What to see in Elche in one day: explore this unforgettable destination!

Do you already know what you want to see in Elche in one day? If you’ve got a 24-hour getaway planned in this part of El Baix Vinalopó in the province of Alicante, make sure you save this itinerary, which is designed to help you make the most out of your time. Fancy uncovering Elche’s countless secrets? 

What to see in and around Elche: soaking up the natural heritage

Our one-day itinerary of things to see in Elche starts early to make sure you have time to see everything. To start, head to Palmeral of Elche, a palm grove planted thousands of years ago for the cultivation of dates. Ancient civilisations once walked here. 

There are over 200,000 palm trees in the grove, including the trees that are located in a pretty garden, named Huerto del Cura, which you won’t want to miss. Palmeral of Elche holds the first of the UNESCO World Heritage recognitions that you will see in your day in Elche. Make sure you bring your camera to take photos of this beautiful site. 

What to see in Elche in one day: history and heritage 

Next on the list of things to see in Elche is the wonderful Santa María Basilica, which is the backdrop to Misteri d’Elx, a religious musical drama. Dating to between the 12th and 13th centuries, this spectacular performance is the second UNESCO Heritage listing in the town. 

If you’re not in Elche on the 14 or 15 August, the date of the performance, you can learn more about this artistic tradition at the Town Festival Museum. Here you can watch an incredible audiovisual display that will immerse you in Misteri d’Elx, which tells the story of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary.

By this point, you are sure to be feeling a bit peckish. We recommend sitting down to eat some arroz con costra, a rice dish with an eggy top, an absolute must on your list of things to do in Elche. This aromatic, flavoursome recipe is tradition on a plate. Oh, and if it’s the right season, make sure you take home some Mollar pomegranates, which have Designation of Origin status. 

There are two incredible museums to visit to conclude your exploration of the town. One is Museo Escolar de Pusol, the third and final UNESCO Heritage listing in Elche. The museum houses a collection that keeps old trades, arts and traditions alive and is a place where you can discover age-old customs. 

And finally, if you still have time, is Elche’s Museum of Archaeology and History, known as MAHE for short. Here you can see archaeological remains that have travelled hundreds of years in time. 

Has all this left you wanting to come back to see more? Why not plan another trip to enjoy everything there is to see in Elche? The next time you’ll fall in love with the natural landscapes of El Hondo Natural Park and El Clot de Galvany and can discover the shoemaking tradition in this incredible destination.