Elche Unleashed: 3 Days of Enchantment and Exploration
Discover the oasis of tranquility in Elche, Spain's hidden gem.
14 October 2023
Pablo Escudero
Spain Travel Writer
Elche, located in the province of Alicante, Spain, is a captivating destination for tourists. As the proud home of the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Palm Grove of Elche, you can explore a breathtaking oasis complete with over 200,000 palm trees. Additionally, the city's fascinating history is showcased in its many archaeological sites and landmarks, such as the Elche Mystery Play, making it a culturally rich and memorable place to visit.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Check into Hotel Huerto del Cura, a charming oasis nestled amidst lush palm groves.
- Wander into the historic center, where medieval churches and hidden squares whisper untold stories.
- Marvel at Elche's UNESCO-listed Palm Grove, a surreal jungle with over 200,000 swaying palms.
- Climb up Santa Maria Basilica's tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its palm-filled landscape.
- Sip an aromatic horchata at one of the traditional cafés while contemplating Elche's mesmerizing blend of cultures.
- Dine at Nou Escut, a hidden gem with a cozy ambiance, to indulge in local specialties like arroz a banda or chickpea stew.
- After a delightful breakfast at Hotel Boutique Hort de Sant Cebrià, delve into Elche's rich history at the Archaeological and History Museum.
- Uncover the mystical secrets of the Elche Mystery Play, an ancient theatrical tradition dating back to medieval times.
- Lose yourself in the labyrinthine streets of Elche's old town, stumbling upon hidden artisans' workshops and quirky boutiques.
- Take a refreshing break at the Municipal Park, a verdant paradise filled with exotic plants and sculptures.
- Relish a fusion of Mediterranean and avant-garde flavors at El Porteno, a trendy restaurant boasting panoramic city views.
- Immerse yourself in Elche's vibrant nightlife by exploring the modern bars and clubs in the city center.
- Venture beyond Elche to explore the enchanting El Hondo Nature Reserve, a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
- Embark on a leisurely boat ride through the reserve's tranquil lagoons, observing graceful flamingos and rare bird species.
- Discover the art of Esparto grass weaving, an ancient craft unique to Elche, at the Museo Escolar de Puçol.
- Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Mesón Toscaleta, a rustic restaurant serving traditional tapas and hearty regional dishes.
- Indulge in a post-lunch siesta under the shade of a palm tree in one of Elche's picturesque parks.
- Savor the last evening in Elche with a dinner at El Poblet, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering innovative and artistic cuisine.
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.
