Old town Jávea

When we imagine Jávea, we usually think of coves with turquoise waters, sunsets from Cabo de San Antonio or sunny days by the sea. However, there is a lesser-known corner that encloses the authentic soul of this Alicante municipality: the old town of Jávea.

Walking through its cobbled streets is like traveling back in time, feeling the Mediterranean essence around every corner and discovering a history that goes back centuries. In this article, we invite you to find out what to see in the old town of Jávea, what to do during your visit, where to eat, how to get there... And why so many people fall in love with this environment to the point of looking for a house for sale in Jávea.

What to see in the old town of Jávea

Church of San Bartolomé: the heart of the old town of Jávea

The historic centre of Jávea revolves around the majestic Church of San Bartolomé, a fortified temple from the 15th century built with the characteristic rough stone. This church is not only a place of worship, but also a symbol of resistance: for centuries, it protected the village from pirate attacks thanks to its robust structure.

Located in the Plaza de la Iglesia, it is the best point to start your tour. Not only will you admire its stunning Elizabethan Gothic architecture here, but you'll also be able to enjoy the local hustle and bustle from a nearby terrace.

Remains of the old wall of Jávea

One of the things to see in the old town of Jávea that not everyone knows are the vestiges of the wall that surrounded the town in the Middle Ages. Although much of it was dismantled in the nineteenth century, you can still see sections integrated into private homes or corners with little traffic, such as En Grenyó street.

To explore these remains is to understand how Jávea defended itself from constant sea attacks, and represents a unique opportunity for history lovers.

Jávea Municipal Market

If you want to savour the essence of the old town of Jávea, go to the Mercado de Abastos. Located next to the church, this covered market is brimming with fresh produce, cheeses, cold cuts, fish and traditional sweets. A perfect place to connect with the daily life of the residents.

It's also a good stop if you're looking for local products or if you just want to have a quick drink before continuing your walk.

Streets with the soul of Jávea: Loreto, Virgen del Pilar and more

Few things convey as much charm as strolling along Calle Loreto, one of the most picturesque arteries of the old town. Low houses, wooden doors, hanging flower pots and an environment that invites you to walk aimlessly.

Other nearby streets such as Calle Mayor, Calle Virgen del Pilar or Calle San José are also worth a visit. All of them preserve the flavour of the past and show what life was like when Jávea was mainly agricultural and seafaring.

The Town Hall and the Plaza de la Iglesia de Jávea

The Town Hall of Jávea, located in front of the church, is another emblematic building in the old town. Its sober façade and the archaeological remains on its ground floor (protected by glass) remind us that this area has been inhabited for centuries.

This space also hosts cultural events, temporary exhibitions and traditional celebrations such as the 'Mig Any' or the festivities in honour of Saint Bartholomew.

Riurau d'Arnauda and Parque Montaner de Jávea

A few metres from the historic centre you will find the Riurau d'Arnauda, an old agricultural building where the grapes were protected during the drying process to produce raisins. Today, restored and integrated into the Montaner Park, it is an ideal place to rest, attend cultural events or have a picnic under the shade of the trees.

How to get to the historic centre of Jávea

One of the advantages of Jávea is that, despite being a very visited destination, its old town remains accessible and pleasant for visitors.

• From Alicante or Valencia: you can get there by car on the AP-7, exit 63 (Benissa/Teulada), and then continue on the CV-734. Both journeys take between 1 hour and 20 minutes.
   

• By bus: there are frequent connections from Denia, Benidorm, Valencia and Alicante. The station is within walking distance of the historic center.
   

• Parking: it is best to use the car parks of the Rastro, the Portal del Clot or areas near the centre on weekdays. In summer, it is advisable to arrive early.

Recommended restaurants in the old town of Jávea

Whether it's for tapas, eating a good rice or simply enjoying the atmosphere, the old town offers options for all tastes. Here are some places that stand out for their quality and authenticity:

• La Cajita: signature cuisine in a cozy atmosphere, ideal for a quiet dinner.
   

• Tasca La Rebotica: traditional tapas and a good selection of local wines.
   

• Casa Grau: charming restaurant offering rice dishes, meats and quality Mediterranean dishes.
   

• Volta i Volta: fusion of Mediterranean and contemporary cuisine in a modern space but in an old house.
   

• Reyes Católicos: an excellent option to try seasonal dishes with fresh products from the market.

Frequently asked questions about the old town of Jávea

How much time do I need to tour the old town of Jávea?
You can get to know the essentials in one morning, but we recommend taking at least a day to enjoy it calmly.

Is the old town of Jávea a pedestrian area?
Yes, much of the historic center is restricted to traffic, allowing you to walk safely and quietly.

Is there accommodation near the old town of Jávea?
Yes, although limited. Many visitors choose to rent a house or villa in the area. There are also boutique hotels and tourist apartments.

What is the best time to visit the old town of Jávea?
Spring and autumn are ideal, although summer offers more life and activities. In winter, the weather is still pleasant and calm.