Spain’s Costa Blanca is a popular holiday destination. With sandy beaches, charming towns and vibrant resorts stretching along its Mediterranean coastline, there’s something to suit every taste.

Valencia

Valencia is one of Spain’s oldest cities with a treasure trove of historical and cultural attractions. The country’s third largest city is a place of contrasts with a charming Old Town of cobbled streets and medieval buildings sitting next to futuristic buildings. With a lovely cathedral, attractive parks and gardens and fine beaches, there’s plenty to see and do.

Alicante

Alicante is home to the largest medieval fortress in Spain; the Castle of Santa Barbara which stands atop Mount Benacantil offering wonderful views of the town and harbour. The famous Esplanada de España is a beautiful, palm tree-lined quayside promenade with wavy marble tiles, while the marina with its luxury yachts is a great place to find cafés, bars and restaurants. There are also parks, beaches and coves to explore.

Murcia

The beautiful city of Murcia stands on the River Segura and has a rich history with many areas evoking its Moorish past. Parts of the Moorish city wall can also still be seen in different parts of Murcia's historic quarter with its narrow streets and picturesque plazas. The city’s most famous landmark is the stunning baroque cathedral while another architectural gem is the Episcopal Palace.

Denia

Situated at the foot of a hill crowned by a Moorish castle, is the delightful town of Denia. As well as the castle which offers beautiful views from its rocky crag, Denia also boasts well-preserved ancient walls and bastions, a magnificent marina full of plush yachts and plenty of shops, bars, cafés and restaurants.

Javea

Overlooked by the impressive mountain Montgo Massif, the port town of Javea has remained attractively unspoilt and still has the charm of the fishing village it once was, with a historic quarter of white-washed buildings and narrow streets with the beautiful church of San Bartolomé as its centrepiece. With beautiful beaches and coves, a fishing harbour and attractive marina as well as plenty of shops, bars and restaurants, this little gem is not to be missed.

Guadalest

Standing inland and perched precariously on the top of a granite mountain is Guadalest. This small, picturesque village overlooks the valley carved out by the river from which it takes its name and offers some stunning views. The old village and castle are accessed through a tunnel carved from the rock and there are also a number of small, quirky museums and craft shops, perfect for souvenir shopping.

Calpe

Boasting a dramatic headland and azure waters lapping against golden sands, picture-postcard Calpe is one of the most idyllic spots on Spain’s coastline. Once a small fishing village, remains of the past can be seen across the town, from the historic quarter bordered by the 15th-century walls to the remains of the Roman Baths. Enjoy a stroll through the peaceful Marina or if you’re up for a challenge, tackle the climb to the top of Rock of Ifach Nature Reserve to discover the spectacular views.