Things To Do
in El Plan

Rice dishes are a regional specialty—paella (mixed or seafood) and arroz a banda (rice cooked in fish broth) are must-tries. Look for local restaurants or family-owned venues that cook rice in traditional paella pans.

Must-Try!

A hearty seafood stew from the coastal towns, often served with rice. Best sampled at seaside restaurants and small fishermen’s eateries.

Small plates of prawns, fried squid or octopus and marinated vegetables are common across bars; perfect for sharing and sampling local flavors.

Cold tomato-based soups ideal in hot months; widely available and refreshing.

Most nearby towns host a weekly market offering fresh fruit, vegetables, cheeses, cured meats and baked goods. It’s the best place to sample local produce and pick up picnic supplies.

Informal beach bars along the nearby coast serve grilled fish, paella and tapas—simple, fresh and ideal for a relaxed meal with sea views.

Polite greetings are important—use a handshake in formal settings and two kisses on the cheek for acquaintances in social situations. A friendly 'hola' and 'buenos días' are appreciated.

Business appointments may be punctual, but social gatherings often start later in the evening. Many shops close for a mid-afternoon siesta in smaller towns—plan accordingly.

Show respect during religious festivals and processions; dress modestly in churches and avoid loud behavior in sacred contexts.

Meals are social affairs; it’s polite to wait for everyone to be served before starting. Saying 'buen provecho' to others at the table is common.

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. In bars and cafés it’s common to round up the bill or leave small change; in restaurants 5–10% is a good tip for attentive service. For taxi drivers, drivers and hotel porters, a small tip is customary for good service.

Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in restaurants and shops, though small village bars and market stalls may prefer cash. Contactless payments are common; carry some euros in cash for markets, small purchases and remote areas.

Hot and dry with daytime temperatures often in the high 20s to mid-30s°C (80s–90s°F). Expect busy beaches and more tourists in July–August; bring sun protection, light clothing and plan activities for early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat.

Milder temperatures and lower humidity, with the possibility of heavy but infrequent rainfall in October–November. It’s a pleasant time for outdoor activities and fewer crowds.

Mild winters (around 8–16°C / 46–60°F) with occasional chilly nights; snow is very rare. This is low season—quiet villages and good availability but some coastal venues may close for renovation.

One of the best times to visit: comfortable temperatures, blooming countryside and many local festivals. Ideal for hiking, cycling and photography.

The main international airport serving the region with many scheduled flights; reachable by car, bus or shuttle services and is typically the most convenient option for international travelers.

A smaller regional airport serving Murcia and southern Alicante areas; offers seasonal and charter flights and can be convenient depending on your airline and schedule.

The most popular sport—local clubs and youth teams are active, and watching or attending a local match is a common pastime.

The region hosts several golf courses and attracts golfers year-round thanks to mild weather and well-maintained facilities.

Sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding and windsurfing are popular along the coast during warmer months.

Both road cycling and relaxed recreational rides are common on quiet country roads and dedicated cycle routes.

Vegetarian options are increasingly available—look for vegetable tapas, salads, tortilla española, grilled vegetables, and rice dishes without seafood. Many restaurants will accommodate requests but always ask if dishes contain fish stock.

Vegan choices are more limited in small villages but you can usually assemble meals from salads, grilled vegetables, legumes and bread. Larger nearby towns and tourist areas have more vegan-friendly cafes.

Gluten-free options are becoming common in restaurants; however traditional breads, fried foods and sauces may contain gluten. Ask staff about ingredients and cross-contamination if you have celiac disease.

Seafood is prominent—always alert staff to shellfish or fish allergies. Carry translation cards for serious allergies to ensure clear communication.