Things To Do
in Elche

Elche, Spain, known for its rich history and cultural heritage, is located in the province of Alicante. The city is famous for its palm groves, which are a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its stunning architecture, including the Basilica de Santa Maria. Elche offers a unique blend of traditional and modern Spanish life, with beautiful parks and vibrant festivals.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying the Mediterranean climate and delicious cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering the Heart of Elche
morning
:

Start your day at the Palm Grove of Elche, exploring the lush landscape and learning about its UNESCO status.

afternoon
:

Visit the Elche Archaeological Museum to discover the city's ancient history, followed by a stroll through the historical center to admire the architecture.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional dishes, and take a leisurely walk in the Parque Municipal.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Leisure
morning
:

Explore the Basilica de Santa Maria and attend a guided tour to learn about its history and significance.

afternoon
:

Head to the Huerto del Cura, a beautiful garden, for a relaxing afternoon surrounded by exotic plants.

evening
:

Experience the nightlife at a local tapas bar, enjoying live music and a vibrant atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🍺Beer$3
🏨Hotel Night$70
🚌Public Transport Ticket$1.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes, especially the palm groves.
  • Delicious local cuisine with unique flavors.
  • Hot summers may be uncomfortable for some travelers.
  • Limited English-speaking options in some areas.
  • Crowded tourist spots during peak seasons.
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Me gustaría una mesa para dos" - I would like a table for two

Places to Visit in Elche

Visit one of these nice places.

Palm Grove of Elche

A UNESCO World Heritage site offering stunning views and a unique landscape of palm trees.

Basilica de Santa Maria

An architectural gem with a beautiful facade, perfect for capturing historical beauty.

Huerto del Cura

A picturesque garden filled with exotic plants, providing a tranquil backdrop for photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Elche

Elche's culinary scene offers a delightful mix of traditional Spanish flavors and local specialties that reflect its rich agricultural heritage.

Elche Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Arroz con Costra

A traditional rice dish baked with a crust, often made with chicken and local spices.

Must-Try!

Dátiles de Elche

Sweet dates grown in the region, often enjoyed as a snack or dessert.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Central de Elche

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, meats, and local delicacies.

Tapas at Calle de la Virgen

A street lined with bars offering delicious tapas and a lively atmosphere.

Climate Guide

Weather

Elche enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can soar above 30°C (86°F), while winters are generally mild, averaging around 10-15°C (50-59°F). Rainfall is limited, with most precipitation occurring in autumn and spring, making it an attractive year-round destination.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake or a kiss on both cheeks is common when meeting someone for the first time.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat, and it's polite to say 'Buen Provecho' before meals.

Personal Space

Spaniards tend to stand closer during conversations compared to some cultures, so be prepared for this.

Safety Guide

Safety

Elche is generally a safe city for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings in crowded areas and avoiding poorly lit streets at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Elche

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It's common to leave a small tip (5-10%) in restaurants if service is good, but rounding up is also acceptable.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash, especially for small vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring a lovely time to visit, perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer

The summer heat can be intense, so expect high temperatures; plan for early morning or late evening activities.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and fewer tourists make autumn a great time for sightseeing and enjoying local festivals.

Winter

Winters are mild, making it a pleasant season to explore the city without the crowds.

Nightlife Guide

Elche at Night

Elche has a vibrant nightlife scene with a mix of traditional tapas bars and modern clubs. The atmosphere is lively, especially on weekends, with venues offering live music, flamenco shows, and dance floors. Streets like Calle de la Virgen come alive after dark, providing a great selection of options for all tastes.

Hiking in Elche

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cami de les Creus

A scenic trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and is suitable for all skill levels.

Sierra de Crevillente

A more challenging hike with diverse terrain and breathtaking views, ideal for experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Elche by plane.

Alicante-Elche Airport

Located about 15 km from Elche, this airport offers numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Elche is quite walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions are located within a short distance. The flat terrain and pedestrian-friendly streets make it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and there are plenty of parks and public squares to enjoy along the way.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population is predominantly Spanish, with a mix of younger generations and older residents who contribute to the city's culture.

Expats and Tourists

Elche attracts a growing number of expats and tourists, particularly from Northern Europe, drawn by its climate and lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is extremely popular in Elche, with local clubs having a strong following and regular matches to attend.

Basketball

Basketball also enjoys a significant fanbase, with several local teams and community leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Elche is generally manageable, with most roads well-maintained. Public transportation is available, including buses that connect various parts of the city and surrounding areas. Biking is also a popular option, thanks to dedicated bike lanes and paths.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Elche.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about specific ingredients.

Gluten-Free Options

While traditional Spanish cuisine includes many gluten-free options, always check with the restaurant.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Elche is of a high standard, with both public and private facilities available. The public healthcare system is accessible to EU citizens with a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Private healthcare options are also available for those seeking quicker services or specialized care.

Discover Spain

Read more in our Spain 2025 Travel Guide.

Spain Travel Guide