Things To Do
in Elche
Elche, officially Elx, is a Mediterranean city in the Valencian Community famed for its UNESCO-listed Palmeral, a vast historic palm grove that surrounds the town. Its well-preserved old town centers on the Gothic Basílica de Santa María and leafy plazas where centuries of Moorish and Christian influences mingle. The city blends citrus groves, elegant gardens, museums, and a lively market scene with a warm, approachable pace.
From its palm groves to its riverfront paths and cultural sites, Elche offers a versatile base for exploring inland and coastal Alicante.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in the heart of Elche, savoring traditional Spanish pastries and coffee. Afterward, wander through the historic streets, marveling at the stunning architecture of the Basilica de Santa Maria. Don’t forget to visit the nearby Elche Museum to learn about the city’s rich heritage.
In the afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of the UNESCO-listed Palmeral de Elche, one of the largest palm groves in the world. Stroll through the lush greenery, taking in the unique landscape and learning about the cultivation of palm trees. Stop for lunch at a traditional restaurant, tasting local dishes like paella or arroz con costra.
As the sun sets, head to the Parque Municipal for a peaceful evening stroll among the palm trees and fountains. Find a charming terrace to enjoy tapas and local wines while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. End your day with a visit to a local flamenco show, immersing yourself in the passionate dance and music of Spain.
After breakfast, venture into the iconic Palmeral de Elche, where you can explore the winding paths lined with thousands of palm trees. Capture stunning photographs of the landscape and observe the local wildlife, including various bird species. Consider renting a bike for a more adventurous exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
For lunch, find a quaint restaurant within the palm grove offering fresh, locally sourced meals. Post-lunch, visit the Huerto del Cura, a beautiful garden that showcases a variety of plant species and stunning palm tree arrangements. Take your time wandering through the garden, enjoying the tranquility and beauty of nature.
Return to the city center for dinner at a traditional Spanish restaurant, sampling dishes like tapas and seafood. Afterward, stroll through the lit-up streets, enjoying the lively atmosphere of Elche at night. Wrap up your evening with a visit to a local bar for a cocktail or a glass of local wine.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short urban trip) | $6-12 |
| 🏨Hotel per night (mid-range) | $70-130 |
| 🥗Lunch for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-45 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich palm grove and historic center with UNESCO designation
- Easy day trips to coast and natural parks
- Summer heat can be intense for outdoor sightseeing
- Some attractions may have limited English-language information
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Elche
Visit one of these nice places.
A monumental palm grove with long avenues, water channels, and striking silhouettes at dawn and golden hour.
Gothic church set within a historic square, offering intricate facades and atmospheric interior lighting.
A renowned palm garden with exotic plants and a dramatic canopy, ideal for close-ups and wide-angle shots.
Historic square and surrounding streets with vibrant market life and architectural details worth capturing.
Food in Elche
Elche Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Valencian baked rice with a golden crust; look for it in family-run taverns in the old town.
Must-Try!
Rice cooked in fish stock served with aioli; commonly found in seafood-focused restaurants around the city.
Refreshing tiger-nut drink often served with fartons; widely available in cafés and markets.
Garlic prawns prepared in olive oil; a popular tapa in many local bars.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic central market offering fresh produce, seafood, and local specialties; a great place to sample citrus, cheese, and seasonal bites.
Casual stalls and tapas spots ideal for a quick bite or a casual dinner with local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly hola or buenos días. A handshake is common in business contexts; kisses on the cheek are typical among friends and family in social settings.
Eating takes place with shared dishes in tapas style; wait for everyone to be served before starting and say gracias to hosts and servers.
Safety
Tipping in Elche
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 5-10% for good service in restaurants if not already included. Small tips at cafés or for bar service are common but discretionary.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash remains common in local markets and smaller eateries. Contactless payments are increasingly standard.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming citrus trees make walking pleasant; ideal for outdoor markets and alfresco dining.
Hot and dry, with strong sun. Plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons and enjoy cooling drinks or a siesta in the hottest hours.
Comfortable weather returns, with fewer crowds and harvest-related cuisine; great for photography and strolling along palm-lined streets.
Mild temperatures with occasional rain. City sights remain accessible and cafes provide cozy respites.
Elche at Night
Hiking in Elche
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Wetlands with birdwatching routes and gentle trails suitable for all levels.
Coastal salt flats with viewing paths and opportunities for wildlife photography; a short drive from Elche.
Airports
How to reach Elche by plane.
Closest international gateway to Elche with frequent domestic and international flights; easy transfers by road, tram, or taxi.
Major hub located about 150 km north; good for long-haul connections and regional flights.
Alternative regional airport to the south, serving seasonal and some international routes; drive or bus connections to Elche are available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of native Spaniards and increasingly diverse communities, including students from the local universities and skilled professionals.
A sizable student presence from local universities and feeder institutions contributes to a vibrant daytime culture and nightlife around campus-adjacent areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular local sport with teams and public viewing in bars and arenas; follow regional leagues for matches and fan culture.
Common racquet sports with multiple courts around the city for casual play and clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Elche.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be prepared vegetarian or adapted; look for vegetable tapas, arroz sin carne, and direct requests for broccoli, peppers, tomatoes, and egg dishes. When in doubt, ask for vegetable paella or aioli-cooked vegetables.