All about Elche / Elx (Costa Blanca, Spain)

Elche (in Spanish), Elx (in Valencian) is a city located on the Costa Blanca in the province of Alicante, in the region of Valencia, Spain.

Elche is famous for its Palmeral de Elche, a vast palm garden that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Made up of thousands of date palm trees, this palm garden is a unique green oasis in the city.

Besides these palm trees, Elche has something else recognizable namely the Rio Vinalopó, this river not only provides water for the famous palm groves, but also has great historical and cultural significance for the city.

1. Discover, get to know Elche

Did you know that…

• the people of Elche are also called“Ilicitanos” or“Ilicitanas.

• the date palm orchard in Elche was recognized as a World Heritage Site (UNESCO) in 2000;

• that the El Misteri d’Elx in Elche was also recognized as an Intangible World Heritage Site (UNSECO) in 2001;

• Elche is one of Spain’s leading shoe producers. About 50% of all Spanish shoes are produced in Elche;

• Elche is the third-largest city in the province of Valencia.

The center of Elche

The center of Elche is located around Plaza de la Glorieta and the Basílica de Santa María. In addition, you will find there a number of other beautiful historic buildings including the Torre de la Calahorra and the Palacio de Altamira.

The Plaza de la Glorieta is an ideal starting point for exploring Elche. From here you can easily walk to the city’s other attractions, such as the Palmeral (the palm garden) and the Huerto del Cura (the botanical garden).

Walking promenades in Elche

Because Elche is not directly on the coast, you will not find a classic “seaside” boulevard like in many other places. Indeed, the city is about 15 kilometers inland. Nevertheless, the city has a few locations that approximate the feel of a promenade:

• Paseo de la Estación: this stately avenue, flanked by palm trees, connects the station to the city center. It is a bustling place with many stores and cozy terraces;

• Parque Municipal: the spacious walkways in this central city park, surrounded by greenery and ponds, invite a leisurely stroll;

• Around the Palmeral: On the edges of the historic palm grove, you will find several paths and small squares. It is an ideal place to stroll and enjoy the unique, shady environment.

For a real beachfront promenade, you can divert to the nearby coastal towns of Santa Pola and Alicante.

Ports near Elche

The city is located about 15 to 20 kilometers inland and thus does not have direct access to the sea. Historically, the port of nearby Santa Pola was the official port of Elche (in Roman times it was called Portus Illicitanus). Today, the largest and most important port in the immediate area is the port of Alicante.

The districts

Elche is divided into several neighborhoods, each with its own unique characteristics and atmosphere. Some of the main neighborhoods of Elche are:

• El Raval: Located in the historic center of Elche, El Raval is a picturesque neighborhood with narrow streets, old buildings and cozy squares. Here you will find many historical sites, such as the Basilica of Santa María and Glorieta Square;

• Carrús: Carrús is a lively neighborhood in northern Elche. It is known for its markets, parks and wide streets. Here you will also find the Carrús train station;

• Altabix: a quiet residential neighborhood in the northwest of Elche. It has many green spaces and parks, as well as some schools and sports facilities;

• Sector V: Located on the western edge of Elche, Sector V is mainly a residential area with many modern apartment buildings and villas;

• Toscar: This neighborhood is located in the southwest of Elche and has several amenities, including schools, supermarkets and sports facilities;

• Ciudad Jardín: A neighborhood in the east of Elche, Ciudad Jardín is a green area with many gardens and parks. It also has a hospital and several medical facilities;

• Torrellano: Located south of Elche, Torrellano is an important industrial area and houses the Alicante International Airport.

The history

• Prehistory/Old: The city’s roots are in the Neolithic period, after which the area was inhabited by the Iberians. The city then flourished under the Romans, who called it “Ilici.” It was already known at this time for the production of olive oil;

• Moorish Period (8th – 13th centuries): After its conquest in the 8th century by the Moors, the city flourished under the name “Elx.” It developed into an important center for trade and agriculture, and the foundations of today’s vast Palm Garden were laid;

• Christian Reconquest (13th century): In 1265, Elche was recaptured by Christian King Jaime I of Aragon. The city then began a new chapter as part of the Christian kingdom, further expanding the Garden of Palms;

• Modern Times: the famous Palm Garden (Palmeral de Elche) is today recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the modern era, Elche has developed into a vibrant city, known worldwide for its shoe industry.

The name ‘Elche’

The name “Elche” is derived from the ancient Iberian word“Helike” or“Illici” which is said to refer to a river that flowed through the area in ancient times. Today, this river is known as the Vinalopó River.

The origin of the name “Elche” is also related to the region’s Moorish history. During the Moorish rule in Spain, which lasted from the 8th to the 13th century, the city was known as“Illa” or“Elx” in Arabic.

After the reconquest (Reconquista) of the area by the Christian kings, the city was gradually returned to Catholic influence and the name“Elx” was changed to“Elche” in Spanish.

Nature around Elche

Nature around Elche is dominated by the unique Garden of Palms and the vast waterscapes:

• El Hondo Natural Park: about 15km northeast of Elche lies this important wetland. The area, consisting of lagoons and canals, is a crucial habitat for a rich bird life, including the rare marsh duck;

• Palmeral de Elche: this is Elche’s most famous natural area and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The garden consists of more than 70,000 palm trees, where visitors can walk and admire the Huerto del Cura (a botanical garden with a great diversity of plants);

• The salt flats in Santa Pola, Parque Natural Salinas de Santa Pola: (about 20km away) This natural park borders the municipal area of Elche and includes vast salt flats and salt lakes. It is especially famous as home to large colonies of flamingos and other waterfowl;

• Sierra de Elche: this mountain range and protected landscape is located in the hinterland of the city. It offers beautiful hiking trails through pine forests and Mediterranean scrub, with panoramic views of the city and coast.

A Mediterranean climate

Elche’s climate is ideal for the growth of palm trees, which give the city its unique character. Summers are long and dry, with plenty of sunshine. This provides an ideal environment for all kinds of plants and animals. Winters are mild and pleasant, with little rain.

The combination of sun, warmth and fertile soil makes Elche one of the most important agricultural areas in Spain. Elche’s palm grove is not only a beautiful sight, but also plays an important role in regulating the local climate.

The weather, the average temperature

Below is a table of average temperatures in Elche by month:

2. Experiencing Elche, what to see & do

To the beach in Elche

Elche has several beautiful beaches along the Mediterranean coast. Blue flag beaches are designated with a blue 🔷 sign:

• Playa de Arenales del Sol🔷: a wide and extensive sandy beach with crystal clear waters, stretching for about 2 kilometers. It is a popular beach for both tourists and locals, with facilities such as showers, beach bars and water sports facilities;

• Playa del Alted🔷: a quieter beach, often visited by locals. It has a relaxed atmosphere and is ideal for those looking for a more secluded spot for sunbathing and swimming;
  

• Playa del Carabassí🔷: another beautiful and extensive sandy beach, known for its dunes and pristine natural environment. The beach also has facilities such as beach bars and umbrella rentals;

• Playa del Pinet: this beach is located near a natural park and is surrounded by pine forests. It is an ideal place to enjoy natural surroundings and quiet walks on the beach;

• Playa de la Marina🔷: located near the village of La Marina, this beach is a favorite destination for families. It offers a quiet and safe environment, as well as facilities such as children’s playgrounds and restaurants.

Things to do & to see

In Elche you will find a nice mix of nature and culture. The city is known for its quiet parks and gardens full of palm trees, interspersed with interesting museums and historic buildings.

In addition, Elche is a great base from which to explore the surrounding area; from the city you can easily reach the coast, other nice towns or special natural areas.

Sports opportunities

Elche has several sports complexes and soccer fields scattered throughout the city. One of the largest sports complexes is Ciutat Esportiva Juan Ángel Romero located on Carrer Confrides. Here you will find 7 artificial turf fields, 1 grass field, 3 indoor soccer fields, anathletic track and aswimming pool, among others.

Elche is a city that attaches great importance to sports. The city has a long tradition in various sports and there are plenty of facilities to play sports and relax. The most popular sports in Elche are:

• Soccer: Elche CF is the city’s best-known sports club and plays in the Primera División, Spain’s highest soccer league. The Martínez Valero stadium is the club’s home ground;
• Handball: BM Elche is a professional handball club that plays in the División de Honor Plata, Spain’s second highest handball league;
• Volleyball: CV Elche Ilicitano is a professional volleyball club that plays in the Superliga Masculina, Spain’s highest volleyball league;
• Athletics: Elche has produced a number of successful athletes, including José Antonio García, who won a silver medal at the 1980 Olympics.

Restaurants & bars in Elche

In the old center you will find authentic tapas bars with a cozy atmosphere. Lovers of international cuisines can enjoy Asian dishes or authentic Mexican specialties.

Daily to the market

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.

• Frequency: daily (except Sundays);
• Time: from 07:00 to 14:30 (Fridays from 19:00 to 21:00)

Shops & supermarkets

Elche has 3 shopping centers, Centro Comercial L’Aljub and El Corte Inglés located on the west side and Recinto Comercial de Altabix on the east side:

• Centro Comercial L’Aljub: the largest shopping center in Elche, with more than 200 stores. The mall has a wide variety of stores, including international brands, fashion stores, electronics stores, restaurants and a cinema. You will find a MANGO, H&M, JD Sports, Primark and a Phonehouse, among others. There is free parking for 4,000 cars;

• El Corte Inglés: a department store with a wide range of products, including clothing, electronics, furniture, toys and food. There is free parking with 2,000 parking spaces;

• Recinto comercial de Altabix: a medium-sized shopping center with about 70 stores. The mall has a mix of stores, including supermarkets, clothing stores, hairdressers, perfumeries and a toy store. There is free parking for 2,500 cars.

Parking

Free parking:

• Street parking:
  • C/ Miguel Hernández: In the Centro neighborhood, near the Plaza de Elche;
  • Av. de las Cortes Valencianas: Along the avenida in the El Toscar neighborhood;
  • C/ Pintor Elías Tormo: In the Carrús neighborhood, near the Parque Municipal.
• Parking:
  • Parking Plaza de Toros: Next to the Plaza de Toros in the center;
  • Parking Estación de Autobuses: At the bus station in the El Toscar neighborhood;
  • Parking Parque Juan XXIII: In the El Raval neighborhood, near the park.

Paid Parking:

• Blue zones:
  • Entire center of Elche, including the neighborhoods of Centro, El Toscar, Carrús and Altabix;
  • C/ Corredera: Busy downtown shopping street;
  • Paseo de las Estrellas: Promenade in the El Toscar neighborhood.
• Parking garages:
  • Parking El Corte Inglés: Underground parking garage under El Corte Inglés in the center;
  • Parking C.C. L’Aljub: At L’Aljub shopping center in the southeast of the city;
  • Parking Mercado Central: Parking garage under downtown Mercado Central.
• Underground parking:
  • Hotel NH Alicante: Underground parking at the hotel in the city center;
  • Centro Comercial Vistamar: Underground parking lot at the shopping center in the Vistamar district;
  • Residencial El Palmeral: Underground parking at the residential complex in the El Raval neighborhood.

Arts & Culture

The city has a rich history and culture. Some highlights:

• Archaeological and Historical Museum of Elche (MAHE): at this museum, visitors can learn more about the city’s rich history, from prehistory to modern times. The museum has an extensive collection of archaeological artifacts;

• Palace of Altamira: This beautiful neomudéjar-style building once served as the summer residence of an aristocratic family. Today it is a cultural center and exhibition space;

• Palmeral de Elche: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see for any visitor to Elche. The palm grove is home to more than 200,000 palm trees and is a wonderful place for hiking, biking or picnicking;

• 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.

Special holidays

The main religious and cultural celebrations in Elche concentrate in the summer:

• Misteri d’Elx (The Mystery of Elche): The Basilica of Santa María is the setting for this unique, medieval liturgical drama. The play is performed annually on Aug. 14 and 15, in honor of the Assumption of Mary, and is on the UNESCO list of Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity;

• Nit de l’Albà (Night of the Dawn): This spectacular fireworks show takes place on Aug. 13 and is one of Spain’s most impressive pyrotechnic events. Thousands of fireworks arrows are fired from buildings around the city, culminating in the so-called Palmeral de la Virgen, a giant palm tree of light;

• Moros y Cristianos: This historic festival is held in the first half of August, around the same time as the celebration of the patron saint. The celebration includes historical reconstructions and grand parades.

3. Visiting Elche, flight & accommodation

By plane to Elche

Do you want to go on vacation to Elche? Then the nearest airport is Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández (ALC). The airport is practically next to the city; from the terminal it is only 20 kilometers to the city center, which amounts to a drive of about 20 minutes.

From the Netherlands and Belgium, airlines such as Transavia, KLM, Vueling, Ryanair and TUI fly directly to Alicante, making the destination easily accessible.

Vacations to Elche

Elche is a historic city best known for its vast palm groves and cultural wealth. It offers a surprising mix for various types of vacations:

• Cultural and historical vacations: with two UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the Palmeral (the largest palm grove in Europe) and the Misteri d’Elx (a sacred mystery play) – Elche is the place for lovers of unique culture and deeply rooted traditions;

• Nature and tranquility vacations: the city is surrounded by lush gardens such as the Huerto del Cura, where you can stroll among cacti and rare palms. The tranquility and shade of the palm trees offer an oasis of calm;

• Beach vacations: the coastline of Elche, located a few kilometers from the city center, is characterized by pristine sandy beaches and dune areas, such as Arenales del Sol and La Marina. These beaches are ideal for those seeking space and natural beauty;

• Shopping and city vacations: as one of the larger cities in the region, Elche offers a lively city center with numerous stores, a thriving shoe industry and excellent restaurants where you can discover the local gastronomy.

You can choose a package tour from a tour operator or arrange your own flight (via the nearby Alicante airport) and accommodation separately.

Vacation accommodation in Elche

• Hotels: Elche has a diverse selection, from modern city hotels in the heart of downtown to unique boutique hotels located directly in or on the edge of palm groves, such as the famous Huerto del Cura;

• Apartments: a popular choice for those who want to cook for themselves. You’ll find apartments in the lively city center, but also a large selection on the coast in associated resorts such as Arenales del Sol, perfect for a beach vacation;

• Vacation homes and fincas: for more peace and quiet, you can go to the rural area (the “campo”) around the city. Here you will find traditional fincas and mansions that have been converted into luxury vacation accommodation, almost always with their own swimming pool.

Many accommodations in the city center are within walking distance of the main attractions, such as the palm grove, the basilica and the many stores and restaurants.

Everything at hand with the free Elche app

Do you want to be sure that you don’t miss anything from your favorite place on the Costa Blanca? Then download the free app and turn your phone into the ultimate travel guide for the entire region:

• All ‘website’ content is available: all travel guides, blogs and other tips for restaurants, activities and sights, but also accommodations;

• Simple navigation: all available information is clearly presented (per location) and you can easily navigate back and forth;

• Interactive map: explore the Costa Blanca and easily plan your routes to the most beautiful places;

• Smart location recognition: when you approach a place on the Costa Blanca, you automatically receive a notification that allows you to directly open the travel guide for that place;

• Your favorites: you can save and easily find your favorite locations, such as restaurants.

The CostaBlanca.nl app is completely free to download and use. Start planning your perfect trip today!

Question & answer (FAQ)

Handy links

• Visit Elche (Tourist information)
• Elche Wikipedia (General information)
• Spain.info Elche (Tourist information)

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