Here’s the ultimate list of top things to do in Denia, a charming town along Costa Blanca in the Spanish region of Alicante.
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What to Do in Denia, Spain
While over the past few years I’ve visited Denia a few times on the road from Valencia to Alicante, this year I enjoyed a full day in Denia while taking a ferry to Formentera. Although my trip took place in November, which was off-season, Denia was still full of unique things to see and do.
Where is Denia
Denia is a coastal town located in the province of Alicante, on the eastern coast of Spain. It lies on the road between Valencia and Alicante, approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) from both cities, and 30 kilometers (19 miles) from Gandia, making it easily accessible by car, bus, or train from all these locations. Additionally, Denia serves as a ferry port with connections to the Balearic Islands, particularly Ibiza and Mallorca.
Where to stay in Denia
Denia offers a wide variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. I especially like Maison Marineta, La Posada del Mar, and Hotel Nou Roma.
Unique Things to do in Denia
1. Visit The Castle of Denia
While I would not include Denia’s castle on the list of top Spanish castles, perched atop a hill overlooking the town and sea, it is a nice spot to enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Mediterranean. Inside the castle, you’ll find the Archaeological Museum, which is a great stop for history lovers in Spain as it explores the region’s ancient past, including Roman, Muslim, and Christian influences.
2. Walk Through Tunel del Castillo
This historic tunnel, Túnel del Castillo, was used as an air-raid shelter during the Spanish Civil War (you can learn more about this tragic event via my list of Spain Documentaries). Walking through this tunnel feels eery and offers is a journey back to the 1930s, and it also serves as a shortcut connecting different parts of town, right under the Denia Castle.
3. Explore Mercat de Denia
Denia is one of the most unique foodie destinations in Spain and has been recognized as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy. As in most Spanish towns, a popular thing to do here is to visit the local market, Mercat de Denia. Denia is well known in Spain for its delicious red shrimp, gamba roja de Denia. You can try it in many local restaurants, and over the Christmas holidays, it is even sold in many supermarkets across Spain.
4. Visit Toy Museum
The Toy Museum of Denia offers a nostalgic journey through Spain’s toy-making history, where towns like Denia and Ibi were national hubs for toy production. This museum showcases a charming collection of vintage toys from the early 20th century.
5. Enjoy the Port of Denia
The port of Denia is a gateway to the Spanish Islands. On my last visit here, I took a boat to Formentera. Additionally, at the port of Denia, you can enjoy boat excursions, and the whole area is lined with seafood restaurants, perfect for enjoying a meal with a view after your trip.
7. Visit Els Magazinos
I have really enjoyed a visit to Els Magazinos, a gastronomic market located in the old town of Denia. This lively food market is home to a variety of stalls, cafes, and restaurants offering local delicacies, tapas, and drinks. The area reminds me of the hippie markets of Ibiza and has such a nice local vibe.
8. Hike to Cova Tallada
Cova Tallada is a stunning sea cave located on the coast between Denia and Javea. It is a popular hiking and kayaking destination in Spain. The cave is a must-see on a coastal trail from Denia, as the area is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning cliffs. Along the way, you will also pass by the Torre del Gerro, a 16th-century watchtower located on the cliffs near Denia. It was originally built to protect the coastline from pirate attacks.
11. Eat at Quique D’Acosta Restaurant
Years ago, I took my husband to the famous Quique D’Acosta restaurant in Denia for his birthday, a three-Michelin-starred establishment. Quique D’Acosta is one of the most famous Spanish chefs, known for pushing the boundaries of modern gastronomy while embracing Denia’s culinary traditions on an international level. While we had previously visited Michelin-starred restaurants, neither of us had ever been to one with three stars, as there are not many of them around the world (although Spain has 16). Lunch at Quique D’Acosta restaurant felt like a culinary experience, with many local ingredients and creative twists. While I enjoyed it as a one-time meal, I wouldn’t say it was one of my all-time favorite foodie experiences in Spain. Yet, if you appreciate creative cuisine and are looking for a special occasion lunch, it’s a great restaurant to visit.
12. Festivities in Denia
If you enjoy Spanish festivities and visiting Denia during the summer, you might witness the unique and lively festival of Bous a la Mar (Bulls to the Sea). This traditional Spanish celebration involves bulls running towards the sea, where participants try to evade them by jumping into the water. I am not much of a fan of bulls, so I still haven’t visited Bous a la Mar, but it seems quite unique from a cultural perspective.
13. Enjoy the Beaches near Denia
Denia and its surroundings are home to some of the most famous beaches in the region, such as Punta del Raset Beach, Les Marines, Playa Les Deveses, and rocky coves with crystal-clear waters like Arenetes and Cala Moraig. While Costa Blanca is a busy destination in the summer, its beaches are among the best in all of Spain.
Things to do near Denia
Here are a few places near Denia that can’t be missed either.
Cueva de las Calaveras
Located just 20 minutes from Denia, the Cueva de las Calaveras is a stunning cave in the small village of Benidoleig. The cave owes its name, “Cave of Skulls,” to the discovery of human remains inside. It stretches 300 meters deep and is filled with natural formations of stalactites and stalagmites.
Jardin de L’Albarda
Jardin de L’Albarda, located near the town of Pedreguer, is one of the most charming gardens in Spain. It’s such a peaceful and picturesque spot, and you can check out more details from my visit in this post.
Mercat de Riurau
In the village of Jesus Pobre, located about 15 minutes from Denia, you can visit the Mercat de Riurau, a charming Sunday market held under a historic “riurau” (a traditional structure used for drying grapes). It is a popular spot to shop for Spanish food souvenirs.
Parque Natural de la Marjal de Pego-Oliva
Just a 30-minute drive north of Denia, the Parque Natural de la Marjal de Pego-Oliva is a popular spot for hiking and birdwatching. This wetland area, spanning nearly 1,300 hectares, is one of the most important ecological sites in the region, known for a variety of aquatic birds such as herons, ducks, and even the endangered European eel.
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Thank you for sharing this wonderful guide to Denia! Your detailed descriptions of the town’s unique attractions, from the historic Denia Castle to the vibrant Els Magazinos food market, truly capture its charm. The inclusion of off-the-beaten-path gems like Cova Tallada and local events like Bous a la Mar adds depth to the experience. I especially appreciate the practical travel tips and nearby recommendations, which make planning a visit seamless. This guide is a treasure for anyone exploring Costa Blanca!
Thank you for sharing such an enriching guide to Denia! Your list of unique things to do offers a great balance of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the panoramic views at Denia Castle to the nostalgic experience at the Toy Museum, there’s so much to appreciate about this charming coastal town. I particularly love your recommendation to visit Els Magazinos, the gastronomic market, and hike to Cova Tallada for its stunning scenery. Your insights into local traditions, like the Bous a la Mar festival, and the nearby attractions, such as Cueva de las Calaveras and Jardin de L’Albarda, further enhance the appeal of Denia. This guide is a wonderful invitation to explore a town that blends heritage and modern vibrancy seamlessly.