Elche is making it easier than ever for residents and visitors to explore the city this summer, with new technology helping tourists discover its rich heritage while enhanced public transport provides convenient access to the coast. The latest initiatives form part of the city’s ongoing investment in sustainable tourism, accessibility and environmentally friendly travel.

Smart signs help visitors explore historic Elche

Visitors to Elche can now discover more about the city’s history and attractions thanks to a new smart tourist information system installed across the historic centre.

For the first time, the city has introduced 21 information panels at key locations including Glorieta, the Altamira Palace, the Calahorra Tower, Clarisas, the Hermitage of San Sebastian and the MAHE Archaeological and History Museum.

The new signs are designed to help visitors find their way around while providing information about Elche’s main cultural and historic landmarks.

Each panel includes QR codes that visitors can scan with their mobile phone to access additional information in Spanish, Valencian, English and French. The system also includes videos, audio guides and links to cultural walking routes through platforms such as Wikiloc. More languages, including German and Polish, could be added in the future.

The signs also feature Navilens technology, making them easier to use for people with visual impairments and improving accessibility for all visitors.

City officials say the project is aimed at improving the visitor experience while helping people learn more about Elche’s rich cultural heritage. The information has been prepared with input from the city’s archaeology, archives and heritage departments to ensure it is accurate and informative.

The project represents an investment of €180,000 and has been funded through the European Union’s Next Generation programme as part of Elche’s Sustainable Tourism Plan. It follows other recent improvements, including upgrades to the Misteri Museum and Hort del Gat, new shade structures, solar panels and electric vehicle charging points.

Summer beach buses return to Elche

Getting to Elche’s beaches is a little easier this summer thanks to the return of the town’s seasonal beach bus services.

Elche Town Hall has once again introduced its three special summer routes, P1, P2 and P3, to help residents and visitors travel to the coast during July and August.

The P1 service runs a circular route around Arenales del Sol from 8:20 AM to 9:30 PM, with buses every 22 minutes.

The P2 route provides a direct link between El Altet and Arenales del Sol, operating from 10:00 AM to 7:30 PM, while the P3 service connects La Marina and El Pinet with the beaches, with departures every 45 minutes. New minibuses have been introduced this year on both the P2 and P3 routes.

The announcement comes as Elche’s bus network continues to attract more passengers. During June, services to the town’s surrounding districts carried 172,495 passengers, the highest monthly figure ever recorded.

That represents an increase of almost 40 per cent compared with June last year, with nearly 50,000 additional journeys made.

Town Hall officials say the growing number of passengers shows that more people are choosing public transport as an easier way to travel around the municipality, particularly during the summer months.

Anyone with an interest in astronomy or simply looking for a different way to spend a summer evening is being invited to a free stargazing event in Elda this July. Combining a relaxed picnic with expert-guided observations through powerful telescopes, the event promises an opportunity to discover some of the most fascinating sights visible in the summer night sky.

Stargazing under the stars at Casa Colora in Elda

Stargazers are invited to enjoy an evening under the stars with a free astronomy event at Casa Colora in Elda.

The event begins at 9.30 PM on Friday, 24 July with a bring-your-own picnic before the night sky takes centre stage.

Using high-powered telescopes, visitors will be able to observe the Moon, which will be around 77 per cent illuminated, as well as Venus, the North Star and some of the best-known summer constellations. The giant Hercules Globular Cluster (M13) will also be among the celestial objects visible during the evening.

A smart telescope will provide live images of distant nebulae and other deep-sky objects, giving visitors a closer look at parts of the universe that are normally difficult to see.

Discover the wonders of the night sky

Everyone attending will receive approved eclipse glasses and an information leaflet to help them prepare.

There are also free eclipse guides and viewing glasses available from Elda Tourist Office, Calle Nueva, número 14, Elda, while stocks last.

The event is suitable for both beginners and experienced astronomy enthusiasts, with organisers hoping to inspire more people to explore the night sky and learn about the planets, stars and galaxies visible from the Costa Blanca during the summer months.

Places are limited: Book your spot early to avoid disappointment

The event is free, but advance registration is required through the online booking form: forms.gle/ApAgiCBaRUk6tHdL9.

Book early to avoid disappointment as places are limited.

Finding a restaurant that combines good food, friendly service and excellent value is always a welcome discovery, and Alejandro’s Bar & Restaurant has been doing exactly that for more than 25 years. This long-established family-run favourite in La Zenia continues to attract residents and holidaymakers alike with its relaxed atmosphere, generous portions and varied menu, making it a reliable choice for any time of day.

Family dining at Alejandro’s in La Zenia

We recently stopped by Alejandro’s Bar & Restaurant in La Zenia, and it’s easy to see why this family-run restaurant has been such a popular choice since opening its doors in 1999.

From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming. Whether you are popping in for breakfast, lunch, dinner or just a drink on the terrace, there is a genuine family feel about the place.

We tried the Menu del Dia, available daily from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, and at €14.90 it offers excellent value. You choose a starter and a main course, followed by dessert or coffee, with a small beer, wine or soft drink included.

There was plenty of choice, from homemade soup, bruschetta or a fresh mixed salad to mains including spaghetti bolognese, lasagne, chicken schnitzel with chips and vegetables, chicken curry with rice, pork medallions in mushroom sauce or one of Alejandro’s pizzas. Desserts included mixed ice cream, apple strudel or coffee.

The food was freshly prepared, generously portioned and served by friendly staff who clearly take pride in looking after their customers.

Great value and weekly specials

Another reason to visit is the restaurant’s popular Wednesday Schnitzel Day, when freshly cooked schnitzels are served for just €13.90. It’s one of their busiest days, so booking ahead is recommended.

Alongside its daily set menu, Alejandro’s offers an extensive à la carte selection, giving diners plenty of choice whether they are looking for a quick lunch, an evening meal with friends or a relaxed family dinner.

A Costa Blanca favourite for more than 25 years

Having served customers since 1999, Alejandro’s has built a loyal following by focusing on consistently good food, welcoming service and a comfortable atmosphere. It is the kind of restaurant where many visitors return time and again, while newcomers quickly feel at home.

Alejandro’s is located on Carretera de Villamartín 2, La Zenia. To reserve a table, call (+34) 966 760 623 or email alejandros@gmx.net.