From urban beaches to epic nightlife, Alicante offers a Mediterranean mix of action and relaxation. Add in a palm-lined esplanade snaking along the harbour and a Moorish castle looming above, and it’s one of the most dynamic spots on Spain’s sun-drenched Costa Blanca.

Nicknamed the "Santorini of Spain," Altea draws laid-back travellers to the Costa Blanca with its hilltop old town and pebble beaches. Navy-domed landmarks and whitewashed walls stand out against Mediterranean skies, while three marinas provide plenty of offshore opportunities.

As the gateway to Costa del Sol, Torremolinos is a modern city preserving the great charms of the Andalusian tradition. Here visitors enjoy more than 300 sunny days every year, comfortable temperatures (avg. 19ºC/66ºF) and 7km of beaches along the sparkling Mediterranean. Away from the sea and sand, travellers can explore the old fisherman’s district of “La Carihuela,” or sample the city’s cuisine – including regional favourite Pescalto Frito (fried fish) – in hundreds of restaurants and bars.

A quick trip away from Ancona, the capital of the Le Marche province, pretty Senigallia is best known for its top-notch beaches—with velveteen sand and gentle tides, they’re perfect for families. The Rotonda a Mare, an art deco pier, is another highlight.