Valencia to Alicante Road Trip (avoiding the tourist traps)

Travelling from Valencia to Alicante on the Costa Blanca is a simple and varied route taking in some of the best of Spain’s East coast, going from mountains to beach, with some colourful and distinctive photo locations along the route. Some of the best of Spanish food comes from this region, paella and oranges to name a few.

Driving takes only about 2 hours taking in the motorway, but along the coast and venturing into the mountains is the way to go.

1/ Start in Valencia

1. Day 1/2/3: Start in Valencia. Be sure to visit the stunning (if though somewhat under-utilised Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias (Arts and Science City). The parks and centre of Valencia are perfect for sunny day strolls, terrace drinking and admiring the remains of the old city.
2. Day 3/4: Ruta de los 8 Pueblos, is a famous walking route reached one hour from Valencia. The hike up to La Forada is reasonably easy in under an hour from the village Benissivà or Benitaia
3. Day 4/5: Stop in the lovely white village of Altea for some fab ocean views high up on the hills. Not so over run with expats as the likes of Benidorm and much more picturesque as a result. From street markets to sandy beaches there’s plenty to do for a day in this little town.
4. Day 5/6: Villajoyosa is a charming and strikingly colourful town located on the Costa Blanca. Set along three kilometres of wide, sandy beaches, palm trees and backed by mountains. Perhaps a little more touristy than you’d like but depending on the time of year its a great spot for spending the evening or early morning before heading on.
5. Day 5/6: End in Alicante. Not so much a great destination compared to the above but yet again its a popular spot for tourists, some cheap hotels and offers can be found and the beach front is right in the city.

Optional stops: Dénia, Xàbia (or Jávea)