What to do in Elche? 11 Tips & Activities

What to do in Elche? Activities, things to do

1. Visit the famous palm garden of Elche

The Palmeral de Elche is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This sprawling garden houses thousands of date palm trees and forms a beautiful green oasis in the heart of the city. Visitors can stroll here and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

2. Visit the animal park in Elche

Rio Safari Elche is home to more than 200 animals, including lions, tigers, elephants and giraffes. You can take a safari here or watch the animals from the comfort of your own car.

3. Visit the botanical garden in Elche

El Huerto del Cura has a wide variety of exotic plants and palm trees. It is also known for the Imperial Palm, a unique palm tree with seven trunks forming the shape of a crown.

3. Visit the museum in Elche

At the Archaeological and Historical Museum of Elche, visitors can learn more about the rich history of the city, from prehistory to modern times. The museum has an extensive collection of archaeological artifacts.

4. Visit the ‘Palace’ near the palm gardens in Elche

Palacio de Altamira isa beautiful building in neomudéjar-style building that once served as the summer residence of an aristocratic family. Today it is a cultural center and exhibition space.

5. Visit the park in Elche

Park Municipal isa large city park with beautiful walking paths, playgrounds, ponds and picnic areas. It is an ideal place to relax and enjoy nature.

6. Going to the market in Elche

The Mercado Plaza de Barcelona is a large indoor market in Elche. The stalls selling fresh vegetables, fruits and other food are spread over two floors. An extensive assortment at affordable prices. You will find this market at the large traffic circle at Plaza de Barcelona. This market is open from 07:00 to 14:30 (Fridays from 19:00 to 21:00 hours).

Tip: view an overview of all weekly markets on the Costa Blanca

What to do in the Elche area?

7. Walk along the waterfalls of Algar

The Algar waterfalls are a popular destination for day trips. Located about a 1-hour drive from Elche, the waterfalls offer refreshing baths and a beautiful walk through nature.

Tip: read more about the Algar waterfalls

8. Discover the El Hondo bird paradise

Parque Natural de El Hondo is a unique wetland. This place is home to flamingos and herons that you can spot from the decking paths. The park offers opportunities for nature photography, picnicking and educational activities, making it a perfect destination for a day out in nature.

9. A day out in the Elche area

• Alicante: (about a 30-minute drive) Alicante is the capital of the province and offers a mix of history and modernity. Visit the Castle of Santa Bárbara for panoramic views of the city and port or stroll along Explanada de España;

• Santa Pola: (about a 25-minute drive away) This coastal town is known for its salt lakes and the island of Tabarca, which you can visit by boat. Santa Pola also has a fishing port and a castle;

• Torrevieja: (about a 40-minute drive away) Torrevieja is also famous for its salt lakes, including the pink lake Laguna Salada de Torrevieja. You can also enjoy beaches, markets and a lively promenade there;

• Guardamar del Segura: (about a 35-minute drive away) Guardamar is known for its dunes and pine forests. It has long sandy beaches and an archaeological site, El Cabezo Lucero;

• Orihuela: (about a 30-minute drive away) Orihuela is a town rich in history. Visit the cathedral, the bishop’s palace and the old town with its historic buildings.

What to see in Elche? Sightseeing, things to see

10. See the church in Elche

Basilica of Santa María, this beautiful church is a striking example of Gothic and Baroque architecture. The highlight is the tower, also known as “La Torreta,” which offers panoramic views of the city.

11. See the fountain near the palm gardens in Elche

Fuente de la Glorieta is a fountain that stood for many years in Glorieta, hence it was given this name. The fountain was renovated and rebuilt by Aigües d’Elx and it is a place where many people take pictures.