Revolution on the roads of Torrevieja: Paid parking zones and UBEs are coming

Torrevieja as we know it - with free, though often chaotic, parking in the center - is becoming history. In 2026, the city is implementing an ambitious mobility plan that introduces a system of regulated parking (ORA) and Clean Transportation Zones (ZBE). For residents and tourists, this means new rules, curb colors and fees.

The era of free parking is over

The city government has decided to introduce so-called ORA zones to force the rotation of cars in the busiest spots. The system will cover a total of more than 3,500 parking spaces. The changes are being implemented in two phases and cover two key areas:

1. City center: The area around Plaza de la Constitución, calle Ramón Gallud and the streets in the port (about 1,900 spaces).
2. Seaside strip: Streets adjacent to Playa del Cura and Playa de los Locos (about 1,600 spaces).

Know the colors of your rights - what do the new zones mean?

The color division is meant to make it easier to orient oneself, but for the inattentive it can end up in a fine.

• Blue Zone (Zona Azul): Intended for everyone. Stopping is limited in time (usually up to 2 hours). It's an ideal place for a quick shopping or coffee, but once the time is up, the car must be moved.
• GREEN ZONE (Zona Verde): These are "priority" zones, often located along major shopping arteries. Here, stopping times can be reduced to as little as 1 hour to maximize shopper turnover.
• PARISH ZONE (Resident): Key for registered persons (empadronados). Residents with a special card will be able to park here preferentially - with no time limit or at a fraction of the commercial rate.

How much will it cost?

Although the final price list depends on the specific subzone, the estimated rates for the Blue Zone are as follows:

• 30 minutes: about €0.40
• 1 hour: about €1.10
• 2 hours (maximum): about €2.70

Important: The fee will depend on the vehicle's environmental label (DGT). Electric cars (0) and hybrids (ECO) can expect significant discounts, while older diesels will pay the full rate.

Trap for tourists and benefits for residents

For Polish people living in Torrevieja, the most important step is to obtain a Resident Card. Without it, daily parking under the house in the center can become a huge expense. Tourists, on the other hand, must prepare to use mobile apps (such as Telpark), which allow them to pay for parking without looking for a parking meter.

What about cars without stickers? (ZBE)

The introduction of the toll zones coincides with the launch of the ZBE (Zona de Bajas Emisiones). A camera system at the entrances to the center will scan the plates. The oldest cars, which emit the most emissions, may be completely banned from entering the inner center, making the issue of parking in the area a non-issue for owners of older cars.

Summary for the reader

If you are going to the center of Torrevieja in 2026:

1. *Check the color of the lines on the asphalt
2. Download the parking app - you will save time and avoid problems with coins.
3. As a resident - make sure you have a current registration to apply for parking privileges.

The city argues that the changes will decongest the streets and improve air quality. For us road users, it's time to learn new habits and use underground parking or public transportation more often.