basílica de Santa María, Elx (Elche)

Celebrated for its performances of the Misteri d’Elx (see Misteri d’Elx (Elche) (Mystery of Elx)), the monumental Basílica de Santa María was built between 1672 and 1783, replacing an earlier church built on the ruins of a former mosque.
Batiste, Santa Pola

This big, airy seafood restaurant sits right on the port, so you know the fish is fresh. All kinds of shellfish are on the menu, along with tasty rice specialities.
Beach bars

Many beaches have snack bars, or xiringuitos , which open only in the summer.
Beach Parties

Beach parties are common, free and entirely spontaneous.
Beating the crowds

The Costa Blanca is highly developed, and city beaches are always crammed, but you can always find a quiet corner.
Benidorm

Brash, brazen Benidorm (see Playa de Poniente and Playa de Levante, Benidorm) is the place to go if you’re looking for kitsch souvenirs. It’s also a great place to find cheap t-shirts and a huge variety of beachwear to suit all tastes and budgets.
Benidorm

A big market is held every Wednesday in Benidorm, with lots of fresh food, as well as clothes and souvenirs.
Benidorm

The biggest and best-known of the Costa Blanca resorts, Benidorm is a mini-Manhattan of skyscrapers set around an impressive bay. Its immaculate beaches, two sweeping curves of golden sand, are the finest in the region, and the choice of restaurants and nightlife can’t be beaten.
Benidorm Palace

Come here for the biggest, flashiest and most extravagant shows in town, with acrobats, cabaret singers and the famous show girls. You can dine as you watch, or just have a drink.
Biar

This well-preserved Arabic castle withstood a lengthy siege before finally falling to Jaime I (see Moments in History) in 1245.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under €20
- €20–€30
- €30–€40
- €40–€50
- over €50