Alicante, Murcia or Valencia: where should you buy a home?

Buying property abroad takes careful preparation. Here we explain the key considerations for buyers living outside Spain who are thinking about purchasing an apartment or house here.

Three names, different geographical scales

Alicante and Valencia can refer to either the cities or their provinces; Murcia is both a city and a region. When comparing properties, always clarify which geographical area you mean. A beachside apartment in Alicante province is a very different proposition from a flat in central Valencia.

Alicante and the surrounding area

Alicante combines city life, a harbour, beaches and access to services. Beyond the city itself, the province offers plenty of coastal developments. Consider how seasonal each town is, the journey to the airport and the differences between the northern and southern Costa Blanca.

Murcia and its region

The city of Murcia is inland, while the region’s coast includes areas around the Mar Menor and Cartagena. Before you start searching, decide whether your priority is urban infrastructure or proximity to the sea.

Valencia and its province

Valencia appeals to buyers looking for a large city with year-round activity. Its province also offers quieter locations. Rather than relying on general rankings, compare travel times, running costs, building density and the availability of specific properties.

How to make an objective choice

Assess each location against five criteria: flight frequency from your country, travel times, actual costs, the types of services nearby and how comfortable it is to stay outside the main season. Your intended use of the property should determine how you rank the locations.

For information only: not legal or tax advice, or a guarantee of returns. Confirm the terms of your transaction with an independent professional.