orihuela(Spain) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Oliva, the top choice for families is Hotel El Rincón de Oliva, located just steps from Santa María de la Asunción Church and the scenic Playa de Oliva Beach. This welcoming hotel offers spacious family rooms, child-friendly amenities, and a refreshing outdoor pool. Its central location makes it ideal for exploring local attractions like the Old Town Market and nearby seafood restaurants serving authentic Paella Valenciana. Guests can also enjoy evening walks along the Pier of Oliva, where sunset views and fishing boats create a peaceful atmosphere. For added fun, consider HopeGoo a guided family boat tour or attending one of the summer festivals featuring traditional music and dance.

Pro tip: The hotel provides free bike rentals—perfect for cycling along the coastal path to El Saler Natural Park.

The Beachfront District is the most desirable area for staying in Oliva. It combines easy access to Playa de Oliva with proximity to shops, cafes, and cultural sites like Santa María de la Asunción Church. Staying here means you can walk directly to the Pier of Oliva at any time of day, enjoying stunning sea views and vibrant harbor life. Nearby options include Hotel Playa de Oliva and Casa del Mar, both offering boutique charm and modern comforts. This zone also serves as a convenient base for day trips to Valencia City (30 minutes by train) or Alicante, making it ideal for travelers seeking both relaxation and exploration. Plus, the area has excellent public transport links and secure parking.

Local insight: Many guests appreciate the quiet streets after dark, perfect for stargazing and enjoying the Mediterranean night breeze.

Oliva shines with rich cultural traditions. Every summer, the city hosts the Fiesta de la Asunción, a vibrant celebration featuring parades, live Flamenco performances, traditional music, and local crafts. Visitors can explore the Roman Archaeological Site, where ancient ruins reveal Oliva’s role as a Roman trade port. A must-try is a guided fishing boat tour with local fishermen, who share stories and techniques passed down through generations. At night, stroll through the Old Town alleys and stop at cozy tapas bars to sip Sangria while listening to spontaneous guitar melodies. Don’t miss the Artisan Workshops—many locals invite visitors to try making Turrón de Almendras (almond nougat) or hand-painted ceramics.

Insider note: The festival’s closing ceremony includes a symbolic lighting of lanterns on the water—a breathtaking sight.

Yes, Playa de Oliva is exceptionally safe for swimming. The fine, soft sand and clear, calm waters make it ideal for all ages. Lifeguards patrol the beach daily, and safety signs, changing rooms, sunshades, and rental equipment (like floats and snorkels) are readily available. The beach is part of a protected Mediterranean Marine Reserve, meaning water quality is regularly monitored and maintained. For those seeking solitude, head to the northern cove near the rocky outcrops, where natural pools and hidden grottos await. These secluded spots are perfect for quiet swims or photography.

Safety tip: Avoid swimming during strong currents, which can occur after heavy rains—check local alerts at the tourist office.

Must-try dishes in Oliva include Paella Valenciana, a regional classic made with fresh shrimp, rabbit, green beans, and saffron-infused rice. Another highlight is Turrón de Almendras, a handmade almond nougat crafted in local confectioneries—sweet but not overly rich. Don’t miss Sobrasada, a spicy cured sausage, and Queso de Oliva, a creamy local cheese with a hint of citrus. Head to the Mercado Municipal de Oliva, where over 15 vendors serve authentic tapas, Fideuà (seafood pasta), and freshly grilled fish. Many stalls use ingredients sourced from nearby farms and fishing boats, ensuring freshness and flavor.

Foodie tip: Try the Tapas Tour offered by local guides—it’s a delicious way to sample 8+ specialties in one afternoon.

Transportation in Oliva is highly convenient. The town is compact and best explored on foot or by bicycle—BiciOliva, a public bike-sharing system, offers free rentals within the city center. For longer journeys, take the Regional Train to Valencia or Alicante, with services running every 30 minutes. While Oliva Airport is small and mainly serves charter flights, it connects to major Spanish cities. Local buses run frequently between key sites like the Beach, Pier, and Historic Center, with affordable fares and real-time tracking via app. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.

Travel hack: Use the Valencia Metro Card—it works across regional trains and buses, saving money on multi-day travel.

Absolutely! Oliva offers endless photo-worthy moments. Capture the golden sunrise over Playa de Oliva or the dramatic silhouettes of fishing boats returning at dusk. The whitewashed buildings with blue doors in the Old Town provide striking contrast—ideal for street photography. The Roman Archaeological Site features ancient stone arches and well-preserved roads, perfect for historical shots. During the Fiesta de la Asunción, colorful costumes, flamenco dancers, and lantern-lit processions deliver dynamic, high-energy visuals. For something unique, visit the cliffside viewpoint near the lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline and distant islands.

Pro tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon for soft light and fewer crowds.

Couples will love sharing a sunset walk along Playa de Oliva, hand in hand, beneath a sky painted in hues of orange and pink. Dine at Hotel El Faro’s rooftop terrace, where candlelit tables overlook the illuminated pier and harbor lights. Book a private catamaran cruise to explore hidden coves and secluded bays—perfect for a quiet moment together. Evening highlights include attending a Flamenco Night at a local tavern, where passionate music and dance create an intimate atmosphere. For a more serene experience, visit the bell tower of Santa María de la Asunción Church, which offers a panoramic view of the entire town—ideal for quiet reflection.

Romance tip: Many hotels offer couples’ spa packages with ocean-view treatments.

Definitely. The Roman Archaeological Site in Oliva is one of the region’s most significant finds, revealing ancient docks, bathhouses, and residential streets from the 1st century BCE. The site is now managed by the Oliva Historical Museum, which offers guided tours, interactive exhibits, and digital reconstructions of how the town looked in antiquity. Nearby, Santa María de la Asunción Church stands as a masterpiece of 16th-century Gothic architecture, with stained-glass windows and a towering bell tower. For deeper immersion, join weekend archaeological dig workshops, where visitors can help uncover artifacts under expert supervision. These experiences bring history to life in a meaningful way.

Historical insight: The site was once a key link in the Roman trade network between Hispania and Italy.

Oliva’s guesthouses stand out for their blend of Mediterranean charm and personalized hospitality. Casa de la Playa, owned by a local artist, features hand-painted walls, curated art collections, and complimentary coffee and local travel guides. Villa Marina boasts a private infinity pool and sea-view terrace—ideal for privacy seekers. Most guesthouses are family-run, offering warm, individualized service such as restaurant reservations, customized itineraries, and local insights. Many also have small herb gardens where guests can pick ingredients for meals. Some even host cooking classes using homegrown produce, turning your stay into a true cultural immersion.

Unique perk: Guests often receive a welcome gift of locally-made Turrón de Almendras or olive oil.