2025-06-01
Living in Spain is about more than sun and beaches. It’s a daily rhythm of late dinners, open squares and a climate that draws you outside all year round. This is a genuine lifestyle guide to the Costa Blanca and Costa Cálida – how everyday life flows, where you find services, and what makes these areas so easy to feel at home in.
Mornings start quietly, and the pace picks up towards the afternoon. Lunch is often served between 1–3 pm and many people don’t have dinner until 8–10 pm. Larger stores stay open late, while smaller shops may close for siesta in the middle of the day. Weekends are filled with markets, walks and local fiestas – check the local council’s events calendar so you don’t miss anything.
Summers are long and bright; winters are short but can be humid near the coast. In summer you keep the home cool with awnings, shutters and cross-ventilation. In winter a small heat source and good ventilation are often enough for comfortable indoor temperatures. The climate makes walking, padel, golf and cycling a natural part of everyday life.
Weekly markets (mercadillos) offer fruit, cheese and fresh vegetables at good prices. Try the local “menú del día” for a great-value lunch and explore tapas bars beyond the main streets. In coastal towns, fish and seafood are a must – ask about seasonal dishes and you’ll quickly find your favourites.
Around the larger towns you’ll find both international and bilingual schools. Healthcare is easily accessible, with many clinics and pharmacies; private healthcare often means shorter waiting times. Most residential areas feel safe, with well-lit promenades and active local associations – ideal for families and long-term stays.
Flights to Alicante–Elche and Región de Murcia–Corvera make travelling simple. Locally you get around by bus, taxi or bicycle – the coastal stretches are often flat and very walkable. A car is convenient for bigger shopping trips and excursions; check zone colours and signage for parking rules in town centres.
Seafront promenades, chiringuitos (beach bars) and long sandy beaches give everyday life a holiday feel. Prefer nature? Visit the salt lakes in San Pedro del Pinatar or hike in Sierra Helada. Sports options are plentiful – padel courts are everywhere, there are golf courses in both Alicante and Murcia, and the Mar Menor is perfect for SUP, sailing and calm evening swims.
The year is dotted with processions, summer festivals and harvest celebrations. Take part in neighbourhood activities and get to know your neighbours – a simple greeting in Spanish goes a long way. Social life is relaxed and often spontaneous: a coffee after an evening walk or a few tapas with friends.
Start by locating the nearest market, pharmacy and health centre. Save important numbers (taxi, community, property manager) and create a small routine: your favourite café, a daily walking route and maybe a weekly padel slot. Consider joining a local group for language, hiking or tennis – the sense of community comes naturally.
Can you manage without a car?
In central locations – often yes. In quieter urbanisations, a car is practical for everyday errands and day trips.
Is English-speaking service available?
Yes, especially along the coast. At the same time, a few simple Spanish phrases make daily life much smoother.
How do shop and restaurant opening hours work?
Big chains have generous opening hours; smaller shops may close for siesta. Dinner is served later than in the Nordics.
Tell us how you want to live – close to the beach and promenades, near schools and sports facilities, or in the middle of city life and services. Nordic Home Spain guides you to areas on the Costa Blanca and Costa Cálida that match your lifestyle – and shows you properties that make everyday life work from day one.
Contact us and we’ll help you.
