Top 10 Must-Have Apps for Expats Living on the Costa Blanca

Moving to Spain is exciting, but adjusting as an expat can be difficult—especially when dealing with language barriers, unfamiliar services, and local logistics. Fortunately, your smartphone can be a valuable ally. Here are ten apps that will make life easier, smoother, and more enjoyable on the Costa Blanca.

1. Google Translate—Instantly translate menus, documents, or real-time conversations.
2. Bizum/Bank App (e.g., CaixaBank, BBVA, Santander) Bizum is Spain’s instant-payment system. Almost everyone uses it, particularly to split bills or pay for local services.
3. Glovo/Just Eat/Uber Eats—Get food, groceries, or pharmacy items delivered right to your door—especially useful if you’re in a more urban area like Alicante or Torrevieja.
4. El Tiempo/AEMET— Reliable weather forecasts are essential when living in a hot climate with frequent weather changes.
5. Renfe/Omio/ALSA—for booking trains and buses and travelling throughout Spain and Europe.
6. Google Maps and Moovit—for navigating unfamiliar roads, walking trains, and public transportation
7. Idealista—Spain’s most popular app for finding rental or for-sale properties.
8. Tuenti/Lobster/Vodafone ES – Manage your mobile phone plan, check data, recharge, or contact customer service.
9. Wallapop – Spain’s version of Facebook Marketplace—is ideal for buying and selling furniture and electronics, as well as finding secondhand bargains when settling in.
10. Meetup/Facebook Groups—Social apps that allow you to connect with other expats, attend local events, and engage in language exchange.

Living in Spain requires adjusting to new routines and systems, but with the right apps, you can feel more confident, connected, and independent right away. Whether you’re trying to figure out your phone plan, navigating the streets of Alicante, or repaying your neighbour for tapas, there’s an app to help.