More and more people are deliberately swapping the dark months at home for the Costa Blanca. Not for a short break, but for an entire winter season: October through March. A long-term rental on the Costa Blanca is cheaper than you might think and more comfortable than a hotel. This article explains how it works, what it costs and what to look out for.
Why spend the winter on the Costa Blanca?
Escape the cold
The average winter temperature on the Costa Blanca is 15–18°C. Even in January the sun shines for an average of 5 hours a day.
Lower rental prices
Outside the summer season (October–April), rents are 30–50% lower than in July and August. Long-term stays earn an extra discount.
International community
Torrevieja and Calpe have large international expat communities from across Northern Europe. You will find familiar bakeries, shops and a warm social life.
Affordable lifestyle
Groceries, restaurants and activities are cheaper than in much of Northern Europe. A daily coffee on a sunny terrace costs €1.50.
Health benefits
More sun, outdoor exercise and a warm climate have a proven positive effect on joints and mood, especially for people who struggle with cold winters.
The winter climate month by month
| Month | Air | Sun | Sea | What to expect |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| October | 22°C | 7 hrs/day | 22°C | Ideal month to arrive. Quiet and affordable. |
| November | 18°C | 6 hrs/day | 20°C | Warm enough for terraces and walking. No crowds. |
| December | 15°C | 5 hrs/day | 17°C | Cool but sunny. Festive atmosphere in local villages. |
| January | 13°C | 5 hrs/day | 15°C | Quietest month. Ideal if you are looking for peace. |
| February | 14°C | 6 hrs/day | 15°C | Almond trees in blossom. Spring slowly arrives. |
| March | 17°C | 7 hrs/day | 16°C | Pleasantly warm. Ideal month to head home. |
How much does a long-term rental on the Costa Blanca cost?
For stays of a month or longer, hosts usually offer a monthly rate that is well below the sum of the weekly prices. For our apartments, the following guide prices apply for the winter season (October–April):
| Apartment | Guests | Monthly rate (winter) |
|---|---|---|
| Rincón (Calpe) | 2 | ± €1,200–1,500 |
| La Terraza / El Jardín (Calpe) | 4 | ± €1,400–1,800 |
| Palmeras Puerto / Costa Azul (Torrevieja) | 4 | ± €1,200–1,600 |
Including Wi-Fi, air conditioning and all amenities. The final cleaning fee is charged once. Contact us for an exact quote for your preferred dates; longer stays (3 months or more) qualify for an extra discount.
Calpe or Torrevieja for the winter?
Both destinations are excellent for wintering, but they each have their own character.
Calpe
- ✓Quiet and authentically Spanish
- ✓Smaller expat community
- ✓Beautiful walks (Peñón de Ifach)
- ✓Slightly cooler than Torrevieja
- –Fewer shops and amenities
- –Airport a little further away (90 km)
Torrevieja
- ✓Largest expat community
- ✓Everything within walking distance (beach, market, doctor)
- ✓Slightly warmer climate
- ✓Airport closer (50 km)
- –Busier and more touristy
- –Less of a Spanish atmosphere
Detailed comparison: Calpe or Torrevieja: how to choose the right destination.
Practical tips for winter residents
- ✓Book as early as possible, popular winter periods (November–February) fill up early.
- ✓Ask your host whether the heating is adequate for the cooler evenings (December–January).
- ✓Sort out your post: arrange mail forwarding or ask someone at home to collect it.
- ✓Make sure you have a European Health Insurance Card or travel insurance that covers longer stays.
- ✓Register with your country's embassy or consulate if you are staying longer than 90 days.
- ✓Check whether you need to inform the authorities in your home country about a longer absence.
Interested in a long-term rental?
Contact us for a tailored quote for your preferred dates and apartment. We reply within 2 hours.