Elche Escapades: A 3-Day Delight for Families
Uncover the vibrant treasures of Elche, where family adventures come alive.
14 October 2023
Pablo Escudero
Spain Travel Writer
Elche, Spain offers a delightful family-friendly trip, blending culture, history, and nature. Known for its magnificent palm grove, the largest in Europe, families can explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site and enjoy picnics under the shade of towering palm trees. Kids will be thrilled to visit the Elche Municipal Park, boasting a lake, playgrounds, and a zoo, providing entertainment for the whole family.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Check into the Hotel Huerto del Cura, a charming oasis located in the heart of Elche's palm grove.
- Immerse yourself in Elche's greenery at the Huerto del Cura Botanical Garden, home to over 1,000 palm trees and exotic plants.
- Explore the historic center and marvel at the Basilica of Santa Maria, a stunning Gothic church that will transport you back in time.
- Delight your taste buds with authentic Spanish cuisine at Restaurante La Teja Azul, where traditional tapas and paella await.
- Pro-tip: Don't forget to try the local delicacy, "cocas", savory pastries with endless delicious toppings.
- Begin your day at the Castle of Santa Barbara, a majestic fortress perched on Mount Benacantil that offers panoramic views of the city.
- Take a trip back in time at the Archaeological and History Museum of Elche, where you'll discover the fascinating ancient civilizations that shaped the region.
- Stroll through the palm tree-lined streets of the Palmeral de Elche, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and get lost in its labyrinthine paths.
- Indulge in a scrumptious lunch at Els Magazinos, a rustic restaurant serving traditional Spanish dishes with a modern twist.
- Round off your day with a visit to the Museum of Contemporary Art, showcasing unique and thought-provoking exhibits.
- Spend a sunny morning at Playa del Carabassí, a pristine blue flag beach where golden sands meet the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.
- Embark on a family adventure at Rio Safari Elche, an animal park where you can enjoy fun-filled shows, animal encounters, and even a splash in the pool.
- Dive into the local seafood scene at Restaurante El Escondite, sampling mouthwatering dishes like grilled prawns and fresh fish.
- Visit the Elche Palm Grove Museum to learn about the cultural and historical significance of palm trees in this region.
- Enjoy a relaxing evening stroll along the charming Paseo de la Estación, lined with quaint cafes and ice cream parlors.
- No summary paragraph necessary. Enjoy your quirky, green-filled adventure in Elche, Spain!
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Elche, Spain by plane is to fly into Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC) and then take a taxi or bus to Elche.
Car
You can reach Elche by car by taking the A-7 highway if you are coming from north or south, or the AP-7 toll road if you are coming from the west. Elche is located approximately 20 minutes' drive from Alicante.
Train
Unfortunately, there is no direct train station in Elche. The nearest train stations are in Alicante and Murcia. From either of these cities, you can take a taxi, bus, or rent a car to reach Elche.
Boat
Since Elche is an inland city, there are no direct boat routes available. However, you can dock at the nearby Port of Alicante and then travel to Elche by taxi, bus, or car.
Bus
To get to Elche by bus, you can take a direct bus from major cities like Alicante, Murcia, or Valencia. The bus station in Elche is Estación de Autobuses de Elche.
