11 charming towns in Alicante to live in if you are a European foreigner

If you are from Northern Europe and are looking to come to Spain to live in your retirement or with your family but in a more tranquil environment and with the climate that characterises our country, this guide offers you the direct solution to what you are looking for: 11 charming towns in Alicante, the Costa Blanca, a perfect area for foreigners like you for the reasons we will explain in this article.

For a buyer from Northern Europe who genuinely wants to settle in our country, to live there all year round and not just seasonally, to have privacy and a good lifestyle, and to enjoy a spacious home in calmer surroundings than tourist hotspots, we present 11 locations ordered by their actual residential quality of life. That is, we prioritise living there, not visiting occasionally or based on their tourist ambience.

The Alicante interior, our preference, contrary to what many might think, is not disconnected from the rest of the world. For a European who wants to live in Spain but not disconnect from their home country, Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport is just a few minutes' drive from the towns we'll be highlighting in this guide, and it operates to over 130 destinations, meaning you can visit your home country whenever you wish without extreme logistics like having to travel to Madrid or Barcelona.

What makes a village one of the best villages in Alicante to live in

For a European foreigner, especially a Dutch, British or German national, the criteria we follow in this guide for considering a town to be one of the beautiful towns near Alicante to live in are 5:

If we were to place a map of the most beautiful villages in Alicante according to these criteria, there would be two branches:

• Medio Vinalopó: Aspe, Novelda, Elda, La Romana, Hondón de las Nieves, Hondón de los Frailes and Pinoso.
• Alto Vinalopó: Sax, Salinas and Biar.

Why the Vinalopó and the interior as a response to where to live in Alicante

If you are looking for charming towns in Alicante, pretty towns near Alicante, or directly where to live in Alicante, if what you are exactly looking for is a primary residence, the inland Costa Blanca is the area you are looking for.

The Costa Blanca has a direct connection to Alicante without the crowds or the temporary changes caused by tourism found in other municipalities closer to the coast. If you're looking for direct coastal access, it's clear, but if you're looking for peace and a better balance for year-round living, the interior wins by a landslide.

You might be interested in:

• How to buy a house in Spain as a foreigner: the complete guide
• The best places to live in Spain for foreigners

Ranking: the 11 best towns in Alicante to live in as a foreigner

Here are the 11 best charming towns in Alicante, perfect for European buyers to live in.

Aspe

Aspe takes first place because it offers the best balance of everything. The municipality is located in the heart of the Medio Vinalopó and is situated in the middle course of the Vinalopó river, about 30 kilometres from Alicante. It closed 2025 with 22,862 inhabitants and, in the last provincial breakdown available by nationality for 2022, it had 1,564 foreigners, including 232 British nationals.

It's a town that's neither too small nor too large, with a sufficient size to sustain a real daily life, having enough services to avoid constant reliance on the capital and being close to the nearest airport.

I want to live in Aspe

Novelda

Novelda is the option for those seeking a place known especially for its beauty but which at the same time offers a daily quality of life. Your tourist website This municipality stands out for its modernist monuments, its heritage, and two particularly powerful icons: the Sanctuary of Santa María Magdalena and La Mola Castle.

Furthermore, Novelda shares an aspect with Aspe that makes it one of the winning municipalities in this ranking: the Novelda-Aspe station connects both towns to the capital, allowing for greater mobility to the rest of the province (and to the beach if you wish).

The 2022 census data showed 1,985 foreign nationals in the municipality, meaning it has a very growing international community.

In summary, Novelda is one of the most complete charming towns in Alicante, with its urban yet village-like feel, all the services, cultural heritage, and full connectivity with its surroundings.

I want to live in Novelda

La Romana

La Romana is third in our ranking because it almost perfectly fits the profile of a European foreigner who wants peace and quiet, beautiful scenery, privacy, but also a residential environment that allows for a good quality of life. The council itself It is described as a quiet and welcoming town in the Medio Vinalopó, protected by the mountain ranges of l’Algayat, del Reclot, and de Beltrans, with very beautiful natural routes. Ultimately, it is one of the most residential and tranquil municipalities in the entire ranking.

In the 2022 register, it had a population of 2605 inhabitants, of whom 659 were foreign nationals and 319 were specifically foreign nationals from the United Kingdom.

I want to live in La Romana

Hondón de las Nieves

Hondón de las Nieves is one of the most beautiful villages in the interior of Alicante and is another option for the foreign buyer looking for tranquility and basic services. On the town hall's website The municipality is described as a locality situated in a hollow, sheltered by the Sierra de Crevillent and surrounded by almond and olive trees, and especially vineyards. A decidedly Mediterranean landscape.

This is one of the municipalities with the highest proportion of foreign residents: of the 2,684 rooms in total, 1,010 are occupied by foreign residents, representing 37.63% of the total, according to the 2022 provincial breakdown. Furthermore, of those 1,010 foreign residents, 501 were British. Few towns in Alicante combine valley life, a natural environment with such a variety of fruit trees, and an established foreign community as Hondón de las Nieves.

I want to live in Hondón de las Nieves

Pinoso

Pinoso is the ideal municipality if you're looking for a medium-sized area, a region with a rich culture, specifically wine, a very distinct local identity, and an international community that is growing year on year. The municipality is located in the Vinalopó Mitjà, to the west of the province and bordering Murcia. Its well-known Wine Route and local wineries recall the cultural heritage enjoyed by both residents and tourists who come in search of an ethnological route.

In the 2022 register of 8,084 inhabitants, 1,408 were foreign, with 676 British among them. Pinoso is one of the winners in terms of charming towns in Alicante, but also among those with the largest international community.

I want to live in Pinoso

Hondón de los Frailes

Hondón de los Frailes is the most charming village in Alicante with the strongest international feel. Located in the southern inland area of the Vinalopó Medio region, the figures show a significant foreign population, particularly from Europe. The 2022 census data confirms that there were 1,261 inhabitants, of whom 666 were foreign nationals; in other words, a whopping 52.82% of the population were non-native, with 439 of these being British.

If you're looking for beautiful places near Alicante where you can easily integrate, Hondón de los Frailes is your direct option: the international community will make you feel at home.

Its only drawback is that it has fewer basic services than municipalities like Aspe or Novelda, but nothing that the proximity to the capital or the hostility of your compatriots cannot solve.

I want to live in Hondon de los Frailes

San Vicente del Raspeig

San Vicente del Raspeig is one of the towns around Alicante with the most services available, but without losing its tranquility entirely. It is a municipality very close to the capital, which allows you to constantly access the services it offers, such as leisure and sports activities.

Furthermore, if you have children or family members who are interested, the University of Alicante campus is located in the municipality, which connects to the stops to Alicante, allowing for easy and safe mobility.

In the 2022 census, there were 59,138 inhabitants recorded, of whom 4,704 were foreign nationals. While its population density does not make it the most remote location, it offers a way of living away from the big city without losing the urban structure characteristic of towns of this size.

I want to live in San Vicente del Raspeig

Let

If we had to answer which is the most beautiful town in Alicante from a historical and medieval point of view, Biar would be the first choice. Your tourist office presents the municipality as a place where history comes alive between walls and mountains, as well as it features a 12th-century castle, integrated into the Vinalopó castle route. The municipality is located in the Alto Vinalopó, inland in the province, with an altitude that reinforces its character as a mountain town in Alicante.

However, their percentage of foreigners is not the highest on this list. According to the 2022 register, out of 3612 inhabitants, only 132 were foreign, with 24 of them being British. Nevertheless, it is a charming town in Alicante perfect for those seeking authenticity and heritage, and for those who like to discover a place that is currently unknown to the international community.

I want to live in Biar

Sax

Sax is the alternative if you're looking for a town with a castle and cultural heritage, but also with modern amenities like a train station. It's a municipality in the Alto Vinalopó with a castle that its own local council describes as one of the most “rocky” in the province, with regular guided tours.

According to 2022 census data, the town had 9,988 inhabitants, of whom 670 were foreign nationals (292 British). It is another of the places that is gradually growing its international community but is still not widely known by many.

I want to live in Sax

Salinas

Salinas is situated in a Endorheic basin of the Alto Vinalopó surrounded by mountains. It is one of the charming towns in Alicante for its routes and natural heritage; it is a municipality where nature matters more than urban life.

According to the 2022 register, Salinas had 1678 inhabitants, of whom 280 were foreign nationals, with 144 being British. Therefore, it is one of the villages currently experiencing the most growth in its international European community.

I want to live in Salinas

Elda

Elda closes this ranking as a capital urbana y económica del Medio Vinalopó, 38 kilometres from Alicante, about half an hour away. It has its own train station, a public hospital, and an industrial and commercial identity linked to footwear.

According to the 2022 census data, out of 52,297 inhabitants, 3,135 were foreign nationals, representing a rather solid international community for such a number of people. Elda functions better as a city of services than as a town, but it's neither as large nor as bustling as the capital or powerful cities like Elche. If you're looking for what a city offers without losing what a town offers, meaning a more relaxed lifestyle, this is your option.

I want to live in Elda

Where to live in Alicante according to your desired lifestyle

Frequently asked questions

We'll resolve the main doubts you may have about the best towns to live in Alicante.

The best town in Alicante to live in if you're a European expat depends on your personal preferences, but here are a few popular and well-regarded options, along with why they might be a good fit: **For a lively atmosphere and amenities:** * **Alicante city:** The provincial capital offers a vibrant urban experience with plenty of shops, restaurants, cultural attractions, and a good expat community. It has excellent transport links, including an airport. The beach is right there too. * **Benidorm:** Though often seen as a tourist hotspot, Benidorm has a large and established expat community, particularly British. It offers a wide range of services, entertainment, and beaches. It's ideal if you want a lively social scene and easy access to amenities. **For a more relaxed coastal vibe:** * **Altea:** Known for its picturesque old town with whitewashed buildings and cobbled streets, Altea offers a more bohemian and artistic atmosphere. It's beautiful, has a lovely promenade, and a good selection of restaurants and cafes. It attracts a diverse range of nationalities. * **Jávea (Xàbia):** This coastal town has a beautiful old town, a bustling port, and a lovely sandy beach (Arenal). It has a well-established international community, good infrastructure, and a variety of activities and services. It offers a good balance between local charm and expat convenience. * **Moraira:** A charming fishing village that has grown into a popular resort, Moraira is known for its beautiful coastline, marina, and excellent seafood restaurants. It has a significant British and Northern European expat population and offers a more upscale and tranquil environment. * **Calpe (Calp):** Famous for the iconic Peñón de Ifach rock, Calpe has two main beaches and a marina. It has a significant expat community and offers a good range of services and amenities, with a relaxed coastal feel. **For a blend of town and countryside with easy access to the coast:** * **Villajoyosa:** A colourful coastal town with a long sandy beach and a charming old town. It's a bit less touristy than some other options and offers a more authentic Spanish feel, while still being close to Benidorm and Alicante. It's known for its chocolate factories! * **Gata de Gorgos:** If you prefer to be closer to the countryside but still within a short drive of the coast (like Jávea and Moraira), Gata de Gorgos is a good option. It's a traditional Valencian town known for its basket weaving and has a more authentic Spanish feel. **Factors to consider when choosing:** * **Language:** While many people in tourist areas speak English, learning Spanish will greatly enhance your experience and integration. The larger expat communities might have more resources for newcomers. * **Cost of Living:** Prices can vary between towns, with some of the more popular coastal resorts being more expensive. * **Amenities and Services:** Consider what's important to you – proximity to hospitals, international schools, specific types of shops, or public transport. * **Lifestyle:** Do you want a busy, social environment or a tranquil, laid-back one? Are you looking for beachfront living or something more inland? * **Expat Community:** Some towns have larger and more established expat communities, which can be helpful for socialising and finding support. **Recommendation:** My best advice would be to **visit a few different towns** that catch your eye before making a decision. Spend a few days in each, explore the local areas, and get a feel for the atmosphere. This will give you the best chance of finding the perfect place for *you*.

The best option is Aspe, due to its proximity to Alicante and the airport, its sufficient size for daily life, its local identity, and its non-intrusive but visible international community. If you're looking for a place with more heritage, the alternative is Novelda. If you're looking for a more rural and international environment, Hondón de las Nieves and La Romana are our recommendations.

Consult our 11 chosen villages in our guide to find out which one suits you best.

What is the most beautiful town in Alicante?

When talking about historical beauty and all that it encompasses, Biar is the direct answer. Its 12th-century castle, its connection to the Vinalopó castle route, and its position between walls and mountains place it among the most beautiful sites in Alicante.

Here are some unmissable medieval villages in Alicante: * **Guadalest:** Perhaps the most famous, perched dramatically on a rock with its castle ruins. * **Biar:** Known for its well-preserved castle and charming old town. * **Castalla:** Features an impressive medieval castle overlooking the town. * **Sax:** Dominated by its striking castle, perched on a rocky outcrop. * **Morella:** Although technically in the province of Castellón, it's very close to Alicante and is a quintessential walled medieval town. * **Altea La Vella:** The old part of Altea boasts medieval charm with its whitewashed houses and cobblestone streets. * **El Castell de la Vila Joiosa:** While the main town is known for chocolate, it has medieval origins and fortifications to explore.

The three essential medieval towns in Alicante that you cannot miss are Biar, Sax, and Novelda. Biar stands out for its 12th-century castle and its historic fabric; Sax for its rock castle; and Novelda for its La Mola castle, combined with its Modernism.

Where do the English live in Alicante?

The English live mainly in Pinoso, Hondón de las Nieves, Hondón de los Frailes, La Romana and Sax, if we are talking about the interior of the province.

Where do Belgians live in Alicante?

The Belgians mainly live in Aspe, La Romana, Hondón de las Nieves, Hondón de los Frailes, Pinoso and Novelda.

Where do the Dutch live in Alicante?

The Dutch primarily live in Aspe, Novelda, La Romana, Hondón de las Nieves, Hondón de los Frailes and Pinoso.

Which pretty towns near Alicante are best connected to the airport?

The most beautiful towns near Alicante well-connected to the airport are Aspe, San Vicente del Raspeig, Novelda and Elda.

Where to live in Alicante if you want a quiet villa without giving up basic services?

If you want to live in Alicante in a quiet villa without giving up basic services, the best villages are La Romana, Hondón de las Nieves and Aspe.

Are the inland towns of Alicante better than the coast for living all year round?

The coast is attractive for its beaches, but it's overcrowded with tourism. It's not a bad option if your preference is still to be near the sea, but if you're looking for a quieter life, away from tourism, with more privacy and a growing international community, inland, specifically the Vinalopó region, is better for long-term living as a European foreigner.