- Top Attractions
- See & Do
- Eat & Drink
- Hotels
- Apartments
- Vacation Rentals
- Bed & Breakfasts
- Villas
Why Visit Alicante
Alicante's history spans millennia, evident in the Santa Bárbara Castle. Its unique 'Cara del Moro' rock formation offers a glimpse into ancient legends. Explore the Barrio de Santa Cruz, known for its whitewashed houses and narrow alleys. This heritage is what is Alicante famous for.
The city boasts over 200 km of coastline, with golden beaches like Postiguet. From the Serra Grossa hills, panoramic views await. The Explanada de España, paved with six and a half million marble tiles, is a vibrant promenade. A hidden gem in any Alicante travel guide is the sunset from La Ereta viewpoint.
Alicante's culinary scene offers more than paella. Try arroz a banda, a flavorful rice dish cooked in fish broth. Sample turrón de Jijona, a soft nougat, locally produced for centuries. Venture to Mercado Central for fresh produce and local cheeses. This insight is essential for any Alicante travel guide.
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Quick Travel Essentials
- Apr-Jun & Sep-Octwarm, fewer crowds
- Jul-Aughot & busy
- Wintermild, occasional rain
- #ComfortableShoes
- #Sunscreen
- #PowerAdapterTypeC
- #LightClothing
- #Swimwear
- #ReusableWaterBottle
- 3-4 days for highlights
- 5-7 with beaches & day trips
- Euro (€)
- Spanish & Valencian
- English commonly understood in tourist areas
- #SantaBarbaraCastle
- #ExplanadaDeEspaña
- #PostiguetBeach
- #AlicanteMuseum
- #SanFernandoCastle
- #CentralMarket
- #BasilicaDeSantaMaria
- Sunset at Santa Barbara Castle
- Explore the Old Town
- Relax at Postiguet Beach
- Taste traditional paella
- Visit local markets
- Take a boat trip to Tabarca Island
Recommended Hotels in Alicante by Experience
Things to do in Alicante
Discover
Enjoy things to do in Alicante, from Santa Bárbara Castle's history to the stunning views from the Explanada de España. Don't miss the fascinating exhibits at the Archaeological Museum and the beauty of Playa del Postiguet.
Experience
Experience the best places to visit in Alicante by joining outdoor activities like hiking in the Serra Grossa, savoring local cheese at the market, or enjoying Alicante cultural activities through colorful festivals and concerts.
Santa Bárbara Castle
Historic fortress with panoramic city views.
Explanada de España
Seaside promenade lined with palm trees.
Archaeological Museum
Museum showcasing Alicante's ancient history.
Playa del Postiguet
Popular urban beach with golden sand.
Barrio de Santa Cruz
Historic, colorful neighborhood below the castle.
Before You Arrive
Getting There
To get to Alicante, fly into Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport (ALC). The C6 bus provides direct Alicante airport to city center access (30 min, ~€4.50). Taxis cost €25-€30. Alicante-Terminal train station links to Spain's rail network via Renfe.
Getting Around
Public transport in Alicante includes the efficient TRAM network covering the city and coast. Buses reach all neighborhoods. Buy Bonobus cards for cheaper fares. The city is walkable, especially the old town. Renting bikes offers a flexible option.
Local Essentials
Alicante travel tips for first-timers: Guard belongings in crowded areas like Explanada. While cards are widely accepted, carry small cash for markets/local cafés. Insider tip: use the free lift to Santa Bárbara Castle.
Where to Stay in Alicante
Where to Eat and Drink
Celebrate
Alicante's traditional food includes arroz a banda, paella, turrón from Jijona, and fresh seafood from the port. Late dinners and terrace cafés dominate the scene, helping visitors find the best restaurants in Alicante along El Barrio and Explanada.
Enjoy
When seeking where to eat in Alicante, visit El Portal for decor and modern tapas. Enjoy drinks at Tribeca Music Bar with live music. Don't miss Cerveceria Sento for local seafood. Arrive early to beat the crowd.
El Portal Taberna & Wines
Elegant fine dining with Mediterranean flavors, reserve ahead.
Cerveceria Sento Rambla
A cozy spot for delicious Mediterranean tapas, opens early.
La Taberna del Gourmet
Popular for its eclectic menu featuring local specialties.
Events & Festivals
Celebrate
Alicante cultural activities center on deeply rooted traditions. The Nit de Sant Joan in June, with bonfires on beaches, is a must-see. Hogueras de San Juan features giant effigies burned in a display, reflecting centuries of Valencian culture.
Enjoy
Explore modern Alicante by experiencing its dynamic arts scene. From the Montgorock Festival in May, a key event for rock music lovers, to the contemporary art exhibitions at the MACA, there are many things to do and see.
Hogueras de San Juan
Giant effigies burned with fireworks and parades in June.
Montgorock Festival
Major festival with international bands in May in nearby Valencia.
Semana Santa Marinera
Solemn Holy Week processions by the sea.
Feria de Julio
Summer fair with concerts, markets, and fireworks.
Alicante Film Festival
Showcasing independent cinema and short films.
Sun, sea and good food - what else do you need?
Playa del Postiguet is right in the city, which is so convenient. The water was clear and the beach never felt overcrowded in early March. Tried arroz a banda at a local restaurant and it was absolutely delicious. Really solid trip overall.
Great city for a short break
The old town area around the Cathedral of San Nicolás is really worth exploring on foot. Lots of little tapas bars tucked away in the side streets. The weather in February was mild and sunny compared to back home. Locals were welcoming and easy to chat with. Genuinely enjoyed every day there.
Perfect winter sun escape
Came here to get away from the grey skies back home and it delivered completely. Walking up to Castillo de Santa Bárbara is worth every step - the views over the city and coastline are brilliant. Mild temperatures, good local wine, can't complain at all.
Loved the food scene here
Spent a lot of time around the Mercado Central picking up fresh produce and local snacks. The turrón from Alicante is a must-try - completely different from what you find packaged in supermarkets elsewhere. Friendly sellers, great prices, and the whole area just feels lively and authentic.
Solid beach holiday with a proper city to explore
Most beach destinations feel a bit empty once you leave the sand, but Alicante actually has a proper city behind it. The Explanada de España promenade is great for evening walks. Food is fresh and affordable. Kids had a great time too. Really good all-round destination for families.
Underrated city break destination
More to it than just beaches. The Barrio de la Santa Cruz neighbourhood has a real character to it - colourful streets, local bars, and a relaxed pace. Had some of the best grilled fish I've eaten in years at a small place near the port. Not flashy, just genuinely good.