The fortified church in the centre is one of Xabia’s most distinctive historic buildings.

Javea old town
Xabia’s historic old town shows a different side of the town: narrow streets, natural stone, the fortified church of Sant Bartomeu and the Mercado Municipal.

Javea is about more than coves and viewpoints. In the historic centre, the town’s history becomes visible in natural-stone façades, narrow streets, squares and buildings that are much older than the tourist neighbourhoods by the coast. The old town is a pleasant change from the beach for a quiet morning or a late-afternoon walk.
The market is right in the historic centre and forms part of the everyday character of the old town.
Streets, façades and squares show the traditional architecture of old Xabia.
Around Plaça de l’Església
A good starting point is the area around the church of Sant Bartomeu. Expanded over several centuries, it combines a religious role with the character of a fortified church. Around it are the town hall, market and small streets that are best explored without a fixed plan.
Old town instead of a beach day
When it is too hot, too windy or simply too busy for a long beach day, the historic centre is a good alternative. You do not need an elaborate plan: combine the market, church and streets, stop for a break and then continue towards the coast.
From the historic centre to Balcon al Mar
From the old town, the route leads back towards southern Javea. With us in Balcon al Mar, the mood changes to: greenery, terrace, bar and Mediterranean food. It is an easy way to finish the cultural part of the day with a relaxed evening.
Javea old town in pictures
Javea old town shows a completely different side of Xàbia from the coast. Natural stone, narrow streets, small squares, the Mercado Municipal and Sant Bartomeu church shape the historic centre. If you have mainly seen beaches and coves so far, the change of scenery is well worth it.
You do not need a fixed route for a relaxed visit. Wander through the streets, look around the market and take time to notice the façades and squares near the church. The old town works equally well as the main stop of the morning or as a slower break before heading back towards the coast.
From the centre you can continue south through Javea to Balcon al Mar. With us, the sightseeing part of the day can turn naturally into a relaxed evening on the terrace, at the bar or over dinner, combining town, coast and food without needing a tightly planned schedule.
After visiting Javea old town: come and see us in Balcon al Mar.
After the coast, a viewpoint or the old town, it is time for something good to eat. You’ll find us in Balcon al Mar at Carrer Cap Negre 3, with Mediterranean food, a charcoal grill, fish, burgers, pasta, an outdoor terrace and bar.
Frequently asked questions about Javea old town
What should you see in Javea old town?
Key stops include the fortified church of Sant Bartomeu, the Mercado Municipal and the streets of the historic centre.
How much time should you allow?
One to two hours is often enough for a relaxed walk; allow longer if you visit the market and stop for a break.
How does a visit to your restaurant fit into the day?
After the walk, head towards Balcon al Mar and finish the day with us over Mediterranean food.







