What to do in Xàtiva
On a weekend or a spontaneous day off, Xàtiva offers a refreshing escape without venturing far. Located about 75 kilometers from Alicante, this city lives up to its nickname, the city of a thousand fountains. It blends history, nature, and a hint of adventure, making it ideal for a quick weekend getaway or a one‑day visit.
The destination provides a well rounded itinerary that suits travelers who want to mix cultural sights with outdoor experiences. From ancient sites to scenic hikes, Xàtiva keeps activity levels varied and rewarding, all within a few hours by car from Alicante. Here are the main attractions and places that shape its charm, including historic castle complexes, caves, and nature trails that invite exploration.
Castle, caves and hiking routes
At the heart of Xàtiva stands its castle, one of the city’s top draws. Perched on a hill, it offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding landscape. The fortress grew in stages—from the Iberian era through the medieval period—and comprises two sections: the Small Castle and the Big Castle. A guided visit reveals the history embedded in its walls, towers, and courtyards. Among the highlights are the tribute tower and the sun tower, where visitors can take in remarkable vistas. A smaller castle in the complex houses a museum with artifacts and exhibits that explain Xàtiva’s strategic role across centuries.
The central tour continues with a stroll through an area rich in architecture and legend. The Market Square is a natural starting point, followed by a stop at St. Peter’s Church, a site connected to Alfonso de Borgia, who became Pope Calixtus III. Down the street lies Santa Maria Collegiate Church, known locally as La Seo, featuring a grand baroque facade and a bell tower that soars above the skyline. Inside, art and chapels pay homage to various historical figures, including members of the Borgia family. The city’s entwined history with this influential lineage adds a layer of intrigue to the experience.
A short walk brings visitors to the Xàtiva Museum of Fine Arts, housed near the Collegiate Church. The collection spans works by regional painters and pieces that reflect the city’s evolution. A notable work is a reverse portrait of King Philip V, painted upside down as a protest against destruction during the War of the Spanish Succession. This oddity underscores how art has long spoken to the city’s resilience and memory.
For a different kind of moment, the Lion Fountain stands as one of the most iconic landmarks in Xàtiva. Its presence is a reminder that the city’s public spaces tell stories as vibrant as its galleries. The Borgia Palace, once the residence of the powerful Borgia family, offers another window into the era’s prestige and politics. Guided tours provide deeper insight into the building’s interiors and the family’s influence on the region’s history.
Natural beauty also awaits at the Black Cave (Cova Negra), a remarkable archaeological site set in a dramatic landscape. Known for its significance as a Middle Paleolithic settlement, the site offers a glimpse into Neanderthal life. A well-marked walking route allows visitors to approach the cave, with rock formations and ruins offering a tangible link to the ancient past.
Walking in Xàtiva
Xàtiva serves as a haven for hiking enthusiasts. The surrounding hills and countryside feature trails that showcase the region’s natural splendor. The Castell Route is among the most popular, guiding walkers from the city center toward the castle and rewarding them with sweeping views along the way. Another option is the Serres Path, which links visitors to some of Xàtiva’s most iconic landmarks and landscapes. A final recommended route is the Cova Negra circuit, which leads travelers beyond the city limits to enjoy wild scenery and the quiet rhythm of the countryside.
No visit to Xàtiva would be complete without sampling its cuisine. Traditional Valencian dishes offer a comforting backdrop to a day of exploration. Local specialties, from hearty rice dishes to sweet pastries like almojábanas, invite a satisfying finish to the experience.
How to get to Xàtiva?
Getting from Alicante to Xàtiva is straightforward. Driving along the A-7 highway connects the two cities in about an hour. Public transportation options are available as well, with trains offering a direct and comfortable journey from Alicante train station to Xàtiva. (Source: regional travel guides cited in this overview.)