Torrevieja holidays

How to reach Torrevieja

• Flight time: Flights to Torrevieja land at Alicante Airport, which is the nearest airport. Regular direct flights to Alicante from London and other UK airports are plentiful, with a typical flight time being around 2 hours 30 minutes.

• Transfer time: Reliable transfers from the airport to the resort by taxi or shuttle-bus service run frequently, which takes approximately 40 minutes. Car rental companies operate at the airport.

• Price: The taxi fare for transfer from Alicante Airport to Torrevieja is approximately €50–€60. Shuttle services offer a more economical option at around €20 per person. Car rental starts at approximately €20 per day.

Best time to visit Torrevieja

Torrevieja is a year-round destination, but it’s worth identifying what you want to get out of your holiday before deciding on the best time, which could be influenced by the weather, your tolerance to crowds and how much you want to spend.

• March to May emerges with pleasant temperatures, typically ranging from 18°C to 25°C. This season is less crowded, offering a peaceful atmosphere while still enjoying up to 8 hours of sunshine daily.

• June to August marks the peak tourist season, with temperatures soaring to 30°C. The city buzzes with vibrancy and is perfect for beach enthusiasts and water sports lovers, boasting nearly 11 hours of sunshine.

• September to November sees a dip in temperatures, ranging from 20°C to 25°C. It’s an ideal time for those seeking quieter holidays yet still desiring warm weather and significant sunshine (around 7 hours per day).

• December to February maintains mild weather, with temperatures rarely dropping below 16°C, appealing to those escaping colder northern climates. Expect about 5 hours of sunshine and minimal tourist crowds.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Spanish is the official language. Basic English is commonly spoken within the tourist areas, making communication easy.

• Local habits and customs: Torrevieja is a relaxed coastal town where life moves at a leisurely pace. Embrace the local siesta from around 2 pm to 5 pm, when many businesses close.

• Currency: The local currency is the Euro. Most places accept major credit cards, and ATMs and banks are located throughout the town.

• Getting around: The resort is well serviced by buses and taxis; a single bus fare costs approximately €1.50. Renting a bike or a scooter to explore coastal paths is another popular option for getting around.

• Electricity and plug types: Continental-style, two-pin sockets and 220 volts are standard in Spain; UK travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Spain operates on Central European Time, 1 hour ahead of the UK.

Best things to do in Torrevieja

Torrevieja, nestled on Spain's Costa Blanca, offers a myriad of attractions and activities that will appeal to visitors seeking both relaxing or more active Torrevieja holidays. From its salt lakes to the stunning coastline, the splendour of the area is impressive.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Las Salinas salt lakes: Located in a remarkable natural park, the picture-perfect pink tones of these famous salt lakes near Torrevieja produce an amazing vista.

• La Torre del Moro (Moor’s Tower): The old watchtower is a good spot for watching the sun go down because it offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean coastline.

The best districts

• Centro: The centre of Torrevieja buzzes with shops, cafés and lively markets. At the Paseo de la Libertad, don't miss the local artisans' booths.

• Playa de los Locos: Renowned for its vibrant nightlife and wonderful sandy beach, this bustling neighbourhood is the place to come if you’re looking for waterside dining and bars.

Parks and gardens

• Park of Nations: Parque de las Naciones is a serene spot with a sizable dragon-shaped lake, colourful flowers, shaded walkways and a playground for kids. A variety of birdlife roams around the park.

Historical monuments

• Church of the Immaculate Concepción: This church, initially built in 1789 as a salt warehouse, is a symbol of Torrevieja’s heritage and culture.

Museums

• Museo del Mar y de la Sal (Museum of the Sea and Salt): Located in the old town, this museum tells the story of Torrevieja’s maritime and salt-extracting history with engaging interactive exhibits.

Day trips in the area

• Tabarca Island: Accessible by boat, this little island has a protected marine reserve with crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkelling.

• Alicante: Just a short drive along the coast, Alicante’s atmospheric streets are worth visiting to take in the varied culinary scene and the medieval Santa Bárbara Castle.

• La Mata: For a more sedate day out, visit the seaside town of La Mata; the stretch of sand is beautiful and less busy.

• Guardamar del Segura: Only 15km north of Torrevieja, this area is known for its dunes and pine forest beaches; it’s the ideal place to get away from it all.

Activities for families in Torrevieja

Torrevieja is an excellent destination to take a relaxing family holiday. There are many fun things to do here that cater to all ages – from toddlers to teenagers – which will ensure the whole family has a fabulous time.

• Beaches: The sandy beaches of Torrevieja, such as Playa de Los Locos and Playa del Cura, are perfect for family days out with shallow waters ideal for swimming, and plenty of amenities nearby.

• Water parks: A hit with kids of all ages, Aquopolis and Aquapark Flamingo are two water parks that boast thrilling slides, children’s pools and picnic areas.

• Boat trips: Take a family boat tour to the nearby Isla de Tabarca, where snorkelling in the clear waters can be an exciting adventure for the whole family.

• Recreational activities: For a change of pace, families can enjoy mini golf at Minigolf Las Salinas or head to Go-Karts Orihuela Costa for an adrenaline-pumping day on the tracks.

Free things to do in Torrevieja

Holidays to Torrevieja can be enjoyed without breaking the bank. There are several activities and sights available free of charge that will enhance your visit.

• Walking: There are places in Torrevieja where you take a walk among lovely scenery without having to pay admission charges; notably, along the seafront promenade, Paseo Marítim, where you can take in views of the marina and watch street performers during the summer evenings.

• Free museums: The Historical Museum of Torrevieja offers free admission on certain days. The local history museum tells the story of the city’s salt-mining past.

• Cultural events: Throughout the year, Torrevieja hosts various cultural events and festivals that are open to the public without charge, including the Habaneras Music Contest and local fiestas that celebrate Spanish traditions with music and dance.

Wellness in Torrevieja

• Salt lakes: Perfect for health-focused visitors, the Pink Lake of Torrevieja is known for its therapeutic properties.

• Spas and thermal baths: Torrevieja is home to numerous spas. The Marina Senses Spa & Wellness at La Marina Resort is particularly popular, offering saunas, steam baths and an impressive hydrotherapy circuit.

• Yoga and meditation centres: Several centres, such as Torrevieja Yoga Studio, offer yoga classes and workshops that promote wellness and mindfulness, suitable for all levels.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Water sports: Torrevieja's coastline provides ample opportunities for water sports, including sailing, kayaking and windsurfing. The clear waters are also perfect for scuba diving and snorkelling.

• Cycling: The flat terrain around Torrevieja features numerous marked cycle routes that take you along the coast and through the salt lakes, providing a scenic view.

• Birdwatching: A popular spot for birdwatchers, La Laguna de La Mata salt lakes are not only a source of natural beauty but also an important ecological site for birds, including flamingos.

Local dishes in Torrevieja

From fresh seafood to traditional Spanish delicacies, the food scene in Torrevieja promises to be one of the great delights of a trip to the region.

Some typical dishes

• Arroz a la Alicantina: A cousin to the more famous paella, this rice dish is made with chicken, rabbit and snails, seasoned with saffron and served with a variety of vegetables.

Tapas dishes

• Ensaladilla Rusa: A popular tapa, this Spanish potato salad is mixed with mayonnaise, tuna, olives and vegetables.

• Patatas Bravas: These popular fried potatoes are served with a spicy tomato sauce and aioli – perfect for a hearty snack.

Meat dishes

• Conejo al Ajillo: Rabbit fried with garlic is a common dish in the surrounding areas, which highlights local game and traditional cooking methods.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Calamares a la Romana: Often enjoyed with a squeeze of lemon, these squid rings battered and fried are simply delicious.

• Gambas al Ajillo: Served sizzling hot to the table, prawns sautéed in garlic and chilli embody the essence of Spanish seafood cuisine.

Street food

• Bocadillo de Calamares: A simple yet beloved sandwich featuring fried calamari rings nestled in a crusty baguette, often found at street vendors and casual eateries along the promenade.

Sweets and desserts

Torrevieja offers a variety of traditional sweets that reflect its regional heritage. Turron, a nougat made from almonds, is a favourite during the holiday season. For a daily treat, locals enjoy churros, fried dough coated in sugar and dipped in thick hot chocolate.

Local drinks

• Horchata: This refreshing drink made from tiger nuts is a favourite in Torrevieja, especially during the hot summer months.

• Sangria de Cava: Ideal for beach-day lunches or a drink while enjoying the sunset, this is a bubbly version of sangria made with Spanish cava.