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15 Best Things to Do in Alicante (Spain)

Alicante is the capital of eastern Spain’s Costa Blanca holiday region. The name comes from the endless sequence of white sandy beaches in this part of the country. The city has all the relaxation and fun of the seaside with the history and sights you’d want from a city break: There’s a medieval fortress towering over the city and a classic Mediterranean old-town with whitewashed houses and cobblestone streets.

You’ll spend mornings at museums and churches, and afternoons swimming in clear waters or dozing under a parasol. The modern tram network in Alicante makes it a breeze to get from one attraction to the next.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Alicante :

1. Castle of Santa Barbara

Crowning Benacantil mountain, the vast, monumental rock looming over Alicante, is a fortress with medieval Arab origins. The most recent renovations took place during Spain’s Golden Age in the 1500s, but if you look closely you’ll find little fragments from Moorish times.

If you go on foot the best time to make the climb is early in the morning before the sun is at its fiercest, but there’s also a lift that runs from just behind Postiguet Beach. Everyone should get up to the battlements and gaze in awe at the panorama of Alicante, the Mediterranean and dark, mountainous countryside.

2. Explanada de España

Alicante’s  refined, marble-laid promenade is useful for way-finding, as it starts in the old-town and continues along the city’s seafront next to the marina.

In most Spanish cities a family walk is part of the lifestyle, and promenades like the Explanada de España help you do it in style.

You’ll get a real sense of Alicante’s ambience as you stroll beneath the palms and watch daily life in the city unfold around you at terraces and market stalls.

There are lovely coastal views, and after dark in summer this brightly lit walkway benefits from refreshing sea breezes at the end of sweltering days.

3. Archaeological Museum

Alicante’s MARQ Provincial Archaeological Museum is just the place if you’re wondering about Alicante’s origins.

You’ll start in prehistory with the hunter gatherers and see the first hand-crafted metallic items forged around Alicante.

Then there’s the Iberian room, devoted to the many pre-Roman archaeological sites close by that have yielded wonderful pieces of sculpture and ceramics.

The Roman city of Lucentum was close to modern Alicante and the wide range of pottery, jewellery and other everyday items recovered from digs there.

Perhaps most thrilling of all are the displays that cover medieval times, when for a brief period, Jewish, Islamic and Christian cultures existed side-by-side.

4. Casco Antiguo

You won’t mind getting lost in the old part of Alicante, a bit like a village at the centre of town. This neighbourhood is sprawled on the hill side beneath the castle, and to get around you’ll need to negotiate steep streets and stairways between high whitewashed walls.

Locals take great pride in their homes, decorating their balconies and doorsteps with fresh flowers, and painting their shutters in blues and greens.

If you need a breather you can always take the weight off at one of the many cafes and restaurants in this part of the city.

5. Postiguet Beach

Right next to the old-town is a very serviceable beach, if you don’t want to travel far for a dose of sea and sand. Playa del Postiguet is a finger of golden sand washed by very light waves.

You have to wade out quite far before the sea even reaches waist-height and from the water there are great views back to the dominant walls of Santa Barbara.

Given its size and location, the beach can get a bit hectic in summer, but the central location means there’s no shortage of places to pick up lunch.

6. Basilica of Santa María

The oldest and prettiest church in the city is close to the foot of the mountain, and a few streets from Postiguet Beach.

Like many churches in Spain Santa María was built over a former mosque after Alicante had been taken back from the Moors in the 13th century.

The first thing you’ll notice are the church’s sombre-looking twin towers. What’s interesting about these is that even though they look identical, the one on the right is from the 1300s, while the left one is actually from the 1800s.

Within check out the gothic 14th-century statue of Santa María and a medieval incunable, an early printed book from the 1200s.

7. Contemporary Art Museum

A fun fact about this attraction devoted to modern art is that it’s housed in Alicante’s oldest secular building, a former granary constructed in 1687 next to the Santa María Basilica.

It was founded in 1976 by the Alicante sculptor Eusebio Sempere, displaying his private collection. There are some 800 pieces in the collection, representing many the most celebrated 20th-century artists, including Picasso, Francis Bacon, Salvador Dalí and Joan Miró.

Only a third of the works can be displayed at any time, and the display is rotated throughout the year, so no two visits will be the same.

8. Beach Excursions

There’s a wide array of Blue Flag beaches an easy drive from Alicante; you’re on the Costa Blanca after all. If you want lots of space then Saladar Beach to the south of Alicante is a 1600-metre-long sweep of golden sand.

There isn’t much by way of tourist development here save a few isolated apartment blocks on the edge of the sand dunes.

In the other direction, on Alicante’s northern outskirts is Playa de la Albufereta. This was the harbour for the Roman settlement of Lucentum and is a spotless bay with gentle waters backed by resort towers.

Related tour: Alicante Two-Hour Sunset Catamaran Cruise

The Costa Blanca also means an abundance of golf courses. There are 15 within the province, all at reasonable driving distance.

If you don’t want to venture too far Alicante Golf Club is a 15-minute drive from the city centre and was designed by Seve Ballesteros. This 18-hole par-72 makes a nods to the local Roman heritage in the shape of recreated Roman ruins that you have try and avoid on the 14th hole.

Also minutes away is Bonalba, another par-72 with a front nine that tests your short game and a back nine that rewards an accurate drive.

10. Mercado Central

If you’re self-catering then there’s no excuse not to head for this large covered market on the upper side of Alfonso el Sabio. Central Markets are like food cathedrals in Spain, and Alicante’s is no exception.

There’s a plethora of fish and meat stalls, and endless inspiration for amateur chefs! The seafood stalls are a particular highlight, with their counters almost overflowing with crabs, lobsters, squid and much more besides.

Fresh fruit and vegetables also abound, and you’ll be able to seek out some regional specialities like turrón nougat and Mistela, a sweet dessert wine.

Included in : Seven Secrets of Alicante Discovery Tour

11. Local Cuisine

If you’re new to Spanish dining culture and want to eat like a local, lunch is normally quite late, beginning after two. This is the big meal of the day, and dinner for many is a light snack or tapas at a bar.

The Valencian Community is the source of most of Spain’s rice, and in Alicante they have their own simmered rice dishes, akin to paella. Try arroz a banda or arroz al horno, both enhanced by the terrific seafood available in this part of Spain.

As a souvenir you could get some turrón, a kind of nougat with honey and almonds. It’s a real Spanish favourite, especially popular at Christmas.

12. Boat trips

Around the port at Alicante are a few companies that provide boat trips. This might be a brief catamaran cruise in the sea next to the city, but if you want to make a day of it you should definitely consider a trip to Tabarca Island.

It’s just a couple of kilometres off the coast to the south, but feels like a different world. There’s a small, walled community on Tabarca with the same kind of whitewashed houses and blue shutters you’ll see in Alicante’s old-town.

Only here there’s no need for cars or any other modern conveniences! Check out the little church of St. Peter and St. Paul, and walk through the island’s sparse landscape to see the lighthouse.

Suggested tour : 3-Hour Coastal Catamaran Cruise with Snorkeling

13. Alicante’s Towers

If you still haven’t had your fill of Alicante’s history then you could download a map of the area’s coastal watchtowers.

For centuries this part of Spain was under threat from Barbary Pirates, who would plunder the towns and even carry people away as slaves.

So from the 1500s onwards a sophisticated network of defences and lookouts was built to give people early warning to retreat behind the walls.

There are some thirty of these towers still standing in the Huerta de Alicante, encompassing the city and a few neighbouring towns and vilages.

14. Elche Palmeral

About 20 minutes west of Alicante by road is the town of Elche, where an amazing sight awaits you. This is the largest palm grove in Europe, planted by the first Muslims to settle here in the early-middle ages.

There are 200,000 trees, most of which are the phoenix dactylifera, which didn’t exist in Spain until it was introduced by the Moors.

The grove is a UNESO World Heritage Site, and the best way to experience it is by walking the Ruta del Palmeral, a circular path that begins and ends at the Huerto de San Placido.

15. Las Hogueras de San Juan

Bonfires marking St. John’s Eve on June 23 are common across Spain. But none of these are as large as those that take place on Alicante.

Traditionally people would burn off their old furniture for San Juan, but in 1928 the city decided it needed a fiesta to go with these fires, and it takes place across four days up to the 24th. The result is something similar to Valencia’s Las Fallas, and culminate with fires in which specially-designed cardboard sculptures are incinerated at an event called the Cremà.

These fires can be pretty terrifying, and teams of fire-fighters wait in the wings to keep it under control.

Further reading:

• Things to do in Alicante for families

15 Best Things to Do in Alicante (Spain):

• Castle of Santa Barbara
• Explanada de España
• Archaeological Museum
• Casco Antiguo
• Postiguet Beach
• Basilica of Santa María
• Contemporary Art Museum
• Beach Excursions
• Mercado Central
• Local Cuisine
• Alicante's Towers
• Elche Palmeral
• Las Hogueras de San Juan

31 AMAZING Things to do in Alicante [2023!]

If you’re looking for sun, sea, sand, and Spanish culture, then Alicante is a great shout. Although it receives 3 million tourists a year, they’re not all here for a beach holiday and the city has plenty of hidden gems for you to search out.

Alicante’s Old Quarter is a beautiful place for a stroll, while the castle offers incredible views of the Mediterranean and the town below. There are also some awesome natural landscapes nearby including caves, mountains, and hiking trails. And of course, beaches!

To make planning your trip to Alicante as easy as possible, we’ve put together this list of the best things to do in Alicante. We’ve had a look at things for every type of travel style and budget. So, let’s jump straight in and check them out!

Our favourite places to stay in Alicante!

Alicante is a big city, and you don’t want to waste time hunting high and low for somewhere to stay when you arrive. Plus, all the best accommodations will book up quickly! Make your trip easier by picking one of the best places to stay in Alicante early on. Here are our favourites!

X Hostel Alicante

The best hostel in alicante.

• Great location
• Sociable rooftop terrace

Looking for a great place to stay where you’ll make loads of new friends? X Hostel is right in the centre of Alicante and has a great roof terrace, perfect for meeting new people.

Mendez Nuñez Alicante

The best budget hotel in alicante.

• Simple but stylish rooms
• Just a few minutes from Postiguet Beach

Mendez Nuñez Hotel has a great location on Alicante’s central avenue. It’s reasonably priced, but you’ll still get some great facilities in this two star hotel, including aircon!

Hospes Amérigo

The best luxury hotel in alicante.

• Rooftop spa with awesome views
• In a historic convent

The best luxury hotel in Alicante is an elegant design option which has plenty to keep you entertained. A highlight is the rooftop pool and spa, which offers great views of city landmarks.

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• The 31 Best Things to Do in Alicante •

#1 – castillo de santa barbara.

• Awesome views over the city
• 16 th century symbol of Alicante
• Get up the hill on an electric bike

The site’s history goes as far back as the 9 th century when it was a Moorish Alcázar. However, the castle you can visit today has been remodelled and rebuilt from the 16 th century. It’s a great place to get incredible photos of the city from above!

Have some time? Get out of the city with these epic day trips from Alicante !

#2 – Walking Tour of Alicante

• Get an overview of the top attractions
• Check out the historic centre
• Stroll along the seafront

If you want to get to know a new city, a walking tour is a great option. This will show you the city’s cathedral, Old Town, and esplanade made up of more than 6 million tiles. There’s also the chance to take the lift up to the castle!

Need more specifics? Here are the best neighborhoods in Alicante to stay !

#3 – Canelobre Caves

• The deepest caves in Spain
• Just a short trip out of the city
• Make it back in time for tapas!

Take a guided tour of Canelobre caves in the village of Busot to see the deepest caves in Spain. A 70 metre cathedral-like chamber is one of the undisputable highlights.

Need to see more of Spain? These day trips from Bilbao  will show you the coolest areas around.

#4 – Guadalest Valley

• Explore a hilltop castle
• Quaint town with great hiking trails
• Not on the beaten tourist trail

Just an hour away from Alicante, you’ll find the Guadalest Valley. It’s not on too many tourist itineraries, but that’s a good thing. It means it won’t feel overrun when you’re discovering the castle and hiking through the hills!

MUST READ! We’ve organized the best places to stay in Bilbao  for all types of trips!

#5 – Postiguet Beach

Fun for the whole family.

• Strip of golden sand
• Right next to the Old Town
• Great place to paddle

You can go really far out from Postiguet Beach before the waves lap above your waist. So, it’s the perfect place to cool off after a walking tour or similar activity. Turn back towards land and admire views of the city. The only downside is it can get very crowded!

#6 – Casco Antiguo

• Explore some of the best places to eat and drink
• Walk through the historic quarter of the city
• See locals’ painted shutters and fresh flowers

On the side of Santa Barbara Hill, you’ll find the Casco Antiguo. Get lost among the maze of cobblestone streets and take photos of the locals’ beautifully adorned houses. Stop off for a coffee and a tapa when you get tired!

Editor’s Recommendation! These are the staff pick for the top hostels in Barcelona  (for all budgets!)

#7 – Paragliding

• Soar over the Alicante countryside
• Experience breath-taking mountain views
• Accompanied by a pilot

Here’s one to tick off the bucket list. You’ll get a short practice session before your 20 – 30 minute tandem flight. Your pilot will show you how amazing the region surrounding Alicante looks from above, and may even snap a few selfies!

Spain is amazing! And the best hostels in Madrid  will blow you away!

#8 – Explanada de España

• Take a stroll under the palm trees
• Made up of more than 6 million ceramic tiles
• Useful point for finding your way around town

The promenade along Alicante’s seafront, the Explanada de España is a great way to explore the city. Most Spaniards go for a walk every day, and you’ll see locals and tourists alike making their way up and down this atmospheric boulevard.

#9 – Altea

• Probably the prettiest village on the Costa Blanca
• 40 minutes away from Alicante
• Wander through the narrow streets

If you fancy a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, head out to this charming village. It’s the stereotypical Mediterranean town with whitewashed buildings, cobbled streets, and squares. A perfect place to relax!

Looking for the Party? We’ve got you covered with our guide to the best party hostels in Barcelona !

#10 – MARQ (Archaeological Museum of Alicante)

A must do for history buffs.

• See archaeological items from several historical periods
• 2004’s European Museum of the year
• Check out remains of buildings from a glass floor

The Archaeological Museum of Alicante is one of the best museums in Spain. It has artefacts from Iberian, Roman, and Medieval times. There is even some prehistoric stuff! It’s quite small, so you can easily incorporate a couple of hours here into your itinerary.

#11 – Flamenco Show

• Watch a live flamenco show
• Enjoy traditional Spanish tapas
• Right in the centre of Alicante’s Old Town

Flamenco is one of the first things that springs to mind when people mention Spain. So, see this sensual and captivating dance for yourself after enjoying a delicious Spanish meal in the centre of Alicante’s Old Town. Olé!

#12 – Algar Waterfalls

• Bring a swimsuit and a towel
• Take a dip in the natural pools
• Nice hike along the waterfalls

It can get awfully hot in Alicante, so you’ll want to take some time to cool off. Algar Waterfalls are a great place to take a dip in the hot sun! If you’ve rented a car you’re in luck, there’s plenty of parking near the 1.5km trail to the waterfalls themselves.

Looking to make friends in Madrid? One of these cool party hostels might be for you!

#13 – Alicante Central Market

Architecture fan you’ll love this.

• An example of Valencian modernism
• A symbol of suffering from the Spanish Civil War
• Great place to pick up fresh, local food

This building is way more than just a food market (but definitely check out the food stalls!) It’s an awesome building, and a great example of Valencian modernism. It’s also a memorial to the Spanish Civil War. Learn more by visiting the mural on the building.

#14 – Volvo Ocean Race Museum

• Discover more about one of the world’s most difficult ocean races
• A cool interactive museum
• Cool café overlooking the harbour

You’d expect a Volvo Museum to be in Sweden, right? Well, Alicante’s harbour is the home of the Ocean Race Museum . Here, you can get involved with interactive displays to find out more about the race. Then, have a coffee with a pretty view of the city harbour!

#15 – Alicante Gourmet Walking Tour

• Learn about Alicante’s local dishes
• A walking tour with a difference
• Buy some souvenirs for back home

Spain has one of the best cuisines in Europe, and this is your opportunity to learn all about the Mediterranean diet. An expert guide will take you to the best food spots in the city, leaving you to sample and purchase fine culinary products!

MUST READ! You’ve got to visit these places in Spain  when you’re there!

#16 – Lucentum

One of the most important historical sites in alicante.

• Where Alicante all started
• See a Moorish graveyard
• Ruins from several periods

Where can you see Moorish, Iberian, Roman, and Carthaginian ruins? Here at Lucentum, of course. If you want to know about Alicante’s past, there’s nowhere better to visit. You can get great views of Albufureta Beach from here too!

#17 – Parque El Palmeral

• Cross artificial lakes and rivers on wooden bridges
• A lovely and relaxing green space
• Spend the day here with a picnic

If you want to get away from the stresses of city life without leaving, you can’t do much better than a park. And Parque El Palmeral is one of the best in Alicante! Take a stroll over the wooden bridges or just relax on the grass by the artificial lakes or rivers.

#18 – Alicante’s Vineyards

• Take a tour of a wine cellar
• Head out into the Alicante countryside
• Sample the different wines on offer

Spain, and especially Alicante, is known for good wine. So, it’d be rude not to try it while you’re here! Your guide will show you all the most important parts of the bodega, and of course, you’ll get to taste some wine. Maybe even grapes if you visit during harvest!

Editor’s Note: If you’ll be in Barcelona, check out the top things to do in Barcelona  during your visit!

#19 – MACA (Museo de Arte Contemporanea de Alicante)

A great experience for art lovers.

• In Alicante’s oldest secular building
• Over 800 masterpieces here
• Next to Santa María Basilica

The 800 works of art in this museum include some of the greats. Picasso, Dalí, and Miró are all on display here. Interestingly, the museum isn’t big enough to show all the works at the same time. So, their displays are constantly rotating, and every visit will be different!

#20 – Santa María Basilica

One of the most important religious sites in alicante.

• Built over a former mosque
• Close to many other Alicante attractions
• Church’s towers built 500 years apart

In the Casco Antiguo and just a few streets from Postiguet Beach, you’ll find Santa María Basilica. It’s probably the prettiest church in Alicante! The towers may look identical, but they’re from the 14 th and 19 th centuries respectively!

#21 – Medieval Aqueduct of Biar

• Dates back to the 15 th century
• Only 45 minutes from downtown Alicante
• One of Spain’s best-preserved medieval aqueducts

Spain has a number of Roman aqueducts, but this medieval one in Biar is a bit of a hidden treasure. Architecture and history buffs will find the 45 minutes journey northwest worth the effort!

#22 – Day trip to Benidorm

Great thing in alicante to do with kids.

• Visit the Manhattan of Spain
• Great and varied nightlife
• One of the most popular day trips from Alicante

If you’re travelling with kids, there are plenty of family-friendly activities in Benidorm. One of those is water park Aqualandia. If you’d prefer something a little more relaxed, there are some great beaches and lovely places to eat!

#23 – Villajoyosa

• Another cute coastal town
• Cinque Terre of Spain
• Get a coffee with a view of the Med

The colourful houses of Villajoyosa have earned it the name ‘Cinque Terre of Spain’. It’s often overlooked by tourists who prefer Altea, but their loss is your gain. You’ll be able to stroll through the narrow streets and feel like a local!

If you are traveling you should ALWAYS have emergency cash hidden on you! Security belts are great because they are affordable and can fit a ton of stuff in them (great for peace of mind!). Check out our favorite travel belt!

#24 – Casa Carbonell

• One of the most elegant buildings in Alicante
• Blue domes emblematic of Alicante’s skyline
• Nowadays mostly offices and apartments

The chances are you won’t go in Casa Carbonell, but that doesn’t stop you admiring it from the outside. This beautiful building is one of the most recognisable landmarks along the Explanada de España!

#25 – Museo de Hogueras

• Learn about the city’s most famous festival
• See effigies that are usually burned during San Juan
• Visit in June for the festival itself!

Around the summer solstice, Alicante has its biggest festival, the hogueras. June is a great time to visit and the atmosphere is unbelievable. However, you may not be able to make it then, so learning about the festival at this museum is the next best thing!

#26 – Centro Comercial Plaza Mar 2

• Great if you love shopping
• Easy to get to from the city centre
• Enjoy a film at the cinema

One of the best entertainment buildings in Alicante, this shopping centre has a cinema and plenty of places to eat. There’s everything you could possibly need if you’ve forgotten anything for your vacation!

#27 – Playa de San Juan

• One of Alicante’s most famous beaches
• Packed with restaurants and beach bars
• Lots of sports on offer

Playa de San Juan can get crowded, but if you can live with that, take a trip there. Enjoy a cocktail at one of the beach bars or try and get involved in a game of volleyball or football with the locals. The options are endless!

#28 – Tapas Tasting Evening

• Try three of the best tapas bars in town
• 4 dishes and 4 drinks
• Experience the vibe and atmosphere of the Old Town

You can’t say you’ve been to Spain if you haven’t sampled tapas. That’s exactly what this cool tour of 3 of the best tapas bars in Alicante’s Old Town will help you do. Try jamón serrano, croquetas, gambas pil pil, and many more traditional dishes!

#29 – Discoteca Oz

• The biggest nightclub in Alicante
• Regular events like foam parties
• Rooftop and VIP bar too

If you want to experience a proper Spanish night out, then Discoteca Oz is a great place for that. The biggest club in Alicante often hosts parties that continue until 8am the next day!

#30 – Santa Faz Monastery

• Amazing Baroque architecture
• Admire the pyramid-shaped dome
• 5km from the city centre

If you want to explore the neighbourhoods surrounding Alicante, then the Santa Faz Monastery, 5km from downtown Alicante, is a good place to head for. The architecture is quite something, and there’s a 15 th century Vatican relic inside.

#31 – Plaza España

• An oasis of calm in the centre
• Lined with cool stores
• Restaurants and bars here too

If you’ve been walking around the city all day, you might be getting a bit tired. Well, it’s a good idea to check out Plaza España in that case. There are loads of benches where you can just take a break and listen to the calming fountains!

Final Thoughts

So, that’s all for our list of the best things to do in Bilbao. We hope that there are a few things on our list that you’ve already added to your itinerary! Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a night owl, you’ll find the perfect activity for you in Alicante.

Just make sure that you set aside some time to go to the beach too. The Costa Blanca’s beaches are some of the best in Spain!

No matter who you’re travelling with to Alicante – be it on your own, with your partner, or with a group of friends or family, there’s so much here for you to make amazing holiday memories!

***Disclaimer*** Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you book your accommodation through the site, One Weird Globe will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you . Your support helps me keep the site going :)

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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.

Alicante   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Tejuno | Getty Images

17 Best Things To Do in Alicante

Updated April 14, 2021

Alicante can almost be summed up in two words: beaches and bars. But the museums – including the award-winning MARQ Provincial Archaeological Museum – and other sites like the Castillo de Santa Bárbara and the nearby Palmeral de Elche , give this

• All Things To Do

San Juan Beach San Juan Beach free

You'll find this stretch of shoreline just about 6 miles northeast of Alicante city. Playa de San Juan is known as one of Spain's best beaches; in fact, many recent travelers said it offers a better beach experience than Postiguet . The beach offers designated area for sports like volleyball and football. There's also a skateboarding area if you want to show off some tricks or just watch others. Not to mention, there are plenty of places to rent water sports equipment for surfing, kayaking, windsurfing and jet skiing. The beach also stretches about 2 miles, so you'll surely be able to carve out your own little space in the sand. It's accessible by tram or bus. Visitors recommend taking the L4 tram line to the Londres stop or the L3 tram line to El Campello; if you're on a bus, Costa Blanca, Costa Blanca-Milan and Plaza Coruña are all bus stops close to the beach.

Just behind the beach are restaurants, nightlife venues and even an 18-hole golf course. On a sunny day – most days – the strip is filled with people strolling. A bike path behind the beach makes it easily accessible; there is also a tram line that connects the beach with the city center and Dénia – a nearby coastal town. Public parking spaces and beachside hotels abound in this area as well. Access to the beach is free.

Castillo de Santa Barbara Castillo de Santa Barbara free

Situated on a mountaintop overlooking Alicante, Castillo de Santa Barbara is one of the largest medieval fortresses in the country. Those who make the climb (or choose to drive or take the elevator) to the top will be greeted with sprawling views of the bay. Carthaginians built the first incarnation of this fortress in 400 B.C. Romans and Arabs later used the fort and added to it with drawbridges, battery, hospitals, dungeons and more. Today, the complex is solely used for tourism. Visitors can explore the three levels of the castle. On the bottom level, you'll find a statue to a war general, and, now, a parking lot area. The middle level was completed in the 16th century and features a hall and the Patio de Armas. The top level houses the Homage Tower and offers the oldest remains dating back to the 11th century. Within the fortress, there is a museum with 10 rooms that showcase the city's history.

Admission is free, but you'll have to pay a small fee if you want to take the elevator up to the castle from the Avenue de Juan Bautista Lafora. If you'd rather walk to the top (and burn off a few paella calories), you can head east from Plaza del Carmen. There are also parking lots if you choose to drive to the castle; it's accessible by bus as well. Previous visitors recommend taking your time walking up and around the castle, so you can soak in the scenery for as long as possible. They agree the grounds are well-kept and the panoramic views at the top are priceless.

Old Town Alicante Old Town Alicante free

Although many visitors head straight to the beaches when they arrive in Alicante, you would be remiss to skip out on a stroll through the city's Old Town. Old Town Alicante's boundaries are roughly drawn by Rambla de Méndez Núnez and  Explanada de España , and Mount Benacantil, which is topped by the  Castillo de Santa Bárbara . Ideal for meandering, Old Town's narrow streets will also give you a true feel for this city. The Barrio de Santa Cruz is a must-see for its colorful buildings, quaint shops and outdoor restaurants. It's not a large area, but the pedestrian-only streets are filled with enough antique charm and lively chatter that you may want to stay for a while. The two most well-known streets are Calle San Rafael and Calle San Antonio. You should also stop at Mirador de Santa Cruz – the highest point in the barrio – to soak in the sunset.

On your wander around Old Town, you'll also happen upon the city's town hall – which you can enter to marvel at its Baroque architecture and its famous Blue Room – as well as many cathedrals, including the San Nicolás Co-Cathedral, which was constructed in the 1600s. The Old Town is also home to a convent and a handful of museums, including the Gravina Museum of Fine Arts, which focuses on traditional art and sculptures by artists from the local area. Visitors also enjoy the  Museu de Arte del Siglo XX Asegurada , which showcases modern art that juxtaposes its location in the city's oldest building. 

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Museo de Fogueres Museo de Fogueres free

Las Hogueras de San Juan (the Bonfires of Saint John) is a festival that occurs each year in late June, and it's one of the most important events in Alicante.  There are mixed notions about the festival's history but many believe it began as a tribute to the summer solstice where bonfires were created to ward off any evil spirits. Nowadays, it's a celebration where family, friends and visitors come together to witness massive bonfires and make merry. The Museo de Fogueres, which is located in the city center near the MACA and MARQ, lets guests experience the festival year round.

The festival features street parties, food stalls, a market, a beauty queen, flower offerings and a lot of drinking. A daily fireworks competition means lots of excitement as well. Similar to Valencia's Las Fallas event, Alicante's version includes a huge parade with elaborate ninots (effigies). The effigies are usually created from papier maché and wood, and they're fed to the massive bonfire's flames at the end of the festival. However, the best ones are saved and preserved in Alicante's free Museo de Fogueres. 

Explanada de España Explanada de España free

The ideal place to people-watch, the trademark Explanada de España is a marble-laden promenade, constructed from 6.5 million mosaic tiles. Lined by benches and several rows of palm trees, the walk is hemmed in by the shore on one side and several blocks of restaurants and nightclubs on the other. 

Recent visitors said it's a great idea to stop for a drink or a bite to eat at one of the nearby restaurants and simply watch the world go by. They also agreed it's a safe place to walk, and it's especially peaceful in the early mornings before people begin flocking to the surrounding shops and eateries. In the summer months, you'll find many vendors selling souvenirs and food, as well as musicians and street performers bringing a cheerful vibe to the area. However, in the offseason, the stalls will usually only appear on weekends.

Santa Maria Basilica Santa Maria Basilica free

One of the oldest churches in the city, the Santa Maria Basilica sits in the heart of Alicante's Old Town across from the Museum of Contemporary Art of Alicante (MACA). Construction on the Valencian Gothic church began in the 14th century, and some of its most memorable features include the ornate sculptures at the entrance and the two towers. Inside, the golden altar is striking as are the various paintings and high ceilings.

The land on which it was constructed previously held a mosque, but when the city changed hands from Moorish rule, this new church was built. The Santa Maria Basilica now symbolizes the city's many Roman Catholic residents. Mass is usually held each day but times can vary. If you don't want to attend Mass but still want to venture inside the structure, you can walk through the church between 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. or between 5:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. It's free to enter, but be sure to be respectful while visiting as it's an active place of worship. 

Guadalest Valley Guadalest Valley free

Once you've gotten your fill of Alicante city, consider taking a daytrip to the Guadalest Valley. This valley, which sits about an hour's drive north of the city, draws visitors with its turquoise blue reservoir and surrounding mountains. There are popular hiking trails for different viewpoints. Though it's a rural area, there is a village in the valley with quaint restaurants and shops as well as ruins of ancient city walls. Hiking trails are accessible from the town, so visitors can use it as a home base for their adventures.

A must-see landmark in the Guadalest Valley is the hilltop castle, which was made extremely secure in its construction and can only be reached by walking through a tunnel. According to past visitors, the views are worth the walk.

Palmeral de Elche Palmeral de Elche free

The Palmeral de Elche (or Palm Grove of Elche) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its grove of more than 11,000 palm trees – the largest in all of Europe. It has roots that are "traditionally attributed to the Phoenicians and Carthaginians in the 1st millennium BC," according to UNESCO. The Moors then expanded upon the area and created a type of oasis with a meticulous and complex irrigation system that would help bring water even in times of drought.

Nowadays, this park of palm trees makes for a picturesque stroll. You can walk through Municipal Parc of Elche where your walk will be accompanied by shade, spurting fountains, blossoming flowers and maybe even a dove or two. Many recent visitors agreed you should end your walk by the Huerto del Cura – arguably one of the most beautiful sections – where you'll be in awe of the many ponds among the palms. This area is considered a National Artistic Garden, and it's home to the Imperial Palm Tree – a massive and nearly two-centuries-old palm. 

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Mundomar Mundomar

This zoo and aquarium is a fun, kid-friendly daytime activity, and it doubles as an educational experience. Through shows and exhibits, the theme park helps teach visitors to respect wildlife and natural resources as well as the importance of conservation. At Mundomar, visitors can admire a diverse array of aquatic animals, mammals, reptiles and birds.  

Past travelers highlighted the animal shows, some of which feature parrots, sea lions and dolphins, as the chief reasons to plan a visit. Mundomar seeks to design the penguin homes and dolphin habitats with each species' happiness and comfort in mind. The healthy animal environment also makes for a pleasing – not to mention ethical – visit for humans.

MARQ Provincial Archaeological Museum MARQ Provincial Archaeological Museum

It's no wonder that the Museo Arqueológico is many Alicante visitors' favorite museum. Upon entering, visitors will be transported through history with presentations and interactive exhibits about everything from prehistoric archaeology to the Middle Ages. The galleries are designed to each represent different  themes, including field, urban and underwater archaeology. The museum also contains artifacts that date from the Paleolithic era to contemporary times, including the remains of a sunken Roman ship. In 2004, MARQ won the esteemed European Museum of the Year Award by the Council of Europe. 

This museum is also an educational center and event space offering high-tech features and beautiful spaces. There are consistently changing exhibitions and even programs for kids to help them learn about Alicante's natural history and archaeology in a more exciting, simplified way.

Tabarca Tabarca

Located a short boat ride from Alicante, Tabarca is Spain's smallest inhabited island, and it's the perfect place for a daytrip from Alicante. Visitors can stroll around the island admiring the rich biodiversity and unique bird-watching opportunities. The island – which used to be a base for pirates – is home to some Roman ruins and the remains of the 18th-century city walls, which previous visitors recommend checking out. 

There are just about 100 people who live on the island, so you can expect a quiet, peaceful day. There are some restaurants and shops scattered about, but the real fun can be found in nature. In the winter months, the weather is cool, and you won't run into many tourists. In the summer however, visitors flock from Alicante to Tabarca for its prime snorkeling conditions and picturesque, albeit rocky, beaches. The island is also a favorite among divers, and it was declared a marine reserve in 1986. 

Museo de Arte Contemporaneo de Alicante (MACA) Museo de Arte Contemporaneo de Alicante (MACA) free

This museum is a little ironic: Modern art by the likes of Calder, Dalí and Picasso is housed in the city's oldest building. The Museo de Arte Contemporaneo de Alicante (also known as the MACA or the 20th Century Art Collection) has nearly 200 works displayed in the 17th-century baroque building. The exhibits showcase art of all media including paintings, sculptures and even lithographs (designs drawn onto stone). Most of the original works were donated by local artist Eusebio Sempere, who wanted art to become more accessible to everyone. Since then, the museum has garnered a wealth of support and a great variety of art from renowned Spanish artists.

There are some permanent exhibits as well as a wealth of temporary ones which help change up visitors' experiences if they stop by multiple times. You'll leave this museum with a greater appreciation for local artists and the country that influences their work, according to reviewers. Recent visitors were especially impressed with some of the three-dimensional art and the unique selection of pieces.

Postiguet Beach Postiguet Beach free

If you don't want to travel too far from the city center, Postiguet Beach is the place to go. Visitors enjoy relaxing on the shore and soaking in the views of Castillo de Santa Barbara, which overlooks the popular strip of sand. The waves are typically calm, making it safe for kids to play in the water and the sand. Backed by a promenade, or boardwalk, and a line of palms, there are plenty of places to take a break from the sunshine or grab a bite to eat during your day of relaxation. However, the multitude of surrounding businesses mean the beach can quickly get crowded, especially in the summer months. There are a number of other quieter beaches in the Alicante area, but if you want to stay within the city limits, Postiguet Beach is the best option. Postiguet Beach offers resources to make your beach day more comfortable, such as beach chair rentals, public bathrooms, lockers and foot showers. Ramps to the beach make it accessible for everyone, and refreshment stands are scattered around the strip. There are also opportunities to rent water sports equipment and recreational areas for beach volleyball and other games. If you're already walking around the city, you can reach the beach easily on foot; if you're taking public transportation, get off the tram at the Mercado or the Puerta del Mar stop. There are also a number of bus routes that will take you there. The beach is free to access.

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Mercado Central Mercado Central free

Located in the city center, Mercado Central provides seemingly endless stalls of fruit, vegetables, cheese, meat, seafood, olive oils, pastries and flowers. The stalls are run by locals – mainly farmers from surrounding towns – whose prices are average and products are fresh. Not to mention, there's plenty of wine vendors as well. Recent visitors raved about the market's organization and cleanliness, and they recommended asking vendors about their products because many are conversational and happy to give information.  

The market, which features more than 200 vendors, has an important place in the city's history because it serves to commemorate the resilience of Alicante's people during the Spanish Civil War. It's housed inside a rectangular domed structure built in 1912 with thoughtful architectural design. On the main floor, you'll see meats and cheeses, while on the underground floor – which you can reach via escalator – you'll find the rest of the products. Outside, there are tables for visitors to sit and enjoy their market finds (although the tables fill up quickly in the warmer months, according to reviewers). The market also typically gets crowded on Saturday afternoons as locals have time to go grocery shopping and catch up with one another over food.

Canelobre Caves Canelobre Caves

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63 Fun Things to Do in Alicante, Spain

• 7 Pinterest

Located on Spain’s Costa Blanca, Alicante is a great family destination and has some excellent attractions in and near the town.

For the past 7,000 years (give or take), this charming spot has hosted a range of different cultures; and its natural beauty is a strong draw in and of itself!

As one of the oldest cities in the country, its streets tell an amazing story of human civilization, from nomadic groups and Roman emperors to a series of political regimes.

Nowadays, it offers a nice mixture of relaxing daytime vistas and boisterous nightlife, plus a whole series of unique spots to explore.

With its rich history, there are many intriguing sites to visit — castles, old churches, museums and natural wonders.

With its sun, sea and sand in abundance, Alicante golden Mediterranean beaches are a summer paradise for leisure-seekers looking to relax and unwind in the sun.

The Explanada de España with its vibrant beach bars, al-fresco dining and lively nightlife compose the city’s heart and soul during the summer months.

Ready to plan your trip? Let’s discover the most fun things to do in Alicante .

1 – Discover Santa Barbara Castle on a walking tour

You have to see the views from Alicante’s Santa Barbara Castle. This spectacular fort was constructed between the 9th and 13th centuries when the area was under Muslim control. The strategic position of the castle affords clear views over the town and out to sea.

The castle is open to the public for tours and there are lifts inside Mount Benacantil to make the trip accessible to everyone. Take in the picturesque views and discover the history of this amazing building during your time in Alicante.

After you’ve quenched your thirst for knowledge, quench your literal thirst with a beer tasting !

• walking tours in Alicante

2 – Take a photo of Casa Carbonell

Built by a successful local entrepreneur in the early 1920s, Casa Carbonell is one of La Explanada’s stand-out landmarks. Visitors to the city would be forgiven for thinking that it was a royal palace or some kind of grand municipal building but it was constructed as a home.

It-s old-fashioned architecture, classical features and waterfront location make it a popular photo destination in the city. It now houses shops and restaurants on the ground floor, offices on the second and luxury apartments on the top two floors.

Directions in Google Maps

3 – Sail away on a boat tour

Whatever kind of boat tour you’re into you can find it in Alicante from hands-on sailing trips and snorkeling excursions to relaxed cruises with food and music. Take the time to relax and hit the water on one of these fun boat tours.

Travel in an old-fashioned sailing yacht or an up-to-the-minute catamaran for a truly unforgettable experience. Explore the serene waters just outside the city and the small islands which are just waiting to be discovered.

• boat tours in Alicante

4 – Float with the clouds on a paragliding trip

The sun, sea and sand and those warm Mediterranean breezes make paragliding in Alicante an exhilarating thrill. This is an ideal thing to do for all you adrenalin junkies. The best thing about taking a tandem paragliding flight with a professional is you can just relax, lean back and take in the sights.

Float high above the sparkling blue waters and golden sandy beaches of Costa Blanca. See the coastline in a unique and invigorating way. These flights are suitable for first-timers and although it may be your first paragliding experience it probably won’t be your last.

• paragliding in Alicante

5 – Promenade on the Explanada de España

The palm-lined Explanada de España is one of the most popular locations in Alicante. Running parallel to the waterfront along the path of the old sea wall, the Explanada is one of the nicest places to walk in the city. It has grand buildings, a yacht marina, a selection of restaurants and delightful sea breezes.

The striking mosaic decorations of the walkway are constructed from over 6 million tiles which form a repeating wave pattern. Some places worth checking out on the street include Casa Carbonell, Casa Lamaignere and Canalejas Park which has some very old and gnarly-looking ficus trees.

6 – Enjoy a wine tour and tasting

Curious about the wines of Alicante and how they differ from other Spanish regions? Why not take a vineyard tour and discover the traditions and processes that go into making the district’s best wines. Head to the wine region of Vinalopo and see the methods for yourself.

Try a selection of local wines, and snacks, and learn what makes them distinct. Enjoy the area’s best wines in the place of their birth and talk to knowledgeable wine producers about their craft.

Along with the fantastic flavors, these excursions are a great way to learn more about the local agriculture… a pretty unbeatable combination!

• wine tours in Alicante

7 – Swim with sea lions at Mundomar

Looking for fun things to do with the kids while in Alicante? Mundomar is designed with kids in mind. The park is home to cute and furry primates, radical reptiles and dazzling tropical bird species that will keep everyone enthralled.

There’s a bunch of fun animal experiences to try out. Ever wanted to go swimming with sea lions or see what the life of a dolphin trainer is like? Mundomar has you covered. You can also pose for photos with the resident parrots and make a souvenir you’ll really love.

8 – Explore Alicante’s Historic Bullring

Learn more about the rich history of Spanish bullfighting with a visit to the Alicante Bullring. This iconic arena has been a stage for some of the most renowned matadors.

A tour here includes an engaging audioguide that brings to life the bullring’s past, the cultural significance of bullfighting, and provides access to the Bullfighting Museum, where the sport’s artifacts and memorabilia are on display.

• Alicante Bullring & Museum tours

9 – Enjoy the melodies during candlelight concerts

Held in spectacular venues all over the city, these concerts combine world-class music with a relaxing, intimate atmosphere.

Sit back and enjoy the sweet sounds of the orchestra, as hundreds of candles flicker around you. And just wait until you hear what programs they have to offer!

White there are some traditional symphonic performances, this series is known for its elegant take on more modern catalogs, from film scores to globally renowned rock and pop bands.

Grab a seat, breathe deeply, and let yourself be transported!

• candlelight concert in Alicante

10 – Say your prayers at Santa Iglesia Concatedral de San Nicolás de Bari

This very unornamented cathedral was mostly constructed in the early 17th-century. It was designed by Agustin Bernardino, a student of the famous Spanish architect Juan de Herrera and sits on top of an older religious site that previously contained a mosque.

Parts of the building, including the cloister date back to the 15-century and feature a more gothic style. The Chapel of the Holy Communion is worth a look as it is recognized as one of the most exquisite examples of Spanish Baroque architecture.

11 – Indulge yourself on a tapas food tour

Tapas, the most quintessential of Spanish dishes deserves special attention during your time in Alicante. There is good tapas and there is bad tapas though, right? Step away from the tourist traps and visit the places where locals go to eat.

Visit a few of the best local eateries and sample delicious local foods and drinks. If you want to scratch beneath the surface of the local culture this is a great way to do that.

As you nibble on thin slices of prosciutto and plump olives impaled on toothpicks, you’ll get to learn all about the city’s booming culinary culture, and maybe get some inspiration for where to go next!

• food tours in Alicante

12 – Day trip to Tabarca Island

Just off the coast of Alicante is the small archipelago known as Tabarca Island . Consisting of the island of Tabarca and the islets of La Cantera, La Galera and La Nao, Tabarca is just over a mile long. It has some historic walls from an 18th-century fortification and an attractive fishing port to explore.

Take some time out to enjoy the seclusion of this tiny island. Explore its unspoiled coves and beaches and take a dip in its transparent waters. The island has a town with some great restaurants and visitors should definitely try the local specialty known as “caldero.”

• Tabarca Island day trips

13 – See the palms at El Palmeral Park

A lush oasis just outside of the city center. Part of Europe’s largest palm forest, El Palmeral Park is a beautifully landscaped spot with shady palms, flowing waterfalls and brightly colored hibiscus flowers.

Aside from its fair share of palm trees, check out the large collection of desert plants such as yucca and cacti. The park also has a small cafe to sit at and soak up the ambiance with a drink or two.

It’s an especially great option if you’re traveling with kids, with playgrounds, sports fields, and even a zipline to provide hours of entertainment!

14 – Cool off at Terra Natura zoo and water park

There’s a splashing good time waiting at Terra Natura water park and zoo. The zoo houses many creatures, including poisonous tarantulas, dart frogs and rattlesnakes as well fuzzy llamas and ocelots.  Its larger mammals are nothing short of glorious and include elephants, rhinos and tigers.

When you’ve checked out the creatures, you can cool off in the water park. Ride some of the thrilling slides or chill out by the waterfalls, there are lots to do here for the whole family.

15 – Venture through the via ferratas

This is one of those activities that truly provides something for everyone!

While these rock climbing routes are certainly full of adventures and exciting challenges, they also make the process a whole lot safer than normal, courtesy of rails and harnesses.

Get your rock climbing fix on some truly spectacular routes!

• via ferrata in Alicante

16 – See the ruins of Castell de Sant Ferran (Castillo de San Fernando)

The neoclassical Castle of San Fernando was built in the early 19th century during the Peninsular War. It was established so as to protect the city from an overland attack. According to records, the castle was built quickly and poorly and began to crumble shortly after.

It never saw proper use as a fortress but served as a prison until 1939. It is now a city park and the ruins are open to the public to explore. It is a bit of a walk but the impressive views from the top of the hill make it worthwhile.

17 – Power through the waves by jet ski

Want a little more adrenaline in your sightseeing? Grab a jet ski and start exploring!

These zippy, fun-filled vehicles are perfect for getting out and about, offering a little more range – and excitement! – than some other methods.

See the sights, race your friends, and enjoy an unforgettable vantage point as you navigate your flashy vehicle through the water.

If you want to get even more adventurous, you can cruise over to nearby coastal hotspots such as Tabraca, Torrevieja, and Portichol.

• jet ski in Alicante

18 – See Picassos at MACA Contemporary Art Museum of Alicante

The collection at MACA includes significant works by modern Spanish artists, including Pablo Picasso, Joan Miró, Salvador Dali and Juan Gris. Many of the works were collected by renowned Spanish artist Eusebio Sempere throughout his lifetime and even include works by Sempere himself.

The museum venue itself is noteworthy as it is Alicante’s oldest civil building and has been used as a city hall, granary and jail in its long 400-year plus lifespan. A trip to MACA is a great thing to do for those interested in the country’s best-renowned modern artists.

19 – See the Imperial Palm Tree at Huerto del Cura

Alicante’s Huerto del Cura is an artistic garden of national importance. The garden is home to the 180-year-old Imperial Palm Tree, named for Empress Sissi of Austria who visited the garden in 1894. There is a permanent photo exhibition dedicated to this rare and majestic tree within the park.

The garden also contains many sculptures, ponds, ornamental plants and a garden house that features a rare use of palm timber in its construction. The Huerto del Cura is nearby Parque El Palmarar.

20 – Go bungee jumping

Picture it: you’re standing high up in the air, enjoying the spectacular view… and then you jump off the ledge!

Don’t worry, this isn’t some dystopian thought experiment; it’s just a round of bungee jumping!

After ascending the 164 foot platform, you’ll be strapped to a cord and given the rundown by your instructor. And then… it’s leapin’ time!

As you spring off the top, you’ll quickly feel the tension of the rope safely pulling you back… but not before you get the thrill of flight, plus a bit of a bounce!

• bungee jumping in Alicante

21 – See the city’s oldest church, the Basilica of St. Mary

If you like historical religious sites, you’re in luck. The Basilica of St. Mary is the city’s oldest active church and was built between the 14th and 16th-centuries. It features some eclectic styles with an ornate baroque facade, gothic arches and rococo altar.

Though tucked a little out of the way, St. Mary’s is worth a visit to take in the peaceful ambiance and exquisite decor. The outside features an image of the Virgin Mary by local sculptor Juan Bautista Borja, a student of Leonardo Julio Capuz.

22 – Explore the marine world on a scuba diving tour

The only thing better than checking out the water from above? Going under it, of course!

The scuba diving in the region is famously fabulous, with a stellar combination of clear waters and abundant wildlife to enjoy.

Whether you’re new to the sport or a seasoned seagoer, you’ll find plenty of great sites to enjoy here!

As you descend below the waves, keep an eye out for the diverse, colorful animal residents of this balmy Mediterranean paradise, which features one of the first protected marine reserves in the country.

• scuba diving in Alicante

23 – Explore the Archaeological Museum of Alicante (MARQ)

Due to its position in Europe, Alicante has often been at the center of major historical events. The city has been heavily influenced by a number of ancient civilizations such as the Greeks, Romans and Moors who all occupied this area at some time.

The Archeological Museum is the best place to visit to truly understand the story of the city. See fascinating artifacts collected over thousands of years of the city’s history, including many Greek and Roman items. This is a must-see for lovers of history.

24 – Discover the Lonja de Pescado museum

Anjother of Alicante’s interesting museums and exhibition spaces is the Sala de Exposiciones de la Lonja del Pescado. The museum has a program of exhibitions that changes throughout the year.

Previous exhibitions have included a retrospective of the paintings of Vincent Van Gogh, a reconstruction of the Titanic with reproduction items from the ship and the photographs of Alex Amorós.

And be sure to take some time to explore the building itself; with its Arabic designs throughout the interior and exterior, it is a monument to the multicultural history of the region.

25 – Get moving on a bike tour

One of the most fun things to do in Alicante is to take a bike tour of the city. Not only is it one of the most eco-friendly ways to get around it also gives you access to the less-traveled parts of town.

Take one of these fun guided tours and get up to date on the city’s history and culture from a knowledgeable local guide. Hit up the most famous spots, including the Old Town, La Explanada and the Town Hall and discover the best places to shop, eat and party in Alicante.

• bike tours in Alicante

26 – Check out the views from La Ereta Park

On the slopes of Mount Benacantil, near Santa Barbara Castle, is where you can catch some of the best views of the city. This is where La Ereta Park can be found which is nearly seven hectares of pathways, epic vistas and natural Mediterranean landscapes.

The park has cooling fountains and shady benches to relax on, as well as some small cafes and a restaurant. You can reach the park via a short walk through the Bairro de Santa Cruz — where the views are definitely worth the walk up.

27 – Get educated at Gravina Museum of Fine Arts (MUBAG)

Looking for cultural things to do in Alicante? MUBAG , the city’s museum of fine arts would be a great place to start. Located in the grand Palacio del Conde de Lumiares, it has over 500 works by mostly Spanish artists, many local, from the last 200 years.

The museum has a permanent collection and also temporary exhibits which vary throughout the year. It is conveniently close to the Museum of Contemporary Art and admission is free. It’s definitely worth a visit for those interested in the region’s fine art scene.

28 – Dive into coasteering… literally!

If you want a little extra excitement with your snorkeling tour, why not start it by jumping off a cliff?

Coasteering takes the classic sport of canyoning and gives it an oceanic twist – in this case, leading you along the cliffs, waterways, and landscapes of the Villajoyosa area.

And of course, you cap it all off by snorkeling through the clear currents to see who lives beneath the waves!

• coasteering in Alicante

29 – Float with the birds on a parasailing trip

Sitting on the beach is great but soaring above the beach is even better! Parasailing in Alicante is a must-try activity for all lovers of flying and extreme sports. Feel the sea breeze in your face as you float high above the sandy beaches of the Mediterranean.

First-timers may be surprised how peaceful parasailing actually is while you are up in the air. Parasailing can be enjoyed as a group activity too as each parachute is able to hold five people simultaneously.

• parasailing in Alicante

30 – Eat like a local at Mercat Central d’Alacant

For the freshest seafood in town check out the stalls at Alicante’s Central Market . The building itself is a beautiful redbrick construction that looks more like a church than a market. Lovers of great Mediterranean foods and ingredients will be in their element here.

Freshly-caught fish, newly-baked bread and great quality meats, vegetables and cheeses of all varieties are on offer. Try the local dishes and flavors but be sure to arrive early as many stalls may be closed by 1 p.m.

31 – Head out on a kayaking adventure

Back on the surface, you can put your sense of adventure – and your arms! – to the test with some kayaking.

As you paddle through the crystal-clear waters, you’ll be able to explore secluded caves, awesome snorkeling sites, and beautiful bays, all at your own pace.

And for an equally awesome experience with a similar watercraft, try canoeing !

The main difference is that these boats are paddled by a group, rather than individually; and it makes it a perfect option for families!

• kayaking in Alicante

32 – Stroll through the streets of Santa Cruz neighborhood

Considered one of Alicante’s most attractive neighborhoods, Santa Cruz has maintained its traditional feel. Colorful tiles decorate the exteriors of buildings and narrow streets and alleyways open up to unexpected views of the city.

Santa Cruz is the center of the city’s Casco Antiguo or Old Town and is best explored on foot. If you are lucky enough to be in the neighborhood for Easter, expect lots of decorations and festivities, including an elaborate Holy Wednesday Procession.

Throw in Moorish architecture, stunning oceanside views, and plenty of places to eat and drink, and you have a neighborhood that stands above the rest!

33 – Ride the VertiGo at Aqualandia

Aqualandia is home to Europe’s highest waterslide, the aptly named VertiGo. This knee-tremblingly high waterslide towers 30-meters above the park and riders can easily reach speeds of 100 km/h. Daredevils only need to apply for this one.

Aqualandia also has plenty of water-based fun for everyone else to enjoy. Adventureland and Laguna offer safe places for infants to splash around and play. There’s also river rapid rides, cascades and jacuzzis for stronger swimmers. You have to check this place out during your time in Alicante.

34 – Tour the Canelobre Caves on a day trip

Are you crazy for caves or gaga for grottos? Then you have to check out the amazing Canelobre Caves on a day trip from Alicante. These cavernous miracles of nature will awe and astound you with their impressive rock formations.

See ancient features formed over millennia, including stalagmites and stalactites and naturally occurring crystals. Take a guided tour of the Canelobre Caves and see one of the highest caverns in the country. Don’t miss this spectacular natural phenomenon during your time in Alicante.

• Canelobre Caves day trips

35 – Get out and up on the local rocks

When you’re ready for more of a traditional climbing experience, the local rocks and mountains await you!

Guided expeditions give you the thrilling chance to try some rock climbing out on actual rocks, many of them attached to some of the world’s most pristine mountainsides.

There are even some kid-friendly options to get your littlest explorers oriented!

• climbing in Alicante

36 – Head under the sea on a snorkeling adventure

While you may not be able to go as deep as you would whilst scuba diving, snorkeling is still a great way to enjoy the watery wonders of Alicante!

Isla de Tabarca’s protected areas are a particularly popular stop, with eye-catching corals and oodles of fish to admire as you swim.

But any local excursion will provide great views and a chance to spot some phenomenal creatures.

As an added bonus, these trips can often be combined with other adventures, such as kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding.

• snorkeling in Alicante

37 – See the moor’s face on Monte Benacantil

Monte Benacantil looms over the city of Alicante and offers some of the best views in town. The monte is home to Santa Barbara Castle, which perches on the top, as well as Ereta Park and the historic surrounding neighborhoods of Santa Cruz and Raval Roig.

On the southwest face of Monte Benacantil is a rock formation known as La Cara del Moro, or the moor’s face. Legend has it that a Muslim King who lived in the castle was petrified into the mountain as punishment after his daughter leaped to her death.

38 – Enjoy the rides at Pola Park

If you’re looking for fun things to do with the kids in Alicante, Pola Park is definitely it. With over 30 different attractions, everyone is sure to have a great time. Whether you are a thrill-junkie seeking rollercoasters and haunted houses, or just prefer a serene boat ride around the lake, Pola Park has you covered.

There are rides for smaller children to enjoy, as well as mini-golf and a games arcade so you can play all day. Entry to the park is free which makes this a great value attraction.

39 – Take a day trip to Villajoyosa & Altea villages

Within a short distance from Alicante are two of the region’s most picturesque villages. A trip to Villajoyosa, with its quaint and colorful buildings and historic center, is sure to be one of the highlights of your time in Alicante. Visit a small family-run chocolate factory and try the traditional delicacies of the town.

The narrow cobbled streets of Altea’s old town and its distinctive blue-roofed church are full of character. The village’s main plaza also has wonderful views of the surrounding sea and mountains. Don’t miss these villages on your trip to Alicante if you’re looking for cultural things to do.

• Villajoyosa day trips from Alicante

40 – Virtually sail the seven seas at The Ocean Race Museum

The Ocean Race, for those who don’t know, is a round-the-world boat race that has been taking place for the last 45 years. Alicante’s Ocean Race Museum is the world’s only museum dedicated to this monumental event.

Since the monumental competition starts right here in town, it follows that the institution devoted to it would be equally spectacular!

Discover the race’s record times, heroes and legends in this unique multimedia exhibition. See what life is like onboard for the crew and learn all about the state-of-the-art vessels that undertake this grueling expedition. Admission is free.

41 – Make memories on an airplane tour

From the moment your aircraft takes off, you’ll find yourself blown away by the views – and the adventure!

Airplane tours are known for their spectacular scenery and thrilling flight patterns, and these small, lightweight specimens offer a great perspective on the world below.

Watch the beaches and buildings unfurl beneath you, as your pilot points out areas of interest that can’t be properly appreciated from the ground.

It’s a truly breathtaking adventure – and one that will utterly change your point of view!

• airplane tours in Alicante

42 – Delve into the area’s caves

They’re big and small, dark and bright, deeply mysterious and wonderfully welcoming – you’ll get some of everything with a cave visit!

Entering these ancient stone chambers feels almost holy – unsurprising, considering that some of the spaces once served as places of worship -, and whether you’re climbing and walking or kayaking and swimming, the journey through them is an experience in its own right!

• caving in Alicante

43 – Take a picnic at Parque Lo Morant

Away from the busy center, Parque lo Morant is a green oasis and a perfect place to spend a relaxing afternoon. Morant is the largest public park in Alicante and has games facilities, including areas for petanque and croquet.

It also has children’s play areas so you can relax while the kids burn off some energy. Take a picnic with you and explore the park’s amphitheater and diverse plant species which includes large varieties of cacti.

With a great mixture of nature, culture, and leisure, it’s one of the coolest spots in town!

44 – Spot superyachts at Marina Deportiva del Puerto de Alicante

The Marina Deportiva is a bustling hub of activity with vessels of all sizes coming and going throughout the day. The surrounding area has lots of nice bars and restaurants that cater to the many yacht and sailboat owners and their crew.

This is a great place to stroll and check out the many luxurious superyachts which line the pontoons. It is also one of the best places to dine on an evening due to the fantastic views over the harbor and fresh sea breeze.

45 – See the wild nature of El Castell de Guadalest

Exploring the picturesque mountain town of Guadalest is one of the best day trips from Alicante. Stray from the well-trodden path and discover the rugged nature, towering ruined castle and traditional village of El Castell de Guadalest.

Visit the valley of Guadalest and its enchanting scenery, including the waterfalls and cascades of Las Fuentes del Algar and the fountain spring of Los Chorros. Guadalest is also home to the Antonio Marco Dolls House Museum and what is thought to be the world’s largest collection of salt and pepper shakers. Strange but true!

• Guadalest day trips from Alicante

46 – Discover the unusual Santuario de Santa María Magdalena

A half-hour ride from Alicante is the town of Novelda where you can find, among other things, The remarkable sanctuary of Santa María Magdalena. The town is a popular stop-off on the Camino de Santiago route and this church is the main reason.

Though it looks old and fairly rustic, its design is heavily influenced by Catalan Architect Antoni Gaudi, who designed Barcelona’s iconic La Sagrada Familia. The region is well known for its quarries and the church features a unique organ made entirely from local marble.

47 – Try canyoning

The gorge of L’Estret de les Penyes near Alicante is the local center for canyoning. Don your helmet and suit and prepare to get wet in these adventure excursions over rocks and through cold mountain pools.

Perfect for first-timers and veteran explorers alike, it offers the chance to get up close and personal with your natural surroundings… and get some excitement along the way!

Visitors can enjoy rappelling down a series of rock faces that increase in height, one of which goes through a 15-meter waterfall. These canyoning trips are suitable for all abilities and especially great for beginners and first-timers. What are you waiting for?

• canyoning in Alicante

48 – Grab a table at the best restaurants

From highscale to low-key and everywhere in between, you’ll find no shortage of great eateries in town!

Enjoy dishes full of organic ingredients at Nou Manolin , or the Nordic-style offerings at Populi . Sample some seafood at Restaurante Casa Julio , or excellent salads and meat dishes at La Crispeta .

Nibble tapas at La Taberna del Gourmet , or enjoy tea and Middle Eastern meals at Mish Mish . And don’t miss El Portal Alicante , which provides world-class ambience and phenomenal, multi-course menus.

49 – See the cheetahs at Río Safari Elche

Elche’s Rio Safari offers an African Savannah experience in the heart of Alicante. Take a safari train ride and see exotic creatures from all around the world. The park has large elegant carnivores, including tigers, cheetahs and lions that will have you in awe.

Get up close to giraffes, hippos and primates of all sizes. Lemur feeding time, in particular, is a wild event to behold and the parks orangutans and gibbons are something to behold. A trip to Rio Safari is a fun thing to do if you’ve got younger children.

50 – Explore Alicante on a atv tour

Travelers, start your engines! Quad tours offer a great opportunity to go off the beaten path and enjoy some unique scenery… plus, they’re pretty fun to navigate!

From vibrant forests to thrilling dirt trails, every bend in the road offers a new adventure on this wild, wonderful drive.

Buggy tours provide a similar level of excitement, with a slightly different vehicle; designed more like Jeeps, they offer multiple seats per vehicle, so you and your travel buddies can enjoy the ride together.

It’ll be a drive to remember!

• quad tours in Alicante

51 – Explore the old town of Elche and Palmeral of Elche

Elche is famous for its historic old town known as the “Vila Murada” or walled city. It’s worth taking a tour of the old town to see the many historic buildings, including impressive palaces, defensive towers and mysterious basilicas.

Elche is also home to the Palmeral of Elche , the largest plantation of date palms in Europe. The Palmeral infrastructure was created around the 10th-century when the area was under Arab rule but the first palms may have been planted much earlier in Roman times. Check out this UNESCO World Heritage Site if you’re looking for fun things to do outdoors near Alicante.

• Elche day trips from Alicante

52 – Catch a show at Teatro Principal de Alicante

The Teatro Principal is a very classic and comfortable theatre in the city center. It puts on a variety of performances throughout the year, including a special program for kids, as well as musicals, comedy, and even live music.

Since it was first built in the 1840s, this magnificent space has served as one of the cultural gems of the city, as well as a home for fresh talent.

This is the place to go if you enjoy a night out at the theater. Most shows are performed in the Spanish language though there are often tribute bands performing popular music in English.

53 – Fly through the air with some zip lining

Want to see the world from up high, at thrilling speeds?

Ziplining will send you flying – and leave you begging for more!

The local zip parks are great for the whole family, with a variety of courses and lines offering excitement galore.

Zoom through the air at breakneck speed, enjoying the scenery whizzing by; then get a somewhat slower view as you walk or climb to your next spot.

There are plenty of other adventures on-site as well, including paintball, quad rides, and even some climbing walls!

• zip lining in Alicante

54 – See the figures that didn’t burn at Museu de Fogueres

Every year in Alicante the whole city celebrates with a big fiesta in which they honor the Bonfires of Saint Joan. Many elaborate figures are constructed from paper-mache and paraded through the town. At the end of the precession, the beautifully constructed figures are burned in a huge bonfire.

The Museu de Fogueres has all the figures that were voted too wonderful to destroy. If you are looking for fun things to do in Alicante, a trip to this museum might be just the thing you’re looking for. It’s very quirky, lighthearted and kids will definitely love it.

55 – Catch the latest blockbuster at the Cines Yelmo

When you feel the urge to catch a flick, you can’t do much better than this classy joint!

Located in a local shopping mall, this gorgeous theater offers all of the latest hits, with state-of-the-art sound and visuals to make the whole experience even more memorable.

While there are several cinemas in town, the combination of quality technology and close proximity to other attractions makes this the perfect place to enjoy a little bit of movie magic during your visit!

• Cines Yelmo tickets

56 – Try other amazing water sports

More watersports? Yes, please!

No matter what type of aquatic athletics you enjoy, you’ll find plenty of outlets in this seaside paradise!

Book some surf lessons and learn the art of catching a wave, or enjoy some calmer currents with a bit of stand-up paddleboarding .

On windy days, you can easily spend hours perfecting your kitesurfing game; and on mellower afternoons, you can get a little futuristic with flyboards , which will propel you up and over the water in fine fashion.

Stock up on sunscreen and swimwear, because you’ll feel like a fish after your visit!

57 – Play a round of golf on world-class courses

Alicante isn’t short of excellent golf courses. The year-round pleasant weather also means you can be ready to tee off whenever you feel like it. La Finca is definitely the highlight of the cities courses. The surrounding area and views are nothing short of spectacular and the facilities are excellent.

Other popular courses on the Costa Blanca include Aleda Golf , Melia Villaitana Golf Club , Font del LLop Golf Resort and Vistabella Golf . Your biggest problem will be choosing which of these beautiful courses to visit next.

58 – Go horse riding through the mountains

The scenery around town is famously stunning, and one of the best ways to experience it at length is on horseback!

These rides offer a whole new perspective on the region and its natural treasures, from windswept cliffs to beautiful beaches.

Hop aboard your trusty steed and enjoy these stretches of wilderness, with expert guides providing plenty of interesting commentary as you ride.

Simultaneously relaxing and invigorating, this tour will help you connect with the local natural sphere in a deeper way – horses included!

• horse riding in Alicante

59 – Jump around at Urban Planet children’s amusement center

Urban Planet is a wall-to-wall indoor fun park! If you’re looking for fun things to do with the kids while in Alicante you have to check this place out. With rooms full of trampolines, kids are encouraged to jump, flip and leap in a safe controlled environment.

Score a slam dunk as you spin through 180-degrees or backflip into a foam pit, this place is so much fun! Best of all Urban Planet is also suitable for adults so you can get in there and show ’em how it’s done.

60 – Sunbathe at El Postiguet Beach

Conveniently located near Alicante’s Old Quarter, El Postiguet is the city’s main beach. It is known for its soft golden sands and gentle waters which are ideal for swimming. The beach has sports facilities, including volleyball courts and there’s always something happening through the summer months.

There are even some nice play areas nearby for smaller travelers to enjoy some fun in the sun!

The nearby boardwalk has some great cafes, restaurants and vendors where you can grab a snack or coffee. As it is in the city, this beach can get very busy in the summer months.

61 – Drink all night at Marmarela Mediterranean Cocktail Club

Cocktail bar, Club, Restaurant, or Pool bar? Marmerela is all of these. This waterfront club is the place to be in Alicante and if you’re in search of the city’s nightlife, start here. Somewhat hidden away near the marina dock, Marmarela offers a sophisticated menu at a reasonable price.

The club portion of this venue complex hosts regular DJs and all-night parties. One of the best things about Marmerela is its close proximity to the sea and the fantastic views it offers. You have to check this place out!

62 – Party with the locals at a festival

Alicante has some fantastic festivals and there are many which occur throughout the year. If you are lucky enough to be there toward the end of June you may catch the Fogueres de Sant Joan Festival where paper mache figures are paraded through the town and then ceremoniously burned in a bonfire.

The town really goes all out for the Easter Holy Week festivities which include decorations and many parades. There are also festivals celebrating historic battles of the area and the city’s Carnival celebrations in late February/March are really something to behold.

63 – Experience the nightlife in Alicante

Whether you’re looking to grab a quiet drink or to dance the night away to some thumping beats you can find it in Alicante. The cities best-known clubs for modern electronic music are Metro Dance Club , Confetti and Magma Club . If punk and metal is your thing check out Marearock bar which has a great chilled atmosphere and a good selection of drinks.

The El Barrio neighborhood is the perfect place for those seeking a more relaxed evening. Visitors will find a selection of great bars and clubs to enjoy the evening in this historic part of the city.

You can also enjoy the varied rooms and themes of globally-focused Club Concerto , or the phenomenal cocktails and mellow atmosphere of Code Social Club .

How to get to Alicante?

You can conveniently fly right into town and arrive at Alicante Airport, a nice regional hub for travelers.

Be sure to arrange your transfers beforehand, so that you can avoid the hassles of public transit or taxis.

These fast, reliable services will help your whole trip get off to a good start!

Where to stay in Alicante?

With its rooftop bar, soothing spa, and gorgeous architecture, Hospes Amerigo provides a truly glamorous experience – plus unforgettable views!

And scenesters will love Eurostars Lucentum , which is walking distance from ports, restaurants, markets, and all the other trappings of local life.

Port Alicante City & Beach offers fun for the whole family, with pools, a playground, and an adjacent golf course ideal for squeezing in a few rounds between the rest of your activities.

And at Hotel Albahia Alicante , you can try a new workout at the gym, test your skills on the tennis court, or stroll over to neighboring attractions like theme parks, shopping centers, and the Santa Barbara Castle.

You can also book a stay at Daniya Alicante , which boasts great meals, a refreshing swimming pool, and a complex of gardens perfect for relaxing after the day’s exploits.

• best hotels in Alicante

Visiting Alicante on a budget?

Get some fresh air – and equally fresh facts – on a free walking tour !

Explore hidden treasures and the unique aspects of classic attractions all over town, and indulge in some delightful cultural activities along the way, such as nougat tastings.

Remember to wear good shoes and come with lots of questions – and some cash to tip your guide!

Where to go next?

Whether you keep exploring the Mediterranean region or choose to head inland, you’ll find plenty of other phenomenal places to visit in Spain !

Embark on epic hiking trips, gaze at surreal architecture, absorb the stories of a dozen different cultures, and enjoy cutting-edge museums and galleries. And of course, we can’t ignore the amazing food and drinks – that’s half the fun of a Spanish vacation!

Want to stick close to Alicante?

Head North and discover the popular seaside resort town Benidorm – famous for its high-rise buildings, sandy beaches, and vibrant nightlife.

Party like a rockstar (then sleep in the sun) in Ibiza , one of the most fascinating and fun-filled destinations in Europe. Or take things down a notch in Valencia , where outdoor adventures and exciting learning opportunities blend together at every turn.

There are also tons of great multi-day trips in the region that offer something for every taste. From scuba diving to wine tastings, camping to kitesurfing, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the area further – and fall even more in love with it!

Final thoughts

As you alternate between heart-pounding fun and tension-easing beach days, you’ll feel tempted to chuck your passport and stay in this town forever!

And with so many amazing things to do in Alicante, you’ll have plenty of motivation to make a return trip – or several!

So swing by and see what this Spanish jewel has to offer!

Happy travels!

The 15 Best Things to Do in Alicante, Spain

Alicante (known as "Alacant" in Valenciano) is the sparkling jewel of Spain’s Costa Blanc, thanks to the blinding white sand of its beaches (for which the area is named); the fireworks of the most important festival, San Juan; the crystalline waters; and the thriving nightlife. Inhabited for more than 7,000 years, Alicante has been under the rule of the Phoenicians, Carthaginian, Romans, Visigoths, Arabs and finally, the Christians, all of whom battled over this strategically-placed settlement. Today, Alicante offers a great many historical sites and museums to teach you all about the ups and downs of the city’s long history.

Pack your glad rags, walking shoes, and sunhat and you are ready to explore Alicante by day and night.

Climb to the Castle of Santa Barbara

Alicante’s skyline is dominated by the massive fortress of Santa Barbara, which sits atop Mount Benacantil. The compound is divided into three levels, each dating from a different period. Although excavations have shown that there was a fortress here for centuries, the oldest and highest part, La Toreta, dates from the Islamic occupation during the Middle Ages. Below lies the second level called Balnarte de los Ingleses, dating from the 11th to 13th century, followed by the newest part, Revellin de Bon Repos, which was built during the 18th century.

The name derives from the date of the conquest of the city from the Arabs on Dec. 4, 1248, which happened to be the name day of Saint Barbara. A statue of her still sits in a niche on the second level. Apart from walking around the various ramparts, involving steep inclines and many steps, there are several exhibitions within the castle itself, like a dungeon and torture chamber, the documentation of the discovery of a massive gold treasure in a nearby field or an interactive exhibit that explains the history for children.

Reserve several hours for a visit. There are three ways to access the castle: the most trying and only for those who are reasonably fit is via paths and stairs from various parts in the Old Town, all clearly indicated, while the easiest is via an elevator. Cross Avd. De Jovellanos opposite Postiguet Beach, walk through a short tunnel and take the lift. You can also drive up to the 2nd level and walk the rest.

Going downhill is obviously easier, so you might want to opt for a stroll through the La Ereta Park which covers the flank of the hill. Bring water and a sunhat. There is no shade and only a refreshment kiosk and café near the niche of Santa Barbara which, due to the multitude of visitors can be very crowded.

Get Lost in Alicante's Old Town

Santiago Urquijo / Getty Images

Sprawled beneath the castle is a warren of small cobblestoned streets and alleys, interspersed with small squares full of trees and flowers, which forms Alicante’s Old Town. Be prepared for many stairs and rather steeps climbs, but you are rewarded with a view of pretty whitewashed houses, the doors and shutters of which are painted in every imaginable shade of green and blue. You’ll also find small shops to buy maybe a much needed painted fan, as well as cafes and restaurants to rest your feet and have a drink or tapas, the ever-present Spanish snack.

You can’t really get lost—just head down and you’ll eventually end up at the next beautiful (and luckily, totally level!) site.

Stroll Along the Esplanada de España

This elegant promenade begins at the central bus station and ends at the Plaza Puerta del Mar. Look down because that’s where the main attraction of this promenade is: 6.5 million tiny blue, grey, and white marble tiles have been laid in a wave pattern. The promenade runs parallel to the shore and port and leads past some of the most elegant art deco buildings of the city. Benches allow you to rest in the shade of palm trees which line the entire lengths. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants too and this is the street where the locals come to see and be seen. On weekends, market stalls are erected along the promenade, selling clothes and trinkets rather than fruit or vegetables.

Be Amazed by the Museum of Fugueres

The festival of San Juan in June is the most important event on Alicante’s calendar. For a week the city erupts in festivities, culminating in fireworks, parades of massive papier-mache figures called ninots, and bonfires. A year of work by special artists goes into the creation of the ninots , and some are "pardoned" from the bonfire and kept in this small museum off Ramblas Mendez Nuñez. You have to look closely to find the entrance, but once inside, you'll be amazed. The history is explained and many photographs showcase the lavish local costumes, rich in lace and gold embroidery. If you can’t make it for the festival itself, this is a much less noisy and crowded way of experiencing San Juan.

Shop at the Mercado Central

Whether you self cater or not, Spain’s covered markets are a shrine to food and always worth a visit. The same is true for the Central Market of Alicante at the upper end of Calle Alfonso el Sabio. If you are a fan of fish and seafood, you won’t know where to look first. The stalls are overflowing with the goods of the sea. The same is true for fruit and vegetables and some enticing sweets and of course, the local wines. You may want to buy a bottle of wine or some cured ham to nibble along the way. Even the building itself, with its cupola and modernist façade, is a delight.

Nibble on Montaditos

As you can see, a lot of walking is involved while exploring Alicante, which of course, makes one hungry and thirsty. A good opportunity to sample some of Alicante’s specialties: montaditos . Whereas tapas are served on a selection of small plates, montaditos are much more elaborate. You can choose from a number of ingredients which are then piled atop on bite-sized slices of baguette, stuck together with a toothpick and devoured. The amount depends on your appetite. Accompanied by a draft beer, it’s a cheap way to restore your strength. On your way to the Fogueres Museum, you'll pass one of several 100 Montaditos in Alicante, which specializes in this treat.

Sunbathe on Postiguet Beach

Located on the Mediterranean, Alicante features several beaches, but the widest, whitest, and most urban is Postiguet Beach. It’s located at the foot of Mount Benacatil so you might plan a beach break and swim before you visit the castle or the Old Town. Not only is the sand exceptionally fine, but access to the water is also very gradual which makes it ideal and safe for kids. Parts of the beach are dedicated to sports, others feature sunbeds and plenty of cafes and restaurants are there for refreshments.

Stroll Through the Contemporary Art Museum

Throughout Alicante, several statues by Joan Miro adorn streets and squares. If you like modern art, you will want to visit this museum known as MACA, which started as the home to the private collection of local sculptor Eusebio Sempere in 1976. Meanwhile, there are over 800 works of art by Miró, Picasso, and other masters of 20th-century art on rotation, so every visit you are likely to see something else. A bonus: the museum is housed in Alicante’s oldest nonreligious building in the baroque style, an old grain storage building that dates back to 1687.

Relax Like a Local in El Palmeral Park

Nothing protects better from the summer heat than a palm grove. The Alcantinos know this very well and love to spend a morning or afternoon in El Palmeral Park. Outside Alicante, on the road to Elche, the vast palm grove faces the sea (which gives an additional cool breeze) and features an artificial lake and rivers which can be crossed by wooden bridges as well as playgrounds and other entertainment, very suitable to bring your kids too. If you have the time, you may want to continue on to Elche which is famous for its palm grove featuring more than 200,000 palm trees; it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000.

Dance the Night Away in the Port of Alicante

Alicante is a very big and important port town and a stopping point for many cruise ships. Elegant private yachts are moored in the yacht port, which comes to life at night with clubs, live music, and even a casino. Along the waterfront, opposite the Hotel Melia, there is even a replica pirate ship that is also a restaurant and nightclub. At the end of the pier, you'll find the casino. Another favorite place to dance the night away is in the Old Town, known as the barrio. You can even go on a guided tour .

Learn About Alicante's History in the Archaeology Museum

If you like a modern approach to archaeology, a visit to MARQ is a must. Exhibits from prehistoric times to treasures found on the site of the former Roman city of Lutentum close by, to riveting examples of Islamic art and the Middle Ages, MARQ guides you through 7,000 years of history visually and interactively, which makes it also popular for kids. The museum, which opened in the present form in 2000, is housed in the former San Juan de Dios provincial hospital.

Indulge Your Sweet Tooth at Turron Factory

Turron, which best translates as nougat, is a quintessential Spanish Christmas sweet. It comes in two forms, hard and soft, and is only produced in two places of Spain, one of which is the El Lobo factory in Jijona, around 10 miles north of Alicante. The main ingredients of turron are almonds, sugar, and egg white. (As the hills and valleys around Alicante are full of almond trees, it’s no wonder that the main production site is here.)

El Lobo is not only a factory but also a museum that documents how turron was made by hand in times gone by, where it originally comes from, and many more interesting details. Of course, you can also buy turron in its various forms. Don’t worry—it keeps many months so even if you buy in the summer it will be fine at Christmas. You can make your own way to Jijona but need to join a guided tour at El Lobo.

Sail Away to Isla Tabarca

Sailing to the pirate island of Tabarca is a fabulous day trip from Alicante. The crossing takes about an hour, but beware—the sea can be quite choppy. You spend the day on the island which has a very interesting landscape insofar as one half is nearly desert-like whereas the other is lush. Tabarca, a former pirate hidey-hole, features a seawall, bordered by a church and castle remains which can already be seen from the sea. The town is dotted with tiny whitewashed houses with colorful shutters, some squares, and a lonely lighthouse. The coast is rocky but there are two pebble beaches where you can rent a sun lounger if you want, as well as plenty of restaurants—most with a pirate theme—selling a local specialty, fish soup. If you are really interested in the history, an info center runs films and videos. The waters around the island are a maritime nature reserve and if you go with a glass-bottom boat, you can watch the fish below.

Light a Candle at the Basilica of Santa Maria

At least one church should be included in a list of best things to do and see in Alicante, so why not the city's oldest, the Basilica of Santa Maria. Like many churches in Spain, it was built on the site of the former largest mosque of Alicante after the Arabs were conquered in the 13th century and expelled from Spain. Originally constructed in the Gothic style, the church had to be rebuilt after a fire and now has a beautifully carved baroque façade and rococo decorations in the interior. The two stern square towers which flank the entrance seem to be identical, but they are not—the L-shaped on the right dates from the 14th century, whereas the tower on the left is from 1713. The church isn’t big but contains several beautiful works of art in its interior and is a pleasant place for a moment of rest, cool and contemplation.

Venture to Guadalest

If you have several days to spend in Alicante you should venture into the picturesque hinterland. About an hour drive from Alicante via Benidorm lies the tiny mountain village of Guadalest, on top of a valley between the Sierra d’Aixorta and the Sierra de Serella. Small it may be, but it’s amazing what you can see. First, there the ruins of the castle of San Jose with an intact separate bell tower perched on top of a rock. Next is the reservoir, which is formed by the river Guadalest and finally, no less than seven quirky museums—an amazing amount of art and culture for such a small village. Among them, you'll find a museum of pepper and salt cellars, a miniature museum, a dollhouse museum, a torture chamber museum, and an exhibition of modern art sculptures in a lovely garden. Climb up and down the narrow streets, admire the balconies overflowing with colorful flowers, and pop into tiny shops which offer really nice souvenirs like ceramic tiles.

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11 fun things to do in Alicante

Gorge yourself on montaditos before lazing it out on a perfect beach when delving into the best things to do in Alicante

It might sound strange (or read strangely, in this case), but Alicante feels like an underrated gem. The mad dash to the resorts of the Costa Blanca means it can be overlooked, but that just means more magic for those who visit. The best things to do in Alicante are a microcosm of the best things to do in Spain , from gorgeous beaches to fascinating cultural attractions via electric nightlife and more.

The city also has an excellent festival calendar, and we are happy to get behind that. Throw in a fabulously diverse population, and you’ve got a marvellous city. 

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Best things to do in Alicante

1.  Santa Bárbara Castle

What is it?  You can take the lift or stroll through the modern Parque de la Ereta to reach this mighty cliff-top castle. Built over a ninth-century Arabic fortress, the current construction dates to the eighteenth century and is home to the city’s history museum. 

Why go?  The views from up here are truly extraordinary, and all the more worth it if you’ve opted for the sweaty climb uphill rather than the lift. You can march across parade grounds, soak up the views, and stop for a well-deserved cold drink at the café.

2.  MARQ

What is it? This is Alicante’s ultra-modern archaeology museum, which brings the city’s history to life with lots of interactive bells and whistles. It’s located near the Roman ruins of Lucentum, on the edge of the city, and handily placed for a trip to the Albufereta beach afterwards.

Why go? This is a great way to get an overview of Alicante’s history, with dramatically lit displays of ancient bones, amphorae, coins and ceramics that make the past come alive. Plus, you also get to see how archaeological digs work.

3.  Kiosko Peret

What is it?  Alicante’s prettily tiled  esplanade  is a perennial favourite for the evening  paseo : the moment when the sun finally loses its heat and everyone comes out for a stroll. Stop for a chilled  horchata  – the creamy summer drink made of chufa nuts – at this 90-year-old institution.

Why go?  There’s nothing nicer than joining in with the evening  paseo , and nowhere is better than Alicante’s seafront Kiosko Peret. The spot, with its breezy little terrace, is ideal for delicious ice cream or a glass of ice-cold  horchata .

4.  Tabarca Island

What is it?  Take the boat to the scrubby, windswept island of Tabarca, which was once a pirate lair. The two-kilometre-long island is a marine reserve, and its rocky coastline is perfect for exploring with a snorkel. 

Why go?  Pack a picnic and explore this tiny island, a designated marine reserve famous for its crystal clear waters and bird life. Relax at a café in the miniature town, then scramble around the coast to find your own secret cove.

5.  Concatedral de San Nicolás de Bari

What is it?  Alicante’s grandest church is a restrained, late-Renaissance affair built between the sixteenth and eighteenth centuries over the remains of an older church and mosque. It’s dedicated to Alicante’s patron saint, whose statue occupies a lavishly decorated baroque chapel. 

Why go?  This beautiful co-cathedral, with a huge dome punctuated by an oculus, was designed by Agustín Bernardino, a disciple of the great Juan de Herrera. It features the master’s pure, graceful lines and lack of adornment – although if that’s your bag, you’ll also find some giddy baroque chapels.

6.  Cervecería Sento Rambla

What is it?  The smaller and most atmospheric of two neighbouring outposts of this popular tapas bar, this tiny spot is always packed to the rafters with a friendly local crowd. Some of the city’s best and most creative tapas are dished up by wise-cracking waiters.

Why go?  Get there at opening time to be sure of a spot in one of Alicante’s best-loved institutions. The  montaditos  (slices of baguette with all kinds of toppings) are a staple, and the award-winning version with beef loin, foie gras and rocket is simply divine.

7.  Alicante Museum of Contemporary Art

What is it?  Alicante’s oldest civil building – the seventeenth-century Casa de la Asegurada – has been spectacularly extended and renovated to hold an excellent collection of modern and contemporary art. Its fabulous twentieth-century collection includes works by Miró, Picasso and Dalí.

Why go?  The core of this museum’s collection – twentieth-century artworks by all the major Spanish greats – was donated by Eusebio Sempere, whose own extraordinary kinetic works also form a large part of the exhibits. They have recently been complemented by the beautiful paintings of Juana Francés.

8.  Mercado Central

What is it?  A gorgeous turn-of-the-twentieth-century covered market, this has an eye-popping collection of stalls selling everything from fresh fruit and veg to just-caught seafood and much more. But perhaps best of all are the counter bars and cafés, a cult spot for afternoon tapas with young locals.

Why go?  Stock up on picnic goodies and souvenirs (maybe some Iberian ham, olives or cheese – most places will vacuum-pack it for you), or just enjoy a browse through this colourful, local institution. Then relax with some tapas at one of the cafés – the Tapeta del Mercat is a top choice.

9.  Santa Cruz

What is it?  Alicante’s Casco Antiguo is an appealingly higgledy-piggledy maze of narrow, mostly pedestrianized squares and lanes. Its most delicious corner is the Santa Cruz district. It’s charmingly run-down, with steep stairways and alleys winding past colourful houses spilling over with flowers.

Why go?  The Santa Cruz neighbourhood is one of Alicante’s most authentic, and its narrow lanes are dotted with atmospheric spots for drinks and tapas. Locals parade with crosses decorated with flowers for the Cruces de Mayo (early May), and its eighteenth-century sanctuary is a focal point of the Easter Week celebrations.

10.  Basilica de Santa María

What is it?  Alicante’s oldest church sits pretty on a charming square in the old town. Behind its fanciful baroque façade is a vaulted Gothic interior that dates from the fourteenth century and contains a much-venerated sculpture of Santa María. 

Why go?  Escape the crowds in the busy little old town and step back in time at this gorgeous basilica. The portal is a masterpiece of Baroque (you can admire it from the terrace of the Sampa Picnic bar opposite), and inside you’ll find a gilded rococo altarpiece and a beautiful white Carrara marble font.

11.  Cabo de la Cuerta coves

What is it?  Alicante boasts a gorgeous coastline with scores of pale sandy beaches to choose from. Playa del Postiguet is the handiest for the city centre, and the endless Playa de San Juan is where you’ll find all the nightlife, but the little Cabo de la Cuarta coves are perfect for escaping the crowds.

Why go?  These rocky inlets are not really beaches at all. They are a series of coves fringed with flat rocks where you can spread your towel or slip into the sea. Popular with nudists or anyone who wants to escape the hurly-burly, they’re also a romantic spot to watch the sunset.

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18 Best Things to do in Alicante, Spain

Situated along the sun-kissed Costa Blanca, Alicante beckons travelers with its stunning azure Mediterranean waters, golden beaches, and rich history and culture.

Bordered by mountains, Alicante is a city with roots tracing back to the ancient Romans. Nicknamed ‘The City of Light’, on account of one of their settlements, it boasts a vibrant atmosphere, picturesque charm and a lovely promenade by the marina. Alicante also has plenty of culture in the form of theaters and museums.

Moreover, as the sun sets, its bustling Old Town comes alive. It is the best time to explore its narrow cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and an array of tapas bars where you can savor authentic Spanish flavors. When darkness comes, Alicante’s happening nightclub scene enables visitors to dance the night away.

Overall, there are plenty of things to do in Alicante for those wanting to explore centuries of history and tradition, indulge in delectable cuisine or relax on pristine beaches. It promises an unforgettable journey through Spain’s radiant coastal culture , which will stay with you for the rest of your days.

18. Concatedral Sant Nicolau de Bari

Visiting the Concatedral Sant Nicolau de Bari while in Alicante takes you on a fascinating historical and spiritual journey.

Located in the heart of Alicante’s Old Town, the Gothic-style co-cathedral, initially built in the 17th century, is a testament to the city’s religious heritage. Its awe-inspiring façade, adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, captivates visitors from first sight.

Inside, the co-cathedral’s ornate interior showcases elaborate Baroque and Neoclassical elements, creating a harmonious architectural blend while offering a tranquil space for exploration and reverence.

One of the main highlights is the intricately designed altarpiece dedicated to Saint Nicholas, which exudes reverence and artistry. The stunning, richly adorned chapels and significant religious artifacts further enhance the grandeur of this impressive co-cathedral.

17. Museo de Hogueras

One of the most interesting things to do in Alicante is a visit to the Museo de Hogueras which showcases the cultural heritage of the Hogueras de San Juan Festival.

Established in 1924, the museum celebrates the annual festival – also known as the Bonfire Festival – where enormous satirical figures are set ablaze to mark the summer solstice.

Housed in an elegant 18th-century mansion, the museum boasts a rich collection of ninots, the elaborate and artistic sculptures that form the centerpiece of the festival. These figures, saved from the fiery fate by popular vote, convey the remarkable creativity and craftsmanship of the local artists.

Visitors can explore the museum’s various sections, each representing different aspects of the Hogueras Festival. The museum narrates this centuries-old tradition’s history and delves into the intricate process of creating these towering sculptures.

16. Rambla Méndez Nunez

Rambla Méndez Núñez is a dynamic urban promenade that reflects the city’s history and modernity.

This charming boulevard dates back to the 19th century and is lined with towering trees, vibrant flowers and stylish cafes. It offers a lovely scenic walk, making it a popular spot for leisurely strolls, window shopping and people-watching.

Historic landmarks like the Teatro Principal and the Central Market can be found along the Rambla, adding a touch of heritage to its lively ambience. The street also regularly features cultural events, markets and performances, making it a constant source of entertainment.

Overall, a visit to Rambla Méndez Núñez provides an authentic urban experience. So it gives a terrific insight into the local way of life.

15. Puerto Deportivo

Alicante has a rich maritime experience which you can explore at Puerto Deportivo. This modern harbor combines leisure, nautical charm, and stunning coastal views and is a testament to Alicante’s deep connection with the Mediterranean Sea.

Dating back to the mid-20th century, Puerto Deportivo has transformed from a simple fishing port into a bustling marina, attracting sailing enthusiasts and tourists in their droves. The marina boasts a picturesque setting against the backdrop of the Santa Bárbara Castle and the city’s skyline.

With its vibrant promenades, stylish restaurants, and bustling bars, Puerto Deportivo exudes a lively atmosphere day and night. Visitors can stroll along the docks, admire the luxury yachts and sailboats, and enjoy the comely sea views.

As well as being a hub for maritime activities, the marina is also a gateway to Alicante’s coastal wonders, facilitating visits to nearby beaches and water sports activities.

14. Playa del Postiguet

If you want to spend some time at a place embodying the Mediterranean way of life in terms of sun, sea, and city culture, head to Playa del Postiguet.

Nestled along the heart of Alicante’s coastline, this captivating urban beach is the place to visit for a quintessential sun-soaked Mediterranean experience.

Named after the small Postigo fortress that once stood nearby, Playa del Postiguet offers a stunning blend of golden sands and crystal-clear waters. It has plenty of amenities, including loungers, umbrellas, and beachside bars, making the beach a haven for sunbathers, swimmers, and beach sports enthusiasts.

The bustling Paseo de Gómiz promenade flanks the beach with cafes, restaurants and shops. It is an ideal spot to enjoy local seafood cuisine and browse for clothes and souvenirs while enjoying breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.

13. Boat trip to Tabarca

Not far from the Alicante mainland resides the charming island of Tabarca.

Accessible by boat, the island boasts abundant natural beauty and a rich history. Formerly a haven for Barbary pirates, it transformed into a quaint fishing village in the 18th century. Today the island features cobblestone streets, colourful houses, and a charming ambience that transports you back in time.

Part of the fun of visiting Tabarca is the actual boat journey from Alicante, which provides stunning views of the Mediterranean. Once there, Tabarca’s clear waters make it a paradise for snorkelers and divers, with its Marine Reserve hosting a variety of marine life.

The island is also renowned for its exceptional cuisine, particularly the fresh seafood, which is a treat for the taste buds. Additionally, its historic fortifications and charming church are fascinating attractions.

12. Museo de Arte Contemporaneo (MACA)

Another cultural point of note worth visiting in Alicante is the Museo de Arte Contemporaneo (MACA).

The museum was founded in the late 1970s and currently resides in the beautifully restored Casa de la Asegurada, a historic building dating back to the 17th century. It showcases a diverse collection of contemporary artworks by renowned Spanish and international artists, spanning various mediums such as painting, sculpture, photography and installations. Its exhibits capture the evolution of artistic trends and social commentary over the years.

The good thing about MACA’s dynamic collection is that it is organized chronologically, allowing visitors to trace the development of contemporary art movements. As well as permanent displays, the museum hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year, championing the talents of local artists.

11. Museo the Ocean Race

If you are a fan of sailing, you’ll want to check out the Museo The Ocean Race.

Located in the port of Alicante, this museum showcases the famous Volvo Ocean Race (now known as The Ocean Race), a grueling round-the-world yacht race that starts in Alicante.

The museum’s interactive exhibits and multimedia displays offer visitors an immersive exploration of the daring world of ocean racing and maritime adventure. They take you on a captivating journey through the history of the race, showcasing the technology, teamwork, and personal stories that define this challenging event.

During your visit, you can experience the thrill of sailing through realistic simulators and relive the excitement of past races via video installations. You’ll also understand Alicante’s maritime heritage and connection to the global sailing community.

10. Hogueras de San Juan

Undoubtedly, one of the year’s major highlights in Alicante is the Hogueras de San Juan festival. This traditional event dates back to the 19th century and takes place every June, paying homage to Saint John the Baptist and welcoming the summer solstice.

The highlight of Hogueras is the creation of massive satirical sculptures called ‘hogueras’ or ‘ninots’. Elaborately crafted, these sculptures often reflect current events, politics, and pop culture. During the weeklong celebration in June, the city streets transform into an outdoor museum, as these sculptures line the avenues for public admiration.

The event’s finale involves setting most sculptures ablaze in a spectacular display of fireworks and flames on the ‘Night of Fire’ (Noche de la Cremà). All except one ninot are burned, with the survivor displayed in the Museo de Hogueras.

9. Canelobre Caves

The Canelobre Caves offer an incredible journey into the depths of the earth.

These caves boast a history dating back millions of years and derive their name from their resemblance to a candelabrum when illuminated. Visitors can explore expansive chambers adorned with intricate formations, ranging from delicate icicle-like stalactites to towering stalagmites. The grandeur of the caves is accentuated by a central chamber that reaches an astonishing height of 70 meters, making it one of the tallest cave vaults in Spain.

The Canelobre Caves are a great place to visit because they allow you to witness the artistry of nature hidden beneath the earth’s surface. Guided tours provide fascinating insights into the geological marvels and the history of the caves, while special lighting enhances the beauty of the formations.

8. Mercat Central

The Mercat Central (Central Market) is a vibrant and bustling hub established in the late 19th century. It proudly showcases the region’s culinary delights and local culture and has been a cornerstone of Alicante’s gastronomic scene for generations.

Located in a stunning modernist building, the Mercat Central boasts a captivating architectural design featuring intricate ironwork and colourful tiles. You’ll find a treasure trove of fresh produce, meats, seafood, spices, and various local specialities inside its vibrant confines.

Visiting Mercat Central allows you to engage with local vendors, sample authentic Spanish flavors, and explore the region’s diverse range of products. If you are a foodie, the market is a must-visit destination. It’s a sensory delight that is sure to captivate you with its aromas, colors and bustling atmosphere.

7. Take the tram to Benidorm

Taking the tram from Alicante to Benidorm offers visitors a scenic and convenient way to travel between and see more of the stunning Costa Blanca coastline. The tram system, known as the Tram d’Alacant, has been integral to the region’s transportation network since the early 20th century.

The journey takes you through picturesque coastal towns, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the rugged landscape. As you travel towards Benidorm, you’ll pass charming beaches, quaint villages and scenic vistas that encapsulate the beauty of the Costa Blanca.

Benidorm, a renowned tourist destination, greets you with its towering skyscrapers, sandy beaches and vibrant nightlife. Conveniently, the tram drops you off in the city center. Making it easy to explore its attractions, relax on its beaches and enjoy its various entertainment options.

6. Basilica Santa Maria

The Basilica Santa Maria is a stunning church that stands prominently in the heart of the Old Town.

Combining Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance styles, its intricately carved façade and majestic bell tower will instantly impress. Its interior boasts ornate altars, exquisite stained glass windows, and elegant chapels with a real ‘wow’ factor.

The highlight of the Basilica Santa Maria is the breathtaking blue-domed ceiling adorned with intricate gold detailing, which adds an ethereal touch to the interior. It also houses a valuable collection of religious art and artifacts.

As it is one of Alicante’s most popular tourist attractions, it gets busy. So it is worth visiting the Basilica as soon as it opens to enable you to enjoy your visit away from the crowds.

5. MARQ Museo Arqueologico de Alicante

The MARQ Museo Arqueológico de Alicante is a fascinating archaeological museum that takes you on an engaging and informative journey through the area’s rich history.

Designed by renowned architect Juan Vidal, the museum’s modernist building provides an impressive backdrop for the cutting-edge displays and interactive exhibits that showcase the city’s ancient past.

From the Iberian period to the arrival of the Romans and Moors, the MARQ offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s history, complete with multimedia presentations and state-of-the-art technology.

Visitors can marvel at the intricate artifacts and reconstructions that offer a glimpse into the daily lives of these ancient societies. At the same time, they can also witness exciting archaeological excavations currently in progress.

4. Playa de San Juan

Playa de San Juan is a stretch of pristine coastline in Alicante that provides beach lovers with a sun-soaked paradise.

Originally a humble fishing village, this beach is now one of Costa Blanca’s most popular and iconic seaside destinations. Its enduring popularity lies in its natural beauty, relaxed atmosphere and proximity to other tourist attractions. Thus it is a terrific place to visit to top up your tan.

With its vast expanse of golden sand, Playa de San Juan provides ample space for sunbathing, beach sports and leisurely walks along the 7km long shore. Its crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and water activities.

The beach also has amenities like sun lounges and umbrellas, and you will also find several excellent bars and restaurants dotted on the promenade that flanks it. Conveniently, several tram lines connect the city center with Playa de San Juan.

3. Barrio Santa Cruz

Barrio Santa Cruz is a captivating neighbourhood that offers a nostalgic glimpse into the city’s history and traditional Spanish architecture.

Nestled within Alicante’s charming Old Town, it was initially a Jewish quarter during medieval times. But today, it’s characterized by narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings adorned with colourful flower pots and quaint squares.

Wandering through Barrio Santa Cruz feels like stepping back in time. Its winding alleys lead to hidden plazas where locals gather and enjoy the tranquillity. The neighborhood’s medieval layout is a maze of discovery, featuring historical sites such as the impressive Convent of the Holy Communion.

Also boasting a selection of traditional tapas bars, artisan shops, and quaint boutiques, The Barrio is a lovely place to explore on foot. As you do so, take the time to soak in its authentic Spanish atmosphere and admire the architectural beauty that harmonizes with the past.

2. Walk the Explanada de Espana

One of the best things to do when visiting Alicante is to walk along the Explanada de España. This iconic promenade, stretching along the waterfront, is characterized by its unique mosaic pavement, creating an incredible sea of color that mirrors the Mediterranean waves.

Built in the late 19th century, the Explanada de España was designed by architect José Guardiola Picó, featuring over 6.6 million marble tiles in a wavy pattern. Lined with tall palm trees, it offers shade and a picturesque backdrop for strolling and relaxing by the sea.

The promenade is a hub of activity, with local artists displaying their works, musicians performing, and stalls offering handicrafts and souvenirs. The lively atmosphere is complemented by a selection of cafes and restaurants, offering a chance to enjoy local cuisine whilst taking in tremendous sea views.

1. Castillo de Santa Barbara

The Castillo de Santa Bárbara in Alicante is arguably the most enduring symbol of the region. Perched atop Mount Benacantil, it is a majestic sentinel overlooking the city and the Mediterranean Sea. With a history spanning over a millennium, this historic fortress offers a captivating blend of heritage, panoramic views, and architectural marvels for visitors to explore.

Initially established by the Moors in the 9th century, the castle was named after Saint Barbara, the patron saint of artillery. It has served as a strategic defense point throughout various eras, leaving behind layers of history within its walls.

Visitors can explore the castle’s three main sections. They include the lower area with its military history and the midsection that houses a 16th-century church. It also incorporates the upper part, where the panoramic terraces provide breathtaking vistas of the city, coastline, and surrounding landscapes.

Where to Stay in Alicante

Alicante offers travelers a range of enticing neighborhoods to stay in. However, for a perfect blend of beachfront bliss and cultural immersion, you can’t beat the Explanada de España. This bustling promenade grants easy access to the iconic Postiguet Beach, historic Old Town, and several excellent restaurants and shops.

For a touch of luxury, the Melia Alicante stands out. It is situated right by Postiguet Beach and offers stunning sea views and convenient proximity to top attractions in Alicante like Santa Bárbara Castle. The hotel’s exquisite amenities, including a pool overlooking the sea and an exceptional spa, ensure guests have a rejuvenating stay.

For those wanting a more tranquil escape, consider Hotel Maya . Nestled between the beach and the lush La Ereta Park, it offers guests a more peaceful ambience while still being close to the action. The hotel presents comfortable and well-appointed rooms. However, its highlight is its rooftop terrace which boats magnificent panoramic vistas, where you can unwind at sunset with a cocktail.

How to get to Alicante

Getting to Alicante is a breeze from most parts of Europe and further afield.

As the gateway to the Costa Blanca, Alicante-Elche Airport is well-connected to major European cities . EasyJet, Finnair, Lufthansa and Ryanair are among the many airlines that fly directly to the area. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a short bus or taxi ride to the city center.

For those who would prefer not to fly, the city is also accessible by train and bus, with networks serving national and international routes. Alternatively, those wanting to drive should head to the A-7 motorway along the coast. There is also a tram that runs along the coast from Alicante to Benidorm.

Best Time to Visit Alicante

Located along Spain’s southeastern Costa Blanca, Alicante is very popular to visit thanks to its attractive beaches, old town and hilltop castle. While it boasts year-round good weather, June to September are the best for sunbathing, swimming and watersports.

During these months, average temperatures range from 27 to 31°C (80 to 88°F) with July and August being by far the busiest and most expensive. Its beaches get quite crowded as do its restaurants and bars. June and September are a bit quieter and cheaper with the former also hosting the Bonfires of Saint John; the city’s most important festival. Colourful processions and reenactments of battles also take place in Alicante for the historic Moors and Christians festival.

Either side of summer, so April, May and October, are also fantastic times to visit. While the weather remains warm and sunny, spring is just a bit too early for swimming and autumn is the rainiest time of the year. Prices are generally cheaper though and there are fewer crowds. The exception is around Semana Santa (Holy Week) and all its impressive parades in April.

As it is still 17°C (62°F) in December, Alicante can make for a lovely, warm winter break with Christmas festivities taking place all around town.

Map of Things to do in Alicante, Spain

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15 Best Things to do in Alicante (Spain)

By: Author Swedish Nomad

Posted on Last updated: September 3, 2020

Categories Spain

Home / Europe / Spain / 15 Best Things to do in Alicante (Spain)

There are many things to do in Alicante as well as beautiful landmarks to see and interesting museums to visit. In this article, you can read more about some of the best activities and attractions that shouldn’t be missed. 

Moreover, I recommend where to stay in Alicante and list some interesting facts about the city. Alicante, also known as Alacant is the capital of the province with the same name in the autonomous region of Valencia in Spain. 

It’s one of the most popular destinations in Spain, especially among British, French, German, and Scandinavian tourists. Many international visitors also continue onwards to resorts in Benidorm, Torrevieja, and other popular destinations in Provincia de Alicante. 

Below is a list of my favorite things to do in Alicante, including a short description of each attraction. Furthermore, I share my recommendations on what to do in Alicante as a first-time visitor and my favorite hotels in the city. 

Casco Antiguo

Exploring the Casco Antiguo (or Old Town) of Alicante is a wonderful way to while away an afternoon. The historic center of the city contains important landmarks, from churches to government buildings, as well as the Barrio de Santa Cruz, a neighborhood located in the Casco Antiguo that transports you to another world within the walls of Alicante. The Casco Antiguo also has a lively nightlife.

Photo: Anastasiya Alexeeva / Shutterstock.com

Castle of Santa Barbara

El Castillo de Santa Barbara sits overlooking Alicante from atop a dusty mountain, Mount Benacantil. Its origins date as far back as the 9 th century when the Muslims built a fort on the site, which offers a strategic (and beautiful) view over the bay.

The castle, whose oldest parts date back to the 1200s, was in a state of abandonment until 1963 when it was opened to the public. To reach the castle, you can take the lifts or drive, but the most spectacular way is to hike up from Postiguet beach, following the signs for Parque de la Ereta. The entrance is free.

Postiguet Beach

Postiguet Beach, or the platja del Postiguet, is an expansive, white-sanded beach that stretches along with the city of Alicante. It is a favorite with locals, thanks to its central location.

Stretching past a promenade, cafes, bars, and high-rise residential buildings, the lively scene is perfect for watching an afternoon go by. At over 900 meters long, Postiguet beach is spacious enough for strolling, playing with children, sunbathing, and swimming.

Explanada de España

The Explanada de España, also known as Paseo de la Explanada, is the most famous promenade in Alicante. With its tricolor pavement and wavy pattern, it has become a symbol of the city.

Originally built on top of the dyke in the early 1900s, the 500 meter-long walkway was repaved with the famous design in the 1950s. It runs parallel to the sea and is a wonderful place to take a stroll, under gigantic palm trees, which are surrounded by shops, artists, and fellow holiday-goers.

Archaeological Museum

The Archaeological Museum of Alicante, known by locals as MARQ, is hardly your average sleepy collection of relics. Innovative in its exhibition design, the 2400-square meter museum was built in 2002.

In 2004, it won the European Museum of the Year Award 2004, thanks to the fascinating permanent collection of more than two thousand artifacts, which are exhibited in the context of daily life from the Prehistoric era to the Medieval period. It also educates visitors on the work of the archaeologist. The life-size scenes make this museum a favorite of all ages.

Photo: Francisgonsa/shutterstock.com

Basilica of Santa María

The oldest church in Alicante, the Basilica de Santa María, or the Saint Mary Basilica, was erected from the 1300s to the 1500s, over the city’s former mosque.

During the Spanish Civil War, it faced the same fate as most of Spain’s religious monuments—parts were destroyed and the building was used as a military warehouse. The beautiful altar is a golden rococo-style, built in the 1700s.

When visiting the basilica, pay special attention to the gorgeous entrance, which is one of the basilica’s most beautiful features, thanks to a large sculptor by Juan Bautista Borja.

Mercado Central

The Mercado Central is the largest, most important farmer’s market in Alicante. The expansive building, with a rectangular layout and a striking modernist façade, holds nearly 300 stalls.

The perfect plan for a morning in Alicante is strolling the Mercado Central, its top floor stacked high with charcuterie, cheeses, and Spanish ham; and its underground level with piles of fresh produce.

You can also get fresh fish from the sea outside, or something sweet from the stalls with pastries, honey, and fresh-baked bread. Market hours are 7 am to 2:30 pm from Monday to Friday, and on Saturdays, the market stays open until 3 pm.

Las Hogueras de San Juan

The Bonfires of Saint John are celebrated on the summer solstice, June 23, across the Iberian Peninsula. The most famous celebration, however, is right in Alicante.

As in the rest of the peninsula, the origins of the celebration lie with the tradition of burning useless objects around the summer solstice. The Bonfires festival in Alicante took its current form nearly 100 years ago—a fiesta several days long, including fireworks, street parties, traditional dance, and parades.

The festival reaches its climax at midnight on June 24, the day of Saint John, with La Cremà , a gorgeous firework show culminating in a symbolic burning.

Photo: Agravi / Shutterstock.com

Alicante Museum of Contemporary Art (MACA)

MACA opened to great fanfare in 2011, an updated version of the former Museo de la Asegurada , a labor of the collector Eusebio Sempere. Its three permanent collections feature 20 th -century art from Spain’s greats: Dali, Miró, and more.

If the impressive collection of contemporary Spanish art weren’t enough to draw visitors to MACA, the building that houses it is quite the destination in and of itself.

Known as La Asegurada, it is the oldest government-owned building in Alicante today. Originally built in 1685, it is an example of baroque Valencian architecture originally destined to be a granary.

Photo: lindasky76 / Shutterstock.com

Gravina Museum of Fine Arts (MUBAG)

This stately museum on the back streets of Alicante is dedicated to the city’s painting and sculpture movements throughout history. The nearly 500 works throughout the museum catalog the artistic development of Alicante from the 16 th  century to the 20 th .

The most interesting works in the museum include paintings from Antonio Gisbert, Vicente López Portaña, Fernando Cabrero Cantó, and more. Sculptures by Francisco Salzillo also dot the museum, which is housed in the Gravina Palace, an 18th-century nobleman’s home.

Tabarca Island

The Islote de La Cantera is an archipelago off of Alicante’s coast, and Tabarca is the only populated island in the collection. At 1750 meters long, the island makes a great day trip exploration.

It is a protected marine reserve, so grab your scuba gear and paddle around to marvel at the marine wildlife. A perfect day on Tabarca includes a stroll around the island, a trip to see the lighthouse, a snorkel or a swim, and a lunch of fresh seafood in the sun.

Maybe you’ll even meet one of the island’s 50 inhabitants (it is the smallest populated island in Spain). The island is easy to reach, with ferries departing 4 to 5 times a day each way.

Canelobre Caves

Just 24 kilometers outside Alicante, the Canelobre caves are otherworldly examples of karstic period rock formations. They are filled with stalagmites and other rock formations, formed over the course of seven million years by water eroding limestone.

The caves’ entrance is the highest elevated in all of Spain at 700 meters. It’s a fab place to cool off in summer, and you can even visit the Sagrada Familia, a formation that bears a striking resemblance to Gaudi’s church in Barcelona.

Guadalest Valley

The Guadalest Valley is a gorgeous spot about an hour inland from Alicante. Formerly an Islamic country, it’s now home to El Castell de Guadalest, one of Spain’s most famous villages. The area is striking, quaint, and holds fabulous ruins to check out, all at less than an hour from Alicante.

Playa de San Juan

San Juan Beach is beloved by all for its fine, white sandy beaches and calm, clear water. It’s also large enough for everyone, at 3 kilometers long. As the principal beach of Alicante, it offers everything from sports to boat rides to drinks at beach bars. Pull up, roll out your towel, and lunch on a Valencia-style paella.

Santa Faz Monastery

Built between the 15 th  and 18 th centuries, the Santa Faz monastery purportedly holds an important religious relic—a veil with the blood of Jesus. It is the site of a traditional festival around Easter Sunday when locals make a pilgrimage to the domed, baroque-style building.

Where to stay in Alicante

El Centro, also known as Historical Downtown City Center, is one of the best places to stay in Alicante. From there, you can enjoy walking distances to the majority of attractions and beaches.

Additionally, it’s very easy to get to El Centro from the airport as well as the bus terminal, from which you can travel onwards to other neighborhoods and nearby towns. This area has a great range of hotels, from budget to more luxurious options as well as mid-range hotels. 

If you plan to spend a lot of time on the beach, it’s also nice to book a hotel or apartment that is situated near San Juan Beach, which is located east of El Centro. 

Recommended Hotels

• Hotel Hospes Amerigo
• Suites del Mar by Melia
• Hotel Serawa Alicante

Famous landmarks in Alicante (Spain)

Here’s a list of the most popular attractions in Alicante, in case you want to see the city’s most important buildings and monuments:

• Castillo de Santa Barbara
• Basilica Santa Maria
• The Santa Faz Monastery
• Cathedral of St. Nicholas of Bari
• Iglesia Clarisas Capuchinas
• Castillo de San Fernando
• Alicante town hall (Ayuntamiento)
• Monumento de Canalejas
• Tossal de Manises (Lucentum)
• Parroquia Nuestra Señora de Gracia

Museums in Alicante

For those interested in culture, arts, and history, here’s a list of the museums in Alicante:

• Archeological Museum of Alicante
• Museo de Hogueras
• Museo de Arte Contemporaneo de Alicante (MACA)
• Museo de Belenes (Nativity Scene Museum)
• Museo de Bellas Artes Gravina (MUBAG)
• Sala de exposiciones la Lonja del Pescado
• Miguel Hernández House Museum

What to do in Alicante as a first-time visitor? 

Depending on your personal preference, I suggest mixing it up with some time spent on the beaches as well as strolling through Casco Antiguo. Making your way to the top of Mount Benecantil and the famous Castle of Santa Barbara is definitely something that I recommend to everyone. It features several centuries of history and offers a stunning view over Alicante. 

If you have a couple of days extra or spend a week in Alicante, there are several day trips that shouldn’t be missed, including the Guadalest Valley and Tabarca Island. There are many fun things to do in Alicante province, but for those who only have 2-3 days, I recommend spending those days in the city.

I also suggest visiting 1-2 museums, such as the Archeological Museum or Museo de Hogueras. If you’re interested in art, make sure to visit MACA, also known as the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Moreover, some of the most impressive attractions in Alicante include the Santa Faz Monastery, Basilica Santa Maria, and Iglesia Clarisas Capuchinas in addition to the Santa Barbara Castle. 

Additionally, strolling the Explanada de España and the old town is something that I recommend as well. Sit down at some local restaurants and bars, have something nice to eat. Go for a glass of wine and people watch. Relax at the beaches and simply enjoy the nice weather. 

Interesting facts about Alicante

• The Romans actually named the city “Lucentum” which can be translated as the City of Light.
• The city area has been inhabited for at least 7000 years
• The locals are called Alicantinos
• Greeks, Phoenicians, Carthaginians, and Romans have all been here as well as the Moors.
• Explanada de España has a total of 400 palm trees, but perhaps more impressive, the promenade has a total of 6,6 million marble tiles in red, black, and cream color.
• Alicante is one of the largest cities in Spain by population (11th)
• It is estimated that more than 100,000 foreigners are living in Alicante, and every year, the province sees over 3 million tourists.
• The city is located on Costa Blanca and enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers.

Want more recommendations on things to do in Alicante, Spain? Leave a comment below!

• The Top 10 Things To...

The Top Things To See And Do In Alicante

Nestled in the stunning Costa Blanca coastline, Alicante is one of Spain’s most beautiful cities and a hotspot destination for city breaks in the sun. Whether there for a couple of days or a week, you will never be short of things to do and see. Use our handy list of top ten must-see-and-do activities to make the most out of your visit.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Just off the Alicante coast is the beautifully untouched island of Tabarca. Home to a picturesque little town of whitewashed houses and a historical old church, this is a must-visit destination. Getting there couldn’t be easier as there are boats that run daily from the harbor in Alicante for €18 return, €15 for children. The boat trip itself is an experience as the waters around Tabarca have been declared a Mediterranean Marine Reserve for their outstanding beauty and abundance in flora and fauna. There is a restaurant and shop on the island but we recommend you pack a picnic as these can get a little pricey during the summer seasons. There’s a beach and a little coastal path you can walk until you find the perfect picnic spot to relax under the baking sun. Definitely don’t forget the sunscreen as the island is the perfect little sun-trap!

Price: 17€ roundtrip

Departure from Alicante: 10:15, 11:15 and 12:30

Departure from Tabarca: 17:00, 18:00 and 19:30

Alicante Tram

It is worth taking the Alicante Tram just for the ride itself as the Costa Blanca coastline is truly spectacular. The tracks take you right along the coastal path and occasionally up through the hills as you pass through some of the most beautiful reclusive little towns and villages. Stops to watch out for are Altea and San Juan. If you are looking for a day at the beach then San Juan is renowned for its vast expanse of sand and clear blue sea just a couple of stops away from Alicante city center. Altea is a lot further down the line but is definitely worth the journey as this is a truly beautiful little Spanish town. The architecture is influenced by Islamic tradition and is built on a slope with winding streets to get lost in. For keen photographers, this is the place to get some really spectacular shots before relaxing with an espresso at one of the many little cafés that serve excellent coffee.

Castillo de Santa Barbara

It would be impossible to forget Alicante’s rich historical past as the entire city is built at the base of the magnificent Santa Barbara Castle . Built sometime around the 9th century, the castle has a history of warfare yet is immaculately preserved. It is easily accessible as there is a lift that takes you directly to the top or, for the more adventurous among you, there is winding path that takes you to entrance. This is a day trip, as once you get there there is plenty to see. Make your way up to the rooftop ramparts for spectacular views and tour the preserved rooms full with information and artefacts. There is also a market in the courtyard selling trinkets and handmade souvenirs. The castle has easy access all over with all facilities and a café for food so this an inclusive visit for everyone.

Playa del Postiguet

Playa del postiguet, or Postiguet beach, is one of Alicante’s loveliest beaches. The beach is huge and stretches the length of the city before running into neighboring San Juan. A couple of hours on the idyllic white sands and clear blue waters and you forget you’re actually in a bustling city. During the high summer season Alicante is a hotspot for good reason and Playa del postiguet is the number one destination for many tourists. Don’t let this deter you however, as there are less well known areas to escape the crowds. Walk along the promenade away from the center and down the opposite end of the beach for a quieter more relaxing experience. This is also home to an idyllic little beach bar where you can sip a cocktail shaded by palm fronds and soak up the beautiful sun. Once the sun starts to set, you can amble back up along the promenade to grab some delicious tapas in one of the many beachfront restaurants.

El Barrio, or the old town, is the historical heart of Alicante, and one of the most beautiful spots to spend a day of wandering. With its winding cobbled streets and stacked Spanish apartments adorned with flowers, its an absolute must-visit for those looking for some old-world charm. When the sun goes down the barrio comes to life as everyone from local to tourist heads here for some of the best tapas and most delicious cocktails in Spain. The world is your oyster as there is no end to the selection of restaurants and bars to eat and drink in until the early hours. Most places offer deals such as free tapas with every drink so it’s easy to have a cheap night out of you’re on a budget.

La Explanada de Espana

Visually, La Explanada de Espana is pretty hard to miss and you’re probably going to spend a lot of time here. It is Alicante’s main and most beautiful promenade and is constructed of 6.6 million(!) red, cream and black tiles. Created in 1867 this is the brainchild of architect Jose Guardiola Pico who wanted the perfect accompaniment to the Spanish custom of an evening stroll. The pattern mirrors the rolling Mediterranean waves, an idyllic scene complimented by the palm trees lining the walkway. Take a stroll down early evening to peruse the market stalls showcasing handmade jewellery, bags, purses, rugs and much more. Everything is reasonably priced and don’t expect to get be harassed by sales people as this is shopping at your leisure. The selection of cafés and bars that line the boulevard are the perfect place for coffee, pinchos or the quintessential Spanish treat of churros (if you haven’t had one of these you really haven’t lived).

Heladeria Borgonesse

Alicante is teeming with ice cream parlours with flavours and colours you never thought possible, yet Heladeria Borgonesse is the absolute best of a fantastic bunch. There is nothing better than cooling down with a scoop of Ferrero Rocher, passion fruit, or the Italian favourite stracciatella. If you’re on a budget then a scoop from here is one of those things you treat yourself with as the hordes of people you see wandering around clutching a delicious ice cream make it pretty hard to resist. Located right next to the main promenade and a two minute walk from the beach, stop off here for a delicious sweet treat after some tapas, before an evening stroll on the promenade or on your way to the beach.

Being a coastal city, Alicante does of course have a Marina that is home to some spectacular yachts. When the sun goes down the city lights reflect on the water making for a beautiful and romantic stroll down the waters edge. If you’re after a night out, this is also where you can find the clubs. Not just to be enjoyed at night time, the marina also has Soho Bar , a little bar/café which serves delicious coffee and lovely cocktails that is the perfect place to take a book for a lazy afternoon.

Parque el Palmeral

Overflowing with botanical wildlife, waterfalls and a lot of palm trees, Parque el Palmeral is a little slice of Eden just outside of the city centre. Catch the C6 airport bus or a train for a relaxing day out. Expect to suddenly stumble upon a little waterfall, tended garden or a bridge right next to a waterfall. The park has toilets and a little kiosk to buy food and drink, but bring sunscreen and a picnic is highly recommended as it can be expensive. This is the place for when you want to get a away from the hustle and bustle of the city and relax in the city’s most beautiful park.

Barrio de Santa Cruz

What with the lively popularity of el Barrio, the Barrio de Santa Cruz or the residential old town doesn’t get the attention it deserves. Which is a shame because it is just as beautiful in it’s own right. Located on the hillside, it feels a million miles away from the bustling city as the winding streets give you that quaint Spanish town feel. The buildings are all slightly crumbling and the streets a bit uneven and the whitewashed walls are adorned with blooming flowers making this a photographers paradise. There are cafés serving great coffee, tapas and traditional paella making this the perfect lunch spot to really get a feel for Alicante’s more traditional past.

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Home » Europe » Spain » Alicante Hidden Gems – 17 Unusual things to do in Alicante – A local’s Guide

Alicante Hidden Gems – 17 Unusual things to do in Alicante – A local’s Guide

Few places manage to make me smile as much as this city, which never ceases to amaze me. Even though I have lived there for more than three decades. Having the opportunity to introduce you to it, talk about the Alicante hidden gems, and transmit a small part of what it manages to do to me, is an experience that I will not miss.

You may know her from one or another trip; you may have heard about her or even been lucky enough to enjoy her during your vacations. You will have gone to the most known and recommended places, which appear in the tourist guides and are worth knowing, however, Alicante is infinitely much more .

My name is Andrés, and I have lived in Alicante since my second day of life. Since the first one, I spent in Elche only and exclusively to annoy my neighbors when we talk about sports rivalries.

Today I would love you to accompany me on a tour in which I will try to show you a side of Alicante that most people don’t know, leaving behind the usual tourist spots . We will go into the magical corners of the city, to places, viewpoints, streets, and restaurants that either they tell you about or you would never see them.

Note: The order of these unusual things to do in Alicante is not intended as a ranking.

Note: This post is part of our “Local Experts” series, in which locals present their land. The text was written by Andrés, who was born and raised in Alicante.

What to find out in this post

• 1 17 Alicante Hidden Gems you didn’t know about
• 2 1.     El Casco Antiguo (Old Town)
• 3 2.     Museo de Aguas de Alicante & the wells of Garrigós
• 4 3.     La Ciudad Descubierta
• 5 4.     La Concha de la Explanada
• 6 5.     Tardeo in calle Castaños and the Old Town
• 7 6.     Museo de Fogueres
• 8 7.     Alicante’s Rice Dishes
• 9 8.     Fireworks from the Beach
• 10 9.     An alien invasion
• 11 10.  El Mercado Central de Alicante
• 12 11.  Ereta Park
• 13 12.  La Calle de las setas (Mushroom Street)
• 14 13.  El paseo volado
• 15 14.  The Air-raid shelters of Alicante
• 16 15.  Lucentum, the origin of Alicante
• 17 16.  Alicante from the sea
• 18 17.  The views from Hotel Gran Sol
• 19.1 About the AuthorVicki

17 Alicante Hidden Gems you didn’t know about

Before we begin, let me tell you that the following places you are about to visit may be part of a place you know and may even have been recommended to you before. However, not in the way you are going to see them today. And since I’m in a hurry to get started, let’s dive right in!

ALICANTE INFOBOX

Where to stay in Alicante: Suites del Mar (very good accommodation in the port of Alicante) or Hotel Hospes Amérigo (Hotel in the center overlooking the castle)

The most popular activities & tours in Alicante

Alicante 2 horas crucer en catamarán al altardecer

“Secret Flavors” Food and Tapas Tour

Vineyards of Alicante Tour (Wine Tasting)

Alicante Tour (“7 Secretos of Alicante”)

Guadalast Valley & Fuentes del Algar Tour

Getting there: Make sure to check for the best flight deals on Flight comparison-Sites 

Transport: You can get around Alicante on foot, by public transport; metro and bus, or with a rented bike

Want to rent a car?  You can find great deals .

Alicante Must-Have:   Practical Spanish Travel Dictionary  and  Alicante-Guide

1.     El Casco Antiguo (Old Town)

The old town of Alicante is, quintessentially, the heart of the city . In it is the Barrio de Santa Cruz, with its picturesque streets and white staircases full of flowers and icons as striking as peculiar.

However, this traditional and classic area of the city, during the weekends, will become one of the most active areas of Alicante . The activities in its different squares, as well as the locals, restaurants, and bars that follow one after another , make it the perfect place to enjoy.

If you choose to get to know the old town for real, let me recommend a series of places worth visiting in this classic area of the city:

• La Taberna Ibérica . Carefully decorated and famous for its typical sausages and salted meats.
• Taberna Alioli . Another wonder of Alicante that is worth a visit. Wines, sausages, and cheeses that will pleasantly surprise you.
• Taberna del Gourmet . In this case, whether it is rice, meat, or fish, here you will find the best quality with refined gastronomy.
• Calle Labradores . Known for being one of the icons of the old town, its nightlife, and for having more than one restaurant worth visiting, such as the mesón de Labradores .
• MUBAG . The Gravina Museum of Fine Arts is located on the same street Labradores, and in it, in addition to marveling at its art exhibition, you can get to know a real palace worth visiting.

Opening Hours MUBAG : Winter: 10 am – 08 pm, Sundays & holidays: 10 am -02 pm. Summer: 11 am – 09 pm, Sundays & Holidays: 11 am – 15 pm

Entrance fee: free of charge

• MACA . Another museum, only this time, it is of contemporary art and, although nobody knows it, it is exhibited in the oldest civil building in the entire city of Alicante and has works by Picasso, Chillida, and Dalí, among many others .

Opening Hours : Winter hours: Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am – 8 pm, Sundays and holidays from 10 am – 2 pm. Summer schedule: Tuesday to Saturday from 11 am – 8 pm, Sundays and holidays from 11 am – 3 pm.

Entrance fee: free of charge 

2.     Museo de Aguas de Alicante & the wells of Garrigós

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Opening hours : Summer hours: Tuesday – Friday, from 10 am – 2 pm & 6 pm – 9 pm, Saturdays & Sundays from 10 am – 2 pm; Winter hours: Tuesday – Friday, from 10 am – 2 pm & 5 pm – 8 pm, Saturdays & Sundays from 10 am – 2 pm.

Although many of us who live in the city know it and have even been surprised to see the images of what it contains inside, this museum located in the highest part of the old town, in my opinion, is really undervalued.

Inside, you can see the mechanisms and pipes that were used in the Middle Ages to supply water to the city, as well as see the wells of Garrigós . They are imposing and striking as soon as you enter the interior and see how they managed to store rainwater and then trade with it.

3.     La Ciudad Descubierta

Opening hours : Monday to Friday: from 9 am – 2 pm

For lovers of culture and history, the Ciudad Descubierta is an archaeological exhibition that you can visit on your next trip. Alicante locals are used to seeing the imposing glass building that protects it, but you’d be surprised how many people still don’t know what’s inside.

They discovered these archaeological ruins in a building adjacent to City Hall. Its glass structure is striking from the outside, but more important and curious is what is inside. From a 13th century wall to the remains of houses that were bombed during the war.

4.     La Concha de la Explanada

Its peculiar, striking and original shape make this Concha de la Explanada (“ the shell of the explanade “) a visual attraction not to be missed when you walk along the Explanada de España. However, what many do not know is that it is a small municipal auditorium. They perform concerts that you can enjoy outdoors on a beautiful summer afternoon.

Although its calendar of activities depends on the City Council and the groups that have requested to play, it is worth visiting the area to find out about the upcoming events that are usually announced. It is fantastic to be able to walk along the Esplanade while enjoying the music of the many orchestras and musical groups that play there.

5.     Tardeo in calle Castaños and the Old Town

One of the main leisure activities in Alicante is to enjoy its busy streets and terraces in the well-known “ tardeo alicantino “. Castaños street and the entire old town become an area of leisure and enjoyment for people of all ages.

The tardeo alicantino has positioned itself as one of the best leisure events, where we are not limited to one street to appreciate the terraces of pubs, cafes, and restaurants . And, being almost a culture with its own identity, what less than to join and enjoy a good drink in an exceptional atmosphere ?

For many visitors, this social phenomenon goes completely unnoticed, as it is confused with a simple day of leisure. However, going into each of the streets, walking through them, and enjoying their terraces is a practice that is becoming increasingly contagious, both for locals and visitors alike.

6.     Museo de Fogueres

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Opening hours: Summer hours: from 10 am – 2 pm, and from 6 pm – 9 pm, Saturdays from 10 am – 2 pm. Sundays, Mondays, and holidays: closed; Winter opening hours: from 10 am – 2 pm, and from 3 pm – 6 pm, Saturdays from 10 am – 2 pm. Closed on Sundays, Mondays, and holidays.

This is a space where you can soak up the traditions, activities, and identity of Alicante. The Bonfires are the most important event , all Alicante people wait impatiently for the arrival of June to impregnate with a festive atmosphere each and every corner of the city.

The city is filled with gunpowder, barracas, music, stalls, and all kinds of activities that make these dates an authentic experience where more than a million people come every year. If you have the opportunity to travel to Alicante between June 15 and 23 , you can experience it in person.

In the Fogueres museum, you will have the opportunity to learn about our main festivities, listed as a festival of international tourist interest . You will see costumes, videos, and all kinds of audiovisual material to learn about the evolution of one of the most recognized festivals in the Valencian Community.

7.     Alicante’s Rice Dishes

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One of our signs of identity and for which the whole province of Alicante is known. Alicante rice dishes are a real wonder for the palate , so I have decided to include them in this list of secret corners of Alicante. Here you have a selection of some of the best places to try great rice:

• Restaurante Racó del Plá . Located just over 1 km from the Castle of Santa Barbara, this gastronomic and traditional corner of Alicante offers a wide variety of rice dishes. Among them, I’ll go for the Arroz con pata , I would not have words to describe such a pleasure.
• Restaurante Isabel Pedrera . Although you will have to use the car to go there since it is located in the Polígono de Garachico, direction Muchamiel. Here you can enjoy the best rice dishes, and I say best because the quality of the ingredients and the stoves where they cook the rice are incomparable.
• Restaurante Petimetre . We go to the beach of San Juan to go to one of the places I like the most. The senyoret rice prepared here is one of the best I have tasted in a long time. Located inside the Golf Club, it offers the opportunity to marvel at the rice and finish with a drink a few meters away at Copity , another icon of fun in the Alicante nightlife.

And these are just a few since, fortunately for all of us, we are lucky enough to be in a city where it is more difficult to try bad rice than good . The key lies in knowing where to sit down.

However, if you have the time to travel, I also recommend you to try the rice with snails from Pinoso or the rice with crust from Elche , authentic wonders just a few kilometers away.

8.     Fireworks from the Beach

Although the Hogueras festivities in Alicante are the icon of the city, many are unaware that between June 25 and 29 , one of the most beautiful and striking fireworks competitions in the Valencian community takes place .

In this case, the fireworks are launched from the vicinity of the central beach of El Postiguet , so any place is good to enjoy them. Thousands of people gather on the sand of this beach and from the Albufera or Almadrava beaches to watch the spectacle.

Others prefer the rooftops and terraces of some restaurants. Even the Castle of Santa Barbara has become one of the most recommended places. Take advantage of the walk and stop to enjoy them while enjoying an incredible panoramic view of the city.

9.     An alien invasion

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There is a small company called Virtual Zone that has caught the attention of the newspapers, surprising everyone with its peculiar way of offering an alternative form of entertainment . Imagine that you find yourself in 2050 trying to fight aliens with all available means.

The funny thing about the game is that it is made in virtual reality . In other words, the environment is not just any scenario but the main streets and arteries of the city. An apocalyptic Alicante opens up before you , offering you a completely different experience from anything you’ve seen before.

And yes, you will be able to shoot aliens in the Plaza de los Luceros. One of the weird things to do in Alicante has raised the most interest in recent months. It’s not every day that you get to experience virtual reality between shots in such a fantastic environment.

10.  El Mercado Central de Alicante

One of the jewels of the city, a point that we locals all have used to locate ourselves on the map and meet with friends . The Central Market of Alicante, besides being one of the largest and liveliest in the province, is an ideal building for history lovers .

This building experienced a tragedy during the Civil War, where in 1938, a bomb fell on it in the middle of the day. This event killed more than 300 people who at that moment were inside the building doing their groceries.

Today, however, you will find many gastronomic stalls with traditional products worthy of bringing to the table. It is a reflection of Alicante society, its routine, and traditions, where hundreds of people come every day to fill their shelves.

11.  Ereta Park

As a general rule, the tourist buses that access the Castle of Santa Barbara don’t stop at this small park located on one of the castle’s slopes. If you have the opportunity to walk up, you will see how halfway, there is a detour that you can take.

After crossing a small parking lot and continuing on, you will come across something that not everyone knows; the park of the Ereta, a garden corner full of tranquility, with views of the harbor and the city that will surprise you .

From here, you can follow the path to the castle or take the stairs down to the old part of the city, enjoying the view of the peculiar little houses of the Santa Cruz neighborhood. Finally, you can enjoy a drink in one of the bars I recommended at the beginning of this text.

12.  La Calle de las setas (Mushroom Street)

Although in its beginnings, this project to recondition the Calle San Francisco received a lot of criticism, today, the street nicknamed the street of mushrooms has become one of the icons of the city of Alicante . And no wonder, the striking green color of its cobblestones and the various mushrooms located in the middle of the road make it a pretty unique pedestrian street.

There are no longer cars on it, now, there are only curious visitors who are surprised to come across it and do not hesitate to photograph it for their social media accounts. And fortunately for you, it is full of terraces and restaurants that you should know, such as Chico Calla , a gastronomic corner that you will almost certainly love.

Its location is ideal, as it is in the heart of the city and serves to walk around it and stop at Calle Castaños to know the famous tardeo. From here, you can also access the most commercial and active streets of the city, such as Paseo de Gadea or Avenida de Maisonnave.

13.  El paseo volado

Given its location, this promenade is not exactly a point of interest known to all. And it is a pity because it is one of the most beautiful platforms to visit and enjoy at any time of the day.

The “flying walkway” of the port of Alicante is located just behind the Meliá Hotels and Spa Porta Maris, at the end of the breakwater that ends in the sea. It is perfect for walking almost on the water and fantastic for enjoying sunsets, fireworks, and any clear night .

In addition, its location by the sea and peculiar structure make it an ideal place for photography, as there are many couples who bet on this corner of the port of Alicante to take the best snapshots.

14.  The Air-raid shelters of Alicante

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Opening Hours : You can check the exact opening hours on this website since access is normally limited to groups of guided tours organized by the City Council itself.

Entrance fee: 5 €

When I said that Alicante was much more than the traditional icons and famous points of interest, it is because I know that there are special places that do not appear in all travel guides. A clear example is the Civil War shelters that the city maintains.

The Civil War was a tragic episode that affected every corner of this country. Alicante was no exception. Despite having dozens of them located and scattered throughout the city, there are currently two that have been rehabilitated so that you can see them from the inside .

In the biggest one, where more than 600 people were crammed together, you will be able to listen to a recreation of the sound of a bombing.

15.  Lucentum, the origin of Alicante

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Opening hours : you can check the exact opening hours here , as it varies according to the time of the year and the guided tours.

Entrance fee: 2 €

Few tourists know the city’s origin, and even fewer have visited it. Lucentum is the archaeological site par excellence in the city. Here you can walk through the old streets and Roman ruins of what was once Lucentum, a Roman city .

It is located in the neighborhood of Albufereta, so you will have to take the bus or the car to get around. Walking from the city’s center could take you an hour and a lot of water if it is summer.

16.  Alicante from the sea

We locals from Alicante are lucky always to enjoy a perfect climate, where the sun is present almost every day of the year. Therefore, the sea conditions are great to put on the captain’s hat and go sailing .

Alicante is beautiful no matter how you look at it. However, to see it at sunset aboard a catamaran is almost an activity that you have to do at least once in your life.

Currently, there are boat rental services with which you can tour the entire coast and even end up spending a pleasant day on the island of Tabarca. However, if you do not have time or lack of qualifications to sail, I recommend you simply join a catamaran trip in the bay of the port of Alicante.

17.  The views from Hotel Gran Sol

The hotel is well known; hundreds of tourists come to stay in its rooms and enjoy the city for a few days. Its height is an icon of Alicante, just like its name. However, what many do not know is the treasure hidden on its 26th floor .

There is a restaurant where you can enjoy spectacular views , where the sea merges with the coast, and the panoramic views offered by its imposing height will make you stay for dinner, as well as melt the battery of your camera.

If your trip to Alicante is with your partner, take the opportunity to surprise her with this architectural marvel that you have at your disposal. Access is free, although you will have to consume a drink to avoid discomfort.

Alternative things to do in Alicante

And while we’re at it, I’ll take the opportunity to recommend some of the different alternative options. So you can choose which places to visit and where to avoid the crowds. Alicante has a lot to offer you:

I hope that with all this information about hidden places in Alicante and places you should visit, you can make your next trip to the capital of Costa Blanca an authentic experience. If you liked it, share your experience below and tell me what you think about this city.

Interested in Spain?

About the Author Vicki

Hi, we are Vicki & Eduardo, an international travel couple on a mission to help you save money for priceless travel experience. Follow us through the miracles of this world and you will be rewarded with a bunch of practical travel tips.

2 thoughts on Alicante Hidden Gems – 17 Unusual things to do in Alicante – A local’s Guide

Hi Thanks for the local tips.

Re Suggestion 11 Ereta Park, I hear this place is currently a haven for many ‘homeless’ peoples, with the water feature fountains doubling as showers (?).

Hi Jo, Thank you so much for your comment. I didn’t know about this

Comments are closed.

Home » Destinations » Europe » Spain » 10 Lovely Things to Do in Alicante, Spain (+ Tips for Great Food)

10 Lovely Things to Do in Alicante, Spain (+ Tips for Great Food)

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Here Are Some Awesome Things to Do in Alicante + Travel Tips!

Are you heading to Alicante for that classic beach vacation but want to explore the city a little deeper? From a stunning hilltop castle to historical or unusual places to visit, there’s much more to Alicante than just soaking up sun!

For this post, we’ve turned to our trusted travel correspondent Laura from She Who Wanders . Laura explored Alicante in the off-season and made sure to document her visit thoroughly. She’s no stranger to Penguin and Pia and always shares great tips for visiting the places she’s wandered!

So, for this guide we’ll pass it off to Laura to bring you some of the best things to do in Alicante in any weather! She’s also got recommendations for where to eat paella, where to go shopping, which beaches to enjoy, and more!

Alicante Quick Guide

• Best Time to Visit:  year round (very few days of rain per month); May-August for swimming/warm temperatures or winter to beat the crowds
• Getting Around:  The city centre is very walkable, good public transport
• Popular Activities:  Sunset Cruise , Visiting Castell de Santa Bàrbara, Alicante Villages Tour
• Where to Stay:   Melia Alicante  for beautiful, central hotel;  Hostel Ole  for budget

Table of Contents

Things to Do in Alicante, Spain

While Alicante may be small in comparison to other Spanish cities like Barcelona or Malaga, there is still so much to see.

With beautiful beaches, stunning mountain views, a castle, and so much more – there is something for everyone here in Alicante.

Explanada de Espana 

If you arrive by bus into the city centre, there is a good chance the Explanada de Espana is the first place you’ll see (after the beach). It’s located right across from the beach and the marina.

This promenade is one of the most iconic attractions in Alicante with its beautiful mosaic tiles. The way it catches the golden light after sunrise is absolutely beautiful.

From 10 am onward the Esplanade will welcome tons of market stalls, artists, and musicians so it’s a great place to have a wander.

Location: Near the water by the Marina

Castell de Santa Bàrbara

Who doesn’t love visiting castles when they travel? Castell de Santa Barbara (or Santa Barbara Castle) sits atop Mount Benacantil and overlooks Play El Postiguet as the highest point in Alicante.

The Castle is easily accessible by foot with a bit of a steep climb or you can take the elevator. Yes, the castle on the hill has an elevator built into it and for €2.70/person you can take the 3-minute ride from the beach level to the top.

Not only is the Castle full of cool history and lots of tunnels – but it’s also an absolutely amazing place to catch the sunset.

If you do head up, be sure to wrap up if visiting outside of the summer months as it can get chilly up there! You can learn more about visiting the Castle here .

Location: On top of the Benacantil Mountain

Basilica Santa Maria

If you opt to walk down into town from Castell de Santa Barbara, there is a good chance you will pass this beautiful basilica.

The basilica is open to the public but only during times of worship: 10 am – 1 pm & 6 pm – 7 pm daily. This means that your visit should be timed well if you want to explore the inside.

The Basilica was built between the 14th and 16th centuries in the Valencian Gothic style and is the oldest active church of its kind in the city. The exterior is beautiful and the surrounding area is quiet and charming.

The little square that houses the Basilica is shaded in the afternoon and there are some really lovely buildings nearby worth exploring if you are waiting for the Basilica to open too.

Address: Plaza Sta. María, 1, 03001 Alicante, Spain

Playa El Postiguet

Visiting in the off-season means you could have almost the whole of Playa El Postiguet to yourself – which is just an added bonus.

The beach runs parallel to the main street of the city and the Esplanada de Espana and right next to the marina. It’s definitely a hub for life in Alicante.

Sunrise at the beach is definitely a must-do when the city is completely quiet and the sky radiates with beautiful colours as the sun comes up. This is when you should take a wander down the beach and watch the city come to life.

Visiting the beach in the day time or warmer months means that this is the perfect place to lay out and catch some rays, go for a swim, or enjoy the parks and promenades on the beach, too.

Location: Beach Near the Base of the Castle

The Old Town

The historic centre of Alicante is truly one of the most charming places in the whole city. Vibrant colourful houses line the skinny alleyways with beautiful plants on the balconies, fun murals, and so much magic with each and every turn.

If you visit first thing in the morning, you’ll likely not see another soul walking around. However, you will likely see the local tradesmen loading their vans, older ladies hanging the washing, and locals on their verandas drinking coffee.

Bring your camera, stop for a coffee, and soak in all the beauty of this part of Alicante over a few hours.

If you want to explore the Old Town and sample local foods, check out this Gourmet Alicante Walking Tour !

Coastal Walk: Alicante To Cala Almadraba

If you want a bit of exercise, head out on a coastal walk. This coastal route is hard to find on many maps but if you have a keen sense of adventure and don’t mind a nice walk you’ll be gifted with some pretty great views.

Walk the length of Playa El Postiguet taking in all the views until it looks like you can’t go any further. The path veers away from the shoreline but is paved and well travelled by cyclists, runners, and dog walkers. Leave the city behind you as you head out over the golden cliffs and you’ll drop down into a very residential area.

From there, continue to mosey along the shoreline and you’ll come across the most adorably quaint beachside restaurant perfect for a pint before carrying on. The only way back is the same way you came, so it’s easy enough not to get lost!

If you want to explore the coast and enjoy local foods, consider a bike tour with wine and tapas !

Mercado Central de Alicante

On the Avenida de Alfonso, you’ll find the Mercado Central – the city’s main source of fresh produce on offer. This market seems to be frequented mostly by locals, shopkeepers, and chefs of the restaurants but still has some incredible items to be discovered.

Nearly 300 stalls over 2 levels offer everything from flowers and pastries to cheeses, meats, and especially fresh fish. Go for a wander through the aisles and feel what it would be like to do your weekly food shop here.

Or better yet pick up some supplies for the perfect beach day picnic, Alicante style! You can learn more about the Market here .

Address: Av. Alfonso El Sabio, 10, 03002 Alicante, Spain

El Palmeral Park 

If you’re looking for a great activity a little outside the centre, head for El Palmeral Park. Open daily from 9 am – 10 pm, this park is a beautiful little option for an afternoon out. The walk from the centre of Alicante will take about an hour or you can hop on the C-6 train for a quicker journey.

There are tons of beautiful palm trees, lots of gorgeous waterfalls, and even exercise machines in the park if an active mood strikes. There is also a boat rental kiosk here where you can hire a boat to take out during the summertime which is really fun.

As a perfect mix of park and botanical gardens, there are lovely garden plots everywhere, too. Bring a book, soak in the sunshine, and watch as the world goes by in one of the prettiest parks in Alicante.

Address: Calle Deportista Joaquín Blume, 33, 03008 Alicante, Spain

Day Trip to Villajoyosa

Of course, there are beautiful sights outside of Alicante, too. One of which is Villajoyosa.

To get there, hop on the L-1 tram from Mercado Station towards Benidorm and in less than 45 minutes you’ll be stepping foot into the Town of Joy. Seriously, that’s the translation of Villajoyosa to English.

For just €4.25 you’ll feel as if you’ve taken a vacation while on your vacation. If it’s possible, this seaside town is even more tropical than Alicante, with towering palm trees lining the beach, rainbow-coloured houses, and beautiful gardens everywhere – it’s heavenly.

Pack a lunch for the beach or visit any of the dozens of beachfront restaurants. There are lots of shops and even bike rental stalls so you can cruise along the promenade by the sea and enjoy the amazing musicians performing on the beach.

Explore beautiful Villajoyosa and Altea on a day trip from Alicante !

Day Trip to Tabarca Island

Another great day trip takes you out on the water to Tabarca. 11 miles offshore from Alicante is the only inhabited island in Valencia: Tabarca Island. At less than 2,000 meters long and less than an hour’s boat journey, it really is a must-visit.

Keep in mind the timetable for the boats, however, as this could affect your day trip plans. From October – May the boats run daily Thursday – Sunday at 11 am returning at 5pm. From June – September, the boats leave & return daily at several different times.

Once there, you can walk the beautiful main street, indulge in the freshest seafood dishes you’ll ever eat, walk out to the beautiful lighthouse, snorkel in the sea, or just lay out on the beach.

No matter what you want to do on the island, it really will feel like a completely different place compared to Alicante. 

Where to Eat and Drink in Alicante

For a quiet little port city, Alicante really has a vibrant foodie scene. From beachside restaurants and bars, trendy and oh so Instagram-worthy cafes, and some seriously delicious pastries there’s some food item everyone. Here are a handful of the places I enjoyed.

Sip & Wonder

Owned by a married British couple, this is the only dog-friendly cafe in Alicante. And if that hasn’t sold you right away, the decor & the menu will.

Sip & Wonder has amazing coffee, happy hour from 5-7, some of the best pancakes ever, and a very cute dog to match the trendy decor. Plus they have an outside patio to enjoy, too. You can learn more about Sip & Wonder on their website .

Address: Carrer Poeta Campos Vasallo, 8, 03004 Alacant, Alicante, Spain

Casa Ibarra

For great paella, head down an alley, turn right, then left, then right again. Okay not quite – but this gives you an idea of how hidden this restaurant is.

This is for good reason, though – it’s a local recommendation and a fantastic one at that. The Paella is the best in Alicante! You can check out the menu here .

Address: Calle Mayor, 33, 03002 Alicante, Spain

Boca De Vin

With an open plan kitchen, gorgeous leather sofas, a cozy atmosphere, and a beautiful menu, this restaurant is a must-visit. You may need a reservation if you arrive after 6 pm on a Friday/Saturday but it will be worth it.

Do yourself a favour and try the beef wellington or burrata stuffed chicken. I am confident you won’t be disappointed. You can learn more about Boca De Vin here .

Address: Calle San Nicolás, 18, 03002 Alicante, Spain

La Masa de Tomasa

For breakfast, a mid-afternoon “pick me up”, a post-dinner treat, or really just anything you want, head for La Masa de Tomasa. While this is a chain throughout Alicante and the Costa Blanca they do not skimp on anything.

Everything is baked fresh daily and absolutely delicious, especially the Polvoron – a Spanish take on shortbread which is massive and laced with cinnamon! Check out more on La Masa de Tomasa here .

Address: Av. Alfonso El Sabio, 18, 03004 Alicante, Spain

Churrería Santa Faz

Because churros are always a good idea, especially when they come with a massive tub of warm chocolate sauce, head for Churrería Santa Faz.

This place keeps odd hours but is located right near the market so close enough to make a return visit if it’s closed when you first go.

Plus eating churros and people watching at the market go hand in hand. You can see their Facebook Page here .

Address: Calle Mayor, 4, 03002 Alicante, Spain

Things to Consider When Planning to Visit Alicante, Spain

Located on Spain’s southeastern coast (Costa Blanca), Alicante is a port city and the capital of the Alicante Province. Easily accessible by most major European airports, Alicante is the perfect place for a quick beach getaway.

The city is often overlooked for Barcelona or Malaga, but has just as much going on as the two more visited cities – but without a large number of tourists.

UK sun seekers generally head for Benidorm farther north of Alicante, which leaves the beaches, streets, and attractions less busy than other Spanish seaside destinations.

Pristine beaches at the base of gorgeous mountains, rainbow-coloured houses everywhere you look, and a laidback vibe makes Alicante the perfect place for anyone looking for a getaway.

Best Time to Visit Alicante

How rare is it to find a destination to visit that is great all year round? Well, now you can add Alicante to the list! With less than 3 days of rain in any given month, this Spanish port city really doesn’t have one month that’s better to visit than another.

January sees temperatures between 18 – 20 degrees C. Plus, the city is relatively empty after the holidays making it a great destination for anyone who wants to avoid big crowds.

That said, it’s maybe not great weather for swimming in the ocean but it’s perfect for adventuring and laying out on the beach in the sun.

If you’re a summer lover then May-August is where it’s at. You’ll see temperatures of above 30 degrees C and because of that, it is the peak season for travellers because of school holidays and the endless sunny days. 

Getting Around Alicante

If you’re flying into Alicante from anywhere, you’ll need transport from Alicante Airport to the city centre.

The simplest option is by bus, with the bus collection point being well signposted from the arrivals terminal right to the stop outside the airport.

The C-6 bus operates 24/7 on 20-minute intervals and takes less than 25 minutes to reach the downtown area all for around €3.85/person. Small bills or exact change is required to pay the bus fare. You can learn more about Alicante Transit here .

For most accommodation options that are quite central, you’ll be looking to get off at the ‘Avenida Alfonso el Sabio’ stop. There are additional buses that operate within the city to get you where you need to go to.

It is good to note that Alicante is just one of those cities that was created with walkers in mind. No matter where you end up basing yourself in the city, you’ll be able to get around with ease on foot.

From the beach to Santa Barbara Castle and even Old Town you’re never more than a 25-minute walk from something amazing.

If you’re looking to make a day trip to any neighbouring towns, the tram is really easy to navigate. The Alicante Metropolitan Tram network connects Alicante to all major suburbs and even out to Benidorm.

Plus the tram is a great way to get some pretty special views of the mountains as you go through them.

Where to Stay in Alicante

Since Alicante is a popular beach destination, there are a number of great hotels, resorts, and sunny accommodation options all over the city centre, coastline, and surrounding little towns.

⇒ Check here for hotels and other accommodations in Alicante

If you want a popular recommendation, you can check out the Melia Alicante for a beautiful, central hotel with a pool right on the ocean! If you are looking for cozier guesthouses or hostels, there are a number of great options in Alicante, too.

Hostel Ole is a small family-run establishment with lovely staff to give you the best suggestions on where to eat, what to see and make you feel at home. It’s located a 10-minute walk from Playa El Postiguet and the bus stop for the airport is really in a prime location.

They have simple rooms and bathrooms that were always clean and a little kitchen with everything you need to use to whip up a feast.

The staff here are local and super helpful in making sure you see everything you want and then some, plus they have the best suggestions for where to eat! You can check here for Hostel Ole ! The Market Hostel is another great budget option located near to Alicante Old Town and the market. Newly renovated rooms and bathrooms add to the vibe of this hostel.

Overall, it’s a great option for anyone looking for a social place to stay but still somewhere quiet to get a good night’s sleep. Super knowledgeable staff will be able to help you plan out the most amazing days for your trip too. You can check here for The Market Hostel !

Related Articles

If you’re exploring more Spain, we’ve got LOADS of great Spain posts for you to check out:

• Must-Knows for Travelling to Spain for the First Time
• Spain Itineraries: Plan Your 5 to 14 Day Spain Trip
• Beautiful Cities In Spain You Shouldn’t Miss
• Top Attractions To Check Out All Over Spain
• Explore Madrid , Barcelona , or Bilbao

And there you have it – some great things to do in Alicante and a few places to eat! It’s a vibrant city that should be added to your Spain travels – and we’re keen to explore the city soon. A huge thank you to Laura once again for sharing her travel knowledge.

As always, Happy Alicante Waddlin’, – L&E

• Compare flights on Skyscanner
• Check for Hotel Deals or Book A Hostel
• Get A Rental Car (depending on the destination)
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• Go over our packing list

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Is Alicante worth visiting? 15 unusual things to do in Alicante!

What’s there to do in Alicante, you ask? Imagine unwinding by the Mediterranean’s turquoise waters or witnessing the historic grandeur of the Santa Barbara Castle. Alicante in Spain is not your ordinary holiday destination – it’s an adventure that defies the usual!

As the vibrant capital of Spain’s Costa Blanca, Alicante has something for everyone. Picture this: beautiful beaches, endless sunshine, and an easy-on-the-pocket European city break . There’s a bit of magic here whether you’re a sun-chaser, a young adventurer, or a family on a memorable holiday in Spain .

How about a ferry ride to the tranquil island of Tabarca or a tour of the iconic Santa Bárbara Castle? And let’s not even start on the beaches – they’re some of the best in Europe ! Alicante promises a diverse array of activities, whether you’re here for a few days or planning a longer stay.

When the sun sets, Alicante transforms. The city comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene, ready for those looking for some after-dark fun. And for the romantics, there are plenty of intimate spots and experiences to make your stay even more memorable.

Even in November, Alicante continues to charm. The city stays alive with activity, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. Plus, you’ll find numerous free activities that make exploring Alicante easy on the wallet too!

And for those who like to stray off the beaten path, Alicante’s hidden gems await. These unique finds offer a break from the well-trodden tourist spots, and who knows, you might just discover something extraordinary to add to your itinerary.

So, whether you’re sitting at home wondering about things to do near me , or meticulously planning your Spanish escapade , Alicante is your answer. With fun-filled activities, surprising experiences, and beautiful sites to explore, Alicante keeps you on your toes.

Alicante – car hire:

We have rented cars many times during holidays in Spain and we always used  discovercars.com

Check out our guide to the  best Spanish car hire company  or simply explore the options directly on  discovercars.com  if you need a car during a trip to Alicante.

If you are looking for fun activities and unique things to do on your next holiday to Alicante city read our guide to Alicante’s best points of interest. We have created a list of top 15 must-see-and-do activities so you can make the most out of your visit to Alicante.

Make sure you add Alicante to your travel bucket list !

Is Alicante a nice part of Spain?

Yes, Alicante is generally considered to be a nice part of Spain. It is a coastal city located in the Valencia region and is known for its beautiful beaches, mild climate, and vibrant culture. Alicante offers a combination of historic charm, modern amenities, and a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle. The city also serves as a gateway to the Costa Blanca region, which is renowned for its picturesque coastal towns and resorts.

Where to stay in Alicante?

What is the best place to stay in Alicante? There is no shortage of amazing places to stay during your holiday in Alicante. Please see below some of the TOP hotels we have selected for you.

Places to stay in Alicante:

• Port Alicante Playa de San Juan – 4* [8.4 on Booking.com]

“Located 650 yards away from San Juan Beach and 10 minutes’ drive from the city centre. The hotel offers free outdoor parking and free Wi-Fi connection in public areas.”

• Tryp Alicante Gran Sol Hotel – 4* [8.3 on Booking.com]

“Tryp Alicante Gran Sol Hotel is just 350 yards from Alicante’s Postiguet Beach and offers wonderful city and sea views. It has a 24-hour reception and free Wi-Fi in all areas.”

Need more inspiration ? Find a hotel in your favourite part of Alicante .

Alicante facts:

What are the best things to do in Alicante Spain?

Let us introduce you to the list of the 15 unusual things to do in Alicante :

1. Playa del Postiguet

What to do in Alicante? Playa del Postiquet is definitly top on Alicante things to do list! This gorgeous urban beach is covered in fine sand that will make your holiday worth remembering. It’s ideal for both swimming and sunbathing , as well as building the odd sandcastle.

Lined with palm trees and quaint cafés in which you can quench thirst and hunger, it also has a bi-level promenade. There’s a reason it’s one of the most popular beaches in Alicante, and this is it. It really is one of the best things to do in Alicante.

Looking for top Alicante attractions? Tabarca island is a must do activities in Alacante. This little islet in the Mediterranean Sea can be found close to the town of Santa Pola in Alicante. It is the only inhabited island in the region, and you can get there via boat.

You’ll want to put a whole day aside to visit this location, and there are some amazing beaches and caves that you can explore. Not to mention the amazing food and drink that can be sampled during your trip.

This is one of the best adventures in Alicante even if you only one day in Alicante!

3. Basilica of Santa Maria

Looking for best Alicante city things to do? From all the things to do in Costa Blanca, Basilica of Santa Maria is the one which is covered by almost every Alicante tourist guide.

This is the oldest active church in Alicante , and its Gothic architecture makes it one of the most beautiful. It was built somewhere between the 14th and 16th century, and while it may not be the largest, it certainly leaves an impression on all who visit.

It’s worth getting a tour of the interior while you are visiting Alicante , especially if you love history. It really is a contender for the most unusual things to do in Alicante.

4. Catamaran Cruise

A must-have on your Alicante best things to do list! Any Alicante city guide will recommend you to do a catamaran cruise while visiting this Spanish city.

From coastal catamaran cruise with snorkeling to Sunset cruise this really is one of the best Alicante Spain attractions. Are you going to book one? 🙂

5. Paseo de la Explanada

This promenade stretches parallel from the port, making for a relaxing and peaceful walk under gorgeous palm trees that line either side. It is also one fo the best and free Alicante tourist attractions.

The actual paving is stunning , with bright colours and a truly Spanish theme . It actually consists of 6.5 million tiles and is one of the most popular streets in the city. It really is one of the fun things to do in Alicante. You’re likely to find some great food and shopping as you walk along it as well.

6. Mount Benacantil

What to see in Alicante? This really is Alicante must see! When in the urban areas of Alicante, you will notice that this mount dominates the area. It stands tall and proud, with a view from the sea that leaves you feeling like you are in paradise . It’s probably one of the most popular tourist attractions in this Spanish city.

On top of the mount is an old fortress, known as the Castle of Santa Barbara . So, whether you want to visit history or admire the view of Alicante from the top, it’s worth visiting . It’s one of my favourite and possibly one of the best things to do in Alicante.

7. Tandem Paraglide Flight

This pobabaly isn’t for everyone but if you love adrenaline the tandem paraglide flight will be very top of your list of Alicante outdoor activities.

In adition, you will get the opportunity to see all best places in Alicante Spain from… above 😉

8. Port of Alicante

This is a seaport in Alicante, and it is used for both commercial and passenger traffic. It’s quite large as well, and despite being industrial, it remains carefully organised and is beautiful in its own right. It has an interesting history that you are able to learn more about. Walking around the port is one of the best things to do Alicante Spain. From here, you can also visit all the best places near Alicante.

If you are docking there, then you have quick and easy access to the city centre via a shuttle bus. Would you add this port to your list of the best stuff to do in Alicante?

9. Playa de Muchavista

What to do in Alicante Spain? Visit Playa de Muchavista! This beach is gorgeous , vast, and covered in gentle sand . The edges are lined with palm trees for that tropical feel. This really is one of the top Alicante Spain points of interest.

It’s the ideal place to be if you want to spend some time sunbathing, paddling, or building the ultimate sandcastle. You’ll find a whole host of restaurants, museums, and shopping along the beach as well, so you can combine relaxation and activities. We couldn’t forget to shout out Playa de Muchavista as one of the best tourist attractions in Alicante, could we? 🙂

Read more: 15 Best Beaches in Europe – TOP destinations for a Beach Holiday!

10. Wine Tasting Tour

Where to go for things to do in Alicante? If you love wine then this tour is Alicante must do! The famous vineyards are some of the most visited and best places in Alicante.

During this tour, you will learn all about the local winemaking process and you will have to opportunity to taste it too! Yes, you can buy a bottle or two and take this local wine as souvenirs 😉

11. Canelobre Caves

If you a looking for the best things to do near Alicante, go to Canelobre Caves.

23km away from the city of Alicante, you will find the small town of Busot . Here, you have the Canelobre Caves . They are famous due to the vaulted ceilings that stand 70m high ; a lot like those found in a cathedral. Inside, you can have a tour of the caves, learning more about what makes them so spectacular, as well as their rich history.

The prices are incredibly reasonable and well worth it.

12. Mercado Central de Alicante

Need more top things to do in Alicante?

No matter where you go, marketplaces are somewhere you simply have to travel. This one has been running for decades and is exactly where you need to be if you want to sample the local cuisine. Stop and buy some meats and cheeses to create your own lunch, or some fresh fish to cook up for dinner.

You can even try the food lovingly created by those who are running street food stalls.

13. Guadalest Valley & Algar Waterfalls Tour

Where to visit for best places in Alicante on a day trip? If you like mountains and stunning valleys then you have to visit the village of Guadalest. It’s probably not what you would expect from our Alicante to do list but this tour really is worth doing!

In addition you will also have the opportunity to swim in the stunning crystal-clear spring pools of the Algar Waterfalls. This really is one of the best Alicante trips you can do.

14. Town Hall of Alicante

This is one of the most recognisable buildings in the city. Once you set your eyes on the glorious architecture , it is easy to see why. It was built on the site of the previous town hall , and you can take a tour on the inside. Nowadays this is great sightseeing in Alicante Old Town.

The interior rooms are amazing, with a sweet little chapel , as well as two exceptionally decorated rooms that you need to experience up close and in person.

15. Saint Ferdinand Castle

Visiting Saint Ferdinand Castle is also one of the top activities in Alicante. This castle may be in ruins, but it remains a site full of history and wonder. It was built in the 19th Century as a defence against the French forces, but it turned out to be useless and was abandoned.

You will find museums on the site, taking you through the 7,000 years history of the city and the buildings within it. The castle itself has ornate doorways and entrances intact, giving insight into what a modern castle looks like.

Is it worth visiting Alicante Spain?

So, is Alicante worth visiting? With so many unique things to do in Alicante , the Spanish city is a perfect place for a short break in Europe or just to relax on one of the best beaches in Europe . With so many Alicante activities there is a bit of everything for everyone.

It’s a very compact city so you wouldn’t have to rent a car while in the capital city of Costa Blanca . We really enjoyed our trip to Alicante – one of the cheapest places you can visit in Spain . Would you go on your next holiday to Alicante? 🙂

Planning a trip to Alicante soon? Make sure you use the below resources: * Find a cheap flight to Alicante * Rent a car at Alicante airport , but before you do that read our guide about renting a car in Europe * Book accommodation: 3* Hotels in Alicante start at €45! * Read our other Spanish articles: Gran Canaria , Ronda or Lanzarote

If you liked our article about Alicante, then please check out the below posts too:

• Where is hot in April Europe
• Weekend trips Europe
• Best European car hire company
• Romantic getaways Europe
• Things to do in Austria
• Beach holidays Europe
• Winter sun Europe
• Best places to visit in Italy
• Landmarks in Spain
• Where is hot in October Europe?

ALICANTE FAQ:

What to visit in Alicante? One of the best things about Alicante is that it doesn’t matter who you are travelling with, there is plenty to do. For families, you can visit the Algar Waterfalls or perhaps the Terra Natura Zoo Theme Park. You may also want to plan a trip to the Rio Safari Park or the Aqua Natura Waterpark.

Looking for the best of both worlds during your time in Spain? If this is true for you then you might want to see whether or not you can get between Barcelona and Alicante. The good news is that you can travel between the two either by road or by train. However, it is important to know that this journey can take around 5 hours on the train.

There are many great places to visit in Alicante. It is no secret that the city is a popular tourist destination that many people want to visit at some point. However, you might be surprised to learn that it is thought that as many as 3 million tourists visit Alicante each and every year and that number doesn’t show any signs of slowing down.

Why is Alicante so popular?

Alicante is a popular tourist destination located on the south-eastern coast of Spain, in the region of Valencia. There are several reasons why Alicante is so popular among tourists:

• Weather: Alicante has a Mediterranean climate, which means that it has mild winters and hot summers. This makes it an ideal destination for people looking to escape the cold weather of their home country.
• Beaches: Alicante is home to several beautiful beaches, such as the Playa del Postiguet and the San Juan Beach. These beaches are known for their crystal clear waters, fine golden sands and wide range of facilities and services.
• History and Culture: Alicante has a rich history and culture, with a number of historical sites such as the Castle of Santa Barbara, the Basilica of Santa Maria and the Co-Cathedral of Saint Nicholas of Bari.
• Food and drink: The region of Alicante is known for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine and its wines. Visitors can enjoy a variety of seafood, paellas, and other traditional dishes.
• Nightlife: Alicante has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a wide variety of bars, clubs, and other venues to choose from.
• Good Connectivity: Alicante is well connected by air and road, making it easy to get to from many European cities.

All these factors combined make Alicante a very attractive destination for tourists from all around the world.

It’s worth noting that the information I have provided is based on the knowledge cut-off date, and it’s always best to check with the local authorities or the tourist board for any possible changes or updates.

Is Alicante the same as Benidorm?

Alicante and Benidorm are two different towns located in the same province of Alicante, in the region of Valencia, on the south-eastern coast of Spain.

Alicante is a historic port city and the capital of the province of Alicante. It is known for its beautiful beaches, rich history and culture, delicious Mediterranean cuisine and its lively nightlife. It’s also a university city, which gives it a lively and cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Benidorm, on the other hand, is a seaside resort town that is located about 50km north of Alicante. It’s known for its high-rise buildings and large hotels, as well as its long beaches, nightlife, and many theme parks. It’s a popular destination for tourists looking for a fun-filled beach holiday.

While they are two different towns, they are both located in the province of Alicante, and they share some similarities such as the Mediterranean climate, the beautiful beaches and the coastal location. However, they have different atmospheres, different types of tourist attractions and different types of visitors.

Is Alicante cheap for a holiday?

Alicante can be considered a relatively affordable holiday destination, compared to other European destinations. The cost of living in Alicante is generally lower than in many other popular European tourist destinations.

Accommodation in Alicante can range from budget-friendly hostels and apartments to more upscale hotels. Prices will vary depending on the time of year and location, but generally, you can find good deals on accommodation.

Food and drink in Alicante are also relatively affordable, especially when compared to other European cities. You can find a wide range of options, from street food to high-end restaurants, that offer delicious Mediterranean cuisine at reasonable prices.

Transportation in Alicante is also relatively cheap, with buses and trains that connect the city with other destinations. Taxis are also a good option, and they are reasonably priced.

Attractions and activities such as visiting museums, historical sites, or theme parks have different prices, but many of them offer discounted rates for online tickets or for groups.

Overall, Alicante can be considered a budget-friendly holiday destination, and it offers a great value for money. It’s always best to check with the local authorities or the tourist board for any possible changes or updates.

Which is better Malaga or Alicante?

The choice between Malaga and Alicante depends on personal preferences and what you are looking for in a destination.

Malaga is located in the Andalusia region and is known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and vibrant nightlife. It offers a mix of historic sites, such as the Alcazaba fortress and the Picasso Museum, as well as beautiful beaches and a lively atmosphere.

Alicante, on the other hand, is situated in the Valencia region and is known for its stunning coastline, with long stretches of sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. It has a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere compared to Malaga , with a focus on outdoor activities, such as water sports and coastal hiking.

Both cities have their own unique charm and offer a range of attractions and amenities. Ultimately, the better choice depends on your personal preferences regarding history, culture, nightlife, and the type of beach experience you are seeking.

How far is Alicante from the beach?

The distance from the center of Alicante to the nearest beach will depend on which specific beach you are looking to visit. The main beaches of Alicante city are Playa del Postiguet and Playa de San Juan.

The Playa del Postiguet is the closest beach to the city center, it’s located about 1.5 km from the city center, or around a 20-minute walk. The Playa de San Juan is located about 5 km from the city center, or around a 20-minute bus ride or car drive.

There are also other beaches in the surrounding areas, such as Altea, Santa Pola, and San Juan, that are easily accessible by bus or car, and they are located around 20-30 km from the city center, or around 30-40 minutes drive.

Is Alicante hot all year?

Alicante, located on the south-eastern coast of Spain, has a Mediterranean climate which means it has mild winters and hot summers. The city experiences hot and dry summers, typically from June to September, with average temperatures ranging from 28 to 32°C (82 to 90°F).

The winter months, typically from December to February, are mild, with temperatures ranging from 12 to 18°C (54 to 64°F). The weather in Alicante during the winter is usually quite pleasant with occasional rain.

The spring and autumn months, typically from March to May, and from September to November, are mild with temperatures averaging around 20-25°C (68-77°F) and occasional rain.

Overall, the weather in Alicante is quite pleasant all year round, however, the summer months are the hottest and the winter months are the mildest. It’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly.

What UK airports fly direct to Alicante?

Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC) is a major airport on the south-eastern coast of Spain, that is well connected to the United Kingdom. Many airlines operate flights from the United Kingdom to Alicante, several UK airports offer direct flights to Alicante. Here are some of the most popular UK airports that have direct flights to Alicante:

• London Gatwick (LGW)
• London Luton (LTN)
• London Heathrow (LHR)
• London Stansted (STN)
• Manchester (MAN)
• Bristol (BRS)
• Birmingham (BHX)
• Glasgow (GLA)
• Edinburgh (EDI)

These are just a few examples and the list might change depending on the season, the airlines and the current situation. It’s best to check with your preferred airline or travel agent to see if they offer direct flights from your nearest airport to Alicante, and to check the most current and accurate information on flight schedules and prices.

How long does it take to fly from the UK to Alicante?

The flight time from the UK to Alicante, Spain, can vary depending on the specific departure location and airline. On average, a direct flight from London to Alicante takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes. However, if you are departing from other cities in the UK, the flight time can range from 2-5 hours depending on the location and connection. It’s always best to check with a specific airline for the most accurate flight time for your departure location.

Can you swim in the sea in Alicante?

Yes, you can swim in the sea in Alicante. The city is located on the Mediterranean coast and has several beaches where swimming is popular. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include the Playa del Postiguet, the Playa San Juan, and the Playa de la Almadraba. These beaches offer clear waters and fine sandy beaches, ideal for swimming, sunbathing and other beach activities. Be aware that the sea temperature in Alicante varies depending on the season, with the warmest waters being during the summer months between June and September, when the average sea temperature can reach around 25°C.

How many days are enough for Alicante?

The amount of time needed to spend in Alicante will depend on your personal preferences and interests. However, generally speaking, a minimum of 3-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in Alicante to see the main attractions and get a sense of the city’s culture and atmosphere.

During 3-4 days, you’ll have enough time to visit the main beaches, such as Playa del Postiguet, Playa de San Juan or Altea, and enjoy the Mediterranean climate. You’ll also have time to explore the historic city center, with its charming streets and plazas, the Castle of Santa Barbara, and the Basilica of Santa Maria.

Additionally, you could also take a day trip to the neighboring towns such as Elche, which is known for its palm groves, or Santa Pola, which is a fishing village with a great beach and good seafood restaurants.

If you’re looking for more relaxation and beach time, a longer stay of 7-10 days would be ideal. This will give you enough time to explore the area more thoroughly and take your time to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle.

It’s always a good idea to check with the local authorities or the tourist board for the most current and accurate information on the available activities and attractions, and plan your trip accordingly.

How far is Alicante from Alicante airport?

Alicante is the city in which the Alicante Airport (also known as El Altet Airport) is located. The distance between the city of Alicante and the Alicante Airport is approximately 8 miles (13 kilometers). The typical drive time is around 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. There are several ways to travel from the airport to the city center, including by bus, taxi, or car rental. There are also shuttle buses and private transfer services available for travelers.

What is the coldest month in Alicante Spain?

The coldest month in Alicante, Spain, is January, when the average temperature ranges from 10 to 14°C (50 to 57°F). The temperatures during the day can reach around 17°C (62°F) and nighttime temperatures can drop to around 7°C (45°F).

Please keep in mind that while January is considered the coldest month in Alicante, it’s still relatively mild compared to other European destinations. The weather in Alicante during the winter months is usually quite pleasant and you can still enjoy some outdoor activities such as walking, hiking or cycling.

It’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Keep in mind that weather can be unpredictable, and you should always be prepared for the possibility of rain and cool temperatures.

Is Alicante a party town?

While it does have a vibrant nightlife, whether it can be considered a “party town” would depend on one’s perspective and the time of year. It has a good variety of options for night entertainment like pubs, clubs, and bars. Some areas of the city, such as El Barrio (the old town) and the Explanada de España, are particularly popular for their bars and restaurants. However, it also has many family-friendly activities and attractions.

Is this Spanish city good for a holiday?

If you are looking for a fun-packed, beautiful and relaxing holiday in a lovely destination, then Alicante is a great place to go. It doesn’t matter if you are travelling with friends, a partner or perhaps even your entire family, Alicante is a great place to travel to.

From romantic holidays to Alicante to just a day trip to Alicante you can be sure that you will have an amazing time in the beautiful Spanish city!

Day trips from Alicante

Whilst Alicante has plenty to offer, it is also an ideal base to explore the wider area. There are a variety of day trips available to book on from Alicante. You can choose to travel to Benidorm or perhaps Calpe. You could also take a bus from the centre of the city right to San Juan Beach too.

There are many great things to do around Alicante. If beaches are the main thing for you while on holiday in this part of Spain, you have to visit some of the best beaches in Torrevieja too – a perfect family day trip from Alicante!

What is there to do in Alicante in winter?

The majority of people are going to travel to Alicante during the summer months which means that there is going to plenty of time spent on the beach soaking up the sunshine. However, that doesn’t mean that it isn’t worthwhile travelling to Alicante in the winter too. There is so much to see in the area including the Basilica of Santa Maria and also the Contemporary Art Museum, all of which are ideal for any weather and must see Alicante.

Top free things to do in Alicante

None of us mind having to spend out some money during a holiday in order to see as much as possible. However, if you want to try and save yourself some money, then you are going to want to know more about the free things to do. The beach is usually the best place to spend some time if you want to limit your money.

However, you could also explore some of the best sights of the area too, taking advice from the tourist information board. They will let you know about the top 7 unique places in Alicante!

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When you’re scouting for the next epic getaway, Alicante should be front and center! It’s not just a city, it’s a grand carnival of fun and unique things to do, intertwined with a dash of rich history and sprinkled with sun-kissed beaches.

Get ready for a thrilling roller coaster ride through Alicante’s colorful streets! Uncover the secrets of the ancient Santa Barbara Castle, lose yourself in the charming old town, and create a million memories in this Spanish extravaganza.

Calling all young adults – fancy a spot of adventure? Alicante’s got you covered. Dip your toes in exhilarating water sports, tickle your taste buds with authentic Spanish tapas, or soak up the local vibes – Alicante is your playground!

And for the starry-eyed romantics, Alicante crafts the perfect love story. Relish candlelit dinners by the Mediterranean, walk hand in hand along the stunning Explanada de España, or watch the sky paint a myriad of colors at sunset. Love is always in the air in Alicante!

What’s that? You’re on a budget? Alicante rolls out the red carpet for you too! With heaps of free attractions and activities that are easy on the pocket, you can still live the Costa Blanca dream.

Alicante’s appeal also lies in the unexpected. Venture off the well-trodden path and discover hidden gems, adding an exciting twist to your journey. Alicante isn’t just worth visiting, it demands to be explored! This Costa Blanca gem offers a kaleidoscope of experiences for every traveler.

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12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Alicante

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

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.

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.

See also: Where to Stay 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.

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.

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Spain's Spectacular Coast: The coast of Spain has no shortage of choices if you are looking for a classic Mediterranean town and is home to many of Spain's most highly rated beaches . Among the largest of the port towns is Valencia , the historic former capital city of the old kingdom. Farther north up the Mediterranean coast, the city of Tarragona is home to UNESCO-listed Roman ruins, medieval remnants, and a richly Catalonian atmosphere.

Islands in the Sun : Spain's Mediterranean islands offer their own unique flavor, and are a favorite tourist destination for both Spanish and international travelers alike. The gorgeous island of Ibiza boasts famous beaches, which range from secluded coves to lavish resort complexes. Tourists who are looking for a wider range of things to do will want to visit Majorca (also known as Mallorca), the largest of the Balearic Islands , prized for its sandy shores, as well as Gothic cathedrals, medieval churches, and old castles.

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Top 16 Best Things to Do in Alicante, Spain

Tourist spots, activities, and best places to visit in alicante.

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Bucket List: What are the Top Tourist Attractions in Alicante, Spain?

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L ocated on the picturesque shores of Costa Blanca, Alicante is famous for its stunning beaches and bars and is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. It is also an ideal city break hotspot for many tourists looking to escape the bustle of city life. Alicante has something for virtually everyone as long as you want a good time. Today we will help you with the hand-picked 15 best things to do in this Valencian Community city.

A short boat rides off the coast of Alicante, you will find this pristine island known for its stunning small town punctuated by whitewashed buildings and an ancient cathedral. Tabarca is a must-visit if you find yourself in Alicante.

The boats run daily from the port to the island for €18, return for adults, and €15 for kids. The voyage is breathtaking since the island’s waters have been listed under the Mediterranean Marine Reserve due to their beauty and plenty of marine life.

The island has many tourist amenities, such as shops and fine restaurants, but you can pack a picnic if you like. A sweeping sandy beach and a coastal path that leads to various picnic spots.

Just like any Spanish vacation, you should pack sunscreen!

Explanada de Espana

The Promenade Explanada, or Paseo de la Explanada is a striking pedestrianized street in Alicante and runs from the Old Town parallel to the quay. The road is packed with tall palm trees and paved with beautiful marble tiles, creating a magnificent variety of wave patterns.

The street is also a great place to buy souvenirs and enjoy tasty Spanish treats. There is also an outdoor market where you can buy traditional products and crafts.

Moreover, there are many entertainment options along the street, including live performances, cultural events, and festivals.

Alicante Tram

A trip to this Spanish seaside town is not complete without trying the Alicante Tram. The ride is spectacular, as the tracks pass through the coastal path and up through the hills and several isolated small villages and towns.

Along the way, look out for San Juan and Altea stops. The former is known for its endless dune and clear blue water, while the latter is located further down the route and away from the city center but is also a must-visit as it is a small beautiful Spanish town with a lot to offer. If you pack your camera, Altea has plenty of photo ops.

Playa del Postiguet

You can just call it Postiguet beach. It is considered the most beautiful beach in Alicante. The beach is expansive and stretches miles and miles before stopping at the bordering San Juan.

Playa del Postiguet is where you can truly satisfy your beach cravings. A few hours on these idyllic white dunes is enough to quench your beach longings for many months.

This beach is usually crowded with international and local visitors during summer, making it the most visited spot in Alicante during this season. But that shouldn’t put you down; this beach, as we have mentioned, is vast, and you will find areas with fewer crowds.

There are also plenty of beachfront tapas restaurants.

Castillo de Santa Barbara

While Alicante doesn’t strike as a historic destination, its past is hidden in Castillo de Santa Barbara. The entire city was built at the foot of the 9th-century Santa Barbara Castle. The castle, though exceptionally preserved, has a history of battles and wars.

It can be reached via an elevator, or a winding trail can take you to the top if you feel adventurous.

It may seem like a mere castle, but there is plenty to see here to take up your entire day! Head to the top for a spectacular city vista, explore preserved rooms, and learn a few things about the city.

Heladeria Borgonesse

Alicante also has delicious ice creams with different colors and flavors. While there are plenty of parlors where you can try a few cones, we recommend Heladeria Borgonesse. Among the flavors you can find here: are Ferrero Rocher, stracciatella, and passion fruit.

This place is ideal, especially for backpackers traveling on a budget. The ice cream parlor is located adjacent to the main esplanade and a few meters from the beach.

Parque el Palmeral

If you want to get out of the city, Parquet el Palmeral is an excellent option. Packed with unique botanical wildlife, tall palm trees, and cascades, this park is like the Garden of Eden of Alicante. To reach it, take a train or C6 airport bus.

Calling this park beautiful is a massive understatement.

Though there is no place to buy sunscreen, it has toilets and food and drink shops, so make sure you always carry yours throughout this trip.

Just as you would expect of any coastal city, Alicante also has a marina, which is spectacular. Alicante’s Marina has plenty of yachts for rent, and you can even sleep in. at night, the city lights illuminate the waters, making for a breathtaking and dreamy stroll along the water’s edge.

There is also SoHo Bar in Marina, which serves lovely cocktails and tasty coffee.

Barrio de Santa Cruz

The city’s old town might be the most underrated spot in Alicante. Barrio de Santa Cruz is situated on the hillside, which disconnects it from the busy city. Its windy paths give you that antiquated vibe, and the crumbling buildings with whitewashed walls provide perfect photo ops.

The area has several cafés serving delicious coffee, tapas, and paella. Barrio de Santa Cru is the best spot for lunch and escaping the bustling Alicante.

Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante

This museum is located in Plaza de Santa Maria, across from the Basilica of Santa Maria, and features excellent contemporary art pieces.

It was recently opened in 2001 and houses a permanent collection from the 20th century, two prominent local artists, Mediterranean art, and a gallery space for works on loan and traveling exhibits.

The 20th-century collection includes 175 pieces by notable artists such as Julio Gonzalez, Salvador Dali, and Juan Gris.

Check in at the Alicante Museum of Contemporary Art if you are an art buff.

Mercado Central de Alicante

The Central Market of Alicante is another essential landmark you must visit during your city trip. The market was finished in 1912 and features a fascinating mix of styles, including some Art Nouveaux on its façade.

The market is lively, and you will find all types of vendors selling a wide range of goods. This is where Alicante gets most of its fresh food.

The first floor is devoted to household products, meat stalls, and dairy, while the second floor is entirely for fresh vegetables, fruits, and fish.

Most local restaurants and food establishments source their ingredients from this market. Even without buying anything, The Central Market of Alicante is still an ideal place to stroll around. The place is open from Monday to Saturday from 7 am to the afternoon.

Town Hall (Ayuntamiento)

Located just behind Explanada de Espana is the city’s Town Hall. This striking Baroque building features a stunning Churrigueresue façade and two tall towers standing some 35 meters.

The staircase that leads up the building entrance is a tool used by the Spanish to measure the height relative to sea level.

If you find yourself inside the building (open to the public), check out the Blue Room (Salon Azul), it is truly dazzling.

Concatedral San Nicolas de Bari

You will find this 17th-century cathedral Concatedral San Nicolas de Bari, a few meters from the town hall. It was built in the 1600s on the site where a mosque stood as a dedication to the city’s patron saint. In 1959, it was designated as a cathedral by the Catholic Church.

The church’s exterior doesn’t excite me, but the interior is so impressive. For instance, you will find a cloister and retablos in the church’s interior.

Museo Arqueologico Provincial de Alicante (MARQ)

For archeologists, this superb museum will take you on a trip through 100,000 years ago. Most of the pieces here are prehistoric – the classical era of antiquity with Roman, Greek, and Iberian relics.

The medieval display contains a collection of over 300 objects.

Most importantly, you get to see the reenactment of Roman daily life.

Palm Groves of Elche

The Palm Groves of Elche is one of Spain’s many UNESCO World Heritage sites. The site has over 11,000 palm trees, the largest in Europe. This site offers an ideal break from the city and is a perfect one-day gateway.

The site is Huerta del Cura of Elche, a garden with the largest palm tree diversity in Europe and a nice place to take a fantastic walk under the shade.

Experience an Afternoon Catamaran Sunset Cruise

Treat yourself to a memorable sunset cruise on board a comfortable catamaran. This two-hour activity is perfect for couples, friends, or families. The tour starts with a 30-minute sale along Alicante’s Bay while sampling homemade tapas with hand-crafted cocktails onboard.

Book this tour

Our Top Hotel Picks for Alicante

Hotel Hospes Amérigo – A 16th-century former convent turned into an upscale hotel with high ceilings and abstract silk paintings. The contemporary rooms offer free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. The hotel also has indoor and outdoor pools, a health club, and a spa on the rooftop. The hotel is an 8-minute walk from Playa del Postiguet and 2 km from Castell de la Santa Bàrbara.

Casa Alberola Alicante, Curio Collection by Hilton – In a neoclassical building near the Port of Alicante on the Mediterranean Sea, this chic hotel is a 12-minute walk from Alacant Terminal train station 3 km from the hilltop Santa Bárbara Castle, which dates from the 9th century. Tourist attractions like Postiguet Beach are just 15 minutes away on foot.

Meliá Alicante – With Overlooking view of Playa del Postiguet Beach, this 5-star hotel is a 14-minute walk from the Mercado tram stop and 2.2 km from the 9th-century Santa Bárbara Castle.

Searching for the best Alicante hotels, resorts, and affordable flights in the nearby Cities? Check out our list of affordable Alicante hotels and resorts via Agoda , or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.

Alicante Travel and Tour Packages

To help you plan your visit to Alicante, we listed places and things to do in this city. We also listed some of the best Alicante travel and tour packages, excellent flight deals, and accommodation.

Tripadvisor has a list of the best Alicante vacation packages. You may check out Airbnb listings in Alicante for cheap but high-quality accommodation.

Want more updates about new tourist attractions in Alicante, Spain? Follow #TeamOutofTown,  on  Facebook , Twitter ,  Instagram , and  Pinterest  for more travel ideas.

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Written by Melo Villareal

Melo Villareal is the Online Publisher of Outoftownblog.com. He is an Accountant by profession who left the corporate world at the age of 23 to explore his beautiful country and the rest of the world. Today, Melo works as a part-time Social Media Manager for local and international clients. His full-time work focuses on discovering interesting culture, explore different cuisines and take memorable photos from local and international destinations he's visiting.

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New Museum of Illusions

Alicante between two castles (digital gymkhana).

Are you familiar with the latest alicante city tourist board project? It is fun, educational, aimed at all audiences, and there is a gift if you complete it! 🎁

Practical information

Tourist info offices, transport, tourist guides, other services.

Accommodation in Alicante

Hotels, apartments, guesthouses, hostels…

How to get Alicante

Flights, car hire and other ways to get to Alicante

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Bus C6 Airport (ALC)

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What to visit in Alicante

Fall in love with the light of Alicante and discover its most beautiful and emblematic corners: Tabarca Island, beaches, Santa Bárbara Castle, monuments and historic buildings, museums and cultural centres, promenades and gardens .

Alicante beaches

Tabarca Island

Parks and Gardens

Castle of Santa Bárbara

Monuments and historical buildings

Museums and Cultural Centres

What to do in Alicante

Experience Alicante by day and by night, and if you are coming on a cruise : enjoy its beautiful beaches , great shops , sports , water sports and golf . Enjoy Alicante with your partner, friends or family. Take part in the celebrations , discover our routes and savour the city. Alicante is a feast for your senses.

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Remote Working from Alicante

Open water swimming channel “Serra Grossa”

GASTRONOMY IN ALICANTE 

Enjoy the culture

Golf in Alicante

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Alicante with children

If you are planning to visit Alicante, you will want to know where to sleep and eat , or how to get to your destination. You may also want to know about the city’s guided tours ; tourist offices to make all your enquiries; how to get about in public transport ; and where to take the tourist bus ; you may need maps, guides and apps for an easy and comfortable stay. You may even want to learn Spanish . Welcome to Alicante!

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Tourist info offices

Public transport

Tourist guides and guided visits

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Alicante, between two castles

In addition to its well-known areas, Alicante has other neighbourhoods full of life and history , for you to enjoy … Urban art, green spaces, squares and parks, monuments, museums, concert halls, historical buildings, foods markets, charming shops, air-raid shelters, the bullring… In short: all places to be discovered and whole “other” city to visit.

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