Things To Do
in Novelda
Novelda is a sun-kissed town in Alicante province, known for its fertile orchards and traditional Valencian charm. The town blends a compact historic core with modern amenities, making it easy to wander on foot. Nestled between olive groves and rolling hills, Novelda offers cultural sights, markets, and hillside viewpoints nearby.
Visitors can enjoy local cuisine, seasonal produce, and easy day trips to the Costa Blanca beaches.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Spanish toast with tomato and olive oil. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of Novelda's historic center, admiring the stunning architecture of the town hall and the beautiful Casa de Cultura. Don’t miss the chance to visit the beautiful 19th-century church, La Asunción, and take in its intricate Gothic-style details.
After exploring the historic center, indulge in a traditional Spanish lunch at a local restaurant, sampling dishes like paella or tapas. Post-lunch, head to the nearby Museo del Azulejo to learn about the region's unique tile-making history and craftsmanship. Take your time browsing through the museum's extensive collection, which reflects the rich artistic heritage of Novelda.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely walk through the park surrounding the historic center, where you can see locals enjoying their evening. For dinner, choose a cozy restaurant that offers local wines and regional specialties, savoring the flavors of the Mediterranean. End your evening with a gelato from a nearby ice cream shop, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the town.
Start your day with a visit to the Sanctuary of Santa María Magdalena, an architectural gem perched on a hillside overlooking Novelda. Enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape as you walk up to the sanctuary, taking in its stunning neo-Gothic design. Spend some time exploring the interior, marveling at the beautiful stained glass windows and intricate altar.
After visiting the sanctuary, enjoy a picnic lunch in the nearby gardens, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of nature. In the afternoon, wander through the picturesque paths that lead to hidden viewpoints, perfect for capturing stunning photos of the mountains and valleys. Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of this sacred site.
As dusk approaches, return to the sanctuary to witness the breathtaking sunset over Novelda. Head back into town and stop at a local tapas bar for a casual dinner, trying various small plates while mingling with locals. Cap off the evening with a visit to a nearby terrace bar, sipping on a refreshing drink and enjoying the lively ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee in café | $2-4 |
| 🚆Public transport ticket | $1-3 |
| 🛏️Hotel room (mid-range) per night | $70-120 |
| 🎟️Museum or attraction ticket | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming compact town with approachable centers
- Rich apricot and agricultural heritage
- Great base for exploring Costa Blanca and inland scenery
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Limited nightlife compared to big cities
- Smaller selection of international dining
- Occasional summer heat can be intense for some visitors
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "¿Puedo pagar con tarjeta?" - Can I pay with card?
Places to Visit in Novelda
Visit one of these nice places.
An elegant façade and bell tower; best to shoot at golden hour when the light flatters the stone.
Historic square with arcades and town hall, ideal for candid street photography.
Hilltop viewpoint offering panoramic views of Novelda and olive groves; sunset shots are particularly striking.
Colorful stalls and local vendors create vibrant street photography opportunities.
Food in Novelda
Novelda Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A seafood rice dish cooked in the broth from the fish and often served with alioli.
Must-Try!
A fish and rice dish typical of the Alicante region, rich with saffron and herbs.
Sweet apricot-based desserts and preserves that showcase the area’s fruit bounty.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market with fresh produce, cheeses, olives, and ready-to-eat bites.
Local snacks, tapas portions, and sweet treats sold by friendly vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'hola' or 'buenos días'; maintain friendly, respectful conversation.
Respect local quiet hours in the afternoon; avoid loud activities in residential areas.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and keep voices down.
Safety
Tipping in Novelda
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants and cafés.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is handy for markets; contactless payments and mobile wallets are commonly used.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming orchards; great for outdoor photography and walking tours.
Hot days with a dry heat; stay hydrated and seek shade in the early morning and late afternoon.
Pleasant weather with harvest markets and seasonal dishes; ideal for food lovers.
Cooler and occasional rain; many outdoor spaces feel intimate and cozy indoors are popular.
Novelda at Night
Hiking in Novelda
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short to medium hike with panoramic views over Novelda and the surrounding groves.
Leisurely trail along quiet olive groves ideal for a relaxed afternoon walk.
Airports
How to reach Novelda by plane.
Major international gateway serving the Costa Blanca; frequent rail and road connections to Novelda and the region.
Alternative option in the region with short travel times to coastal cities nearby; less frequent connections to Novelda directly.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Novelda, with good schools and parks.
A sizeable proportion of residents are retirees who enjoy the tranquil pace and local services.
Nearby towns contribute student visitors and university connections; the town offers cafes and study-friendly spaces.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular pastime in Spain with local teams and community clubs.
Growing sport in Spain with numerous courts around towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Novelda.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ask for vegetable stews and salads; many restaurants offer tofu or huevos as protein; insist on no ham in dishes and request more vegetables.