Costa Blanca: The Complete Guide to Vacation and Life

The Costa Blanca is one of Spain's most attractive regions for tourists and investors. This beautiful stretch of Mediterranean coastline, stretching for 200 kilometers, offers delightful beaches, mild climate and rich cultural life. Thanks to its picturesque nature, developed infrastructure and many opportunities for outdoor activities, Costa Blanca is becoming increasingly popular among travelers and those looking for property for permanent residence or investment.

Costa Blanca on the map

Costa Blanca, meaning "White Coast", is located on the east coast of Spain, in the province of Alicante, in the autonomous community of Valencia. The region stretches for 200 kilometers along the Mediterranean coast and includes many picturesque towns and resorts. On the map of the Costa Blanca, several key places can be distinguished:

• Alicante: The region's capital city, known for its beaches, historic center, and Santa Barbara Fortress.
• Benidorm: One of the most popular resorts, famous for its skyscrapers, sandy beaches and lively nightlife.
• Denia: A town with a rich historical heritage and a beautiful port that is the starting point for ferries to the Balearic Islands.
• Calpe: Famous for its Ifach rock and picturesque beaches.
• Torrevieja: A resort town with salt lakes and gorgeous beaches.
• Altea: A charming town with whitewashed houses and narrow streets known for its arts community.

How to get to Costa Blanca

There are several ways to get to this region: by plane, train, bus or car. In this section we will look at the main transportation options, their cost and travel time.

Airplane

Alicante-Elche International Airport (ALC)

The main airport of the Costa Blanca, located 9 km southwest of the city of Alicante.

Flights: The airport receives flights from most major cities in Europe and around the world, including London, Paris, Berlin, Amsterdam and New York.

Travel time: A direct flight from London takes about 2.5 hours, from Paris about 2 hours, and from New York about 8 hours.

Cost: Tickets from London and Paris cost from $50 to $200, from New York from $300 to $700, depending on the season and airline.

Murcia Regional Airport (RMU)

Airport serving the southern Costa Blanca, located 25 km south of the city of Murcia.

Flights: Receives flights from major European cities including London, Brussels and Frankfurt.

Travel time: A direct flight from London takes about 2.5 hours, from Brussels about 2.5 hours.

Cost: Tickets from London and Brussels cost between $50 and $150.

Transportation from the airports to the city:

• Cab: The cost to travel from Alicante airport to the city center is about $20-30, from Murcia airport to Torrevieja is about $40-50.
• Bus: Public buses and shuttles connect the airports to major cities in the region. The cost of a ticket is about $5-10.

Train

Spanish Railways (Renfe)

Spain has a well-developed rail network, including AVE high-speed trains.

Routes: AVE trains connect Madrid with Alicante and Valencia, from where you can reach other Costa Blanca cities by regional trains or buses.

Travel time: The high-speed AVE train from Madrid to Alicante takes about 2.5 hours.

Cost: AVE train tickets cost from $50 to $100 depending on class of service and booking time.

Transportation from railway stations

• Cab: The cost to travel from Alicante train station to beaches and hotels is about $10-20.
• Bus: Regional buses connect the train stations with other Costa Blanca towns and resorts. The cost of a ticket is about $5-15.

Bus

ALSA and Avanza bus companies

These companies offer regular bus services from Madrid, Barcelona and other major Spanish cities to the Costa Blanca.

Routes: Buses from Madrid and Barcelona to Alicante, Benidorm, Torrevieja and other cities in the region.

Travel time: The bus from Madrid to Alicante takes about 5-6 hours, from Barcelona to Alicante about 7-8 hours.

Cost: Tickets cost from $20 to $50 depending on route and booking time.

Rent a car

Renting a car is a convenient way to get around the Costa Blanca, especially for those who plan to explore the region and visit remote attractions.

Rental items: Alicante and Murcia airports, train stations and major cities.

Cost: Renting a car costs from $30 to $100 per day depending on the class of car and season.

Marshryikes: From Madrid to Alicante by highways A-3 and A-31 (about 4-5 hours travel time), from Barcelona to Alicante by highways AP-7 and A-7 (about 5-6 hours travel time).

The Costa Blanca offers many transportation options for travelers and residents of the region. Whether you prefer to travel by plane, train, bus or car, you can easily reach this beautiful corner of Spain. Knowing the cost and travel time will help you better plan your trip and enjoy all that the Costa Blanca has to offer.

Weather on the Costa Blanca

Costa Blanca is famous for its mild Mediterranean climate, which makes this region an attractive vacation destination all year round. There are over 300 days of sunshine a year and comfortable temperatures. The table below shows average temperatures, rainfall, water temperatures and activity recommendations for each month.

Month	Average temperature (°C)	Precipitation (mm)	Water temperature (°C)	What to do
January	12	20	14	Excursions, museums, promenade walks
February	13	19	14	Visiting historical sites, gastronomic tours
March	15	22	15	Walking in parks, sightseeing
April	17	24	16	Beach vacation, water sports
May	20	26	18	Beach vacations, yachting, bicycling
June	24	10	21	Beach vacations, diving, kitesurfing
July	27	3	24	Beach vacation, evening walks
August	27	5	26	Beach vacations, evening festivals
September	24	20	24	Beach vacations, excursions, water sports
October	20	40	22	Old town walks, gastronomic tours
November	16	30	19	Museum visits, excursions, walks
December	13	25	16	Christmas fairs, cultural events

The weather on the Costa Blanca makes this region ideal to visit at any time of the year. In summer, you can enjoy hot sunny days on the beach and water sports, while in winter, mild temperatures allow you to explore the historical and cultural attractions. In spring and fall, moderate temperatures create ideal conditions for outdoor activities and enjoying nature. Regardless of the season, the Costa Blanca offers many opportunities for an exciting and comfortable vacation.

Costa Blanca Real Estate

Buying real estate on the Costa Blanca is becoming increasingly popular with foreign investors and those looking for a second home or a place to live permanently.

Apartments

Apartments of various sizes, often with sea or mountain views, in residential complexes with swimming pools and gardens. This is a popular choice among those looking for both temporary vacation accommodation and permanent residence.

Estimated Cost: From $100,000 to $500,000 depending on location, meter and comfort level.

Townhouses

Cozy two or three storey houses, often with a small garden or terrace, located in residential areas. Ideal for families and those looking for more space.

Estimated Cost: From $150,000 to $400,000 depending on location and area.

Villas

Luxury homes with large gardens, swimming pools, often with sea views, located in upmarket neighborhoods. This is an ideal choice for those looking for upscale accommodation.

Estimated Cost: From $500,000 to $5,000,000 and up depending on size, location and level of luxury.

Penthouses

Apartments on the top floors of buildings with spacious terraces and panoramic views. They offer exclusive accommodation and often have high quality finishes.

Estimated Cost: From $300,000 to $2,000,000 depending on location, square footage and level of finish.

Studios and small apartments

Compact living spaces suitable for one person or a couple, often located in the city center. It is an economical option for those looking for short or long term accommodation.

Estimated Cost: From $70,000 to $150,000 depending on location and square footage.

Costa Blanca houses

Homes located outside of cities, often with a large plot of land, in quiet and peaceful locations. It is an ideal choice for those seeking privacy and proximity to nature.

Estimated Cost: From $200,000 to $1,000,000 depending on the size of the lot and house.

The Costa Blanca offers a wide range of properties to suit different purposes and budgets. Whether you are looking for a cozy holiday apartment or a luxurious villa for permanent residence, you will find many options to suit your needs. The wonderful climate, developed infrastructure and investment attractiveness make buying real estate on the Costa Blanca an excellent choice.

Advantages of investing in Costa Blanca real estate

This scenic region offers many advantages for investors looking for lucrative opportunities.

1. Stable real estate market: Costa Blanca has a stable and growing real estate market, making it a solid investment option. Property prices here are showing steady growth, providing investors with the confidence to maintain and increase their investment.

Advantages:

• Sustained price increases: The average annual increase in the value of real estate on the Costa Blanca is about 5-7%, which makes investment in this region profitable and promising.
• Low volatility: Compared to other regions of Europe, the real estate market on the Costa Blanca is less susceptible to fluctuations and crises.

2. High rental yields: Costa Blanca is a popular tourist destination, which ensures a high demand for rental properties. Investors can expect a stable income from renting out real estate both in the short and long term.

Advantages:

• High occupancy: Tourists come to the Costa Blanca all year round, ensuring high occupancy rates for rental properties.
• Yield: The average yield on short-term rentals is 5-8% per annum and on long-term rentals is 3-5% per annum.

3. favorable climate: The beautiful Mediterranean climate with over 300 days of sunshine per year makes Costa Blanca attractive for living and vacationing. This also increases the demand for rental properties among tourists and residents.

Advantages:

• Popularity among tourists: The mild climate attracts tourists from all over the world, especially from Northern Europe where winters are cold and long.
• Pleasant living conditions: Investors buying real estate for their own use can enjoy comfortable living conditions all year round.

4. Developed infrastructure: The Costa Blanca has a well-developed infrastructure, including modern transportation systems, high quality medical and educational facilities, as well as numerous shopping and entertainment venues.

Advantages:

• Transport accessibility: Alicante-Elche International Airport and good road connections make the region easily accessible to tourists and residents.
• Standard of living: The high level of medical and educational services makes Costa Blanca attractive to families and retirees.

5. Real Estate Diversity: On the Costa Blanca you can find a wide range of real estate, from luxury villas and penthouses with sea views to cozy apartments and townhouses in residential complexes.

Advantages:

• Wide selection: Investors can choose a property that fits their budget and investment goals.
• Growth Prospects: New construction projects and renovation of old buildings provide additional investment opportunities.

6. Ease of purchase for foreign investors: Spain creates favorable conditions for foreign investors, including simple and clear procedures for buying real estate, the presence of professional real estate agencies and legal advisors.

Advantages:

• Simplicity of design: Minimal bureaucratic hurdles and support at all stages of the transaction make the real estate buying process fast and safe.
• Credit Availability: Foreign investors can easily obtain mortgage loans on favorable terms.

Investing in real estate on the Costa Blanca offers many advantages, including a stable market, high rental yields, favorable climate, developed infrastructure and a variety of properties.

Hotels on the Costa Blanca

Costa Blanca offers a wide range of hotels for tourists with different preferences and budgets. Here you will find options from luxury resorts to cozy boutique hotels and budget options.

Luxury resorts

1. Hotel Villa Venecia Boutique Gourmet (Benidorm) - Five star hotel with stunning sea views, spa and fine dining restaurants.

• Address: Plaza San Jaime, 1, 03501 Benidorm
• Cost: From $250 to $500 per night
• Services: Spa, pool, fitness center, restaurants, direct beach access.

2. Asia Gardens Hotel & Thai Spa, a Royal Hideaway Hotel (Finestrat) - A luxurious five-star Asian-style hotel with extensive gardens and several swimming pools.

• Address: Rotonda del Fuego, Terra Mítica, 03509 Finestrat
• Cost: From $300 to $600 per night.
• Services: Spa, several pools, restaurants, fitness center, meeting rooms.

Boutique hotels

1. Hotel Boutique Alicante Palacete S.XVII - A cozy boutique hotel located in a historic 17th century building in the center of Alicante.

• Address: Calle San Agustín, 1, 03002 Alicante
• Cost: From $120 to $200 per night
• Services: Personalized service, stylish rooms, restaurant, proximity to attractions.

2. La Serena Altea - Charming boutique hotel with panoramic sea views and individually decorated rooms.

• Address: Calle Alba, 10, 03590 Altea.
• Cost: From $150 to $250 per night
• Services: Personalized service, restaurant, pool, spa.

Family hotels

1. Magic Aqua Rock Gardens (Benidorm) - Family hotel with water park, entertainment programs for children and clubs.

• Address: Calle Bonn, 6, 03503 Benidorm
• Cost: $100 to $200 per night
• Services: Water park, children's clubs, entertainment programs, swimming pools.

2. Sol Pelicanos Ocas (Benidorm) -Popular family hotel with multiple pools and activities for all ages.

• Address: Calle Gerona, 45, 03503 Benidorm
• Cost: From $80 to $180 per night.
• Services: Pools, entertainment programs, restaurants, children's areas.

Budget options

1. Hostal La Lonja (Alicante) - Comfortable hostel with comfortable rooms located in the center of Alicante.

• Address: Calle Capitán Segarra, 10, 03004 Alicante
• Cost: $30 to $60 per night
• Services: Comfortable rooms, Wi-Fi, proximity to the city center.

2. Pension La Orozca (Benidorm) - Budget guest house with basic amenities, close to the beach and town center.

• Address: Calle Ruzafa, 37, 03501 Benidorm
• Cost: $40 to $70 per night
• Services: Comfortable rooms, Wi-Fi, proximity to the beach.

The Costa Blanca offers many accommodation options for travelers with different preferences and budgets. Whether you are looking for a luxurious stay in a five-star resort, a cozy stay in a boutique hotel or budget accommodation, this region will provide you with the perfect conditions for a comfortable and unforgettable vacation.

Excursions in Costa Blanca

Costa Blanca offers a variety of excursions and tours that will allow you to experience the rich culture and nature of the region. Below are the main types of excursions, their approximate duration and cost.

Historical tours

Santa Barbara Fortress (Alicante)

• Description: One of the largest medieval castles in Spain, perched on top of Benacantil Hill, with spectacular views of the city and coastline.
• Duration: 2-3 hours
• Cost: $15-25
• What's included: Entrance fee, guided tour, panoramic views, museums and exhibits.

Denia Castle

• Description: Historic castle overlooking the town of Denia, with museums and archaeological displays.
• Duration: 2-3 hours
• Cost: $10-20
• What's included: Entrance fee, guided tour, museum visit.

Historic center of Altea

• Description: A charming neighborhood with whitewashed houses, narrow streets and beautiful churches.
• Duration: 2-3 hours
• Cost: $10-15
• What's included: Guided walking tour, visit to the Church of St. Virgin Concepcion, art galleries.

Natural attractions

Peñón de Ifach Natural Park (Calpe)

A unique natural park with a limestone cliff rising 332 meters above sea level.

• Duration: 3-4 hours
• Cost: $20-30
• What's included: Entrance fee, guided tour, hiking trails, nature observation.

Torrevieja Salt Lakes

Two salt lakes known for their healing properties and unique ecosystem.

• Duration: 2-3 hours
• Cost: $15-25
• What's included: Guided tour, walk through the park, bird watching.

Parque La Marina (Elche)

One of the largest parks in Europe, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Duration: 3-4 hours
• Cost: $20-30
• What's included: Guided tour, walk through the botanical garden, visit the museum.

Gastronomic tours

Wineries and wine tastings

Learning about local winemaking traditions and tasting the best wines of the region.

• Duration: 3-4 hours
• Cost: $30-50
• What's included: Visit to the winery, wine tasting, appetizers, vineyard tour.

Farmers' markets

Local markets offer fresh produce, traditional delicacies and unique souvenirs.

• Duration: 2-3 hours
• Cost: $10-20
• What's included: Guided tour, tasting local products, buying souvenirs.

Active water recreation

The Mediterranean Sea provides excellent conditions for practicing various water sports.

• Duration: 2-4 hours
• Cost: $50-100
• What's included: Equipment rental, instructor services, kitesurfing, diving, yachting.

Hiking and cycling routes

The Costa Blanca offers many hiking and cycling routes through spectacular mountain and coastal landscapes.

• Duration: 3-5 hours
• Cost: $20-40
• What's included: Guided tour, bike rentals (if needed), rest and photo stops.

Costa Blanca tours offer a unique opportunity to discover the cultural heritage, natural beauty and gastronomic traditions of the region. Whatever your interests, you'll find plenty of exciting activities to make your stay on the Costa Blanca unforgettable. Plan your excursions in advance to maximize your time and enjoy all the delights of this amazing region.

Cities of Costa Blanca

The Costa Blanca is divided into several key neighborhoods, each with its own unique characteristics and appeal. In this section we take a look at the main areas to help you choose the perfect place to vacation or live.

Alicante

Alicante is the capital of the province of Alicante and one of the most popular cities on the Costa Blanca. The city is known for its beautiful waterfront boulevard, picturesque beaches and rich cultural heritage. Alicante is also famous for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, variety of restaurants and bars, and active nightlife.

Main Attractions:

• Santa Barbara Fortress, perched on top of a hill and offering spectacular views of the city and coastline.
• The Explanada de España promenade with its famous mosaic tiles.
• Postiguet Beach is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.

Infrastructure:

• Well-developed transportation system, including Alicante-Elche International Airport.
• Numerous shopping, restaurants, schools and medical facilities.

Benidorm

Benidorm is one of the most famous resort towns on the Costa Blanca, known for its skyscrapers, sandy beaches and lively nightlife. The city attracts tourists all year round due to its mild climate and variety of entertainment. In Benidorm you can find many restaurants offering dishes of different cuisines of the world, as well as numerous bars and clubs where you can party until the morning.

Main Attractions:

• Levante and Poniente beaches are some of the best beaches in Europe.
• Theme parks such as Terra Mítica and Aqualandia offer fun for the whole family.
• Waterfront with numerous bars, restaurants and clubs.

Infrastructure:

• Numerous hotels and apartments to suit all budgets.
• Developed infrastructure for tourists, including transportation, stores and medical services.

Denia

Denia is a picturesque port city with a rich historical heritage and excellent beaches. The city is the starting point for ferries to the Balearic Islands. Here you will find many restaurants serving fresh seafood, as well as cozy cafes and bars.

Main Attractions:

• Denia Castle, towering above the city and offering panoramic views.
• Port of Denia with numerous restaurants and bars.
• Las Marinas and Les Rotes beaches, popular with sun worshippers and water sports enthusiasts.

Infrastructure:

• Well-developed port and transportation links.
• Lots of restaurants, shopping and entertainment venues.

Calpe

Calpe is a small but popular resort town known for its Ifach rock and beautiful beaches. The town is famous for its fish restaurants where you can sample the freshest seafood. Calpe also offers various outdoor activities including water sports, hiking trails and cycling. This town is ideal for both family vacations and romantic getaways.

Main Attractions:

• The Rock of Ifach, a natural park and symbol of Calpe.
• The beaches of Arenal-Bol and La Fossa, offering clean sand and crystal clear water.
• Fish market and harbor where you can taste fresh seafood.

Infrastructure:

• Variety of accommodation from apartments to luxury villas.
• Well-developed tourist infrastructure.

Torrevieja

Torrevieja is a resort town with salt lakes, known for its healing properties and beautiful beaches. The city is also famous for its pleasant climate, which makes it popular with tourists and retirees. Torrevieja attracts people suffering from various respiratory and skin diseases due to its unique natural conditions.

Main Attractions:

• Torrevieja's salt lakes, popular for wellness treatments.
• The beaches of Los Locos and La Mata, which attract many tourists.
• A promenade with restaurants and cafes.

Infrastructure:

• Lots of hotels, restaurants and entertainment venues.
• Developed health care and education system.

Costa Blanca Infrastructure

The Costa Blanca offers a well-developed infrastructure that makes the region attractive for permanent residence and tourism. In this section we look at key aspects of the region's infrastructure, including educational institutions, medical centers, sports facilities, shopping centers and transportation.

Schools and universities:

1.European School of Alicante

• Address: Avenida Locutor Vicente Hipólito, 37, 03540 Alicante
• Note: An international school offering a European curriculum.

2.International School of Benidorm

• Address: Avenida del Albir, 03581 Benidorm
• Note: A prestigious private school with programs in English.

3.Universidad de Alicante

• Address: Carretera San Vicente del Raspeig s/n, 03690 San Vicente del Raspeig, Alicante
• Note: One of the largest universities in the region, offering a wide range of programs.

Kindergartens:

1.Little Friends Nursery

• Address: Calle Pintor Aparicio, 14, 03003 Alicante
• Note: An international kindergarten offering instruction in English.

2.Kid's Garden

• Address: Avenida de la Costa Blanca, 22, 03540 Alicante
• Note: Private kindergarten with early development programs.

Medical centers

1.Hospital General Universitario de Alicante

• Address: Pintor Baeza, 12, 03010 Alicante
• Note: A large public hospital providing a wide range of medical services.

2.Hospital IMED Levante

• Address: Partida de Salt de l'Aigua, s/n, 03503 Benidorm
• Note: A private hospital with top-notch medical services.

3.Centro de Salud Torrevieja La Loma

• Address: Calle La Loma, 39, 03182 Torrevieja
• Note: A public polyclinic providing primary health care.

Dentistry:

1.Clínica Dental Asensio

• Address: Avenida de la Estación, 5, 03003 Alicante
• Note: A modern dental clinic offering a full range of services.

2.Dental Clinic Dr. Martin Rivas

• Address: Calle Ramón y Cajal, 4, 03550 San Juan de Alicante
• Note: Private dentistry with highly trained professionals.

Sports centers

1.Arena Alicante

• Address: Avenida Locutor Vicente Hipólito, 37, 03540 Alicante
• Note: Large sports complex with gym, swimming pool and fitness areas.

2.Club de Tenis Torrevieja

• Address: Partida San Miguel, 9, 03180 Torrevieja
• Note: Sports club with tennis courts and sections for children and adults.

3. Benidorm Gym

• Address: Avenida Alfonso Puchades, 14, 03501 Benidorm
• Note: Modern gym with a variety of fitness programs.

Shopping centers and restaurants

1.Centro Comercial Plaza Mar

• Address: Avenida de Denia, s/n, 03016 Alicante
• Note: Large shopping center with many stores, restaurants and movie theaters.

2.Centro Comercial Zenia Boulevard

• Address: Calle Jade, s/n, 03189 Orihuela Costa
• Note: One of the largest shopping centers in the region, offering a wide variety of shopping and entertainment options.

Restaurants:

1.La Taberna del Gourmet

• Address: Calle San Fernando, 10, 03002 Alicante
• Note: Restaurant serving traditional Spanish dishes and tapas.

2.La Cabaña

• Address: Avenida de Europa, 1, 03503 Benidorm
• Note: Restaurant overlooking the sea, specializing in Mediterranean cuisine.

Transport

Transportation System:

• Airports: Alicante-Elche International Airport and Murcia Airport provide convenient international and domestic flights.
• Railroad service: AVE high-speed trains connect Alicante with Madrid and other major Spanish cities.
• Public transportation: A well-developed network of buses and streetcars provides convenient transportation in the region.
• Highways: Modern highways and freeways make it possible to move quickly and comfortably around the Costa Blanca.

These aspects of infrastructure make the Costa Blanca an attractive region for living, vacationing and investing. Whatever your needs and preferences, you will find everything you need for a comfortable stay and vacation.

Reviews of Costa Blanca, Spain

Costa Blanca, located on the east coast of Spain, attracts tourists and residents from all over the world due to its picturesque scenery, mild climate and rich cultural life. Here are real reviews of Costa Blanca that will help you get a better idea of living and vacationing in this region.

John, an expat from the UK: "I moved to the Costa Blanca five years ago and have never regretted that decision. Life here is calm and comfortable. The climate is just perfect - sunshine all year round. My wife and I bought a house in Altea, and now we enjoy the sea view every day. The locals are very friendly and the food is delicious."

Maria, resident of Madrid: "My family and I spend every summer on the Costa Blanca. Torrevieja is our favorite city. It has great beaches and lots of activities for the kids. We love to walk along the promenade, visit local restaurants and just enjoy our vacation. The Costa Blanca is the perfect place for a family vacation."

Luca, a tourist from Italy: "Costa Blanca is a paradise for lovers of outdoor activities. My friends and I went kitesurfing and diving, explored hiking trails in the mountains and even visited a few wineries. This region offers so many opportunities for adventure that you always want to come back here again and again."