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Alicante Tourist Information: BEST Things to Do & See

Table of Contents

This page is all about the town of Alicante on the Costa Blanca coast of Spain.

It contains useful Alicante tourist information for people intending to visit or holiday in Alicante.

Alicante Tourist Information

In this tourist guide to the tourist resort of the city of Alicante the gateway to the Costa Blanca of Spain we help visitors who are planning a trip with useful and practical advice on many tourism related subjects such as car hire, accommodation, apartment rental, villa rental, hotels, hostels, map, sightseeing, weather, where to go, where to stay, travel information and what to see and do in Alicante.

To make the best of your visit and holiday we cover everything you need to know about Alicante. We also have photos, picture galleries, views, videos and Alicante webcams of Alicante.

If you are thinking of actually living in this region of Spain you will need help for jobs for expats in Alicante .

Alicante Airport

Alicante is a very well-known city primarily because of Alicante airport through which many of the visitors to the Costa Blanca arrive. Alicante has one of the three international airports that service the Costa Blanca.

Alicante is also the capital of the Costa Blanca although it has quite a small population of approximately 300,000.

Strangely enough, most people arrive at Alicante airport and then head out of Alicante at the first opportunity, strange because there are many attractions of the city in particular Alicante has some of the finest beaches in the whole of the Costa Blanca.

Alicante is the busiest of the three hubs on the Costa Blanca, Valencia Airport, Murcia Airport and Alicante Airport provides the gateway for tourists and locals arriving on the Costa Blanca.

Of these three airports Alicante Airport is the busiest owing to the diversity of flights, destinations and carriers it has on offer.

El Altet is located twelve kilometres or eight miles to the south of the city, and although the city of Alicante is not known as a tourist destination in itself, the city does have a lot to offer in terms of beaches, shopping, bars, restaurants, pubs, nightlife, excursions, monuments, museums, parks, as well as good selection of city hotels in all categories and to suit all budgets.

Bus from Alicante Airport to Alicante City Centre

There is a regular bus service going to downtown Alicante every twenty minutes.

The C6 will take people who want to catch the train further afield directly to the train station, bus station for those wanting to catch buses to places such as Benidorm, and the tram station which connects people to some of the smaller sea side resorts as well.

The journey time takes approximately forty minutes at a cost of €3.

Taxi from Alicante Airport to Alicante City Centre

This is the easiest and fastest way to get to Alicante but not the cheapest. The journey time from Alicante Airport to Downtown Alicante is about fifteen minutes depending on traffic.

You can expect to pay €14 for a day fare and if arriving at the Alicante Airport late at night or during a fiesta you can expect to pay €16 for a party of four.

Train from Alicante Airport to the Centre of Alicante

At this moment in time there is no train station at Alicante Airport itself and tourists who want to catch a train to the sea side resorts on the Northern Costa Blanca can take a taxi or catch the C6 bus to the train station in Alicante to be able to travel by train further afield.

Private Transfer from Alicante Airport to Alicante City

There are many shuttle service companies providing transfers from Alicante Airport to Downtown Alicante. The most popular shuttle companies offering competitive rates include Resort Hoppa and Shuttle Direct.

A private transfer with Shuttle Direct costs €10 per person one way for a party of four. This kind of transfer is much like a taxi service with the exception that the transfer is pre booked with the option of using the shuttle service as well on the day of departure.

The travel time to Downtown Alicante from Alicante Airport again would be approximately fifteen minutes

Car Hire at Alicante Airport

Car hire companies include Atesa, Auriga, Avis, Centauro, Europcar, Europa, Gold Car, Hertz, Record, Sixt and Sol Mar.

Costs of hiring a car are dependent on the time of year, model and duration of the rental period. The journey time of course would also be approximately an hour.

You can choose to pre book car hire which is a smart thing to do especially during the busy tourist season or organise the car hire after arriving at Alicante Airport.

As Alicante Airport is so close to the city centre it is up to the individual to either catch the airport bus which is the cheapest, or catch a taxi or even book a private transfer.

Some holidaymakers who arrive on late flights at Alicante Airport do check into the city hotels before travelling further to the villas and apartments which they have booked and find that owing to the late hour that a taxi ride is the best option for them.

Alicante Sights and Attractions

Alicante promenade is also worthy of note. The ‘Explanada de Espana” is lined with palm trees and a great place for a walk in the evening as many Spanish families do.

Also worthy of note is Alicante castle which overlooks the city and surrounding area providing spectacular views. The castle dates from the sixteenth century and is well-preserved.

The northern Costa Blanca which reaches Denia in the north , to Orihuela in the south. Alicante is classed as one of the most healthy cities in the world with over 320 days of sunshine a year.

Alicante has a diverse population from the North-African Moroccans to the South-Americans, Spanish as well as a steady influx of tourists.

The busy marina and harbour offers ferry destinations to Alger and Oran in Algeria.

Alicante has what is known as a Mediterranean climate which means long hot summers with very little or no rainfall, and cool sometimes wet winters.

Alicante is known for the Santa Barbara castle, the Santa Barbara Castle is one of the largest medieval fortresses in Europe with far reaching views across the city.

Make sure you visit the local market selling fresh fruits and vegetables as well as other locally-made goods and produce – market day in Alicante is on a Tuesday and Thursday.

The best way to see Alicante is with the Turibus. Alicante is a very busy city with heavy traffic and getting around the city by car can be a daunting experience.

The Turibus tours the city from 10am until 2pm and then from 5pm until 7pm and has an eighty passenger capacity. A ticket costs only €8 (€5 for kids and pensioners) and is valid all day so you can hop on and off as many times as you like.

The bus stops at all the popular tourist attractions such as the Plaza del Mar, Archaeological Museum, Sta Barbabra Castle, Central Market, Luceros, Renfe Station, Maisonnave (the shopping area), the Theatre and the Rambla.

Alicante Beaches

Alicante is also blessed with many beautiful beaches. Here is a list of the most popular ones.

Playa Postiguet is within walking distance from the town center, this beach is popular all year round both with locals and with visitors. The promenade goes along the full length of the long beach and is flanked by palm trees. Good facilities, golden sand, life guards, beach bars and nearby restaurants.

The Cala de la Palmera and Cala Cantalars both form part of the Cabo Huertas rocky cape which reaches out into the deep blue Mediterranean sea, it has crystal clear water, ideal for snorkelling, but no services. Family-friendliest in the summer months.

The Playa de San Juan is Alicante’s longest and best beach, stretching along for more than seven kilometers of fine white sand it has excellent facilities, life guards during the summer months.

It has beach bars, restaurants along its long promenade and a play area for children. This beach is very popular during the summer months so come early.

Just north of San Juan there is the Playa Muchavista which offers the same services and facilities but isn’t as busy in the summer months.

El Campello’s main beach is the Playa Carrer La Mar consisting of small bays with both pebbles and sand. It has a lovely promenade with bars and restaurants. Ideal for families it also has a play area.

The Playa Almadrava is a small sand and pebble beach with no services, life guards or facilities.

The Playa Agua Amarga is situated on the southern side of Alicante and can be seen from the coastal road linking Alicante and the airport.

The Playa Urbanova on the south side of Alicante is framed by apartment complexes and has all the facilities and services. This beach becomes very busy during the summer months and is frequented by the locals and tourists.

The Playa Arenales del Sol is one of Alicante’s finest beaches has dunes and fine white sand is popular with young people with many bars and restaurants close by.

Alicante Tourist Offices (Oficina de Turismo)

Alicante Tourist Office Address: Avenida Rambla Mendez Nuñez 41, 03002, Alicante. Telephone: +34 965 200 000 Email: [email protected] Opening Hours: Monday to Friday from 9:00 to 20:00 h. Saturdays from 10:00 to 20:00 h. Sundays and holidays from 10:00 to 14:00 h.

Alicante Airport Tourist Office (Aeropuerto) Address: Aeropuerto Alicante (Terminal Llegadas T1 L’Altet). 03195. Alicante – Alacant. Telephone: +34 966 919 367 E-mail: [email protected] Website: https://www.visitelche.com Opening Hours/Times: January Hours: Closed Mondays except Monday 21 (open from 09:00 to 16:00 h.) Tuesday, from 09:00 to 19:00 h. Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 9:00 to 16:00 h. Saturdays from 9:00 to 14:00 h. exc. Saturday 19, closed. Sunday and Jan. 1, closed.

Alicante Tourist Office (Renfe) Address: Avenida Salamanca s/n (Junto a la Estación de Ferrocarril), 03005, Alicante-Alacant. Telephone: +34 965 125 633 Email: [email protected] Opening Times: Monday to Friday, 09:00 to 14:00. and from 16:15 to 18:30 h. Saturdays from 10:00 to 14:00 h.

Alicante Tourist Office (Centro) Address: Calle Portugal 17 (Estación Autobuses), 03003, Alicante-Alacant. Email: [email protected] Telephone: +34 965 929 802 Website: https://www.alicanteturismo.com Opening Times: Monday to Friday, 09:00 to 14:00.

Alicante Tourist Office (Explanada) Address: Avenida Explanada de España 1, Edificio Carbonell, 03002, Alicante-Alacant. Telephone: +34 965 147 038 Email: [email protected] Opening Times: Monday to Friday, 09:00 to 14:00. and from 16:15 to 18:30 h. Saturdays from 10:00 to 14:00 h.

Alicante Tourist Office (University – Universidad) Address: Soc. Relaciones Intern. Campus San Vte. Raspeig. 03080. Sant Vicent del Raspeig.

Alicante Tourist Office (Playa de San Juan) Address: Avenida de Niza, s/n (Junto Cruz Roja). 03540. San Juan (Alicante-Alacant) Telephone: +34 965 266 106 Email: [email protected]

IMPORTANT ALICANTE PHONE NUMBERS

Town Hall: 96 514 91 00 Local Police: 96 510 72 00 Airport Alicante: 96 691 90 00 Red Cross: 96 525 25 25 Customs: 96 520 76 46 Fire Brigade: 96 598 22 22 Iberdrola: 96 520 21 33 Post Office: 96 521 99 84

Page Summary – This page contains unique content about the beach resort of Alicante, a popular tourist destination on the Costa Blanca coast of Spain.

Don’t Miss Our Related Alicante Pages…

Alicante Airport Parking
Alicante Airport Transfers
Alicante Car Hire
Alicante Estate Agents
Alicante Long Term Rentals
Alicante Weather
Alicante Webcams

Main Costa Blanca Guide

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Mark Eastwood

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Reader Interactions

Trinidad Garcia says

March 3, 2017 at 2:32 am

Thank You very much for this excellent information ,looking forward to an excellent stay in Alicante and will be homebase for my wife an I . Looking forward to this wonderful trip as it is our first trip to Europe and will begin in Spain and will end in Spain. Again Thank You.

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1.1 Climate
2.1 By plane
2.2 By train
2.3 By tram
2.5 By boat
3.1 By tram and bus
3.2 By taxi
4.1 Historic sites
4.2 Museums and galleries
5.1 Performing arts
5.2 Festivals
5.3 Cinemas
5.4 Beaches
7.1 Indoor markets
7.2 Street markets
8.1.1 City centre
8.1.2 Carolinas Altas
8.2 Mid-range
8.3 Splurge
10.1 Budget
10.2 Mid-range
10.3 Splurge

Alicante ( Valencian : Alacant ) is a popular tourist city of 332,000 people (2018) in the Valencian Community of Spain . It is the capital of Alicante province and a historic Mediterranean port. The city has become a hub of tourism directed to the beaches of the Costa Blanca .

Understand [ edit ]

The city is believed to have been founded by the Carthaginian general Hamilcar Barca, who established the fortified settlement of Akra Leuka (Greek: Ἄκρα Λευκή, meaning 'White Mountain' or 'White Point'), where Alicante stands today. It was later conquered by the Romans who renamed it Lucentum . In mediaeval times, Alicante became a major Mediterranean trading station, exporting rice, wine, olive oil, oranges and wool.

38.34522 -0.48126 2 Tourist Info Alicante Ayuntamiento , Plaza del Ayuntamiento, 1 ( in the city hall ), ☏ +34 965 149 219 , [email protected] . M-F 09:00-14:00 16:00-18:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00 . ( updated May 2016 )
38.37474 -0.41042 3 Tourist info Alicante Platja del San Juan , Avda de Niza, s/n ( Playa de San Juan / San Juan Beach ), [email protected] . Jul-Aug: daily 10:30-14:30 17:30-20:30 . ( updated May 2016 )
38.3445 -0.4951 4 Tourist Info Alicante Renfe , Avda de Salamanca, s/n ( in the main train station ), ☏ +34 965 125 633 , [email protected] . M-F 09:30-14:00 16:30-19:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00 . ( updated May 2016 )

Climate [ edit ]

Get in [ edit ].

By plane [ edit ]

Bus C6 [dead link] ( ☏ +34 902 106 992 , [email protected] ) connects the airport with the city, departing every 20 minutes from a bus stop at the departure level (level +2) of new terminal. Don't get confused between the departure level (level +2) and the bus level (level -2); the latter is used by charter buses. The city bus takes about 20 minutes to the city centre, where it follows a circular route. It stops near the Alicante bus station, at Plaza Puerta del Mar, near the Archaeological Museum , next to the central market, at Plaza Luceros, and on its way back to the airport near the train station. A one-way ride costs €3.85 (2019). Tickets can be purchased from an attendant on the platform either card or cash. The buses run from 6:00 until 23:00; a complete schedule is available here [dead link] .

A taxi to the city will cost €20-25. Cabs can be caught at the arrival level (level 0) of the new terminal. A dozen car rental agencies including Avis , Budget , Hertz and Europcar are on the arrival floor of the new terminal.

By train [ edit ]

By tram [ edit ], by bus [ edit ].

38.3375 -0.4914 4 Estació Autobusos Alacant ( Estación de Autobuses de Alicante / Alicante Bus Station ), Muelle de Poniente, s/n ( by Avda de Loring ), ☏ +34 965 130 700 , [email protected] . ALSA has many lines, including to Valencia , Barcelona and Granada ; a complete listing of all connections can be found here . Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the bus station. Public city buses lines 6 and 24 both start and terminate at this location. Travellers should always be attentive, as this station is well-known for baggage thieves. ( updated May 2016 )

By boat [ edit ]

38.34538 -0.4804 6 Compañía Romeu , C/ Jorge Juan, 6 , ☏ +34 965 141 509 , fax : +34 965 208 290 , [email protected] . The local agent for Algerie Ferrie, which operates bi-weekly ferries to/from Oran and Algiers . ( updated Oct 2017 )

Get around [ edit ]

If you stay in the old town, most areas of interest are within walking distance.

By tram and bus [ edit ]

Public transportation is provided by trams (described above ) and buses. Visitors intending to use both systems may want to consider purchasing a rechargeable Bono Móbilis Multiviaje [dead link] card, which costs €8.70 for 10 rides plus €2 for the plastic card (2016); discounted youth and senior Móbilis cards are also available.

The card can be purchased at the main 38.34809 -0.4845 7 TAM Office (C/ Díaz Moreu 6, ☏ +34 965 140 936 , M-F 09:00-19:00, Sa 10:00-13:00), at the central bus station (M-F 08:30-14:00, 17:00-19:00), and at a number of shops [dead link] throughout the city.

Subus Alicante [dead link] operates an expansive network of bus routes, with bus stops at key locations including the train station, airport, shopping centres, and major sights. On most routes, buses run from 06:30-22:30, with extended hours on weekends. There are also a number of night routes. A single ride costs €1.45 (2023), payable in cash directly to the driver on entry; drivers can give change for bills €20 or less. Maps and schedules for all routes can be downloaded here [dead link] . For travelers with a smartphone, Alicante Bus is a helpful app (iOS and Android) with a route planner and schedules.

By taxi [ edit ]

Taxi rates are regulated and most tourists find them affordable. A number of taxi stands ( paradas de taxi ) are in various places, including by the bus station, the train station, and the Explanada de España.

Euro Taxi Alicante , Portal de Elche, s/n , ☏ +34 965 240 707 , +34 699 780 601 (mobile) , [email protected] . Available 24 hours, charges set rates for certain destinations. ( updated May 2016 )
RadioTeleTaxi , C/ Alcalde Lorenzo Carbonell, 35 , ☏ +34 965 101 611 , +34 965 252 511 , +34 671 101 611 (Whatsapp) , fax : +34 965 101 837 , [email protected] . Taxis can be reserved by phone, Whatsapp, or online . ( updated May 2016 )
RadioTaxi , ☏ +34 965 910 123 . ( updated Jun 2016 )
Taxi Area , ☏ +34 965 910 591 . ( updated May 2016 )

See [ edit ]

The old town of Alicante is roughly the triangular area enclosed by the Rambla de Méndez Núnez, the Explanada de Espanya, and Mount Benacantil. Largely tourist-friendly, the old, narrow streets make for an enjoyable wander provided you don't get yourself lost. Here you'll find the town hall, cathedral, an old covent, and several art museums.

Historic sites [ edit ]

38.34678 -0.47695 8 Lift ( near the main rd of Avda de Juan Bautista Lafora ). Oct-Mar daily 10:00-20:00, last lift up 19:20; Apr-Jun daily 10:00-20:00, last lift up 19:20; Jul Aug daily 10:00-23:30, last lift up 19:20; Sep daily 10:00-20:00, last lift up 19:20 . There is a lift in the core of Mount Benacantil itself, which runs from the ground level and stops at two levels in the castle. It may not be easy to spot the entrance! The easiest route is to follow Postiguet beach to the footbridge, then cross the road and pick your way West along the pavement until you see the sign for the castle and the tunnel entrance. The ticket machine for the lift is near the end of the tunnel. Insert your money, press the large green "A" button, then "Ticket", and your ticket will be printed. Maps are provided. Travelling between the two castle levels is free. €2.70 (round-trip), free (seniors); free access Jul Aug daily 19:45-23:30 . ( updated May 2016 )

Museums and galleries [ edit ]

38.3808 -0.512 9 Museu de la Universitat d’Alacant ( Museo de la Universidad de Alicante / MUA ), Carretera de San Vicente del Raspeig, s/n ( Campus de la Universidad de Alicante ), ☏ +34 965 909 387 , fax : +34 965 903 464 , [email protected] . M-F 09:00-20:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00 . Opened in 1999, this ultra-modern museum is devoted to contemporary art and hosts special exhibits as well as concerts and other events. Free . ( updated May 2016 )
38.34669 -0.48041 10 Museu d’Aigües d’Alacant ( Museo de Aguas de Alicante / Alicante Water Museum ), Plaza Arquitecto Miguel López, s/n ( Plaza del Puente, Casco Antiguo ), ☏ +34 965 143 787 , [email protected] . Sep-May: Tu-F 10:00-14:00 17:00-20:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00; Jun-Aug: Tu-F 10:00-14:00 18:00-21:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00 . The museum is adjacent to the Pozos de Garrigós (Garrigós Wells), a collection of wells dating from the Moorish period to the 16th century, and in use until 1898. Exhibits in the three-floor modern museum illustrate the history of water resources and distribution in the city and the area. Free . ( updated May 2016 )

Do [ edit ]

Performing arts [ edit ].

Festivals [ edit ]

Epifanía ( Epiphany / Three Kings' Day ). 6 January . As in the rest of Spain, in the Epiphany (January the 6th) there is a parade in remembrance of the Three Wise Men that adored Child Jesus, where every child participates (it is the equivalent to Santa Claus in the Spanish culture). ( updated Dec 2017 )
Gay Pride . It is usually held in July. During this week Alicante fills up with artistic and cultural activities. The last day a manifesto is read in Plaza Mayor del Ayuntamiento where afterwards music is played and people drink and dance. ( updated May 2019 )

Cinemas [ edit ]

38.35449 -0.47186 3 Kinépolis , Centro Comercial Plaza Mar 2 , ☏ +34 965 220 192 . A modern cineplex which shows the latest blockbusters, with both dubbed and original language versions ( VOS : versión original subtitulada). ( updated Oct 2017 )
38.34207 -0.51795 4 Yelmo Cines , Avinguda de Alcalde Lorenzo Carbonell, 66 ( in the Centro Comercial Puerto de Alicante ). Another cineplex which shows current films in both dubbed and original language versions. ( updated Oct 2017 )

Beaches [ edit ]

In the heart of the city there is 38.34646 -0.47609 5 Platja del Postiguet ( Playa de Postiguet ). The sandy beach is popular during the day and fairly busy during the evening when it's illuminated by sodium street lights. These give the beach and breaking waves a surreal effect. Beach goers should take precautions however even during the day, as unattended bags and purses are popular targets for thieves.

With a bit of traveling by bus 22 [dead link] or tram ( L3 , stop 'Costa Blanca'), you can reach the spacious 7 km long 38.3712 -0.4093 6 Platja del San Juan ( Playa de San Juan ), which is considered to be one of the finest in Spain.

The less crowded 38.292395 -0.519994 7 Platja del Saladar ( Playa del Saladar/Urbanova , bus 27 [dead link] ) is south of the port, along the road from Alicante to Cartagena. 38.2479 -0.5157 8 Platja dels Arenals del Sol ( Playa de los Arenales ) is a bit further still, has sand dunes, and is even less crowded. This beach can be accessed by an hourly bus from the main bus station.

Learn [ edit ]

38.34331 -0.4839 5 Don Quijote Alicante , Calle Gravina, 17 , ☏ +34 923 268 860 . Offers courses of 4–6 hours a day. All courses, including beginner courses, are taught entirely in Spanish. ( updated Dec 2023 )
38.38211 -0.5122 6 Centro Superior de Idiomas , Cra de San Vicente-Alicante s/n, Edificio Germán Bernácer ( Universidad de Alicante, San Vicente del Raspeig ), ☏ +34 965 903 793 , fax : +34 965 903 794 , [email protected] . Office: M-Th 08:00-14:00 16:00-18:00, F 08:00-14:00; Easter/summer/Christmas: M-F 09:00-14:00 . Operated by the University of Alicante, it offers a variety of courses, including intensive Spanish classes for foreigners. ( updated Oct 2017 )
Estudia España . Offers a selection of quality, affordable private Spanish language schools in Alicante. Courses for all levels and budgets all year round. ( updated Oct 2017 )

Buy [ edit ]

Indoor markets [ edit ].

38.34157 -0.50498 2 Mercat Babel ( Mercado Babel ), Carrer Asil, s/n , ☏ +34 965 103 452 . M-Th 07:30-14:00, F 07:30-20:30, Sa 07:30-14:00 . A standard food market selling local produce and fish. On Th and Sa mornings there is also an outdoor market along the adjacent streets where you can pick up various other household goods, clothings, etc. ( updated Oct 2017 )
38.34286 -0.49832 3 Mercat Benalúa ( Mercado Benalúa ), Carrer Pérez Medina, 2 , ☏ +34 965 130 225 . M W F 07:30-14:00, Th 07:30-14:30, Sa 07:30-15:00 . A standard food market, with an nearby outdoor street market on Th and Sa mornings. ( updated Oct 2017 )
38.35755 -0.47906 4 Mercat Carolinas ( Mercado Carolinas ), Carrer San Mateo, s/n , ☏ +34 965 253 961 . M-Sa 07:30-14:00 . A standard food market, with an nearby outdoor street market on Th and Sa mornings. ( updated Oct 2017 )

Street markets [ edit ]

38.34253 -0.48488 5 Passeig Esplanada d'Espanya market . M W-F 11:30-14:30 17:00-20:30, Sa Su and holidays 11:00-22:30 . Market stalls along the promenade selling beads, clothes, flags etc. ( updated Oct 2017 )
38.34499 -0.48108 6 Mercado de Filatelia y Numismática ( philately and numismatics market ), Plaça de Ajuntament, s/n , ☏ +34 965 149 325 . Su and holidays 09:00-14:00 . A weekly market for stamps and old coins. ( updated Oct 2017 )
38.38892 -0.48862 7 Mercado el Rinconet ( rastro / flea market ), C/ Balsas Nuevas, 7 ( Villafranqueza ). Sa 06:00-22:00, Su and holidays 10:00-15:00 . A large second-hand market where you can find all sorts of antiques, musical instruments, and other odds and ends. ( updated Oct 2017 )
38.34549 -0.4814 8 Mercado Artesano , Plaza de la Santísima Faz, s/n ( behind the ayuntamiento/city hall ), ☏ +34 965 149 325 . Summer: F-Su 07:00-24:00, winter: Su 10:00-14:00 . A good place to find handmade jewelry, belts, handbags, and other crafts. ( updated Oct 2017 )

Eat [ edit ]

As with the rest of Spain, breakfast is usually light, usually some sort of bread (e.g. toast) or piece of bakery. Traditionally, a hearty meal in the early afternoon is followed by a siesta as the heat builds. Many restaurants are then closed between 16:00-21:00. A light meal is taken once the sun goes down, often in the local tapería if you are a visitor. Many restaurants don't open before 21:00 for dinner, so bear this in mind when planning your dinner schedule.

As elsewhere in the region, seafood and rice dominates, with paella in the frontline. In almost every restaurant, you will find a menú del día ('menu of the day') or a similar special for €10, a three- or four-course meal with or without a drink. This is an excellent way to economise if you want to splash out later.

In tourist areas, you'll have no problem finding UK fare served at earlier times, if you find yourself intimidated by the local cuisine. Restaurants of all price ranges are clustered around Carrer Castaños (near the theatre), Calle San Francisco and Calle Mayor (near the cathedral).

Budget [ edit ]

City centre [ edit ].

38.344906 -0.484438 1 Restaurante La Matanza Castellana , C. Bailén, 13 . A great place to eat for real in Alicante. Good dishes and high quality meat. Menu of the day more than correct. The slaughter rice is very rich and the sirloin is grilled very well. Recommended place and great kindness of the waiters. ( updated Jan 2023 )
38.345528 -0.485762 2 Restaurante Capri , C. San Ildefonso, 6 . A great experience in tapas. Excellent food, good service and cleanliness. A classic from Alicante. A restaurant with tradition with a very endearing atmosphere. Immediate attention. ( updated Jan 2023 )
38.345639 -0.483714 3 100 Montaditos , Rbla. Méndez Núñez, 28 . An ideal place to have a drink for lunch or dinner, alone or with friends, the service is fast. As always a culinary experience. There is a vegetarian menu. Great place for a quick meal. Large portions. Cheese balls are just amazing. The quality is good for this type of establishment. Convenient location. There are tables on the second floor. ( updated Jan 2023 )
38.344226 -0.482495 4 Unik Asiatico Restaurante , C. Alberola Romero, 2 . Always a delight. Popular Chinese restaurant. Pretty authentic taste. The food is always fresh and delicious. The fried sushi and the Taiwanese rice with pineapple are just brilliant. Excellent service and very welcoming. ( updated Jan 2023 )
38.345151 -0.481939 5 Restaurante Casa Dimas , c/ San Nicolás, C. Mayor, 1 . Super tasty food, the traditional paella is delicious. Staff is extremely nice and location also beautiful on the street. Everything is very clean. Traditional place, bustling but cozy. Also a perfect stop for breakfast if you are in the old town. ( updated Jan 2023 )
38.346267 -0.483369 6 La Tasca Del Barrio , Carrer Llauradors, 22 . Very good food and attention. Particularly recommended is the la tasca salad, the jamon is melt in the mouth delicious. Note you need to book if you'd like to sit inside. Nice staff. ( updated Jan 2023 )
38.343387 -0.483991 7 Lemongrass Explanada , Passeig Esplanada d'Espanya, 14 . The Thai food is really good and served quickly. They have vegan options. ( updated Jan 2023 )

Carolinas Altas [ edit ]

38.358927 -0.479383 8 Restaurante The Garden , Calle del Dr. Bergez, 59 . Best grill. Polite and helping staff. Recommend are all kinds of meat. Friendly, pleasant, helpful, warm service. The soup, the BBQ pork and the grilled veggiesare so delicious. Great atmosphere. Beautifully decorated. ( updated Jan 2023 )
38.358069 -0.477814 9 Tapeo Manila Bar de tapas restaurante , C. San Benito, 27 . Nice and cozy place. Excellent food and drink. Good place to make a stop and have a snack. ( updated Feb 2022 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

38.34613 -0.48338 10 Mesón de Labradores , C/ de los Labradores, 19 ( Casco Antiguo / Old Town ), ☏ +34 965 204 846 . Daily 13:00-17:00 19:00-00:30 . Founded in 1693, this taberna serves excellent regional dishes. The house specialty is the Chupi-Chupi, with a special secret sauce. €15 per person (May 2016) . ( updated Jan 2023 )
38.34623 -0.48648 11 El Nou Cisne , C/ Bazán, 47 ( near the Teatro Principal ), ☏ +34 965 212 527 . Serves tapas and raciones. Set menu €11.90 (May 2016) . ( updated Jan 2023 )
38.34525 -0.48512 12 Nou Manolin , C/ Villegas, 3 ( near the theatre ), ☏ +52 965 200 368 , [email protected] . Daily 13:00-16:15 20:15-00:15 . A very popular restaurant which focuses on regional specialties. On the ground floor is a great tapas bar, while formal dining is on the upper floors. Also has a great wine cellar. Mains €18-27 (May 2016) . ( updated Jan 2023 )
38.34247 -0.49405 13 Piripi , Avda Oscar Esplá, 30 , ☏ +34 96 522 7940 , [email protected] . Daily 13:00-16:00 20:00-24:00 . A popular restaurant best known for its tapas and rice dishes. Mains €12-25 (May 2016) . ( updated Jan 2023 )
38.34387 -0.48318 14 Restaurante Convistas , Rambla Méndez Núnez, 3 ( in the Hotel Alicante Gran Sol ), ☏ +34 965 146 618 . The hotel is one of the city's tallest buildings; the restaurant is situated on the 26th floor and offers excellent views of the sea and the city. Set menu €30 (May 2016) . ( updated Jan 2023 )
38.34439 -0.48168 15 La Taberna del Gourmet , C/ San Fernando, 10 , ☏ +34 965 204 233 , [email protected] . Daily 11:00-00:30 . A well-known tapas bar and delicatessen, with fine wines. Tapas €7-19, tapas tasting menu €27.50, standard tasting menu €55 (May 2016) . ( updated Jan 2023 )

Splurge [ edit ]

38.34062 -0.47947 16 Dársena , Muella de Levante, 6 ( port area ), ☏ +52 965 207 598 , [email protected] . Tu-Sa 13:00-16:00 20:00-23:00 . A long-established and respected restaurant, known especially for paella and other rice dishes, and for seafood. This place is very busy and reservations are recommended. Mains €16+, tasting menu €60 . ( updated May 2016 )
38.33921 -0.48746 17 Monastrell , Avda Julio Guillen Tato, 1 ( port area ), ☏ +34 965 126 640 , [email protected] . Tu-Sa 13:00-16:00 19:30-23:00, Su 13:00-16:00 . Michelin-starred chef María José San Román focuses on contemporary and avant-garde cuisine, relying on local products. The minimalist dining area is decorated with wood, aluminum, and granite. Reservations can be made online. Tasting menu €79 . ( updated May 2016 )
38.3431 -0.48612 18 One One , C/ de Valdés, 9 , ☏ +34 96 520 6399 . Tu-Sa 12:00-17:00 21:00-24:00; closed mid-Aug through mid-Sept . A cozy restaurant that offers innovative and original cuisine. Has a good wine cellar. Mains €25 . ( updated May 2016 )
38.34845 -0.48155 19 Restaurante La Ereta , Parque de La Ereta, s/n ( on the slope of Mt Benacantil ), ☏ +34 965 143 250 . Winter: Tu lunch, Th dinner, Sa lunch/dinner; summer: M-W dinner, Th-Sa lunch/dinner, holiday eves . Creative cuisine offered in two tasting menus, with great views of the sea and city. Tapas tasting menu €45, standard tasting menu €65 . ( updated May 2016 )

Drink [ edit ]

El botellón , literally, 'the large bottle', is a custom among young people in Spain, in which they buy 2-litre bottles of soft drinks and mix into them hard liquor, and then stand or sit around drinking in parking lots and other public places. This is to avoid the high cost of drinks in some bars and clubs. There are many organizations which organise and advertise the party scene of the Barrio, such as BarrioLife .

The Barrio (aka Casco Antiguo ) is the centre of nightlife in Alicante, with bars like 38.34684 -0.48484 1 John Mulligan's , 38.34622 -0.48368 2 Carpe Diem , 38.34683 -0.48218 3 La Antigua , and 38.34899 -0.4847 4 ¡¡Ay, Carmela!! ; there is never a dull night in this small Spanish city. Drinks are cheap, and shots are sometimes free.

Another focal point is the eastern rim of the marina, called Puerto , in and around the 38.34208 -0.47963 5 Casino Mediterráneo , where things start and end later – a typical night can end at around 07:00 or 08:00. As this part of town has a bad reputation at night, most nightclubs here hire their own security who also act as bouncers. Especially at dawn party goers should take care, as theft is common.

38.350705 -0.485211 6 Horchatería Azul , Carrer Calderón de la Barca 38 , ☏ +34 965 21 63 10 . A special taste of old Alicante can be found at this small, local producer of horchata, family-owned since 1930. As well as classic horchata, iced chocolate, hazelnut and almond varieties are available. ( updated May 2023 )

Sleep [ edit ]

38.34565 -0.48705 1 Hotel San Remo , C/ Navas, 30 , ☏ +34 965 209 500 , [email protected] . Check-in: 13:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Has nonsmoking rooms and free Wi-Fi. Doubles €40, breakfast €3 . ( updated Oct 2017 )
38.34779 -0.49312 2 X Hostel Alicante , Carrer del Tucuman, 28 ( centrally located and less than 5 minute walk from the train station ), ☏ +34 654 22 03 17 , [email protected] . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 11:30 . Amenities include, singles, doubles, and shared dormitories for short and long term stays, guest kitchen, free breakfast, roof top terrace, free internet and Wi-Fi, and large common room to meet other travelers. It's clean, safe, and is the only true backpackers hostel in the city. €17 . ( updated Apr 2016 )
38.34612 -0.47978 3 La Milagrosa Bed & Breakfast , C/ Villavieja 8 ( by Iglesia de la Santa Maria, 2 blocks from the beach ), ☏ +34 965 216 918 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:30 , check-out: 11:30 . Thoroughly refurbished, bright and clean with a large roof terrace. Kitchen and laundry facilities available, free Wi-Fi. Close to nightlife. Also has apartments that can house up to 6 people. €42+ (singles), €75+ (doubles) . ( updated May 2016 )
38.34588 -0.48153 4 Hotel Les Monges Palace ( Hostal Les Monges Palace ), C/ San Agustín, 4 , ☏ +34 965 215 046 , fax : +34 965 147 189 , [email protected] . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Has an onsite snack bar and free Wi-Fi, and is nonsmoking throughout the building. Public parking €13/day. Doubles €70, including breakfast . ( updated Oct 2017 )
38.34721 -0.48513 5 Hotel NH Rambla de Alicante , C/ Tomás López Torregrosa, 11 ( near the central market ), ☏ +34 965 143 659 , fax : +34 96 5206696 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Has a fitness centre and free Wi-Fi. Public parking €9.50/day. Doubles €63+, including breakfast .
38.34387 -0.48318 6 TRYP Alicante Gran Sol Hotel , Rambla Méndez Núñez, 3 , ☏ +34 965 203 000 , fax : +34 965 211 439 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Has nonsmoking rooms, onsite restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. Private parking €9.50/day. Doubles €96, including breakfast . ( updated Oct 2017 )
38.34461 -0.48266 7 Hotel Hospes Amérigo , Calle Rafael Altamira, 7 , ☏ +34 965 146 570 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 12:00 . The hotel is in a 16th-century former Dominican monastery, and has an on-site bar-restaurant, fitness centre, swimming pool, sauna, and free Wi-Fi. Pets permitted on request, private parking €26/day, electric car charger available. Doubles €150+, including breakfast . ( updated Oct 2017 )
38.33645 -0.50714 8 Hotel NH Alicante , C/ México, 18 ( corner of C/ Rosa Chacel ), ☏ +34 965 108 140 , fax : +34 965 110 655 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Facilities include an outdoor pool, fitness centre, sauna, onsite restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. Private parking €14/day. Doubles €155, including breakfast .
38.34231 -0.47866 9 Sercotel Spa Porta Maris , Plaza Puerta del Mar, 3 ( port ), ☏ +34 965 147 021 , fax : +34 965 216 945 , [email protected] . Check-in: 16:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Facilities include an outdoor pool, fitness centre, spa, onsite restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. Public parking €20/day. Doubles €100+, including breakfast .
38.34289 -0.47877 10 Meliá Alicante , Plaza del Puerto, 3 ( port ), ☏ +34 965 205 000 , fax : +34 965 142 633 , [email protected] . Check-in: 16:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Has a swimming pool, fitness centre, and onsite restaurant. Free Wi-Fi, public parking €20/day. Doubles €125+, including breakfast .

Connect [ edit ]

The city provides free Wi-Fi to everyone in a number places across the city centre, including the 38.34497 -0.48098 7 Plaça Ajuntament ( Plaza del Ayuntamiento ), 38.346 -0.49071 8 Plaça dels Estels ( Plaza de los Luceros ), 38.34425 -0.48801 9 Plaça de la Muntanyeta ( Plaza de la Montañeta ), the Castell de la Santa Bàrbara ( Santa Barbara Castle ), and at Platja del Postiguet ( Postiguet Beach ).

Cope [ edit ]

Alicante is generally a safe city, but visitors should take precautions in the port area, which should be avoided at night and dawn.

Go next [ edit ]

Tabarca – there are several companies near the port which offer boat trips, from 45-minute excursions on a catamaran to all-day trips to the island. Prices vary.
Benidorm - Aqualandia, Mundomar, Terra Mitica
Calpe ( Calp )
Jávea ( Xàbia )

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Alicante Travel Guide

Courtesy of Tejuno | Getty Images

Why Go To Alicante

About 100 miles south of Valencia and along the Costa Blanca (White Coast) is Alicante, an easygoing Spanish city that's highly favored among the party set. You'll most likely find travelers congregating around the Explanada de España , donning resort wear with drink in hand and bobbing to the beat of house music. During the day, the beaches – especially San Juan Beach – are the main event. One of Spain's best shorelines, San Juan Beach is replete with soft sands, about 330 days of sunshine a year and warm waters. While the city does have cultural attractions like the acclaimed Archaeological Museum of Alicante , the main reason to visit Alicante is to relax and make merry. So, imagine the sun on your skin, sand between your toes, grilled fish on your plate, sangria in your hand, lively music in your ears and a medieval castle, Renaissance cathedral or modern fountain before your eyes… Alicante.

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Best of Alicante

Best hotels in alicante.

# 1 in Hospes Amerigo
# 2 in Servigroup Montiboli
# 3 in NH Alicante

Best Things to Do in Alicante

# 1 in San Juan Beach
# 2 in Castillo de Santa Barbara
# 3 in Old Town Alicante

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Alicante Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Alicante is any time. With mild temperatures and an average of about 20 days of rain per year, Alicante is hospitable year-round. For the best beach weather, visit June through September. (Be warned, the sand will be the most crowded at this time, too.) But if you want a chilled-out vacation, visit in the winter; you'll enjoy temperatures in the 50s, as well as deals on hotel rates.

Weather in Alicante

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

More than Spanish Because it's such a desirable location with sunny weather, Alicante is popular among many European tourists. Don't be surprised to hear many languages other than Spanish as well as different Spanish dialects.
Late is on time Consistent with the rest of Spain, people in Alicante eat late and party even later. Prepare to eat dinner around 10 p.m. and expect the lively bars to play music into the wee morning hours.
Freebies Whether you're an avid museumgoer or you just want to take a quick peek inside a museum, you'll be happy to find most Alicante museums – such as the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Fogueres Festival Museum – offer free entry.

How to Save Money in Alicante

Visit in the winter As with many other Spanish cities, Alicante is relatively inexpensive, but prices increase during peak beach season. To avoid surge pricing at hotels and rentals, travel to Alicante in the offseason (between October and March).
Fly into Madrid Because it's sometimes expensive to fly directly to Alicante, many travelers opt to fly to Madrid and rent a car for the four-hour drive southeast. Not only will you enjoy a scenic road trip, you'll have a car to make traveling around Alicante easier.
Menú del día If you want to save on dining costs, choose the menú del día for lunch. This deal will get you an appetizer, entree and dessert for 10 to 15 euros (about $11 to $17).

Culture & Customs

Alicante is a seaside city, and in turn, its culture centers on enjoying the outdoors and experiencing life at a leisurely pace. Locals and visitors alike spend a great deal of time outside, whether they're walking, biking, roller blading or just enjoying a glass of sangria at an alfresco restaurant. Surfing is a popular sport in the city, so you can expect to see many people riding the waves while you relax on the beach. Or, you can sign up for a lesson at one of the many surf schools if you want to experience it yourself. Alicante doubles as the name of the city and the name of the small eastern province it sits within. There are many other small beach towns within the Alicante province you can visit during your trip.

In Alicante, euros are the accepted currency, and Spanish is the most widely spoken language. The euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate fluctuates, so plan to check it before your trip. Because Alicante is popular among tourists – especially those from other European countries – you'll find yourself surrounded by a mélange of different ethnicities and languages, but there is still a strong local and authentic Spanish presence. You'll find a true taste of Spain when you venture away from the crowded Rambla Méndez Núñez and look for little restaurants in the narrow streets. You can get your dose of Spanish history at the city's many museums like the Archaeological Museum of Alicante or the Bullfighting Museum where you'll learn the history behind the infamous Spanish tradition. Some tourists use Alicante as a home base from which to travel to other towns along the Costa Blanca.

Days start late in Alicante. Most people socialize while sipping coffee around noon, eat their midday meal around 3 p.m. and don't sit for dinner until around 9 p.m. The siesta culture is a way of life in Alicante, so you may find many stores and businesses closed between 2 and 4 p.m. While you don't have to necessarily take a nap during this time, it's nice to relax and rest up for your night on the town.

xAs mentioned, Alicante is known for its nightlife, so you can expect lively crowds out and about once the sun goes down. The city offers diverse nightlife options from bars to clubs to massive discotecas. La Zona district and El Puerto district situated near the marina have some of the most popular bars and nightclubs; if you want to tuck in early, consider staying in a quieter area like El Campello, which is a tram ride away from downtown Alicante city. The nightlife attracts a young crowd, so expect to see many teens and young adults out and about during your stay.

What to Eat

When you think Spanish food, you probably think of one thing: paella. The flavorful rice and seafood dish originated in the Valencian Community near Alicante, making this seaside city the perfect place to sample it. Travelers recommend trying paella at the Michelin-starred Monastrell , the elegant La Taberna Ibérica or the casual, but authentic La Tasca del Barrio . There are also plenty of other seafood dishes to choose from thanks to Alicante's location alongside the Mediterranean Sea. Salazones, or salted fish dishes, are popular as well as esgarraet (made with cod and red peppers) and all i pebre (a stew of baby eel, garlic and paprika). If you're not a seafood fan, don't fret: other equally delicious Alicante dishes include hearty meat stew called olla churra and anything featuring the signature alcachofas – artichokes – for which the Alicante region is known. For dessert, tuck into some turrón – a hard nougat snack famous in Alicante and influenced by the region's Arabic history.

Of course, it's hard to pass up a glass of deep red wine on your Spanish getaway. For all the oenophiles venturing to Alicante, there is a famous wine route that stretches from the Vinalopó region just north of the city to La Marina in the south. There are plenty of organized tours that leave from Alicante and take you to various vineyards around the area. If you'd rather stay local, you can sip some vino at one of the many wine bars around the city, such as Vino y Mas , Syrah , El Colmado and Boca de Vin .

Getting Around Alicante

The best way to get around Alicante is on foot. It's not a massive or very hilly city, so walking is an easy feat. Not to mention, much of the city's charm comes from colorful buildings and secret nooks you would miss if you were driving. However, do note that many streets are cobblestone, so if you have mobility issues it may be hard to maneuver. If you don't want to or are unable to walk, you have other transportation options.

The Alicante Airport (ALC) sits less than 10 miles south of the center of Alicante. If you're taking a cab from the airport into central Alicante, expect to pay a fixed rate of 19 to 21 euros (about $22 to $24), depending on the time of day. Radio Taxi Elche, easily identified by the green stripes on the cars, are the official taxi at the airport. If you'd rather take public transportation, you can hop on the C6 bus line, which will take you into downtown Alicante for 3.85 euros (or about $4.50).

About 6.5 million tiles cover this walkway.

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Alicante Tourist Information – Visit Alicante Spain

Centrally located in the region of Valencia in Spain, the city of Alicante offers tourists and business travelers the experience of a lifetime. Soft sandy beaches that stretch for miles, picturesque mountain ranges, boulevards lined with palm trees, parks and entertainment centers, and excellent weather, all make Alicante one of the best tourist spots in Spain . Whether it is your first time visiting the city, or you’ve been here countless times, Alicante tourist information will be a great help to you.

You won’t really enjoy your trip to Alicante without having an itinerary. If your tour agent does not have an itinerary for you, you can visit the Alicante tourist office and ask for a brochure of the city. The office can provide you with tips and advice on which places to visit and how to get there. Conversations with locals, riding public transportation and a chance to experience Alicante’s culture are just a few things that regular itineraries do not offer. It’s fun to visit places which people hardly know about. In fact, some of the best tourist spots of the city are never really included in regular tour itineraries.

Alicante Tourist Attractions

In the past few years, Alicante tourism has grown dramatically, becoming a major thrust in the city’s economic development. Tourist information about Alicante is available to everyone who wants to visit this lovely place. If you are still planning your tour, you might want to include the following must see attractions.

Castillo de Santa Barbara

A silent witness of the city’s history and culture , this ancient castle is now considered a heritage site and a landmark of the city. Situated atop the rocky terrain of Mount Benacantil, the castle has served as a formidable citadel for the city. For many centuries, it has protected the city from attacks by the Moors and the Romans. Today, the well-preserved structure of Castillo de Santa Barbara serves as a major tourist attraction. Tourists can’t help but be impressed at the picturesque sea views from the castle.

The winding streets of El Barrio used to be the center of trade, commerce, culture and entertainment of Alicante. Various remarkable historic sites can be found in this part of the city. San Nicolas Cathedral and the Ayuntamiento are two of the best sites you can visit while in El Barrio. The whole atmosphere at El Barrio will take you back in time. Colored houses, a medley of ancient architecture, attractive streets and cozy plazas are spread all across El Barrio. Recent rehabilitation by Alicante’s tourist office has revitalized the glory of this old thoroughfare.

Delectable Foods

There’s no better way of enjoying your stay in Alicante than by tempting your palate. Treat your taste buds with native delicacies such as a steaming café con leche. It’s a totally different type of drink, especially when coupled with the authentic Mediterranean atmosphere. For travelers looking for a sumptuous meal, Alicante’s arroz a la alicantina will certainly satisfy their appetites. Made of chicken and rice combined with traditional spices, this meal is a must have. Interestingly, almost every food establishment in the city has their own version of ‘arroz’. Alicante tourist information also recommends home-grown fruits like medlars, pomegranates, dates, oranges and grapes. The flavors are simply amazing.

Holidays and Festivals

If you have the luxury of choosing when to visit Alicante, you ought to schedule your trip during the Las Hogueras de San Juan, a unique holiday in Alicante. The city takes on a festive mood, starting June 20 and lasts until June 24. The winding streets of El Barrio leading to the beaches are filled with people enjoying themselves. During the festival, people gather piles of old furniture and set them ablaze as a cheery goodbye to the winter season. Although it started as a pagan ritual, it has now turned into a Catholic religious festival dedicated to Saint John. Today, the festival has modern attractions such as pyrotechnic displays, fire balloons, fireworks, and street parties.

All these attractions and lots more await tourists. Alicante tourist information provides a comprehensive list of places and things that you can enjoy while in the city.

The Rich And Exciting Alicante Culture

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Of all Spain's mainland provincial capitals, Alicante (Valenciano: Alacant) is the most influenced by tourism, thanks to the nearby airport and resorts. Nevertheless it is a dynamic, attractive Spanish city with a castle, old quarter and long waterfront. The eating scene is exciting and the nightlife is absolutely legendary, whether you're chugging pints with the stag parties at 7pm or twirling on the dance floor with the locals seven hours later. On a weekend night it's impossibly busy and buzzy year-round.

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Experience the real Alicante. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Museum of contemporary art of the city of Alicante.

Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante

This splendid museum, inside the 17th-century Casa de la Asegurada, has an excellent collection of 20th-century Spanish art, including works by Dalí, Miró…

Archaeological museum of the city of Alicante.

Museo Arqueológico de Alicante

This museum has a strong collection of ceramics and Iberian art. Exhibits are displayed to give the visitor a very visual, high-tech experience, and it's…

Castillo de Santa Bárbara

There are sweeping views over the city from the ramparts of this large 16th-century castle, which houses a museum recounting the history of the city and…

Museu de Fogueres

In addition to a wealth of photographs, costumes and the most popular ninot (effigy) of each year, saved from their normal fiery fate by popular vote,…

Museo Volvo Ocean Race

On the pier, this museum brings to life the gruelling conditions of the round-the-world Volvo Ocean Race with a simulator, videos, photos and a display of…

Basílica de Santa María

Flanked by twin towers, this old-town church's flamboyant, 18th-century baroque facade and ornate, gilded altarpiece contrast with the nave’s Gothic…

Mercado Central

Alicante's main market hall is a feast for the eyes and other senses. Dating from the 1920s, it has a few Modernista flourishes; it suffered extensive…

Playa de San Juan

Northeast of the town, Playa de San Juan, easily reached by the tram (Costa Blanca stop), is larger and usually less crowded than the city beach.

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Alicante Spain

The city of Alicante Spain! Alicante, and it’s wonderful boulevard with palm trees and shopping streets, is one of the most well-known towns along the Costa Blanca . Known for its miles of sandy beaches, Alicante is a starting point for thousands of tourists every year. Famous for its excellent weather, the city invites you to take a trip along the coast or to the wonderful island of Tabarca . Along the Alicante harbor you find beautiful long alleys for nice relaxing walks, enjoying the palm trees and the mild climate.

During summer time, Alicante with its Airport, is a starting point for many Costa Blanca tourists, while during the winter months tourists and residents tend to live along the coast in places like Benidorm , Calpe and Denia .

Alicante’s location: The Costa Blanca lies on the east coast of Spain. to the south is the Costa Almeria and to the north, the Costa Dorada. Alicante has about 340 000 inhabitants and lies directly at the Mediterranean sea.

The Alicante weather in winter is around 16 ºC. In summer the average is around 32 ºC. Alicante time difference to GMT + 1 hour

Language in Alicante: Two official languages are spoken. Spanish and Valencian, but you will get almost everywhere with English and/or German.

Tourist Information Office Alicante

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This sunny seaside locale was named Lucentum (meaning "place of light") by the ancient Romans who settled here. Today, visitors still come here to enjoy the sunshine and pleasant climate as well as the beautiful setting in an expansive bay.

Promenade along the marina in Alicante, Spain

With the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean lapping against its sandy shores, Alicante is understandably a popular summer and winter resort destination on the Costa Blanca.

Alicante offers the ideal combination of leisure activities and cultural attractions. Popular pastimes include playing golf, visiting museums, attending festivals, sunbathing at the beach, and strolling along the waterfront promenade.

Of course, you must try the local cuisine. Don't leave without sampling the arroz a banda (rice with fish), Olleta (chickpea, bean, and vegetable stew), and turrón (honey-almond nougat).

Well-designed for tourists, Alicante has many high-rise hotels near the harbor and the beach. There's also plenty of open space. Throughout the city, lush gardens and elegant palm-fringed boulevards break up the urban sprawl.

Learn about the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Alicante.

1. Castillo de Santa Bárbara

2. museo arqueológico provincial de alicante (marq), 3. explanada de españa, 4. basilica de santa maría, 5. playa del postiguet: a beautiful city beach, 6. museo de arte contemporáneo de alicante, 7. mercado central de alicante, 8. playa de san juan, 9. concatedral de san nicolás de bari, 10. ayuntamiento (town hall), 11. plaza de gabriel miró, 12. cabo de las huertas, where to stay in alicante for sightseeing, day trips from alicante, playa de los saladares, las cuevas del canelobre, tabarca island.

The Castillo de Santa Bárbara stands in a commanding position above the town and the seafront. The hilltop location on Monte Benacantil is a testament to the castle's military purpose and has been a strategic asset as far back as the Carthaginian era.

The original 9th-century Islamic alcazar (Moorish fortress) was captured from the Moors by the Christian Prince Alfonso of Castile. The victorious battle was on the feast day of Santa Barbara, explaining the castle's name. During the reign of Philip II, the castle was renovated in Renaissance style.

The castle is open year-round for self-guided visits, as well as guided tours. You have a chance to see La Torreta , the old keep (tower); the splendid reception hall of Philip II; the Patio de Armas ; and the Revellín del Bon Repós rampart. The castle also hosts themed weekends, dramatized visits, and gastronomic experiences throughout the year.

Upon entering the castle, you are astounded by the grand scale. Panoramic coastal views add to the striking impression. From the vantage point of the rampart and the tower, the outlook stretches over the town, across the bay, and to the hills in the north.

Location: Mount Benacantil

The superb Museo Arqueológico Provincial de Alicante (MARQ) takes you on a journey through 100,000 years of history. The collection covers prehistory; the classical period of antiquity with Greek, Roman, and Iberian artifacts; and the Middle Ages.

Highlights of the collection include a scene of Roman daily life, an assortment of ancient coins, a figure of the goddess Tanit, and Iberian ceramics. The medieval exhibit is especially impressive, with an assortment of more than 300 objects.

The museum also presents educational information about the archaeological sites of Lucentum and Illeta dels Banyets, as well as the Sanctuary of Pla de Petracos, where many of the artifacts were discovered.

In addition to the collections, the museum shows visitors a behind-the-scenes look at excavation work. Exhibits also show how researchers learn about the past from the objects that they find.

You may visit the museum year-round. The museum is open every day, except Mondays.

Address: Plaza del Doctor Gómez Ulla, Alicante

The Explanada de España, also known as the Paseo de la Explanada or the Promenade Explanada , runs parallel to the yacht marina and the port. Fringed with rows of swaying palm trees, this mosaic-paved walkway invites you to go for a stroll.

A hub of social life in Alicante, the Explanada de España is particularly refreshing on summer evenings. When the weather is warm, you'll enjoy the cool Mediterranean breeze that brushes in from the harbor.

Soak up the sun and the ambience at a restaurant with outdoor seating. The Italian restaurant Prego (28 Passeig Esplanada d'Espanya) has a picturesque terrace. Momen (21 Passeig Esplanada d'Espanya) is another great place to sit down and enjoy the scenery.

Head to the dessert-focused café Chocolatería Valor (14 Passeig Esplanada d'Espanya) for rich hot chocolate served with churros (sugar-coated strips of fried pastry dough).

If you're visiting during summertime, then you can browse the outdoor market. One section of the Explanada de España is devoted to the Alicante Craft Fair , where you'll find artisanal craft items and traditional sweets such as turrón (nougat).

Almost always buzzing with energy, the Explanada de España often provides a stage for street performers. The promenade also features an outdoor auditorium, La Concha , that presents music concerts, dance performances, and other cultural events.

Just a short walk from the Explanada de España promenade are dozens of excellent restaurants.

The promenade begins at the Plaza Puerta del Mar and winds up at the Parque de Canalejas , a lush seaside park. Several of the city's top historic attractions can be seen while ambling along the promenade, including the Casa Carbonell , a splendid example of Modernist architecture, and the Plaza de Gabriel Miró , a delightful public square shaded by leafy hundred-year-old trees.

Families with younger children will want to visit El Mundo de los Niños (The World of Children) amusement park (near the Parque de Canalejas), which features carnival-type rides and games.

In the Barrio Santa Cruz, the Basilica de Santa María is the oldest church in Alicante and replaced Alicante's main mosque of the Moorish era. The church dates to the 14th century and was rebuilt by the Catholic Monarchs in the 15th century.

Originally Gothic in style, the basilica was remodeled in the 18th century with a Baroque facade and interior. On the main front of the exterior, the Virgin sculpture by Juan Bautista Borja stands out as a stunning example of detailed stone carving.

Another unique feature of the building is the pair of bell towers, which, although positioned on each side of the entrance, do not match. One of the bell towers was built in the 14th century and the other not until the 18th century.

Step inside to admire the richly decorated sanctuary. Take time to appreciate the 18th-century high altar designed in an elaborate Rococo style.

The Santa Maria Basilica is open year-round. Hours are 10am until 7pm, Monday through Saturday, and 2pm until 7pm on Sundays. Entrance requires an admission fee, which includes an audioguide (with the choice of English, Spanish, or French language).

Address: Plaza de Santa María, Alicante

The Playa del Postiguet is right in the city center of Alicante, tucked beneath the Castillo de Santa Barbara. This picturesque wide beach offers the serenity of gentle waves and calm turquoise waters.

Crowds flock here during summer time because of its fine golden sand and excellent facilities, including restaurants, public toilets, showers, beach volleyball areas, a children's playground, as well as sun parasols and lounge chairs for rent.

You'll appreciate the safe water if you plan to take a dip. Generally swimming is possible at this beach. Signposts indicate water safety on a daily basis.

The Playa del Postiguet is next to Alicante's lovely and spacious Marina Alicante , where many yachts and private boats are docked. Here you can go for a stroll, relax on a bench and enjoy the seaside scenery, or dine at one of the stylish waterfront restaurants. The dining options range from casual to upscale.

Address: Muelle 8 Zona de Levante, Alicante

The Alicante Museum of Contemporary Art presents a superb collection of avant-garde 20th-century art. The collection is housed within a 17th-century Baroque building that stands opposite the Basilica de Santa María.

Opened in 2011, the museum has a permanent collection of contemporary art that features paintings, sculptures, and drawings. The collection includes masterpieces by prominent artists like Pablo Picasso, Joan Miró, Salvador Dalí, Juan Gris, and Julio González.

The museum also displays works by two major Alicante artists. The Juana Francés collection celebrates the career of this pioneering female artist. The Eusebio Sempere collection comprises 575 works by this Alicante artist best known for his geometric designs and optical illusions.

Admission to the museum (open daily) is free of charge. Guided tours are available.

Address: 3 Plaza de Santa María, Alicante

Visit the Mercado Central de Alicante to get a sense of local culture and everyday life. Built in the early 20th century, this large market hall features Modernist design elements on its facade.

Inside is a vibrant marketplace where farmers, fishermen, and other food vendors make sure that the city is well-fed. The first floor is almost entirely dedicated to household items, dairy, and butcher stalls selling meat, while the second floor houses vegetable farmers and the fish market.

The market is open Monday through Saturday from 7am to 2:30pm (until 3pm on Saturdays). Local restaurants use this market as their source for daily ingredients, and residents of the city also come here to shop for specialty items and fresh produce.

Visiting this market immerses you in the sensory delights of a traditional European food market. The bustling atmosphere makes it a fun place to wander around.

Address: 10 Avenida Alfonso X El Sabio, 03004, Alicante

This gorgeous sandy beach is just a 15-minute drive from the Alicante city center. With its expansive shoreline, the Playa de San Juan is ideal for sunbathing and relaxation.

The Playa de San Juan has been awarded a Blue Flag for water safety. The calm waters are suitable for swimming and water sports.

A wide variety of cafés, restaurants, and snack bars along the beach make it convenient for you to spend a full day here.

The Concatedral de San Nicolás de Bari stands in the heart of the city, near the Town Hall. This 17th-century church was constructed on the site of a former mosque and is dedicated to the town's patron saint.

While the exterior is plain, the interior is an impressive and awe-inspiring spiritual space. The sanctuary features several notable retablos, including a magnificent 17th-century work that is entirely gilded. The 15th-century cloister is also exquisite.

This unique church blends Baroque elements with Herrerian style, an architectural school that flourished during Spain's Renaissance era. Herrerian buildings are distinguished by austere facades and precise geometrical lines.

The Ayuntamiento (Town Hall) of Alicante makes a striking impression. This grand Baroque building has an ornate Churrigueresque facade and two imposing towers, which soar to 35 meters.

On the staircase leading up to the building is an instrument used in Spain as a reference point to measure the height above sea level.

The building is listed as a Historic Monument and is open to visitors year-round daily. The Ayuntamiento is only closed on December 25th, January 1st, and January 6th.

Inside the Ayuntamiento, a must-see is the Salón Azul (Blue Room), which is decorated with furnishings from the epoch of Queen Isabel. Also be sure to visit the Capilla del Oratorio (chapel) where Mass is held.

The Ayuntamiento is located behind the park of the Explanada de España and near the Plaza Puerta del Mar

Address: Plaza del Ayuntamiento, Alicante

This delightful square pays homage to the renowned author of Alicante, Gabriel Miró. A bust of Gabriel Miró stands at one end of the square.

You immediately feel a sense of peacefulness when stepping into the Plaza de Gabriel Miró. Shaded by leafy ficus trees, the square abounds with luxuriant vegetation. The center is adorned with a fountain that features interesting statues.

Close to Alicante's Old Town, the Plaza de Gabriel Miró offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can relax on the terrace or take an unhurried stroll through the beautiful grounds.

Las Huertas Cape Lighthouse on Alicante Coast

Several small sea coves are found just outside Alicante on the Cabo de las Huertas, between San Juan and Albufereta.

The Cala Cantalars are small coves in a quiet residential area two kilometers from the Alicante city center. These coves conceal sheltered rocky beaches with placid waters.

The Cala dels Jueus coves are both rocky and sandy. Both of these areas have rocky beaches with gentle waters. This area is great for scuba diving.

The main tourist areas of Alicante are the Barrio Santa Cruz (Old Town), the nearby port and marina, and the beach. The most charming place to stay is the Old Town, but beach lovers will prefer being near the Playa del Postiguet in Alicante or by the Playa de San Juan, which is about a 15-minute drive from the city center. Here are some highly rated hotels in Alicante:

Luxury Hotels :

If you're seeking modern five-star accommodations, the Hotel Hospes Amérigo is an ideal choice. This hotel in the Old Town occupies the historic Salesian Convent, which has been completely renovated and decorated in a sleek minimalist style. Amenities include a fine-dining restaurant, rooftop terrace and swimming pool, indoor pool, fitness center, spa, sauna, concierge, and 24-hour front desk. The hotel is near restaurants, shops, and the port.
The four-star Meliá Alicante is a resort hotel with a pool at the marina, overlooking the beach. The hotel is ideally located within easy walking distance to many tourist attractions in the Barrio Santa Cruz.
Also at the marina and an easy walk to the Barrio Santa Cruz, the four-star Hotel Spa Porta Maris by Meliá has outdoor and indoor pools, a fitness center, spa, Jacuzzi, and a restaurant that serves Mediterranean cuisine. This seaside hotel is located right next to the Playa del Postiguet beach.

Mid-Range Hotels:

Eurostars Centrum Alicante is conveniently located on a residential street close to the Old Town and waterfront. This four-star hotel has excellent amenities, including a fitness center, sauna, Turkish baths, spa treatments, and a restaurant that serves regional cuisine.
At the northern side of the Old Town and a 10-minute walk to the harbor, the four-star Eurostars Lucentum is conveniently located across the street from the airport shuttle-bus stop. The hotel has a fitness center and a spa.
The four-star AC Hotel Alicante is also near an airport shuttle-bus stop and about a 15-minute walk from the Old Town and harbor. Amenities include a fitness center, a rooftop terrace with swimming pool, and room service. Some of the guest rooms have wonderful sea views.

Budget Hotels:

The three-star Hotel Ciudad de Alicante is right by the beach and an airport shuttle-bus stop, and just a short walk to the Old Town. Guest rooms feature balconies with views of the Castillo de Santa Bárbara. The hotel offers a 24-hour front reception desk and laundry service.
Surprisingly affordable for a three-star hotel, the Occidental Alicante is ideally located in the Old Town near many restaurants and shops and close to the Mercado Central. The hotel features modern guest rooms and a casual café. The beach is about a 20-minute walk away.
The Hotel Cervantes is in the city center near many shops and restaurants and a 15-minute walk to the port. This two-star hotel offers basic guest rooms with air-conditioning and complimentary breakfast. Amenities include a 24-hour front reception desk and concierge.

Another excellent beach is Playa de Los Saladares, located seven kilometers from Alicante. The pristine golden-sand shoreline extends for nearly two kilometers and features sand dunes at one end. This beach offers a welcome escape to nature, along with public facilities.

The Playa de Los Saladares has public restrooms, showers, shops, restaurants, a beachfront promenade, and a children's play area. Beach umbrellas and lounge chairs are available for rent.

This beach is a great place to visit for sunbathing and leisurely seaside strolls. The moderate waves make the water safe for wading or swimming.

Las Cuevas del Canelobre are a stunning natural cave system 24 kilometers from Alicante, located within the slopes of the Sierra del Cabeçó d'Or mountains, an area with breathtaking views of the coastline.

One of the caverns has been compared to a cathedral with its awesome 150-meter-long hall filled with a profusion of stalactites and stalagmites. Tourists will enjoy visiting this unique nature site.

Guided tours include colored lighting to illuminate the caves and music for ambience. The caves are sometimes used as a venue for concerts because they offer exceptional acoustics and a truly special ambience.

Travelers can escape to a small island off the coast of Alicante and enjoy being surrounded by the deep blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Tabarca Island is the only inhabited island of the region, and the area around the archipelago has been designated a Mediterranean Marine Reserve.

The landscape boasts an incredible biodiversity of flora and fauna, and the island itself is rich in history having been a former pirate hideout, an 18 th -century fortified town, and isolated fishing village prior to becoming a premier tourist destination.

There are plenty of things to do on the island, from simply enjoying the breathtaking views and idyllic Mediterranean ambience to visiting the island's museum, relaxing on the beach, and dining at one of the many excellent restaurants.

Tourists can reach the island for a nice day trip via an hour-long boat ride from the port of Alicante, or choose to spend the night in one of several small hotels.

From a distance, the historic village of Altea appears as a small group of buildings nestled on a hilltop. This medieval perched town, located about 45 minutes by car from Alicante, overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and offers sensational panoramic views.

The town is dominated by the Church of Virgin of Consuelo with its striking blue-and-white tiled dome. Characteristic whitewashed houses and atmospheric cobblestone streets lend old-world charm.

Many areas of the town have shaded terraces and viewpoints for taking in the picturesque scenery. Some of the narrow lanes turn into pedestrian staircases that lead down to the sea.

Altea is also renowned for its artisan craft workshops and art studios, as well as its summertime festivals.

In August on the Saturday closest to the feast day of Saint Lorenzo, the Castell de l'Olla puts on a spectacular festival with dancing, musical entertainment, and a dazzling fireworks show.

In late September, a festival celebrates the old traditions of the Christians and Moors of the region.

The town of Albacete is in the Castilla-La Mancha region , about 160 kilometers from Alicante, and is most quickly reached via train in around an hour.

In the old upper town ( el Alto de la Villa ) is the 16th-century Cathedral of San Juan Bautista . The building was originally designed by Diego de Siloé in Gothic style and was continued in Renaissance style. It has a fine Churrigueresque high altar, and the sacristy features five grisaille wall paintings of biblical scenes.

In the newer lower part of the town in the Parque Abelardo Sánchez is the Albacete Museum with three departments: archeology, fine arts, and ethnology. Among the treasures of the archeology collection are the Iberian sculptures from Cerro de los Santos, ancient Roman dolls made of ivory, ancient Roman mosaics from Balazote, and Gothic religious objects.

The Albacete province of the Castilla-La Mancha region boasts a well-preserved medieval town, Chinchilla de Montearagón , which is noteworthy for its monumental fortified hilltop castle. The town is famous for its traditional Easter celebrations and also hosts a renowned theater festival every year in July.

More on Spain

16 Best Things to do in Alicante Spain

By: Author Laura Bronner

Posted on Last updated: April 2, 2024

There are so many awesome things to do in Alicante, Spain.

Alicante is without a doubt one of the most beautiful cities in Spain and is a perfect base for exploring the Costa Blanca.

Whether you want to relax at the beach, eat great tapas, or get active and explore, there are plenty of Alicante attractions worth your time.

I took a recent solo trip to Alicante and I had an amazing time. It was just at the tail end of winter, which is an awesome time to visit Alicante if you want to avoid the summer crowds. It’s one of the warmest places in Spain in winter .

My trip was a nice combination of exploring Alicante attractions, taking day trips from Alicante , and relaxing with good food and ice-cold beer.

Getting to Alicante Spain

Getting to Alicante is very easy.

There is an airport in Alicante that is located only about 10km or 6 miles from downtown Alicante. You can take a cheap taxi straight to your hotel for the set price of €19 (£16.50 GBP / $20 USD).

If you want a cheaper option, you can take the L1 bus from outside of the airport to the center of Alicante for €3.85 (£3.30 GBP / $4.10 USD).

If you are coming from Madrid Airport , you can take a fast train from the Chamartín Clara Campoamor station. It takes two hours to get to the Alicante train station and you can book trains directly through the Renfe website for the best price. Be sure to book at least a week or more in advance to get the best price.

The third option is to fly to the Valencia airport which is a bit bigger than the Alicante airport, so there are more flight options if you are coming from a smaller city around Europe.

You can take a bus or a train from Valencia. Check Trainline for the best and quickest public transportation options.

Getting Around Alicante

Alicante is quite a small and walkable city. If you book a hotel or Airbnb in the city center, you can easily get around to the best Alicante attractions in the downtown area by foot.

If you want to get to some of the northern beaches or take a day trip to Benidorm, you can use the very affordable and easy-to-navigate tram network in Alicante.

You can purchase tickets at the central city stations or on any of the trams. The ticket machines in the station accept cards and cash, but the ones on the trains only take cards. Local trams only cost €1.50.

If you want to get further afield to other great beaches, you may want to consider renting a car in Alicante . This will give you more freedom to explore day trips to nearby towns and even more stunning beaches.

Map of Things to Do in Alicante

Great Things to Do in Alicante Spain

Be sure not to miss out on these awesome Alicante attractions and fun things to see and do! If you want to try something really unique, check out this list of wonderful meditation retreats in Spain , including a few spots around Alicante!

1. Santa Barbara Castle

Perhaps the most famous of the things to do in Alicante, Santa Barbara Castle or Castell de la Santa Bàrbara sits atop a hill on the edge of the city.

You can see it from anywhere in Alicante and people of all fitness levels can walk the paved path to the top. It’s also wheelchair accessible, but I would recommend taking a taxi or car as high as you can along the road since it can be quite steep in places.

The views from the castle are some of the best in the entire city.

It’s free to walk around, but if you want to explore the dungeons or inside some of the different areas of the castle, you’ll have to pre-book a castle tour.

The tours are available in English twice a day or in Spanish twice a day. You need to pre-book at least an hour in advance at the visitor center. R ead more about it on their website here .

Santa Bàrbara Castle.

2. Central Market

The Central Market of Alicante or Mercat Central d’Alacant is located right in the city center and is easily walkable from the boardwalk area or the old town of Alicante.

Alicante’s central market is much like many markets around Spain. You’ll find cured and raw meats on the main floor as you enter the market. If you go downstairs (there’s an escalator near the back), you’ll find all of the fresh produce like local and seasonal fruits and vegetables.

If you exit the market at the back you’ll find a flower market as well as a small restaurant where you can have coffee, beer, and some tapas.

This is a nice place to come if you simply want to see what a traditional Spanish market looks like. But it’s also a nice place to come if you want some ingredients for a good beach picnic. They have a huge selection of fruit downstairs and all of the best cheeses and jamon to make great sandwiches or charcuterie boards.

If you are self-catering at an apartment or townhouse, this is not the cheapest place to stock up on groceries, but it is by far the best quality you’ll find in Alicante.

If you want to learn more about what you’re seeing and explore the market with a local Spanish speaker, you can take a fun tour of the central market. This tour includes a full guided tour around the market as well as stops at local bars for drinks and traditional Spanish tapas. Book that tour here .

Central Market in Alicante, Spain.

3. Archaeological Museum of Alicante

The Archaeological Museum of Alicante or MARQ for short is a history-lovers must-see attraction in Alicante.

Located inside a beautiful building that was once the hospital of San Juan de Dios, the collection is a wide variety of art and artifacts which are divided into different areas of the museum.

It goes back to “prehistory” where you’ll find human remains like skulls and bones from thousands of years ago. Then you’ll be able to learn about Roman’s role in the Iberian peninsula’s medieval times, up to modern-day Spain.

One of the great things about this museum is that entry is free to permanent exhibitions. You can visit Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am-7 pm, and on Sundays until 2 pm. The museum is closed on Mondays.

Inside the MACA Museum.

4. MACA Contemporary Art Museum of Alicante

MACA is my personal favorite thing to do in Alicante. Considering Alicante is such a small city, this museum is just as good as the contemporary art museums in Valencia or Malaga.

The museum has a large collection of 20th-century and contemporary art from both Spanish and international artists. There are paintings, sculptures, sketches, and audio-visual works on the display depending on what exhibitions they have going on during the time of your visit.

Like many of the museums in Alicante, the Contemporary Art Museum of Alicante is completely free to enter. There is a baggage storage area at the front desk if you have a larger backpack or bag that you don’t want to carry around the museum.

Basilica of St Mary in Alicante.

5. Basilica of St. Mary of Alicante

The Basilica of Santa Maria is the oldest still-active church in Alicante.

It’s located right across the street from the MACA museum so it’s a great option to visit both when you are in this part of the city.

The thing that I love about this basilica is that is it quite simple, although large, from the outside. It sits in a very small little plaza with only one little restaurant and hardly any foot traffic around it. It’s almost out of the way to come to, which means not many people take the time to come and see it.

It’s worth sitting in the sunshine at the cafe here for a few tapas, a cold beer, or an iced coffee and taking in the sites and sounds of the locals going about their days.

The church isn’t always open, but if you come in the morning, you have a good chance of being able to go inside and see the ornate gold altar. Entry to the basilica is free.

View of Alicante from the Santa Barbara Castle.

6. Gravina Museum of Fine Arts MUBAG

MUBAG is the largest museum in the city and has one of the best fine arts collections in all of the Autonomous Region of the Community of Valencia.

Housed inside the Palacio del Conde de Lumiares, the building was first constructed in the 18th century and is listed as a historical monument.

Most of the art inside the museum is from the 19th and 20th centuries and it is almost entirely made of up paintings. However, throughout the year, they have different exhibitions which feature famous artists from this time period both from Spain and international artists as well.

The museum is open daily from 10 am to 8 pm, except on Sundays when it closes at 2 pm. Amazingly, entry is free to this wonderful museum.

7. Santa Iglesia Concatedral de San Nicolás de Bari de Alicante

The Co-cathedral of Saint Nicholas of Bari is a Roman-Catholic cathedral that was built between 1613 and 1662. Like many churches in Spain, the church was built over the ruins of a mosque that was originally built by the occupying Moors.

Its most striking feature is the blue dome which sits 45 meters above the base of the cathedral. Inside, you’ll find the Chapel of the Holy Communion which many consider to be the best remaining example of Spanish Baroque architecture.

This church is much more centrally located than the city’s basilica, making it easy to visit on any stroll through Alicante’s Old Town.

You can enter the cathedral every day from 8:30 am until 1 pm and then again from 6-8:30 pm. The cathedral is free to enter.

Alicante Beaches are absolutely incredible.

8. Visit the Best Beaches

Most people don’t come to Alicante for the museums and cathedrals (although you should still add them to your list of things to do in Alicante!).

Most people come to Alicante for the great weather and the beautiful golden-sand beaches.

And for good reason. The beaches in Alicante are absolutely stunning (although I’m not sure they beat my beloved Malaga ).

They are indeed some of the best in the country and with amazing weather all year long, even a winter trip to Alicante should include at least a stroll along the sands of this coastal city.

Whether it’s to Benidorm, Villajoyosa , or small spots like el Campello, there are tons of great villages dotted along the coastline in the province of Alicante with amazing beaches.

There is a main beach, known as Playa del Postiguet , located right in the downtown area of Alicante, making it quick and easy to get straight to the beach. This is where locals come for beach workouts, beach volleyball, and for after-work swims in the ocean.

But if you want to spend the day at some of the best beaches in Alicante, you’ll want to hop on a tram to the north where you’ll very quickly reach one of the longest and most beautiful stretches of sand in the Valencia Community.

Along this stretch of sand you can stop off at any of these beaches:

Playa de las Huertas
Playa de San Juan
Playa de Muchvista (this area of the beach has one of the most stunning mountain views around).
Platja del Carrer de la Mar (located in the neighborhood of El Campello, this is a great option if you want to explore more of Alicante’s suburbs and have easy access to shops and restaurants while being close to the beach).

One of the many beautiful sandy beaches in Alicante. This is in El Campello.

9. Take a Day Trip to Benidorm

It took a few years for the tram line to make it all the way to Benidorm, but for just a few Euros, you can now take the L1 tram from the downtown stops of Luceros or Mercat all the way to Benidorm.

From these stops, it takes just over an hour to get to the center of town. There are so many things to do in Benidorm to keep you busy on a day trip from Alicante.

That makes it a very easy and convenient place to spend the day, especially if you are curious about visiting this famous beachside destination.

Benidorm is much more of a tourist resort area than Alicante, but with that comes more amenities close to the beach. There are more restaurants where you can have international food or find waitstaff who speak English.

Benidorm also has one of the most stunning beaches near Alicante .

You can rent scooters (literally mobility scooters) to take along the boardwalk or you can simply head to the beach, enjoy the sea and sand, sample some of the busy party spots or fun restaurants along the beach, and then head back to Alicante by night.

Playa del Postiguet in Alicante, Spain.

10. Go to Tabarca Island

An absolute must-do activity while you are visiting Alicante is to take a boat trip out to Tabarca Island. It is the largest island in the Valencian Community and is packed with cool sites, amazing beaches, and some wonderful restaurants.

The cheapest and most self-sufficient way to visit Tabarca Island is to take the ferry. A round-trip ticket costs €23 (£20 GBP / $24.50 USD) per person and children under 4 years old travel for free.

The timetable depends on the time of year, but you can travel from Alicante to Tabarca Island at these times (as of March 2023):

From March 1 to June 20: at 11 am
From June 21 to September 30: at 10 am, 11 am, 12:15 pm, and 1:30 pm
From October 1 to January 8: at 11:00 a.m.

You can return from the island at the following times:

From March 1 to June 20: at 4 pm
From June 21 to September 30: at 4:30 pm, 5:30 pm, and 6:30 pm
From October 1 to January 8: at 4 pm

As you can see, it is much easier to come and go during the summer months when there are more visitors and the island is much more pleasant to explore. Read more about the ferry or pre-book your tickets on the ferry website here .

If you would prefer to visit the island on a tour, you can go on a catamaran boat trip like this one .

It is a 6-hour tour that includes snorkeling in the marine reserve at Tabarca Island, free time to spend on the island, and a lunch of paella and drinks. Book that tour here .

Views of Alicante from above.

11. Wander the Streets of the Old Town

Alicante is a small but beautiful city. One of my favorite things to do here is to simply get lost amongst the sidestreets.

Wander along the streets that are two or three blocks from the boardwalk and you’ll discover cool street art and wonderful little tapas restaurants ( d’tablas is my personal favorite !).

This little pedestrian street has little mushroom sculptures and lots of great little bars. The main boulevard, La Rambla, is home to good shopping and plenty of affordable chain restaurants.

And of course you have the Esplanada d’Espanya which has stunning tile work and lots of cute little vendors selling souvenir bracelets and keychains at surprisinly affordable prices. I got some cute bracelets here for lesss than €1 each!

The boardwalk is a wonderful place to spend some time when exploring Alicante.

12. Take a Food Tour

The Valencian Community is the home of paella. That alone is reason enough to be curious about the food culture in Alicante, but there are so many other unique dishes from this region as well like arroz a banda or arroz con costra .

If you are spending a week or two with Alicante as your base, taking a food tour is a great way to start your trip and get more recommendations for great restaurants in the area. If you are only here for a quick weekend trip, it’s the best way to sample a lot of local food in a short amount of time.

This secret flavors food tour is one of the best options if you want to get to know more about the food culture of Alicante and sample some of the best local dishes while also supporting local producers and small businesses in the city.

You’ll explore the market and learn about its history and then you’ll have a whopping 20 different samples to enjoy. Book that tour here .

This evening tapas tour promises to take you off the beaten path and show you where the locals go for tapas and great wine. It includes visits to three top bars and four different tapas and drinks to sample.

Although it doesn’t sound like much, this tour is all about quality over quantity and you will have nice-sized portions and top-quality dishes with a rich history in this region of Spain. It’s also a fun way to explore Alicante’s nightlife with a knowledgeable local. Book that tour here .

Elche Palm forest near Alicante.

13. Visit the Palm Trees in Elche

An easy day trip from Alicante, you can take the bus or train to Elche several times a day ( check times on Omio here ). The bus is about €2 and you can pay in cash or card directly on the bus at the bus station.

It takes about 45 minutes and you will arrive directly at the Elche bus station where you are only a 5-10 minute walk from the largest palm tree forest in all of Europe.

El Palmeral is a huge park full of different palm trees (and if you can imagine, there are fewer here than there were even just 10-15 years ago!).

It’s a stunning place to walk around with different buildings and water features to enjoy amongst the shade of the palms.

The city itself is also worth a visit for the archeological museum which is housed in an old Moorish fortress. I would say it is just as interesting to visit this museum as it is to explore the palm tree forest.

Inside El Palmeral Park in Elche.

14. Tour the City by Bike

Bike tours are always one of my favorite things to do in the summer. There are so many great bike lanes in Alicante and riding around on your own if you rent a bike for the day is a great way to get around the city if you want to get around quicker than walking.

However, if you want to explore the city, get to know the history, and have some fun exercising, a bike tour like this one is a great way to do it .

They also have e-bikes on the tour if you want a little bit of assistance or an easier way to go for a nice long bike ride.

The tour includes a bike, helmet, a stop for a snack, and a knowledgeable guide who will explain history, culture, and fun facts about Alicante as you ride around the city stopping for breaks and seeing different sites along the way. Book that tour here .

Alicante is a great place to hop on a boat and get out to explore the coastline.

15. Sail Along the Coastline

The coastline of Alicante is absolutely stunning and besides the ferry to Tabarca, it can be hard to get out on the water to see more of the rocky cliffs and stunning beaches.

Boat trips can feel extravagent and they may seem like they are out of reach, but there are tons of affordable tour options that get you out on the water.

This catamaran tour is a two-hour boat trip that takes you to locations like Albufereta and Cabo de la Huerta.

On board, you can enjoy tapas and drinks or you can hop off at different locations for a swim in the stunning turquoise waters of the Mediterranean.

The boat also has snorkeling gear for anyone who wants to see beneath the surface of the stunning marine life around this coastline. Book that boat tour here .

Hiking in Alicante is one of the best things to do in the area for outdoor lovers.

16. Go Hiking in the Nearby Trails

Alicante is home to so many amazing hiking trails of varying degrees of difficulty. From easy paved walks like the hike to the top of the Santa Barbara Castle to long coastal walks with undulating trails, you’re bound to find a trail that challenges and delights you.

Just on the outskirts of the city center, you’ll find a great trail network that takes you up to views back over Alicante. You can get there by simply hopping on the tram and getting off at Sangueta station.

If you use Google Maps or Maps.me for your trails, you can follow along by inputting this location and working your way up to the top.

If you want to find longer trails, I prefer to use the Alltrails app . This allows you to download the map of the trail and use it offline when you inevitably lose signal on your phone up in the hills.

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Ultimate Alicante Travel Guide for 2024

Holidays to Alicante are popular and there are many direct flights to Alicante Airport from the UK, Netherlands, Germany and Scandinavia. For many reasons the Alicante province and the Costa Blanca are a favorite holiday destination as well as a city break for travelers from Northern Europe.

In this Alicante Travel Guide I will take you with me on what to do in Alicante, the best places to see, where to eat, the best coffee and everything else you need to know before traveling to Alicante in 2024.

Alicante tourism

Because of the many affordable flights flying to Alicante Airport the city became a magnet for people looking for short holiday breaks. But it can’t be only the cheap flights to Alicante that are drawing so many tourists to the Costa Blanca, there must be more. I roamed around Alicante old town and the city center for a couple days and also hired a car to check out and explore the best places to visit around Alicante.

I came to the simple conclusion that there are so many fun things to do and places to see, that in fact weekend in Alicante is not enough!

Yes first explore the city! Alicante is an amazing place to visit, but there are also fabulous day trips from Alicante one shouldn't miss out on. Check out all the day trips you can do in the link above.

Little history and facts about Alicante

Back in the days Alicante was just like any other medieval Spanish town a walled city, but because of its strategic location on the Costa Blanca coast it has been fought over a lot. Therefore Alicante has been built, destroyed and rebuilt many times over the last couple hundred years. Some facts to show you the importance of Alicante in history:

The first long distance train in Spain went from Madrid to Alicante.
Alicante was the last remaining republican city that Franco took over in times of the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939).
Napoleon took over Spain except two cities: Cadiz ánd Alicante.

Because of all this fighting over the city there are not many ancient buildings left in Alicante Old Town. Nevertheless it is a beautiful place to stroll through.

Things to know when you travel to Alicante

1. best time to travel to alicante.

Any time of the year is a good time to visit Alicante. Of course if you want to avoid the crowds you don’t travel to Alicante in the summer months June, July and August. But even winter is a great time to visit Alicante. All the photos taken in this Alicante travel blog are from mid December. To me it was the perfect time for my holidays in Alicante, because of the mild temperatures and the deserted streets. As I found Alicante almost deserted at the end of autumn I listed it in a list of off the beaten track destinations in Europe .

2. From Alicante Airport to Alicante city center

May you decide to spend your Alicante weekend break just in the city then you can either take a taxi from the airport to your hotel or the Alicante airport bus. The bus only cost €3,85 per person, taxi’s easily ask €25. The bus from Alicante Airport to Alicante city center leaves just outside the arrivals hall and is called C6. It has several stops along the Explanada de Espana , the main boulevard in the city.

3. How to get around in Alicante

You can either rent a car at the airport and pick it up on arrival or rent a car at the Alicante city center. At the airport you can’t miss the rental car companies in the arrivals hall. It is very simple and straight forward. I recommend you to book a car to see the best places to visit around Alicante.

You can also rent a car in Alicante city center. Almost all the car rental companies have offices next to the train station. I rented my car in the city center at the train station and dropped it off at the airport with no extra fee.

I ended up renting a car from Enterprise , it was less than €20 per day including insurance.

From Alicante to Benidorm

There are busses and trains from Alicante to Benidorm that run every hour and take 1,5 hours only. One of the best places to visit in Alicante is Altea and but public transport will take pretty long.

4. Museums are free

A great thing about a trip to Alicante is that all the museums are free. You can just walk in. More about the best museums to visit in Alicante later. Churches are also admission free.

Alicante itinerary for 3 days

For those people that are only able to enjoy a weekend or 3 days in Alicante I think it is best to rent a car for one day and visit some places near Alicante. I would suggest the following itinerary for Alicante:

Day1: relaxing at the beach and hiking up to the majestic Santa Barbara Castle.

Day 2: Explore the old town by an early morning walking tour then enjoying the marina and one of the many lovely coffee shops or sea food restaurants.

Day 3: Rent a car for a day and see some of the amazing places to visit around Alicante, like the Canelobre Caves, Altea, Villajoyosa.

Then if you leave the next day you can drop the rental car off in the airport before your flight. Doesn't this 3 day itinerary sound like an amazing relaxing city trip or Alicante holiday?

Things to do in Alicante

1. hike up to santa barbara castle.

If you are reasonably fit or have the time anyway, please walk up to the top of the Santa Barbara Castle . To me it is one of the best things to do in Alicante. There are many path to lead to the castle on top of the hill. It is 166 meters above sea level but the views from up there are obviously impressive. During the hike up you will constantly be spoiled with fabulous views in all directions over Alicante city center.

The walk up is pretty steep, but once you reach the top you will appreciate it even more. You can also drive up to the entrance of the Santa Barbara Castle.

There are some places to have a drink along the way with good views over the city center and the ocean.

There are some expositions halls, but I was just mostly interested in the view. There is no Santa Barbara Castle entrance fee. When you visit Alicante make sure to put this on your things to do list!

Watching the sunrise is not possible as there are opening hours. From April till September the castle is open from 10am to 10pm, in the winter months the castle is only open till 8pm.

Watching the sunset from Santa Barbara Castle, a romantic thing to do in Alicante.

2. Stroll through Old Town Alicante

One of my favorite things to do on a city break is to get lost. This time I ended up somewhere in Alicante Old Town and I was blown away by its beauty. Perched in the slopes of the Santa Barbara Castle there are these cute little streets and stairs.

Houses are painted in different colors and all have flowers in front. If you are looking for romantic things to do in Alicante then stroll through Old Town.

3. Sunbath on El Postiguet Beach

This is El Postiguet on a Wednesday in December just before sunset.

There are several amazing beaches around Alicante. I cant tell you which one is the best as I did not try them all. The beach in the city center is called El Postiguet . A little North you can find a huge beach called San Juan Playa. For people staying in Alicante City Center I would recommend going to El Postiguet.

4. Visit the fish market

The local food in Alicante mostly always contains fish. Because of its dry climate there never really were opportunities to grow something so historically dried food and fish has always been part of their menu. In Alicante city center there is Mercado Central , this bustling place is cool to walk around. You will be amazed what they all sell here.

5. Bring your own fish restaurants

Fresher than this it can hardly get. Around the markets there are some restaurants where you can bring your own fish and they cook it for you. Buy it at the market, present it to the restaurant and let them prepare a meal for you with your own fish. Just outside the market there is a restaurant called La Rotonda who also does this. If I were you I would ask in advance before you get there and say: but Traveltomtom told me it was possible… ;)

6. Try Turron

When on an Alicante city break you surely have to try Turron. Originally from the Alicante region it is a kind of nougat sweet made from egg white, honey, sugar and toasted almonds. It comes in many different variations. There are shops dedicated to Turron.

I walked into Turrones ESPI at Calle Tomas Lopez Torregrosa and they let me try different kind of Turrones. Definitely something you have to try when you visit Alicante. They claim to be making Turron since 1820, so I assume they know what they are doing. The liquor of Turron taste a bit like Baileys.

7. Free walking tour Alicante

Did you know that every city you visit has free walking tours? In Alicante you can also find one and I honestly think it is one of the best things to do in the city. Not only do you get to see all the best places to visit, you also get a little slice of history and some cool anecdotes about the city by a local tourguide. The Alicante free walking tour takes about 2 hours and is tip based. They meet every day at 11am at the beginning of Explanada de Espana and you recognize them from of the purple umbrella.

During the free walking tour in Alicante we learned that the rock above Alicante has a face, the one who protects Alicante from Evil. Do you see it?

8. Segway tour

Have you ever tried riding a segway? It is just as easy as walking trust me. An hour city tour cost about €40. You get a little Segway lesson and once you are comfortable you are ready to explore the city on a segway.

9. Snorkel at Tabarca Island

From the beach in Alicante you can see a little rocky island in the ocean. During summer there are many boats going to Tabarca. This inhabited island is a protected marine reserve since 1986. It is a great place for snorkeling

10. Stroll up and down La Rambla

Just like in Barcelona the main street in Alicante is called La Rambla. Stroll up and down and sample food and look for souvenirs in typical stalls from street vendors.

11. Explore the Alicante marina

Marinas are always great to walk around, especially around sunset. It always gives me such a calming feeling to see all these boats perfectly lined up. There is a nice terrace at SOHO Mar to have a drink with views over the marina. You can also find a Volvo Ocean Race Museum , but I did not go inside as well as a casino.

If you fancy a typical Alicante coffee ask for a Bombon Coffee, its a layered coffee with condensed milk. Not my taste, but worth a try.

12. Shopping

If you want a moment for yourself tell your wife to go to the area around Avenida Maisonnave. It is right in the Alicante city center and there are endless shopping opportunities. Make sure she brings her own credit card!

Check out a leather bag store called Cala. It’s really cool if you need some gifts from Alicante, it is worth going. The leather shoes in Spain are cheap and amazing quality compared to most of the world!

Places to see in Alicante

1. explanda de espana.

The main tourist spot in Alicante is its Explanda de Espana . The main boulevard made out of more than 6.5 million marble tiles is something the people from Alicante are really proud of. It has a long history but nowadays tourists on their Alicante weekend break stroll up and down through the massive palm trees before they sit back and relax. There are many terraces and people watching is a popular thing to do in Alicante. The marble tiles of the Explanada have three colors: white and blue are the city colors of Alicante and red. Alicante Red is an official color marble and expensive all over the world, it is marble that comes from this region.

2. Basilica Santa Maria

Nestled in Alicante Old Town next to the Museum of Contemporary Arts you can find the Santa Maria church . The Baroque entry is pretty impressive and still in tact. They renovated the square and the church about 10 years ago and it looks beautiful from the outside. To peak inside you gotta come at the right time.

The basilica is only open from 11.00-12.00 and from 19.00-20.00. During this time there are also church services, but taking photos is allowed. Therefore plan a visit to the Santa Maria Basilica carefully as it is one of the best places to visit in Alicante.

3. Alicante Cathedral

plaza del abad penalva alicante city center

The San Nicolas de Bari Cathedral is located in Alicante city center in front of Plaza del Abad Penalva. The cathedral has a 45 meter high blue cupola that towers out above the city skyline. The interior is pretty impressive too. Inside there is a second floor to get to by a staircase for a different perspective of this amazing cathedral. Definitely among the best places to visit in Alicante.

On the right side of the picture you can see the cathedral. Sad that they allowed one skyscraper to be build in Alicante city center. After this construction they realized it was not a good idea and they did not permit any more of these high rise buildings to be build.

4. Contemporary Art Museum

Located next to the Santa Maria Basilica is the Museum of Contemporary Art . It is free to enter and it was one of the first times I walked into a museum like this. I like the free museums concept!

5. Water Museum

At the bottom of the Santa Barbara Castle you will find the water museum. It basically is a cave in where there is al little exposition about how people back in the days used techniques to save rain water. The entrance is free, it is a 5 minute visit. Not the most exhilarating place to see in Alicante, but nice to peak inside when you pass by.

6. MARQ Archaeological Museum Alicante

The only museum in Alicante where you have to pay an entrance fee. It is only €3 and it is used for preservation and research. It won the European Museum of the year award in 2004, so who would I be to not list it as one of the best things to do in Alicante. It was nice to walk around, surely worth €3. Taking photos without flash is allowed. I loved that the MARQ Archaeological Museum is an interactive museum.

Where to eat in Alicante

When you walk out of the Alicante Cathedral and turn left there is the Calle de Munoz, a lovely little passageway with some of the best restaurants in Alicante. If you are looking where to eat in Alicante I could recommend you one of the restaurants in this little alley.

Anywhere along Explanada is good to eat outside on one of the many terraces. For evenings I liked the Plaza Santa Faz where you find many terraces under big palm trees.

Where to go out in Alicante

From what I found was El Barrio the best place to go out in Alicante. There are a dozen restaurants and bars located in the narrow streets. Havana is a lively place where tourists and locals mingle. Royal Night Club is a popular place to go out late night.

Best coffee places in Alicante

As part of my working holiday visa in Australia I did a barista course and since then a standard coffee is not good enough anymore. Therefore I always roam around to find the best coffee places anywhere I go. In Alicante Old Town I found three amazing places.

1. Madness Coffee Specialty Coffee

Choose your favorite coffee roast from Costa Rica, Rwanda or Colombia. This place knows how to make excellent coffee, thumbs up! A very inviting interior as well, a place where you just want to hang out.

2. Bunatic Slow Coffee

Another little coffee gem in Alicante Old Town. Great coffee and although the interior is a bit minimalistic, this is where you want to come for breakfast. Start your Alicante city break at Bunatic Slow Coffee as their breakfast deals are delicious. You should definitely try the homemade granola with fresh fruits. The toasts are also yummy. Coffees €2,00, breakfast deals €5,00.

3. Sip & Wonder Coffee House

If you are looking for things to do in Alicante when it rains this is a good place to go. Coffee is world class and the homey atmosphere will make you smile. There are sofas, lounge chairs and it is filled with foreign students studying.

Dogs are allowed inside and every time I hang out there I saw a bunch of dogs. The avocado sandwich is delicious. Coffees €2,00, avo on toast €5,00.

Festivals in Alicante

1. carnival.

The number one festival that I would love to go to myself is the Carnival. Im from Southern Holland where we celebrate Carnival big time as well and I have also celebrated Carnival in the Caribean and South America. Street parades, happy people, costumes, smiles, drinks and warm weather and I am 100% sure this is a good festival to attend. Carnival is held mostly around mid February or beginning of March.

2. Running with the bulls

This is exactly what it implies. The brave are able to run with the bulls through the main street. Spectators are behind wooden fences as bulls run through the streets ending up in a temporary bullring at the fishing port. The Running with the Bulls festival is yearly held in July. In 2016 two people died.

3. Start of Volvo Ocean Race

There is a reason why there is a Volvo Ocean Race Museum in the port of Alicante as since 2008 the start of the Volvo Ocean Race is in the Alicante port. It is a big happening every time. The Volvo Ocean Race 2022 - 2023 started again in January 2023 in Alicante.

Booking.com

Day trips from Alicante

As you can see there are many things to do and places to see on your Alicante holidays, so no need to even leave the city. But there are some amazing places around Alicante that are definitely worth a visit.

Canelobre Caves - a big cave inside a mountain, with guided tours.
Busot - a charming village on top of a hill.
Benidorm - a popular beach town.
Altea - one of the best places to see in Alicante Province.
Guadalest - a lovely village with a castle on top of a hill.
Villajoyosa - colorful coastal town.

To visit these places I recommend you to take day trips from Alicante . Click on the link to read the full blog post about all the amazing places to visit around Alicante.

My trip to Alicante

As you have been able to read I have explored the city quite extensively. This lead to the above information about holidays to Alicante. The vibe in the city is super chilled especially in the winter season. People are more relaxed and it is not at all crowded. Flights to Alicante are cheaper and hotels too.

You can already find Alicante hotels for as less as €50 per night. Every morning I made my way to one of the coffee shops mentioned to get a good cup of coffee and a healthy breakfast.

Then walked around the city taking photos and sampling some Jamon Iberico and of course some ice cream. Life in Alicante was good… I will definitely be back!

Where to stay in Alicante

5 star hotel in alicante.

Hospes Amerigo - 5 star hotel in Alicante city center. More than 1,250 reviews with a score of 9.1 .

4 star hotel in Alicante

Sercotel Suites Del Mar - amazing location in the Marina with ocean views, close to the beach. More than 700 reviews with a score of 8.9 .

Boutique hotel in Alicante

Hotel Boutique Alicante Palacete - charming boutique hotel in the city center. With over more 700 reviews it scores a 9.4 .

Apartment in Alicante

Wellrenting Alicante CS - close to the train station, spacious 1 bedroom apartment for under 50 a night. 300 reviews - 8.3 score .

Budget hotel in Alicante

Habitaciones Engel - Super central, shared bathroom but only €30 a night. 9.1 score out of 130 reviews .

Hostel in Alicante

Smile & Co Hostal Boutique - On the west side of Alicante city center clearly a favorite with almost 1,000 reviews and a 9.6 review score .

Thank you for reading my Alicante travel blog. I hope all the information I provided was helpful for your holidays in Alicante. Would you please help me a little in return? Would you mind posting the link on Facebook or in a Facebook Group? Or tweet it on Twitter? It would mean a lot to me! Massive thanks in advance.

If you are interested what it looks like traveling to every country in the world then check out my Instagram profile @traveltomtom for some serious wanderlust. As of January 2024 I have visited more than 150 countries around the world.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Adventure Traveler & Blogger (@traveltomtom)

Enjoy your trip to Alicante!

Alicante fire latest: Three firefighters are injured as forest blaze tears through more than 500 hectares and forces the evacuation of 180 people – including dozens of hippies who tried to stay behind

MORE than 500 hectares of forest land have been destroyed by a fire in the Marina Alta area of Alicante province.

The blaze – most likely caused by an agricultural fire – started after 12.00pm on Sunday in the Serra Ferrer between Tarbena and Halo.

Fire crews battled through the night to bring it under control but were hampered by humid weather, with at least three firefighters said to have been injured so far.

Two were injured in the head and back respectively after tumbling on the tricky terrain, while a third has an unspecified light injury.

Fireworks blown off target by strong winds ignite huge blaze, engulfing cars and killing racing pigeons on Spain’s Costa Blanca
Arson is behind yet another devastating forest fire in eastern Spain, say investigators – following string of similar attacks last summer

Due to the humid weather, smoke didn’t rise high enough, resulting in reduced visibility and crucially, meaning that fire fighting planes could not be deployed.

Regional emergencies secretary, Javier Montero, said. “The weather forecasts for lower humidity were not fulfilled meaning that flames continued in areas that can only be accessed from the air.”

The blaze spread quickly on Sunday as the incident was declared a level 2 emergency, resulting in the closure of the CV-715 and CV-752 roads.

Around 180 people who live in scattered rural properties in Parcent and Tarbent have been evacuated as a precaution.

Residents of a 26-strong long-established hippy commune had to be persuaded to leave by the Guardia Civil, as smoke poured over their community area.

Antonio Cordoba, from the Alicante Provincial Firefighters, said that the main critical area is the Barranc de Sacos, while Coll de Rates – where the fire started – is looking more promising.

Regional fire crews have been backed up by units from the Murcia region.

Valencian Justice and Interior Minister, Elisa Nuñez, appealed to people to stay away from the area so that fire crews can continue with their work uninterrupted.

It is hoped that the fire will be brought under control in the coming hours, reports Informacion.com.

Alicante Province
Costa Blanca
forest fire
Forest land
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Alicante fire latest: Blaze is STILL burning after taking hold at the weekend – as police make two arrests

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Alex Trelinski

Alex worked for 30 years for the BBC as a presenter, producer and manager. He covered a variety of areas specialising in sport, news and politics. After moving to the Costa Blanca over a decade ago, he edited a newspaper for 5 years and worked on local radio.

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L'île de Tabarca

Alicante, votre destination sportive..., profitez de la culture, musées, monuments, lieux d’intérêt historique, itinéraires..

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Offices de tourisme, les transports, guides touristiques, autres services.

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Hôtels, auberges, appartements touristiques, pensions, auberges de jeunesse…

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Informations pratiques pour les touristes de croisières et les visites d’une seule journée

Apprendre l’Espagnol

Écoles spécialisées dans l’enseignement de l’espagnol.

Bus C6 Aéroport

Le Bus C6 relie le terminal de l’aéroport avec le centre d’Alicante

À visiter à Alicante

Craquez pour la lumière d’Alicante et découvrez ses lieux les plus beaux et les plus emblématiques: Isla de Tabarca, les plages, le château de Santa Bárbara, les monuments et les bâtiments historiques, les musées et les centres culturels, les jardins et les promenades .

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Musées et Centres Culturels

Île de Tabarca

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Que faire à Alicante

Découvrez Alicante de jour et de nuit et si vous venez en croisière , profitez de ses belles plages , son shopping , les sports , ses sports aquatiques ou le golf . Profitez d’Alicante en couple, avec vos amis ou en famille. Prenez part aux fêtes , découvrez nos itinéraires et savourez la ville. Alicante est un régal pour vos sens.

TÉLÉTRAVAILLER À ALICANTE

GASTRONOMIE D’ALICANTE

Apprendre l’Espagnol à Alicante

Foto del exterior del Castillo de Santa Bárbara

Golf à Alicante

Fondos Marinos de la Isla de Tabarca -subacuática-buceo.

Activités Nautiques

Foto de chica probándose zapatos en comercio local

Faire du Shopping à Alicante

Alicante en famille

Si vous venez à Alicante, vous allez vouloir connaître les options d’hébergement et restaurants , ou de savoir comment arriver à votre destination. Il se peut aussi que vous vouliez connaître les services de visites guidées disponibles, les offices de tourisme pour poser vos questions, comment vous déplacer en transport public , où prendre le bus touristique , il est possible que vous ayez besoin de cartes, de guides et d’applications pour faciliter votre séjour. Peut-être même apprendre l’espagnol ? Bienvenue à Alicante!

Offices du Tourisme

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Bus C6 Alicante-Aéroport

Guides touristiques et visites guidées

Comment se rendre à Alicante

(CSB) Navette du château de Santa Bárbara.

Tardeo Alicante, une nouvelle forme de loisirs.

MILLE ANS D’HISTOIRE DU CHÂTEAU DE SANTA BARBARA

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Tourist office of Busot

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Oficinas de turismo de Alicante: ALICANTE CITY & BEACH
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Oficinas de turismo de Alicante: ALICANTE CITY & BEACH
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Enjoy Alicante city (Spain), its formidable beaches, its delicious gastronomy and its most emblematic places. Official tourism website . Phone:+34 965177201 +34 965 177 201 [email protected]. Facebook; ... Are you familiar with the latest alicante city tourist board project?
Alicante tourist office. Information
Email address, phone number and address of the Alicante tourist office. | spain.info. Spain's official tourism website. Search. Where to go. Discover our destinations. Madrid; Barcelona; Valencia; Seville; Zaragoza; Malaga; ... 03005 Alicante-Alacant, Alicante, Alicante - Alacant (Region of Valencia) Contact details ...
Alicante Tourist Information: BEST Things to Do & See
Alicante Tourist Offices (Oficina de Turismo) Alicante Tourist Office. Address: Avenida Rambla Mendez Nuñez 41, 03002, Alicante. Telephone: +34 965 200 000. Email: [email protected]. Opening Hours: Monday to Friday from 9:00 to 20:00 h. Saturdays from 10:00 to 20:00 h. Sundays and holidays from 10:00 to 14:00 h.
Tourism in Alicante-Alacant. What to see. Tourist information
Region of Valencia. Located in the heart of the Costa Blanca, Alicante is one of the most important tourist destinations on the east coast of Spain. The many golf courses and the calm waters of the Mediterranean are just some of the attractions offered by this beautiful port city located at the foot of the Castle of Santa Barbara, a silent ...
Alicante
The primary tourist office is open year round, and has free maps and brochures. ( updated May 2016 ) 38.34522 -0.48126 2 Tourist Info Alicante Ayuntamiento , Plaza del Ayuntamiento, 1 ( in the city hall ), ☏ +34 965 149 219 , [email protected] .
Alicante Travel Guide
The best time to visit Alicante is any time. With mild temperatures and an average of about 20 days of rain per year, Alicante is hospitable year-round. For the best beach weather, visit June ...
Alicante Tourist Information
Alicante tourist information is available both through the city's website and through the local office. You can find helpful information there, such as the city's major travel destinations, the public transport system, the monetary system, important offices and establishments such as banks, immigration offices, travel agencies and others ...
Alicante travel
Alicante. Spain, Europe. Of all Spain's mainland provincial capitals, Alicante (Valenciano: Alacant) is the most influenced by tourism, thanks to the nearby airport and resorts. Nevertheless it is a dynamic, attractive Spanish city with a castle, old quarter and long waterfront. The eating scene is exciting and the nightlife is absolutely ...
Tourist info offices
Contact with Alicante tourist offices: Phone (+34) 965 125 633, Phone (+34) 965 177 201, [email protected], [email protected]
Alicante City Information
Alicante's location: The Costa Blanca lies on the east coast of Spain. to the south is the Costa Almeria and to the north, the Costa Dorada. Alicante has about 340 000 inhabitants and lies directly at the Mediterranean sea. The Alicante weather in winter is around 16 ºC. In summer the average is around 32 ºC.
12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Alicante
Learn about the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Alicante. See also: Where to Stay in Alicante. On This Page: 1. Castillo de Santa Bárbara. 2. Museo Arqueológico Provincial de Alicante (MARQ) 3. Explanada de España.
Alicante-city hall tourist office. Information
Email address, phone number and address of the Alicante city hall tourist office. What to do in Alicante | spain.info
Alicante City
Alicante City, Alicante. 56,594 likes · 1,526 talking about this. ALICANTE CITY & BEACH. Alicante City Tourist Board. Patronato Municipal de Turismo y...
16 Best Things to do in Alicante Spain
1. Santa Barbara Castle. Perhaps the most famous of the things to do in Alicante, Santa Barbara Castle or Castell de la Santa Bàrbara sits atop a hill on the edge of the city. You can see it from anywhere in Alicante and people of all fitness levels can walk the paved path to the top.
TOURIST INFO ALICANTE
Avenida Salamanca, s/n. (Estación Ferrocarril Renfe) Alacant/Alicante. 03005. Situada dentro del recinto, en el hall de entrada. contact information. (+34) 965 125 633. [email protected]. [email protected].
Ultimate Alicante Travel Guide for 2024
Day 2: Explore the old town by an early morning walking tour then enjoying the marina and one of the many lovely coffee shops or sea food restaurants. Day 3: Rent a car for a day and see some of the amazing places to visit around Alicante, like the Canelobre Caves, Altea, Villajoyosa.
Alicante City Tourist Board
The Alicante City Tourist Board (Patronato Municipal de Turismo y Playas Alicante) is the independent municipal body given the responsibility of promoting and marketing the city as a tourist destination on the Spanish and overseas markets.. Its main functions include attending national and international tourism fairs, drawing up brochures and all kinds of promotional material, publicity ...
Tourist guides and guided visits
Tourist guides accredited by the Valencian Agency of Tourism: PARASAILING ALICANTE Muelle 14, Zona de Levante, Sn, 03001 Alicante [email protected] [email protected] Tel: (+34)674 444 747 www.parasailingalicante.com Facebook: Parasailing-Alicante Instagram: parasailingalicante: SIS TOURS EVENTS Avda. Miriam Blasco 2
Alicante fire latest: Three firefighters are injured as forest blaze
Main switchboard - Newsroom/Sales & Admin: +34 951 15 48 41 To contact the newsdesk out of regular office hours please call +34 665 798 618 We are available over the Christmas and Easter holidays
Accueil
Découvrez la ville d'Alicante (Espagne), ses plages, sa gastronomie et ses lieux les plus emblématiques. Site officiel du tourisme. Tel+34 965177201 +34 965 177 201 [email protected]. ... Faire du Sport à Alicante; Office Municipal du Tourisme d'Alicante + Alicante; Île de Tabarca;
Alicante-Airport tourist office. Information
Email address, phone number and address of the Alicante airport tourist office. | spain.info. Spain's official tourism website. Search. Where to go. Discover our destinations. Madrid; Barcelona; Valencia; Seville; Zaragoza; Malaga; ... 03195 Alicante-Alacant, Alicante, Alicante - Alacant (Region of Valencia) Contact details ...
Tourist office of Busot. Alicante
We provide you with the email address, phone number and the location of Tourist office of Busot, on Spain's official tourism website | spain.info. Spain's official tourism website. Search. Where to go. Discover our destinations. Madrid; Barcelona; ... 03111 Busot, Alicante - Alacant (Region of Valencia) Contact details ...

Alicante Tourist Information: BEST Things to Do & See

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