Renting an apartment on the Costa Blanca seems simple: open Airbnb, filter by location and dates, and book the nicest one you see. But there are a few things worth knowing before you click. This article explains what an apartment on the Costa Blanca costs, what to look out for and why renting direct from an owner almost always works out cheaper.
How much does it cost to rent an apartment on the Costa Blanca?
The price depends on three factors: location, season and size. As a rule of thumb:
| Type | Guests | Low season | High season |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-bedroom apartment | 2 | €80-120/night | €120-180/night |
| 2-bedroom apartment | 4 | €120-160/night | €160-240/night |
| 3-bedroom apartment | 6 | €150-200/night | €220-320/night |
| Villa with private pool | 8-12 | €300-500/night | €500-900/night |
On top of that come final cleaning (usually 60-150 euros, one-off) and the Spanish tourist tax (0.45-2.25 euros per person per night). Some hosts also charge a security deposit of 200-500 euros, which is refunded after departure.
Note: on Airbnb you also pay a 6-12% guest service fee on top of the price. When you book direct, that surcharge disappears completely.
Calpe or Torrevieja: which location suits you?
Calpe
Northern Costa Blanca. Peaceful, authentic and famous for the Peñón de Ifach. Apartments here often have sea views and are an 8 to 15-minute drive from the beach.
- From:
- €143/night
- Airport:
- Alicante, 90 km
- Ideal for:
- Families, nature lovers, those seeking peace and quiet
Torrevieja
Southern Costa Blanca. Lively, international and compact. Most apartments are within walking distance of the beach and the promenade.
- From:
- €121/night
- Airport:
- Alicante, 50 km
- Ideal for:
- Winter visitors, couples, those who want facilities nearby
Not sure yet which location suits you best? Read our comparison Calpe or Torrevieja.
Checklist: what to look out for when renting
- ✓Check that the host has an official Spanish tourist licence number
- ✓Ask whether final cleaning is included or charged separately
- ✓Check the security deposit: how much, and when it is refunded
- ✓Ask about the cancellation policy for your travel dates
- ✓Confirm parking if you are arriving by car
- ✓Ask about Wi-Fi speed if you want to work or stream
- ✓Check that there is air conditioning (essential in summer)
- ✓Ask whether bed linen and towels are included
Renting direct versus via Airbnb or Booking.com
Most holiday rentals in Spain can be found on Airbnb, Booking.com or VRBO. Handy for comparing, but you pay more than necessary. Airbnb charges guests 6 to 12% in service fees. Booking.com charges hosts 15 to 20% commission, which is built into the price you see.
If you book direct with the owner, that margin disappears completely. Whatever you would have paid the platform stays in your pocket. For an apartment costing 1,000 euros a week, that is a difference of 60 to 200 euros.
More on this topic: Book direct or via Airbnb: an honest comparison.
What should a good apartment include?
A well-equipped holiday home on the Costa Blanca should offer at least:
- ✓Fully equipped kitchen (fridge, oven, microwave, coffee maker)
- ✓Air conditioning and heating
- ✓Fast Wi-Fi (at least 50 Mbit/s)
- ✓Bed linen and towels
- ✓Free parking
- ✓A clean home on arrival
Our apartments in Calpe and Torrevieja meet all of these points. Beach towels are available on request, and small pets are welcome by arrangement.
Renting an apartment on the Costa Blanca?
We rent out 7 apartments and a villa in Calpe and Torrevieja. Book direct, no platform fees, reply within 2 hours.