Elche is most famous for the 200,000+ palm trees that surround it. Originally designed by the Muslims in the 10th Century with an elaborate irrigation system the palm grove has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.  It is the largest Palm Tree Grove in Europe.

Elche is divided into two by the Vinalopo River, the two sides being joined by seven bridges. Legend has it that Hanibal’s father, Hamilcar Barca, drowned here.

Things to do in and around Elche

Elche Municipal Park – Passeig de l’Estacio - The Municipal Park is a delightful place to relax or have a picnic. There are ceramic tiled benches and it is close to the centre of the town. There are many palm trees, a dovecote and a children`s play area with a little train. In one corner of the park is a visitors centre where you can watch an audio-visual presentation about the city.

The Archaeological Museum - Situated in the Palacio de Altamira, which is a palace also known as the Alcasser de la Senyoria, you can find displays of Iberian and Roman pieces.

Palaenotology Museum - Plaça de Sant Joan - Various Archaeological sites and presentations of scientific knowledge from centuries of research helps visitors take a journey through evolution.

Palm Groves Museum - A beautiful natural environment, located in a traditional farmhouse in the centre of town called “Hort de Sant Placid”. The rooms are themed for a full historical report of the palm groves, usage of the trees and why it’s one of the city’s main symbols giving you an in-depth knowledge of the history.

Contemporary Art Museum - at the Ayuntamiento del Raval in Replaceta de Sant Joan.  This museum houses a wide collection from Spanish artists.

Basilica of Saint Mary – Placa de las Flors - built on top of the old mosque and several Christian temples. The present layout dates back to the 17th century, but because of the time it took to complete, it combines Baroque and Neoclassical elements.  If you are fit enough, you can climb the stairs to the top of the tower for views over Elche.

Municipal Festa Museum – Not far from the Basilica in the Carrer Major de la Vila.  The Festa. or Mystery Play, of Elche is performed every year in Elche`s Basilica of Saint Mary. It is performed in two acts on the afternoons of the 14th and 15th of August, with special performances on the 1st of November in years with an even number. The play, which is chanted, relates the last days of Mary`s life, her death, her ascension to heaven and her coronation as the Queen of creation. A multimedia presentation of this Mystery Play can be seen in the museum all year round.

Shopping - For people that love to shop Elche is definitely a place you would enjoy, with fantastic boutiques to discover around the cobbled streets. Also on the outskirts of Elche you can find factories selling footwear at AMAZING prices.

Elche Safari Park - Great fun for the family. Situated out of town you can catch a bus or drive. Once there, take a train ride around the Park to see a variety of animals. Then get your photo taken sitting on an elephant or holding a snake.

Go Karting can be found next door to the Safari Park.

Beaches - Beaches can be found about 20 minutes drive away from Elche, you can find the beautifully stretched beach of La Marina attached to El Pinet beach. Other beaches close to Elche are El Carabassi, L’Altet, Arenals del Sol and Les Pesqueres-El Rebollo.