The Costa Blanca, or White Coast, is one of the most popular tourist zones in Spain thanks to its magnificent, large, fine-sand beaches.

By far the most popular resort is Benidorm, which is heavily commercialised with many high-rise hotels, animal parks, and other entertainments.

Just to the southwest are the palm groves of Elche (Elx), a beautiful remnant of Arab agriculture in Europe.

Murcia is the center of a major agricultural region and has a Gothic cathedral with a beautiful Baroque façade.