Ciudad Quesada is located on the Costa Blanca South just 8 kilometers north from the major town of Torrevieja.
Nearby towns include Rojales and San Fulgencio.
Getting to Ciudad Quesada from the nearest airports is straightforward, our Ciudad Quesada airport transfers page has all the options and prices for you.
Ciudad Quesada is inland from the coast so it may not be your first choice for a place to stay in – if you are looking for a beach holiday on the Southern Costa Blanca there are better choices.
Ciudad Quesada is an unusual town because it really didn’t exist until the early 1970’s when a Spanish entrepreneur called Justo Quesada Samper decided to start his own town. The urbanisation grew and finally it was accepted as a real Spanish town.
Ciudad Quesada is a popular place where many people live all the whole year round. It has plenty of shops, bars and Ciudad Quesada restaurants.
Ciudad Quesada also has a golf course and aqua park so it does have its own unique attractions. It really depends on what you are after for your holiday.
Many award-winning sandy blue flag beaches are just a few minutes drive away at Guardamar del Segura. The urbanisation is well-designed with good landscaped features. The views are good, inland you have mountains, the countryside surrounding Ciudad Quesdada includes orange groves and the salt lakes of Torrevieja.
Moving to and Living in Ciudad Quesada
If you have any intention of moving to Ciudad Quesada, you simply MUST read our THREE expat interviews below. We start with local estate agentJohn Clark from Sapphire Properties in which we quiz him on many aspects of life in Ciudad Quesada.
What would you say would be the advantages to living in Quesadacompared to other Costa Blancatowns?
Quesada is a large multi-national, multi cultural town offering a wide diversity of properties as well as bars & restaurants offering a wide variety of cuisines, all of this located 10 minutes by car from the golden sandy beaches of the Costa Blanca South.
Would the area not suit certain types of people, i.e. are there any possible downsides?
Parts of Quesada are built on a hill with steep roads and pavements, therefore, certain parts of the town may be difficult for people with mobility problems.
What proportion of the local population are Spanish?
The Spanish population of Quesada is approximately 40-50%, of the overall population, the remaining 50% is made up from variety of nations mainly from Europe.
What are your favourite things to do in the area?
Depends on the individual, there is lots to do in the region. Golf, walks on the beach, cycling, pony trekking, there are lots of different activities for people, there is even a local amateur dramatics club.
Can you give us some insider tips to the best bars or restaurants?
Da Silvas & Laurels restaurants in Quesada are very nice restaurants, within a 5 minute drive from Quesada is an Indian restaurant called Tasty Bites, this has the best Indian food I have ever tasted (No racial implications meant here, but this is from a man who lived in Bradford for 25 years).
Are there many facilities such as doctors and dentists, shops etc?
Yes, there is a doctors surgery which has only been there for 3 years, there are also dental practices in Quesada & Torrevieja who speak English. Quesada High Street has a variety of shops, and there are probably 6 different supermarkets with shops in Quesada.
Are there smaller villages nearby that you might also recommend?
Yes, a variety of smaller villages are only 10-15 minutes away by car:
La Siesta
Daya Vieja
Daya Nueva
Los Montesinos
San Fulgencio
Algorfa
El Raso
What are the nearest international schools and how good are they?
There is a Norwegian school in Quesada for Scandinavian children, there is also international school in Villamartin called El Limonar.
Is crime an issue for expats?
No more than in any other region of Spain or the UK.
Coming onto buying property, what is the market like now in terms of prices going up, or down or staying the same?
2020 saw the best start to the market in a long time, especially once the decision to leave the EU was finally ratified.
Is this a good time to buy and are there any repossessions or very cheap properties still available to buy?
Property sales continue throughout the year, the summer months from the end of July to the start of September are usually quiet. This is because these are the main holiday periods here in Spain and therefore a lot of banks, solicitors & notaries close at midday.
How much are the typical property prices in Quesadafor apartments, villas etc?
Apartments in Quesada start from 50,000€, Townhouses from 110,000€, Villas with private pool from 200,000€.
Any tips and advice to people looking to buy in Quesadaor surrounding area?
Look to buy through an agent who is a member of the AIPP, always use a solicitor most agents are able to recommend a solicitor. Use a currency exchange company for the exchange of any currency, you will get better rates from them than you do the banks. Make sure you get a copy of the contract in English & Spanish.
How much does it cost to rent in Ciudad Quesada for an apartment or villa on a long-term rental basis?
Apartments circa 300€ per month. Town House circa 550€ per month. Villa circa 650€ per month.
John, thank you so much for taking the time to help our readers with your experiences in Spain. If you enjoyed this interview we also have a related interview from Sue Clark of Sapphire Properties about moving to nearby Rojales.
Sapphire Properties
Business Address: Local 22, Avda de Las Naciones 1a Ciudad Quesada 03170 Rojales Alicante
Next we interview Gary Ford from Villas Amarillas to find out what it might be like if you are considering moving to and living in Ciudad Quesdada.
Gary what would you say would be the advantages to living in Quesada compared to other Costa Blanca towns?
Amenities. Quesada has a large residential population so there are plenty of amenities and everything is (usually…except during global pandemics!) open all year round. Lots of bars, supermarkets, restaurants, aquapark, golf course and nice people…
Would the area not suit certain types of people, i.e. are there any possible downsides?
No real downsides, but you cannot walk to the beach, which some clients would prefer.
What proportion of the local population are Spanish?
Ciudad Quesada is part of Rojales, so figures are combined with the town. The population is approximately 18,000. Of which around 45% are Spanish, 25% British, 15% Scandanavian and 15% other nationalities.
What are your favourite things to do in the area?
The area includes El Recorral Natural Park which is great for walking with my family. The golf course is being extensively modernised and improved and is a good challenge. The aquapark is great fun and value for money. My daughters love it. We also love trying new restaurants. The amazing beaches of Guardamar are only 10 minutes away and are some of the finest in Spain. Zenia Boulevard, the largest shopping centre in the Valencian Province is only 15 minutes away and offers occasional retail therapy….
Can you give us some insider tips to the best bars or restaurants?
There are over 100 restaurants in Ciudad Quesada and Rojales. My favourite is Day and Night on the main Avenida De Las Naciones. It combines a variety of Mediterranean influences with great service and pleasant atmosphere. For something more authentically Spanish, La Noria in the centre of Rojales is superb.
Are there many facilities such as doctors and dentists, shops etc?
Yes, we have 2 medical centres, a 24 emergency centre, some excellent dental surgeries offering multiple languages – nobody likes to try and translate with a mouthful of tools…
Are there smaller villages nearby that you might also recommend?
Ciudad Quesada is surrounded by smaller Spanish towns and villages. I like Algorfa, Los Montesinos, Benijofar, Formentera Del Segura, Guardamar Del Segura, all within a 10 minute drive.
What are the nearest international schools and how good are they?
There is a private Norwegian School in Quesada and a new international school due to open this year. As the moment the nearest for British children is El Limonar in Villamartin, around 20 minutes drive away.
Is crime an issue for expats?
There is not a big crime issue in the area. What little crime we have is usually aimed at tourists as they have ready cash and tend to forget about security while on holiday.
Coming onto buying property, what is the market like now in terms of prices going up, or down or staying the same? Is this a good time to buy and are there any repossessions or very cheap properties still available to buy?
Sales have been strengthening since the last big crash of 2008. There is still a good supply of great value properties coming on the market so we are always a busy office. The current lockdown could see a surge in demand once it is finished especially when combined with the end of the Brexit transmission period. There are very few repossessions in the area as most properties were built to order. Unlike some other areas of Spain we do not have massive developments, but have smaller developments built in stages. This has prevented the market being flooded with cheap repossessions from failed developers.
What urbanisations are there and can you describe each one and how they might differ from each other?
Ciudad Quesada has lots of urbanisations within the town. These all have different characteristics and their own commercial areas. For example, Doña Pepa is known for low density housing, nice communities built around communal swimming pools and independent large detached villas. Other urbanisations include Pueblo Bravo, which has recently seen a wave of new developments and a brand new supermarket; Pueblo Lucero at the back of Quesada is seeing some luxury new developments with sea views and fantastic modern architecture.
How much are the typical property prices in Quesada for apartments, villas etc?
For such a large town, they are surprisingly few apartments. Build height has always been limited to 7 metres (two storeys) in Ciudad Quesada so it was more cost effective for the Quesada family to build villas and townhouses rather than apartments. Generally you can pick up a resale apartment for around €75,000 and villas start from around €110,000 upwards. There are many new developments in the area which are more expensive but offer the modern style and architecture which range from €150,000 for a 2 bed apartment up to €2,500,000 for a luxury villa.
Any tips and advice to people looking to buy in Quesada or surrounding area?
My advice is always do your homework. Choose a reputable agent and make sure you have a good idea of what is important to you before you start looking for a property. Ciudad Quesada is a large area and offers something for everyone but not all parts suit all people. For example, the area around the golf course is very hilly so may not suit someone with limited mobility whereas the area around the main entrance is bustling which would not be suitable for someone looking for a quiet area. Also use a good lawyer to avoid any pitfalls.
How much does it cost to rent an apartment or villa on a long-term rental basis?
Long term rentals are now in very short supply. Average prices for a 2 bed apartment on a six month contract would be between €350 and €1,500 per month (we have some stunning new build apartments in the area). A villa could range from €600 to €5,000 per month. Again the town offers something for everyone….
Thank you Gary for taking the time to help our readers with your experience of Ciudad Quesada.
Villas Amarillas
Business Address: CalleAzulNo5, CiudadQuesada 03170Rojales, Alicante
Next we interview Nicola Kemp from Barcelo Real Estate to find out what it might be like if you may be thinking whether you should move to and live in Ciudad Quesdada.
What would you say would be the advantages to living in Quesada compared to other Costa Blanca towns?
We are well connected to the airports of both Alicante and Murcia, and surrounded by so many towns and villages that there really is something for everyone here. There is a friendly community vibe, and even though there are so many different nationalities that live here, it never feels segregated at all. The area is popular in winter too, so unlike other areas along the coast it stays busy all year round – and all this just 10 minutes from some of the best beaches in Spain!
Would the area not suit certain types of people, i.e. are there any possible downsides?
Quesada is actually spread over a fairly large area, and it’s built over a hill. For people who enjoy peace and quiet the area close to the centre may not be ideal, and for people who want to be in the middle of the action Lo Pepin may not suit them. Also anyone with mobility problems might not be keen to be at the top of the hill or golf course area.
What proportion of the local population are Spanish?
Around half, and then the rest is made up mostly of other European nationalities.
What are your favourite things to do in the area?
Sampling the areas gastronomic delights, enjoying the sun at the pool or beach, going for hikes in the Spanish countryside, hopping in the car and exploring, and of course visiting the local towns and villages for their fiestas. When I have visitors with children we head to the Aqua Parks, the market and fun fair in Torrevieja, Elche Rio Safari Zoo and the Quesada mini golf just to name a few things!
Can you give us some insider tips to the best bars or restaurants?
Da Silvas Restaurant is a favourite of mine and my parents, they serve really great international cuisine. For pizza and pasta you can’t beat 222 in Doña Pepa near the Hotel Laguna, it’s owned by an Italian man and serves very authentic Italian food. Pintxos Tapas bar has a great menu with a variety of food for a more Spanish feel. Vista Lounge cafe/bar on the Quesada high street has great entertainment, and they do good co*cktails. La Taberna is also worth a visit for a cosy pub atmosphere inside and has a terrace outside, with live music some nights of the week!
Are there many facilities such as doctors and dentists, shops etc?
Ciudad Quesada has it’s own state medical centre, as well as private doctors and dentists too. There are a number of pharmacies around town, hairdressers and plenty of shops. With the exception of a few specialty items you can definitely find everything you need here for day to day life.
Are there smaller villages nearby that you might also recommend?
Of course Benijófar and Rojales are our closest neighbours, they both have a number of lovely bars and restaurants and put on wonderful fiestas throughout the year. Los Montesinos is also lovely, and on the coast 10 minutes away you’ll find Guardamar del Segura and La Mata which both have fantastic white sandy beaches.
What are the nearest international schools and how good are they?
There is an international school in Villamartin called El Limonar, and Ciudad Quesada has it’s own Norwegian school too. Another international school is set to open soon in Ciudad Quesada, maybe after the summer of 2020. All the schools have very good reputations, as do the local state schools.
Is crime an issue for expats?
There is no issue with crime around the area. It goes without saying though that you have to be vigilant, lock doors and be aware, as there are always opportunists around particularly in the summer months when there are a few more holidaymakers around!
Coming onto buying property, what is the market like now in terms of prices going up, or down or staying the same?
2020 started off quite well, the decision on Brexit was finally made which has given people renewed confidence, and we have seen a large number of enquiries and buyers in the first quarter of the year. Prices are stable for now, and I don’t see them dropping in the immediate future.
Is this a good time to buy and are there any repossessions or very cheap properties still available to buy?
It’s always a great time to buy in Spain! Around Quesada there are still bargains to be had, but it’s not an area which has an abundance of bank repossessions. Very few builders have had issues here, so most properties are successfully sold off as planned.
What urbanisations are there and can you describe each one and how they might differ from each other?
The central part of Quesada is the original area, which consists mainly of villas on larger plots with private swimming pools. Doña Pepa and Lo Marabú are close to the centre, they are areas very popular for holiday homes as well as residents, there are plenty of amenities in these areas, and alot of nice townhouses on communities with shared pools. Pueblo Bravo, La Fiesta and Lo Pepin are a few other areas to check out. The area around the golf course and Pueblo Lucero also has some lovely properties with great views!
How much are the typical property prices in Quesada or apartments, villas etc?
Apartments can be found for 50.000€ upwards, townhouses or bungalows from 100.000€ and then villas with or without private pools upwards of around 180.000€.
Any tips and advice to people looking to buy in Quesada or surrounding area?
Come and explore! It’s a lovely area, so what better excuse for a visit than to come and see which part is best for you? Find an agent you feel comfortable with and arrange a tour with them, and when you know exactly what you want to buy then definitely consult with a good independent solicitor. Agents can also recommend currency exchange companies to get you the best deals on exchange rate if needed.
Thanks Nicola for taking the time to help our readers with your advice on life in Ciudad Quesada.
Barceló Real Estate
Business Address: Calle Adelfas, 3, 03170 Urb. Ciudad Quesada, Rojales (Alicante).
Ciudad Quesada has it’s own golf course called La Marquesa golf and country club. Also near to Ciudad Quesada is La Finca golf, Royal Campoamor golf and Las Ramblas golf.
Beaches in Ciudad Quesada
There are no beaches actually in Ciudad Quesada as it is slightly inland but there are numerous excellent beaches close by. The nearest beaches are at Guardamar del Segura, La Mata (also known as Torrelamata) and Torrevieja.
Before you head to the beaches see the latest Ciudad Quesada weather below:
Thanks to Violet for sending us this recommendation:
“The Indian Ocean Restaurant before Quesada, on the main road leading to Guardamar, near the La Laguna Hotel is by far the very best Indian Restaurant I have ever been to over years. The food is excellent, the venue itself is very pleasant, easy parking, the staff are really friendly…..no down side except that they close at 3pm till early evening if you usually have a late lunch!Cannot wait to go back again after yesterdays lovely visit.”
We also have other recommendations on our Ciudad Quesada restaurant page.
4 Must-do Tourist Excursions
If you are going to a holiday to Ciudad Quesada, here are some of our ideas for excursions so you make the most of your trip to the Costa Blanca South:
1. Visit the inland town of Elche famous for its palms. 2. Go south and enjoy La Manga. 3. The historic city of Murcia is not far. 4. If you want history, neighbouring Rojales has a older feel to it including cave houses.
Official Tourist Offices
You won’t find anofficial tourist information office in Quesada but there are nearby offices inRojales, Torrevieja or Guardamar– for telephone numbers, addresses and emails see our Costa Blancatourist office page.
Are you an expat in Ciudad Quesada? What do you like/dislike about it? Let us know in the comments box at the bottom of the page.
Tourist Information – Page Summary – This page contains unique content about the inland town of Ciudad Quesada on the southern Costa Blanca coast of Spain. Please help us to make this the number one tourist resource for Ciudad Quesada by adding any comments, reviews, ratings and feedback on any aspect of Quesada that you know about. We also welcome your photos, pictures and videos of Ciudad Quesada for posting on our website.
Most Important Ciudad Quesada Pages:
Airport Transfers to Ciudad Quesada
Ciudad Quesada Car Hire
Ciudad Quesada Estate Agents
Ciudad Quesada Map
Ciudad Quesada Property Guide
Ciudad Quesada Weather
Urbanisation Dona Pepa
Nearby Towns & Resorts:
La Marina
Guardamar
Rojales
Torrevieja
Costa Blanca Tourism
Costa Blanca Golf
About the Author
Mark Eastwood
Main author and owner of SpainMadeSimple.com which was started in 2004 when I first moved to Spain.
Spain Made Simple features expert advice on all aspects of moving to and living in Spain as well as useful tourist information and travel tips.
As well as my own articles we have many contributions from professionally qualified experts in varied occupations in Spain.
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Its unique blend of modern conveniences, scenic beauty, and vibrant community life makes it an appealing choice for anyone looking to enjoy the best of the Spanish coast.
Another benefit of living in Ciudad Quesada is that some of the most stunning beaches in the area are just a short 10 to 15 minute drive away. La Mata beach, Guardamar del Segura and Torrevieja are some of the closest ones to name a few.
San Miguel de Salinas represents the ideal location if you want to have the best of both worlds, ie easy access to beaches and golf, but in a traditional, friendly Spanish environment, which doesn't get too busy in the summer, or deserted in the winter.
The peace Rojales is located in the southern interior of the province of Alicante, very close to the Mediterranean Sea. Rojales is a pleasant, traditional and very social town. Share inhabitants of different cultures and nationalities. The peace that is breathed in this town is one of the wonders of Rojales.
The nearest airport to Quesada is Arenal (FON) Airport which is 22.5 km away. Other nearby airports include San Jose (SJO) (44.2 km), Cobano (ACO) (101.4 km), Quepos (XQP) (104 km) and Liberia (LIR) (124.7 km).
Playa Tecolutla is the closest beach in kilometres from Mexico City. Thanks to the highway that runs almost the entire route between CDMX and Tecolutla, it's also the fastest one to get to and is completely free to use, though there are charges for umbrella and table usage.
However, there are several beaches within driving distance from San Jose. The distance from San Jose to the beach is approximately 120 miles to the Pacific Ocean coastline, making it a great destination for beach lovers. One of the nearest beaches to San Jose is Jaco, which is about 1 hour and 30 minutes away by car.
San Miguel de Salinas is situated about 7 miles from the coastline of Orihuela Costa. This charming municipality has quite a few residents, which means that it is a lively town all year round.
Address: 359 Kelvin Stream, Lake Eldonview, MT 33517-1242
Phone: +577037762465
Job: Product Hospitality Supervisor
Hobby: Gardening, Web surfing, Video gaming, Amateur radio, Flag Football, Reading, Table tennis
Introduction: My name is Manual Maggio, I am a thankful, tender, adventurous, delightful, fantastic, proud, graceful person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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