Elche

Planning a trip to Elche? Find out everything you need to know about this amazing location here…

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About Elche

Elche, known as Elx in Valencian, is a traditional Spanish city located in the province of Alicante. Famous for its palm groves, which are recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Elche has a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its rich heritage, including the famous Mystery Play of Elche (a medieval drama performed every August) this city offers visitors a glimpse into its fascinating past while providing modern amenities and attractions.

Where is Elche?

Elche is situated approximately 20 km southwest of Alicante, in Vega Baja del Segura region. The town lies inland from the Mediterranean coast, making it easily accessible for those wanting to explore away from the beaches of the Costa Blanca.

How to get to Elche

• By Air: The nearest airport is Alicante-Elche Airport, just a short drive away (around 15 km). It offers flights from various international destinations, with easy connections to Elche via taxi or shuttle services. Find flights to Alicante airport with Expedia.
• By Bus: Elche has excellent bus connections, with regular services from Alicante, Murcia, and other nearby towns. The local bus station is centrally located, making it convenient catch a bus into town. Book a bus to Elche at BusBud.
• By Train: The city is served by Renfe trains, linking Elche to Alicante and other major cities. The main train station is Elche-Parc, situated close to the heart of the town and within walking distance of the main attractions. Find cheap deals on train fares at Rail Europe.
• By Car: If you prefer driving, Elche is easily accessible via the A-7 motorway. The city is well-signposted and offers plenty of free and paid parking options. If you need to hire a car, check out Rentalcars.com.

Travelling Around Elche

Elche is a very walkable city, especially the city center, where you can explore its beautiful parks, shops, and restaurants on foot. Public transport includes local buses that connect various neighborhoods and attractions, plus a land train between the main tourist areas of the city. While a car can be handy for visiting nearby beaches or rural areas, it’s not essential for getting around the city itself.

Is Elche worth visiting?

Yes! Elche is often overlooked by tourists, but it’s rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. As well as being much quieter than neighbouring Alicante. From its stunning palm groves to its intriguing historical sites, Elche offers a unique experience away from the more touristy areas of the Costa Blanca. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a foodie, Elche has something to offer to everyone.

When is the best time to visit Elche?

The best time to visit Elche is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is mild, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is busy with fiestas in August, especially the Mystery Play, making it an exciting time to visit but very crowded. Summers can be extremely hot (even hotter than on the coast), but if you’re a fan of the sun and don’t mind the heat then it’s still a good time to visit.

Tourist attractions in Elche

There is so much to do in Elche for all ages, including:

• Palm Grove of Elche (Palmeral de Elche): A UNESCO World Heritage site, this huge palm grove features over 200,000 palm trees and offers plenty of quiet walking paths surrounded by palm trees, cacti and other tropical plants.
• Elche Archaeological Museum (Museo Arqueológico y de Historia de Elche): Discover the city’s rich history through fascinating exhibits at the MAHE, including artifacts dating back to ancient civilisations.
• Santa Maria Basilica: This stunning baroque church is famous for its impressive architecture and the beautiful altarpiece. Don’t miss the chance to explore its interior and to climb the steps to the bell tower.
• Elche’s Mystery Play: A unique medieval theatrical performance that takes place every August, showcasing the city’s cultural heritage. It’s one of Spain’s most important theatrical traditions and free, but get there early if you want a seat!

Things to do in Elche

• Visit the Huerto del Cura: A beautiful historic garden featuring exotic plants and a famous “palm tree of the 7 fingers.” this is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful picnic.
• Explore the city center: Wander through the historic streets filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Be sure to try local delicacies such as “arroz con costra,” a traditional rice dish.
• Check out the local markets: Experience the bustling atmosphere of Elche’s markets, where you can find fresh produce, regional specialties, and unique souvenirs.
• Take a day trip to the beach: Elche is just a short drive from beautiful beaches like those in Santa Pola and La Marina, perfect for a day of sunbathing and swimming.
• Enjoy the fiestas: If your visit coincides with local fiestas, join in with the lively celebrations, including music, dance, and traditional cuisine.

Find lots more things to do in Elche in this blog post.

Places to stay in Elche

Looking for somewhere to stay in Elche? Use the search bar below to find your ideal hotel or apartment.

Tours and excursions in Elche

You can find some great tours and excursions around Elche on GetYourGuide, from guided tours to sightseeing and attraction tickets.

Blog posts about Elche