🌇 Day Trip to Orihuela – A Hidden Cultural Gem near the Coast
Looking for an unforgettable cultural day trip from Cabo Roig? The historic inland city of Orihuela, nestled at the foot of the Sierra de Orihuela, is just 30–40 minutes away by car – and packed with charm, history and unexpected beauty. We explored it on a slightly cloudy spring day and were absolutely delighted by what we found.
🚗 Getting There – A Scenic Drive through the Fields
Our journey started from Cabo Roig, heading inland via the La Zenia roundabout. Although our navigation system suggested the AP7 motorway, we avoided taking this road as it includes toll sections – something rare in Spain these days, as most motorways are now toll-free. Instead, we chose the alternative route through Villamartín, San Miguel de Salinas, and Bigastro.
This turned out to be a lucky decision: the landscape along this road is absolutely stunning – passing through fields, orange & lemon groves and rolling countryside, offering a beautiful contrast to the coastal scenes of Orihuela Costa.
Unfortunately, I didn’t get the chance to take a picture of the route but it did look very much like the AI generated picture you see here. Except the road was far from being straight 😂 This is the route we took: 🔗 View route on Google Maps
❣️ Why Visit Orihuela?
Orihuela offers a rich cultural experience just 30–40 minutes inland from the beaches of Orihuela Costa. Whether you’re interested in architecture, art, local cuisine, or simply want to explore a more traditional side of Spanish life, this city offers something truly different from the coastal vibe.
In addition to the famous Murales de San Isidro—a district covered in powerful, community-created murals—and the stunning Seminario viewpoint, Orihuela is also home to notable attractions such as:
Orihuela Cathedral (Catedral del Salvador y Santa María) – A gothic structure built on the site of a former mosque, dating back to the 13th century.
Palacio Episcopal (Bishop’s Palace) – A grand baroque building symbolizing the city’s religious significance.
Museo de la Muralla – A museum built around excavated remains of the ancient city wall and Arab baths.
Even just walking through La Glorieta, a shaded plaza lined with cafes and historical statues, is an experience in itself.
🅿️ Parking & First Impressions
We parked at the Entrepuentes underground car park, which is centrally located and okay-priced at €0.05 per minute. From there, we set out on foot, heading towards the old town and its majestic cathedral – but first on a mission to find something to eat for our little one!
✝️ Semana Santa – Holy Week Atmosphere in the City
Our visit happened to fall during Semana Santa (Holy Week) – one of Spain’s most important religious traditions. Throughout Orihuela, the atmosphere was festive yet reverent. Rows of empty chairs lined the streets, reserved for upcoming processions. Statues, crosses and religious banners appeared on balconies, and the city was buzzing with quiet anticipation.
Semana Santa in Orihuela is known for its impressive processions, some of which date back centuries. Hooded figures in traditional robes carry floats (called “pasos”) depicting biblical scenes – a powerful blend of culture, art and devotion. Even if you don’t consider yourself religious, this tradition is moving and truly worth witnessing.
⛲ A Stroll through the Old Town – From the Cathedral to the Fuente Artística
We walked past Orihuela Cathedral, admired the beautiful façades and narrow alleys, and made our way to the Fuente Artística, a charming city fountain framed by palm trees and sculptures. Although the water level was low that day, the spot had a calm and elegant vibe, inviting us to take a break.
From there, we climbed the stone stairs leading to the Mirador del Seminario – a lookout point with panoramic views over the rooftops of Orihuela. The climb was absolutely worth it: from up here, the mix of historical buildings and surrounding nature creates a unique postcard scene.
🌟 Did You Know?
⑴ Orihuela is the birthplace of Miguel Hernández, one of Spain’s most revered poets. His childhood home can still be visited today.
⑵ The city is home to more than ten national monuments and several buildings declared of Cultural Interest by the Spanish Ministry of Culture.
⑶ The Murales de San Isidro began as a community tribute to Miguel Hernández and have grown into a symbol of artistic freedom and social commentary.
🥐🍦 Our Chase for a Midday Snack
Still on the lookout for food, we wandered through the winding streets past the Glorieta Gabriel Miró, a small leafy park with a beautiful fountain, perfect for a breather. Eventually, we stopped at La Colegiala, a cosy little bakery on Plaza San Sebastián, where we picked up a freshly baked croissant and a flaky pastry roll filled with ham and cheese. Simple, fresh, and exactly what we needed.
Though two nearby ice cream parlours were closed (likely due to low-season hours), we struck gold with the Valentina Café, arriving just ten minutes before their lunch break. The friendly owner quickly served up three generous cones, each with two scoops of creamy, flavourful ice cream. It was a lovely treat – and the kind service made it even sweeter.
🎨 Murales de San Isidro – An Open-Air Art Museum
One of the absolute highlights of the trip was our final stop: the Murales de San Isidro. This neighbourhood is known for its colourful and political street art murals, covering entire building façades. The themes range from social justice to poetry, surrealism, and everyday life – all beautifully painted and thought-provoking.
You can easily spend an hour here wandering the quiet streets, admiring one powerful image after another. It’s a living gallery that reflects the spirit of Orihuela and its people.
After our artistic detour, we took a quicker route home via Torrevieja, arriving back in Cabo Roig in about 35 minutes. In total, we spent just one day in Orihuela, but it felt like we had stepped into another world. The history, the traditions, the art and the friendliness all left us wanting more.
We’ll definitely be back – there’s still so much to see.
Tips for Your Own Visit
📅 Visit during Semana Santa (usually in March or April) if you want to experience Orihuela at its most festive and culturally rich.
🎟️ Plan ahead: Some attractions or eateries may have seasonal opening times.
👟 Wear comfy shoes – Orihuela is best explored on foot!
🚘 Avoid toll roads unless you’re in a rush – the scenic route is much more fun!
🚶♀️ For Nature Lovers: Hiking Trails Near Orihuela Costa
After exploring Orihuela’s cultural side, how about a day in nature? The region around Orihuela Costa is filled with scenic hiking routes. From pink salt lakes to forested trails, our Hiking Orihuela Costa page helps you plan the perfect outdoor adventure. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned walker, you’ll find something truly special here.
🚴 Discover the Region on Two Wheels
If you enjoy active travel, cycling is one of the best ways to see the countryside surrounding Orihuela. With scenic routes passing through orange groves and traditional villages, the journey is just as rewarding as the destination. Don’t miss our Cycling in Orihuela Costa guide, complete with tips, routes, and an interactive map to help you plan your next ride.
🏡 Your Home Base for Discovery: Stay at Casa Larimar
Planning to explore Orihuela and the stunning Costa Blanca region? Make it easy and comfortable by staying at Casa Larimar – our modern holiday apartment in Cabo Roig. Just 40 minutes from Orihuela, it’s the perfect base for day trips and beachside relaxation. Enjoy three pools, a fully equipped kitchen, and a sunny balcony – ideal for recharging after your adventures. With restaurants, shops, and nature right at your doorstep, everything you need is just a short stroll away.