tourism near alicante spain

Our Spanish Adventures

10 places to visit within an hour of Alicante

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If you’re new to the Costa Blanca, or are looking for an area with lots to do, the areas surrounding Alicante are definitely places to add to your list of Spanish destinations. All the major airlines fly into Alicante-Elche airport so it’s easily accessible, and only a 2.5 hour flight from the UK.

There are so many things to do in Alicante itself, both with kids and without, but if you’re looking for some places to visit outside of the city then you have plenty to choose from as there are a lot of interesting places near Alicante within an hour’s drive.

We live approx. 40 minutes from Alicante and have spent the last 18 months (and many before that on holidays) exploring some great destinations and attractions. It really is a beautiful part of Spain.

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Here’s a list of 10 places to visit within an hour of Alicante city center…

One of the best places to visit within an hour of Alicante and the one place that everyone will recommend you check out is Guadalest Valley. Guadalest is a traditional Spanish village in the mountains about an hour away from Alicante. There are always plenty of bus trips to Guadalest , which is a good idea if you’re not too confident driving in Spain as the journey does involve driving up some very windy mountain roads, or you can b ook a private group tour to Guadalest.

There’s enough things to do in Guadalest to spend the whole day there. The main attractions in Guadalest is the reservoir, which is an absolutely amazing colour! From the town you have a fantastic view over the lake, and can even sit in a restaurant and take in the view.

A must visit is El Castell de Guadalest , the castle which is accessed via the museum Casa Orduna, an old Spanish house complete with original furniture, paintings etc. From the top of the castle you have amazing views over Guadalest and the surrounding mountains.

The narrow streets are full of gift shops, as well as plenty of bars and restaurants to find something to eat and rest your legs.

Fonts d’Algar

One of the most popular places near Alicante for a day out is the Les Fonts d’Algar, or Algar Waterfalls, which can be done in the same trip as Guadalest as they are close to each other.

The Algar Waterfalls is a nature reserve found in the Callosa d’en Sarria mountain range and is home to roaring waterfalls and natural pools. This is where the famous Timotei advert was filmed!

The Algar Waterfalls are open all year round, though of course it’s only warm enough to go in the water in the summer months. For just €4 for adults and €2 for children you can spend the day swimming in the waterfalls and taking in the views, and it’s a good idea to buy your tickets in advance in the busy summer months. The water is freezing, even in the very hottest months of the year, but it is a great place to cool down and a lot of fun. You can follow the walk ways to the very top where you can swim, sit, and admire the view. There are platforms to safely jump into the natural pools, as well as shallow pools perfect for kids to paddle. Make sure you take some water shoes as it is very rocky in places.

You can’t take picnics in but there is a restaurant, though it is quite pricey. Outside the gates there are lots of great restaurants, some even have their own swimming pools.

One of the best places near Alicante for a wander around is the town of Elche. Elche is around 25 minutes from Alicante City by car or 30 minutes by bus and is one of our favourite places to visit. Elche is home to more than 200,000 palm trees and many of them are found in Palmeral de Elche, the biggest palm grove in Europe which you can visit for a small fee.

One of the best free things to do in Elche with kids is to visit the municipal park. Also home to lots of palm trees, there’s also children’s play parks, fountains, and picnic areas.

If you’d like more information from a local expert you can also join this Free Tour of Elche where you will get to explore the most important parts of the city.

The town itself has lots of shops, cafes, and restaurants, you can spend a whole day just wandering around (though not on Sundays as all shops are closed!) If you’re after some culture, the Museo Arqueológico y de Historia in the center is a great place to visit, and is free on Sundays. You can also walk up to the bell tower of the Santa María Basilica, which has great views across the park. There are plenty of other museums dotted around including Roman Baths, the fiesta museum, and paleontology museum.

Santa Pola is a coastal town with lovely beaches and a large port with lots of restaurants and bars. The port is a lovely place to visit of an evening if you want a nice seafood restaurant with a view. You can book a bus ticket to Santa Pola from Alicante for just €3 which takes around 40 minutes.

Things to do in Santa Pola include going on a boat trip over to Tabarca Island , visiting the Pola Park amusement park, or the aquarium. There is also a castle in the center of town, plus plenty of streets to wander through. In the summer the castle often holds a great medieval market with stalls full of spices, food, sweets, gifts, and lots more.

You can also visit the Faro de Santa Pola lighthouse just outside of the town, with a skywalk that will give you incredible views out to sea and along the coast.

Torrevieja is a typical Spanish tourist coastal resort with nice sandy beaches alongside a busy promenade full of restaurants and bars. A bus from Alicante to Torrevieja takes and hour and tickets start from €5.

If you walk a few minutes from the center you will find some much quieter beaches perfect for sunbathing and for the kids to play.

If you want to see the coastline you can take a lovely boat tour around the bay or maybe treat yourself to a sunset boat cruise .

Torrevieja is also home to the famous pink salt lake. You can take a trip around the lakes on the land train and learn more about why the lakes are pink, and what they do with the salt. You might even spot some flamingos.

Things to do in Torrevieja with kids include visiting the many parks and gardens, going to the Habaneras shopping mall which also has a kids area on the top level, and visiting the leisure complex next door with cinema, bowling alley, and restaurants.

Guardamar del Segura

If you’re looking for a beach day away from the busy beaches of the center of Alicante then you should definitely head to Guardamar . Bus tickets from Alicante to Guardmar start at €4 and the journey takes around an hour.

11km of golden sandy beaches, sand dunes, and pine forests, Guardamar is our go-to beach.

The main beach has a short promenade with bars and restaurants, and the beach stretches for miles in both directions. Even in the middle of summer you can find plenty of space on the beach if you walk away from the main promenade.

There’s a large weekly market on a Wednesday as well as a night market during the summer. If you’re visiting Guardamar with kids there is a great play park with ducks, turtles, peacocks and red squirrels, as well as a peaceful walk through the pine forest. There is also a new pedestrianised area with bars, restaurants, and play parks.

If you want somewhere a bit more lively, Benidorm is only a 30 minute drive from Alicante or 45 minutes by bus . You can also get the tram from the city centre.

We have only been to Benidorm twice, and stayed away from the main touristy part as we’re not keen on crowded places. The old town is really nice with some great bars and restaurants. There are also some lovely and quieter beaches away from the city centre.

For families, there are various attractions for days out in Benidorm with kids such as the waterpark Aqualandia , the zoological park MundoMar , and the theme park  Terra Mitica .

If you’re looking for some entertainment, the Benidorm Palace is a popular venue with tourists, putting on a wide range of shows and concerts.

Villajoyosa

One of our favourite places to visit within an hour of Alicante is the colourful town of Villajoyosa (or La Vila Joiosa in Valenciano). A coastal town approximately 30 mins from Alicante, the main attractions here are the brightly coloured houses throughout the town. When it’s not too hot you can walk from the top of the town, through the colourful streets, and down to the beach front. If it’s too hot, there are carparks along the seafront.

A great way to see the sights of this amazing town is by joining a Free Walking Tour of Villajoyosa .

The seafront has a lovely promenade lined with some great bars and restaurants looking over the beautiful sandy beaches. You can walk in both directions to find some quieter areas as well as some great viewpoints.

The town is full of history and you can visit the well preserved ancient spa and the Iglesia-fortaleza de la Asunción church. There is even a chocolate factory in the town – we’re saving this for a visit in the colder months!

If you’re looking for a traditional white-washed Spanish village then head to the town of Altea which is around 40 minutes north of Alicante by car or just over an hour by bus . It is definitely one of the prettiest towns on the Costa Blanca.

The main attraction in Altea is the old town which is set on the hillside over looking the sea. The old town is made up of windy cobbled streets with white buldings, and the blue domed church Parròquia de Nostra Senyora del Consol .

The narrow streets are full of unique gift and clothes shops as well as plenty of fantastic seafood restaurants and tapas bars. You also have some amazing views from Altea’s old town.

Down in the newer part of town you have a pebbled beach with a long promenade and lots of restaurants and bars, as well as shops in the streets behind.

If you want a different view of Altea you can book onto a catamaran cruise to sail along the coast and see this beautiful town from out in the bay.

For Instagram lovers, you can book onto this great Altea Instagram Tour where you’ll be shown the most picturesque and ‘Instaworthy’ locations.

Calpe is a traditional Spanish fishing village turned tourist town just a 45 minute drive to the north of Alicante and is known for its sandy beaches. You can also get a bus from Alicante to Calpe for around €8.

From the beach, and any high viewpoints in the town, you can see the Rock of Ifach rising from the sea. You can climb to the summit of the rock but it is supposed to be a very tough and dangerous climb! If you don’t fancy the climb, there’s a lovely marina next to an old fishing port where you can go on a boat ride around the rock instead.

There are also plenty of bars, restaurants, gift shops, and museums to spend your day out in Calpe.

As you can see, if you decide to visit the Costa Blanca there are lots of great places to visit within an hour of Alicante! If you fancy a bit of a longer drive, we also have a blog post with p laces to visit within 3 hours of Alicante.

Don’t forget to  follow us on Instagram  if you want to see more of the Costa Blanca.

For more ideas of activities to book and places to visit on the Costa Blanca, check out Get Your Guide :

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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.

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15 Towns Near Alicante We think You Should Visit

Alicante, a city known for its beaches and nightlife, is surrounded by some welcoming and pretty towns that offer a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.

Whether you plan to visit some towns near Alicante on a day trip or you’re looking for a longer stay, there are plenty to choose from, including coastal villages and mountain retreats.

• Things to do in Alicante
• Alicante Beaches

Distance from Alicante: 53 kilometres Travel Time: ~45 minutes Getting There By Public Transport: There are direct buses from Alicante to Altea; if you want to go by tram, you need to transfer at Benidorm.

Altea, a charming coastal town near Alicante, is known for its white-washed houses and cobbled streets.

Altea’s old town, perched on a hill, offers stunning views of the Mediterranean. Walking through its streets, you’ll find a delightful mix of craft shops, art galleries, and restaurants.

The centrepiece is the blue-domed Church of Our Lady of Solace , which is as picturesque as it is iconic.

Down by the waterfront , the promenade is lined with cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood while taking in the sea views. Altea’s beach , though pebbly, is a peaceful spot for relaxation and swimming.

This town is less crowded than some of its neighbours, making it a perfect spot for those seeking a more peaceful escape with a touch of artistic flair.

It’s very popular with artists and craftspeople, and this creative spirit is noticeable as you explore the town.

🤩 Book Altea Activities Here 🤩

2. Villajoyosa

Distance from Alicante: 36 kilometres Travel Time: ~39 minutes Getting There By Public Transport: Ride the L1 Tram from Luceros to Villajoyosa

Villajoyosa, also known as La Vila Joiosa, is a colourful coastal town situated about 36 kilometres from Alicante.

What sets Villajoyosa apart are its brightly coloured houses that line the seafront, creating a vibrant and picturesque setting.

This tradition, stemming from when fishermen would paint their homes in bright colours to see them from the sea, adds a unique charm to the town.

The town is also famous for its chocolate industry, home to the Valor Chocolate Museum . Here, visitors can learn about the chocolate-making process and sample some of the delicious products.

Villajoyosa’s beach, Playa Centro , is a beautiful stretch of golden sand, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

The promenade along the beach is dotted with cafes and restaurants where you can indulge in local seafood and other delicacies while enjoying the view.

The Moors and Christians Festival celebrated annually, is a highlight in Villajoyosa, featuring parades, mock battles, and fireworks, showcasing the town’s rich history and cultural heritage.

🤩 Book Villajoyosa Tours Here 🤩

3. Finestrat

Distance from Alicante: 41 kilometres Travel Time: ~40 minutes Getting There By Public Transport: Ride a train or bus to Benidorm; from there, you can get on another bus to Finestrat.

Finestrat, located in the mountains near the coast, is a picturesque village that offers a unique blend of mountain and sea.

The Old Town of Finestrat is a captivating sight with its colourful houses clinging to the mountainside, offering stunning views of the Puig Campana mountain and the Mediterranean Sea.

The town’s narrow, winding streets and traditional Spanish architecture add to its charm.

One of the highlights is the Plaza del Pueblo , a quaint square surrounded by cafes and restaurants, where you can enjoy local dishes and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.

The Church of Saint Bartholomew , an 18th-century building, stands as a testament to the village’s rich history. Just a short drive from Finestrat, you’ll find the La Cala beach , offering a contrast to the mountainous backdrop of the village.

This makes Finestrat an ideal destination for those who want to experience the tranquillity of a mountain village with easy access to the beach.

4. Guadalest

Distance from Alicante: 62 kilometres Travel Time: ~ 1 hour Getting There By Public Transport: From Alicante, ride a bus or tram to Benidorm. Then find a bus to Guadalest.

Guadalest is a stunning historical village perched atop a granite mountain.

Famed for its medieval castle, Castillo de San José , Guadalest offers a journey back in time. The castle, partly carved into the rock, provides panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and the vivid blue reservoir below.

Access to the castle is through a tunnel cut into the rock, known as the Portal de San José , adding to the adventure.

The village itself is a maze of narrow, cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and charming small museums.

The Orduña House , a well-preserved 17th-century noble house, now serves as a museum showcasing local history.

Guadalest’s small size makes it ideal for exploring on foot. Every corner offers a picturesque view, perfect for photography enthusiasts. The local craft shops sell unique souvenirs, from handmade ceramics to local delicacies.

Despite its small size, Guadalest is one of Spain’s most visited villages, known for its historical significance, stunning location, and the serene beauty of its surroundings.

It’s a must-visit for those interested in history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.

The drive there takes around an hour and a half, offering scenic views of the mountains and valleys. While there’s no direct train service, buses and tours are available.

🤩 Book Guadalest Activities Here 🤩

Distance from Alicante: 65 kilometres Travel Time: ~1 hour Getting There By Public Transport: A direct bus ride from Alicante to Calpe is available, mostly operated by ALSA.

Calpe effortlessly combines natural beauty with a beautiful town. The town is crowned by the Peñón de Ifach , a striking natural rock formation that provides panoramic views of the Mediterranean.

It is possible to climb to the top of Peñón de Ifach, but you must book in advance.

The beaches in Calpe, such as Playa de la Fossa , are renowned for their golden sands and clear waters, making them ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

The promenade, lined with cafes and restaurants, is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a meal with a view.

A walk through the old town of Calpe is like stepping back in time. Narrow, winding streets and historic buildings give a glimpse into the town’s rich history.

The blend of Gothic and Baroque styles in the Iglesia Antigua adds to the charm of this area.

For food lovers, Calpe’s fresh seafood is a treat, with “ arroz a banda ” being a local favourite. This dish, a savoury combination of rice and fish, captures the essence of coastal Spanish cuisine.

🤩 Book Calpe Activities Here 🤩

Distance from Alicante: 54 kilometres Travel Time: ~55 minutes Getting There By Public Transport: Direct buses to Polop are rare; the most convenient option is to ride to Benidorm from Alicante and find a bus to Polop.

Set in the foothills of the mountains, Polop, with stunning natural scenery and historical charm, is dominated by a Castell de Polop , a medieval castle offering spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.

Polop, a quaint town is located about 54 kilometres from Alicante city.

The castle, though in ruins, stands as a testament to the town’s rich history.

The main square, Plaza de los Chorros , is the heart of Polop. It’s famous for its 221 spouts fountain, each spout representing a different local spring.

This square is a hub of local life, surrounded by cafes and traditional eateries where you can sample local dishes.

Polop’s streets are a labyrinth of narrow, winding paths lined with traditional Spanish houses, many adorned with flowers and plants. Walking through these streets feels like stepping back in time.

The town is also a gateway to the nearby mountains, making it a popular starting point for hikers.

Distance from Alicante: 27 kilometres Travel Time: ~25 minutes Getting There By Public Transport: Ride the C1 line from Alicante Terminal to Elche Park.

Although Elche is a city rather than a town, we couldn’t resist including it in this guide – if you’re visiting Alicante, don’t miss a visit to this unique location.

Elche is known for its Palm Grove, the Palmeral of Elche , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This vast expanse of palm trees, the largest in Europe, creates a unique landscape that is both beautiful and culturally significant.

Walking through the Palmeral is like entering an oasis, with paths winding through the groves, leading to hidden gardens and parks.

The city is also home to the impressive Basilica of Santa Maria . The Basilica is famous for hosting the annual Mystery Play of Elche, a medieval sacred drama that is another UNESCO Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

For a taste of Elche’s history, the Museo Arqueológico y de Historia de Elche (MAHE) provides insights into the city’s past, including its Iberian and Islamic periods.

Elche also has traditional festivals, such as the Nit de l’Albà and the Dama de Elche , an iconic Iberian statue found near the city.

Elche’s bustling city centre offers a range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, blending modern amenities with historical charm.

With its unique palm groves, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant urban life, Elche offers a fascinating blend of nature and culture, making it a must-visit destination in the Alicante region.

🤩 Book Elche Activities Tours 🤩

8. Santa Pola

Distance from Alicante: 19 kilometres Travel Time: ~25 minutes Getting There By Public Transport: From the Estació Autobusos Alacant, ride the L1 buses to Estació Autobusos Santa Pola.

Santa Pola, a lively coastal town, is located about 19 kilometres from Alicante, making it a short drive of around 25 minutes.

With excellent beaches and historical charm, Santa Pola is a favourite among both locals and tourists. The beaches here, like Gran Playa and Playa Lisa, have fine sand and clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

The town also has a vibrant marina and fishing port, where you can watch boats come and go.

A key attraction in Santa Pola is the Castillo-Fortaleza , a 16th-century fortress that now houses a fascinating museum. The fortress offers insight into the town’s history and provides excellent views of the surrounding area.

For nature enthusiasts, the Santa Pola Salt Flats Nature Reserve is a highlight. It’s a great place for bird watching, especially for flamingos, which can often be seen in the salt pans.

Santa Pola also offers a variety of water sports and activities, including windsurfing and kitesurfing, thanks to its favourable wind conditions.

With its mix of beautiful beaches, historical sites, and natural beauty, Santa Pola is a delightful destination for a day trip or a longer stay.

Distance from Alicante: 93 kilometres Travel Time: ~1 hour Getting There By Public Transport: There are ALSA busses from Alicant Terminal to Denia; another option is to find a bus in L8.

Dénia is a charming coastal town set between the Montgó Mountain and the Mediterranean Sea, offering a stunning natural backdrop.

Castell de Dénia, perched on a hill above the town, is a highlight. Dating back to the 11th century, it provides panoramic views of the harbour and the surrounding area.

Dénia Old Town is a delightful blend of narrow streets, historic buildings, and lively squares. Here, you can explore local shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering a taste of authentic Spanish life.

The town’s marina and fishing port add to its coastal charm. You can watch local fishermen bring in their daily catch or enjoy a range of water activities, including sailing and boat trips to the Balearic Islands.

The beaches in Dénia, such as Les Marines and Les Rotes , one of the best Costa Blanca beaches , are perfect for beachgoers. They offer long stretches of sand and clear waters, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Dénia is also famous for its food scene, particularly for its fresh seafood and the local dish, Fideuà, a noodle-based dish similar to paella.

🤩 Book Denia Activities Here 🤩

Distance from Alicante: 87 kilometres Travel Time: ~1 hour and 15 minutes Getting There By Public Transport: There are direct direct ALSA buses to Javea. You can also ride buses on L7.

Jávea, also known as Xàbia, is a scenic coastal town divided into three main areas: the beachfront, the port, and the old town.

The beach area, especially Arenal Beach , is popular for its sandy shore and clear waters, ideal for swimming and relaxing. The bustling Arenal promenade is lined with shops, bars, and restaurants, making it the perfect spot for an evening stroll.

The port area combines traditional charm with a touch of modernity. Here, you can witness the daily catch brought in by local fishermen and enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants overlooking the Mediterranean.

Jávea’s historic old town is a maze of narrow streets, historic buildings, and hidden plazas.

The fortified San Bartolomé Church , with Gothic architecture, stands as the centrepiece of the old town. This area exudes a sense of history and is ideal for those who enjoy exploring on foot.

The Montgó Natural Park , bordering Jávea, offers excellent opportunities for hiking. The viewpoints, or ‘miradores,’ around Jávea provide some of the most stunning vistas of the coastline and the surrounding landscapes.

Jávea’s mix of sandy beaches, a charming port, a historical old town, and its proximity to natural parks makes it a versatile and attractive destination for all types of travellers.

🤩 Book Javea Activities Here 🤩

11. Moraira

Distance from Alicante: 83 kilometres Travel Time: ~1 hour and 10 minutes Getting There By Public Transport: There are no direct buses from Alicante to Moraira; you can transfer in Calpe.

Moraira, a small, upscale coastal town, lies about 80 kilometres from Alicante, with a driving time of around an hour and 15 minutes.

This charming town is known for its beautiful, unspoiled beaches, such as Playa de l’Ampolla and El Portet , both offering clear, calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkelling.

The beaches are framed by scenic views and have a more relaxed, intimate atmosphere compared to larger resorts.

Moraira’s marina is a focal point of the town, exuding elegance and tranquillity. It’s surrounded by a variety of restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy local and international cuisine while overlooking the yachts and the sea.

The town has maintained a low-rise, traditional feel, with regulations that limit the height of buildings. This policy has preserved Moraira’s charm and character, differentiating it from other more developed coastal towns.

Moraira’s old town , a short walk from the beach, is a delightful area to explore. You’ll find narrow streets, boutique shops, and a weekly market that brings a burst of local colour and flavour.

History enthusiasts can visit the Castillo de Moraira , a watchtower built in the 18th century to defend against pirate attacks. The tower offers panoramic views of the coastline.

🤩 Book Moraira Activities Here 🤩

12. Castalla

Distance from Alicante: 37 kilometres Travel Time: ~30 minutes Getting There By Public Transport: Ride buses at L2B from Alicante to Castalla.

Castalla, located in the interior of the Alicante province, is about 37 kilometres from Alicante city.

Castalla is dominated by a well-preserved castle that sits atop a hill. The Castalla Castle , dating back to the 11th century, offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the town below.

The town itself has narrow, winding streets and traditional Spanish architecture. Walking through Castalla, you’ll feel the weight of history and the charm of a small Spanish town.

The main square, Plaza Mayor , is a hub of local activity, surrounded by cafes and shops.

Surrounding Castalla are natural parks and mountainous landscapes, making it an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Hiking, cycling, and nature walks are popular activities, allowing visitors to explore the beauty of the Alicante hinterland.

Castalla hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the famous Moros y Cristianos festival , which celebrates the region’s historical battles between Moors and Christians with elaborate costumes, parades, and mock battles.

With its historic castle, charming old town, and stunning natural surroundings, Castalla offers a glimpse into the traditional Spanish way of life away from the coastal tourist hubs.

Distance from Alicante: 51 kilometres Travel Time: ~45 minutes Getting There By Public Transport: There is no direct public transportation to Biar. You need to get on a train first to Villena, and from there, ride L2 or L7 to Biar.

Biar, a small town rich in history and culture, is about 51 kilometres northwest of Alicante.

Located at the foot of the Sierra de Mariola mountains, Biar is dominated by its impressive 12th-century castle, Castillo de Biar . This well-preserved fortress stands tall on a hill, offering panoramic views of the town and the surrounding countryside.

The town’s historic centre is a delight to explore, with its medieval streets, Gothic Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de la Asuncion , and traditional whitewashed houses.

The old town’s charm is enhanced by its fountains, hidden squares, and local craft shops selling handmade ceramics and textiles.

Biar is also known for its natural beauty, with its location near the Sierra de Mariola National Park making it a perfect base for hiking and nature walks.

Each May, Biar celebrates its Moors and Christians festival , a colourful event that brings the town’s history to life through parades, music, and traditional costumes.

Biar offers a peaceful retreat into a world where time seems to move slower, blending stunning natural scenery with rich historical and cultural heritage.

14. Tabarca Island

Distance from Alicante: 22 kilometres Travel Time: ~1 hour Getting There By Public Transport: You can ride a ferry from Alicante to Tabarca.

Tabarca , the only inhabited island off the coast of Alicante, is accessible by a pleasant boat trip from Alicante, Santa Pola, and other nearby towns.

This small island, with its clear waters and protected marine reserve, is great for snorkelling and diving. The marine reserve, one of the first in Spain, is home to a rich variety of sea life, offering an excellent underwater experience.

Tabarca’s history as a refuge for Berber pirates and later a settlement for Genoese fishermen is evident in its architecture and a small museum. The island’s walls, church, and other historical buildings add to its charm and provide a glimpse into its unique past.

Despite its small size, Tabarca offers a range of dining options, with several restaurants serving fresh seafood and traditional dishes. The island’s speciality, “ Caldero Tabarquino ,” a fish stew, is a must-try.

The island’s beaches and coves are perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. The main beach, Playa de Tabarca , is known for its fine sand and clear waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

🤩 Book Tabarca Activities Here 🤩

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Home » Travel Guides » Spain » 15 Best Things to Do in Alicante (Spain)

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

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.

Must-see attractions in Alicante

Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante

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

Museo Arqueológico de Alicante

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

Castillo de Santa Bárbara

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

Museu de Fogueres

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

Museo Volvo Ocean Race

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

Basílica de Santa María

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

Mercado Central

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

Playa de San Juan

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

The ruins of the Roman town of Lucentum, a forerunner of Alicante, lie about 3km east of the centre in the locale of Tossal de Manises. Excavations have…

This splendid waterside bronze figure of a pin-headed Icarus bearing his wing (or is it a surfboard?) as he emerges from the water is by contemporary…

Playa del Postiguet

Immediately northeast of the port is the attractively coloured sandy beach of Playa del Postiguet, Alicante's city beach. It gets packed in summer.

Museo de la Ciudad de Alicante

Within the castle complex, in what was once the dungeon, this museum recounts some of the city's history.

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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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• Melia Alicante
• Hospes Amerigo
• Hotel Port Alicante City & Beach
• Hotel Spa Porta Maris by Meliá
• Hotel Alicante Gran Sol, Affiliated by Meliá
• Templo Restaurante
• Brunchit - Alicante
• Bodeguita 1999
• Las Brasas de San Miguel
• Picaro 1999
• Guadalest Valley
• Castillo de Santa Barbara
• Alicante Tram
• Playa de San Juan
• Centro Comercial Plaza Mar 2
• Alicante Historic Small Group Tour with Tapas Tasting
• Spectacular Cave Guided Tour from Alicante
• Alicante Wine Tour with Wine Tasting
• Alicante Food and Tapas Tour with a Local Guide
• Charming villages: Villajoyosa & Altea

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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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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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• What to visit in Alicante

Practical information

Tourist info offices, transport, tourist guides, other services.

How to get to Alicante

Flights, car hire and other ways to get to Alicante

Accommodation in Alicante

Hotels, apartments, guesthouses, hostels…

Brochures and apps

Discover the city at your own pace

Explanada de España

Alicante beaches

Provincial Archaelogical Museum MARQ

The Central Market

The Town Hall

Tourist guides and guided visits

Cabo de la Huerta coves

Lucentum Archaeological site

Alicante Water Museum and Garrigós Wells

Castle of Santa Bárbara

The Castle of Santa Bárbara played a major role in Alicante’s history. The castle is the city’s hallmark . Visitors can discover its historic halls and water reservoirs , enjoy guided tours , shows and events , as well as grand views of the Mediterranean throughout the year. Read more >>

Tabarca Island

The island of Tabarca is the only inhabited island in the Valencian region . It is situated eleven nautical miles away, and is very close to the city of Alicante, facing the Cape of Santa Pola . The island is unique: its transparent waters led to the creation of Spain’s first ever marine reserve. You can enjoy this Mediterranean treasure for a day or for as many days as you like. Read more >>

Some of Alicante’s best tourist attractions are its excellent beaches . Year after year they receive the Blue Flag award by the European Union, which earns them well deserved international recognition. This includes San Juan beach , the Cabo de las Huertas coves , Almadraba beach , Albufereta beach , Postiguet beach and Saladares-Urbanova beach . We also highlight Agua Amarga Doggy Beach and the accessibility services provided on beaches . Read more >>

ACCESIBLE BEACHES:

The city of Alicante offers a free accessible beach service , with recreational-educational areas aimed at people with mental disabilities, as well as a bathing/swimming assistance service for people with reduced mobility during the summer. The accessible areas are located on the beaches of San Juan, Postiguet and in Saladares-Urbanova . Read more >>

WATER SPORTS:

Alicante is the perfect destination for the enjoyment of water sports such as jet skiing, sailing, diving, snorkelling, surfing, windsurfing, competition fishing and waterskiiin­g all year round. You can try your hand at any of these activities by dealing directly with the companies that offer them. Read more >>

Saladares-Urbanova beach

La Albufereta beach

San Juan beach

El Postiguet Beach

Agua Amarga, the ultimate ‘doggy’ beach in Alicante

Accessible beaches in Alicante

La Almadraba beach

Parks and Gardens

The Paseo de la Explanada is one of Alicante’s major landmarks. Other walks and gardens may surprise you however, for their setting and majestic centuries-old trees : we suggest you visit the Plaza Gabriel Miró , the Portal de Elche , or the parque de Canalejas . If you love palm trees , don’t miss El Palmeral (the palm grove). If you enjoying watching a sunrise over the sea, you’ll love the Paseo de Gómis . If you prefer a romantic walk, go to the Panteón de Quijano . Or to simply relax and have a good time, choose any one amongst these parks and gardens.

Read more >>

Monuments and historical buildings

Alicante is home to numerous monuments that reveal a fascinating past, marked by the proximity of the Mediterranean Sea. The city has a rich history, reflected in its civil and religious buildings . In the old town you will find the Town Hall , the Basilica of Santa María , San Nicolás Co-Cathedral , the Santa Cruz and San Roque hermitages among other buildings of historical interest. From the Explanada , you can admire the Casa Carbonell and in the downtown area, you can see the elegant Post Office Headquarters, or the beautiful fountain of Luceros . You can also visit the Central Market of Alicante, and nearby, you will find the plaza de Toros ( bullring) or the old tobacco factory, now called Las Cigarreras, turned into a wonderful cultural centre.

Museums and cultural centres

The museums of Alicante are attractive and surprising: they complete your experience of the city. Fun and adventure await you in some of them: at The Ocean Race Museum, you can experience the extreme challenges of this round-the- world sailing tour that sets off from Alicante. The MARQ is a 21st century archaeological museum, offering exhibitions of international interest. The Museo de Fogueres  makes you live the excitement of the “Fiestas de San Juan” bonfires. There is also a constant renewal of temporary exhibitions at museums such as the Museum of Contemporary Art, (or MACA) and at cultural centres such as Las Cigarreras, the old tobacco factory. Read more >>

Gravina Fine Arts Museum MUBAG

Las Cigarreras Cultural Centre

La Lonja del Pescado

Fogueres Festival Museum

The Ocean Race Museum

Bullfighting Museum

The Nativity Scene Museum

Museum of the city of Alicante MUSA

University of Alicante Museum MUA

Contemporary Art Museum MACA

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Alicante’s 15 most beautiful coastal and inland villages

Information

Sun, beach and much, much more: Alicante province can proudly claim to have dozens of enchanting villages. Stunning tiny coastal villages with a seafaring spirit or ancient inland fiefdoms that still have their castles and watchtowers. Alicante’s charming villages have a remarkable historical and natural heritage; set some time aside to visit at least one of them to make sure you don’t miss out.  

With the unmistakable blue tiled dome of the church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo presiding over the town (it’s not for nothing that it’s called the Dome of the Mediterranean ), Altea invites visitors to aimlessly wander the steep cobbled streets of its historical centre. It’s one of the most beautiful villages on the Costa Blanca, filled with magical hidden corners, street markets and shops selling handcrafted goods.  

Barceló La Nucía Hills

• Newly built hotel
• Entertainment and fantastic beaches
• Complete Spa & Wellness
• The ideal hotel for sports lovers

Barceló La Nucía Palms

• Perfect for beach and nature
• Ideal for sports enthusiasts

Occidental Alicante

• Excellent location in Alicante
• Rooms for every type of trip
• Breakfast buffet restaurant
• Free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel

Asia Gardens Hotel & Thai Spa, a Royal Hideaway Hotel

• Balinese style rooms with a terrace surrounded by tropical gardens
• Thai Spa and Wellness Centre with Asian pools and traditional Thai massages
• Cuisine for demanding diners served at all 4 restaurants
• High-level meetings and event facilities

Elche is the village in our list that is closest to Alicante although, strictly speaking, it’s actually a city: it’s the second most populated municipality in the province and its charms are in proportion to its size. To mention just some of its great attractions, the city has the largest palm grove in Europe. It also has a wonderful route around its monuments that reveal a two-thousand-year history and includes the basilica of Santa María and the historical centre .  

Denia has become one of the most tourist-orientated towns in the province thanks to its 20 km of fine sandy beaches , giving the town an amazing atmosphere during high season. In terms of culture, it’s definitely worth climbing up to the castle and visiting the Archaeological Museum at the top. An interesting fact is that the old train station is now home to the Toy Museum , a fascinating journey through the 20th century history of this industry in the province that will delight children and nostalgia fans alike.  

The main attractions of Calpe are its beaches and coves, which are only beaten by the Penyal d’Ifac the unchallenged symbol of the Costa Blanca. This imposing limestone rock stands 332 metres high and has been made a natural park. It makes the perfect photo opportunity and is a wonderful place to go scuba diving and climbing, plus it also has some trails that are suitable for gentle hiking.  

This village has some of the clearest waters in Alicante province but don’t forget that its beaches are stony . In addition to its coves and beaches, it’s also worth wandering along the cobbled streets of the historical centre of this little fishing village and visiting adjoining Montgó Natural Park .

Capital of Vega Baja region, Orihuela stands on the shores of the Segura river and has some of the best fine sandy beaches in the region, coves with turquoise waters, two marinas and several golf courses. Its cultural heritage includes highlights such as the Colegio Diocesano Santo Domingo , an old Dominican convent that was later used as a university, and the historical centre , where you’ll find the cathedral, the Episcopal Palace and the Holy Week Museum.  

This little inland village is in a valley of the same name and has spectacular views, especially if you climb up to San José castle , a 11th century fortress built at the top of a crag at an altitude of 500 m. When in Guadalest make sure you visit the Casa Orduña , a building belonging to a noble family that was constructed after the 1664 earthquake, and the parish church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción.  

El Castell de Gualdalest

The capital of Hoya region is one of the villages in Alicante with the most attractions to visit, including the church of Santa María, the medieval towers, the Modernist Casa del Pavo , the Círculo Industrial and the Cervantes bomb shelter built during the Spanish Civil War.  

Whoever built the castle of Moraira in the 18th century was bound to have been more interested in protecting themselves from pirates than the wonderful views. Luckily, these days travellers only have to enjoy the latter before they explore the sailors’ neighbourhood , an area steeped in the town’s fishing tradition, and potter around the historical centre.  

As you approach Villena you’ll instantly notice Atalaya castle , a spectacular fortress that was originally a Moorish fortification built at the end of the 11th century — it’s still in excellent condition today. In addition to the castle, Villena can boast of having none other than the most important prehistoric treasure in Europe. It consists of 66 pieces (bowls, bottles, decorations) that add up to around 10 kg of gold and are on display in the José María Soler Archaelogical Museum.  

Tourists are mainly drawn to this town in Medio Vinalopó thanks to its exceptional Modernist sanctuary that was completed in 1946 and is reminiscent of La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. After visiting the sanctuary, don’t forget to climb up to La Mola castle ; this fortification was originally Moorish and was built at an altitude of 360 m at the end of the 12th century.  

Noveldas sanctuary

Small but enchanting inland village in Alto Vinalopó region. Its castle looks down on the village from an altitude of 500 m, and Sax also has other attractions such as the parish church and the Colony of Santa Eulalia, an old workers’ commune. And don’t forget the surrounding countryside , especially the Plano pine forests and Cabrera mountains, which have some of the best views of the valley.  

Medieval fortress of Sax

This is another inland village in Alicante province and it has an impressive castle complex at the top of a hill, 780 m above sea level. Castalla also has other points of interest such as the Neoclassical Franciscan convent, the hermitage of La Sangre (Early Gothic) and the church of La Asunción (Catalan Gothic).  

The main attraction of this town in Alto Vinalopó region is its 12th century fortress. Visitors should also take the time to discover Biar’s Neoclassical sanctuary and unusual pointed-arch aqueduct that was built to supply the area with water during the 15th century.  

Polop de la Marina

The castle of Polop de la Marina also dates from the 12th century and is now a cemetery. It’s fascinating to observe how the village has adapted to the landscape of the Monte mountains. The best way to explore this enchanting village is to let your instinct guide you and serenely wander its streets.  

Related plans

What to see in javea — a medieval town by the sea, the best beaches and coves in alicante: discover the secrets of the costa blanca, benidorm beaches, vast stretches of sand and idyllic coves, santa bàrbara castle: a great medieval fortress.

63 Fun Things to Do in Alicante, Spain

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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!

Ultimate Alicante Travel Guide for 2024

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

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

Alicante tourism

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

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

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

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If you don't have a European sim card or a local sim card without EU data roaming then definitely buy a sim card for Spain on your trip to Alicante. Stay connected and don't waste money on high roaming costs. OR get yourself an e-sim card for traveling to Spain , even easier.

Little history and facts about Alicante

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

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

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

Things to know when you travel to Alicante

1. best time to travel to alicante.

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

2. From Alicante Airport to Alicante city center

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

3. How to get around in Alicante

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

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

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

From Alicante to Benidorm

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

4. Museums are free

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

Alicante itinerary for 3 days

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Alicante

1. hike up to santa barbara castle.

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Stroll through Old Town Alicante

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

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

3. Sunbath on El Postiguet Beach

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

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

4. Visit the fish market

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

5. Bring your own fish restaurants

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

6. Try Turron

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

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

7. Free walking tour Alicante

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

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

8. Segway tour

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

9. Snorkel at Tabarca Island

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

10. Stroll up and down La Rambla

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

11.  Explore the Alicante marina

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

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

12. Shopping

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

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

Places to see in Alicante

1. explanda de espana.

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

2. Basilica Santa Maria

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

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

3. Alicante Cathedral

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

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

4. Contemporary Art Museum

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

5. Water Museum

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

6. MARQ Archaeological Museum Alicante

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

Where to eat in Alicante

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

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

Where to go out in Alicante

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

Best coffee places in Alicante

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

1.  Madness Coffee Specialty Coffee

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

2.  Bunatic Slow Coffee

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

3.  Sip & Wonder Coffee House

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

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

Festivals in Alicante

1. carnival.

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

2. Running with the bulls

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

3. Start of Volvo Ocean Race

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

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Day trips from Alicante

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

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

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

My trip to Alicante

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

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

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

Where to stay in Alicante

5 star hotel in alicante.

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

4 star hotel in Alicante

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

Boutique hotel in Alicante

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

Apartment in Alicante

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

Budget hotel in Alicante

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

Hostel in Alicante

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

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

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

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

Enjoy your trip to Alicante!

18 AMAZING Things to Do in Alicante with Kids + 2024 City Break Guide

Thinking of visiting Alicante with kids ? Located on Spain’s sun-drenched Costa Blanca, Alicante is bursting with life, culture, and activities perfect for families. The city offers an exciting blend of history and beaches.

I visited Alicante for 4 nights before our Mediterranean cruise this summer. Me and my 4-year-old daughter had previously spent a month in Barcelona during the winter, and we love the Balearic islands, so Alicante seemed like the perfect choice.

With direct flights from our local airport Newquay, we could bypass the rail strikes and head straight to Spain, then go on an easy journey to Barcelona to embark on our cruise.

I’ll take you through the best things to do in Alicante with kids, the best places to stay and even where to eat and day trips from Alicante with kids.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through a link. Please see my   full disclosure  for further information.

Table of Contents

Is Alicante Family Friendly?

Absolutely, Alicante is a family-friendly destination. Here’s why:

Alicante boasts numerous clean and safe beaches, perfect for families. Playa del Postiguet is the city’s main beach, with golden sands and calm waters. Lifeguards are present during peak seasons, ensuring safety.

Many beaches also have play areas for children, making them ideal spots for the whole family. I partly chose Alicante due to it being a good Spanish city break destination that also has a beach.

With young kids, it’s often hard to go sightseeing all day so a half day along with a trip to the beach is often the best option.

Attractions

The Santa Barbara castle is a highlight for families. Kids love exploring the ancient fortress, and everyone can appreciate the panoramic views of the city.

There’s also the Museo de Hogueras , a museum dedicated to Alicante’s famous Bonfires of Saint John festival.

There’s plenty to do with kids, from boat trips from the marina to the nearby Tabarca Island , to enjoying a day at the Alicante Miniature Railroad Club where they can see model trains in action as well as many other Alicante museums.

Parks and Open Spaces

The Canalejas Park is one of Alicante’s oldest parks and is home to a variety of flora and fauna, a music stand, and a children’s play area. It’s a lovely place for families to take a stroll. There are also many other playgrounds and green spaces throughout the city like the one in the picture above.

Accommodation

Most hotels and accommodations in Alicante are equipped with family rooms and often provide amenities for children. Some even have pools, play areas and the Melia also has a kids club.

When is the Best Time to Visit Alicante?

Consider visiting during May or September. While the summer months from June to August pull in tourists with the allure of the sun, the transitional months offer a balmy climate without the usual bustle. And although winter is mild, it’s from December to February that you can expect a slight chill in the air.

We visited Alicante in late July, but it got too hot at points to be sightseeing. I’ve visited other areas in Spain at these times of year and it’s been perfect.

How to Get to Alicante

Nestled along the southeastern coast of Spain, reaching Alicante is both convenient and easy.

Airports and Arriving by Plane

Alicante-Elche Airport is the gateway to the city. It serves a number of European cities and is very busy during the summerr due to Alicante being the gateway to Benidorm! If you’re flying internationally, you may have to fly into Barcelona then get a connecting flight or train to Alicante.

Travelling to Alicante by Train

Trains weaving through Spain’s scenic landscapes, operated by Renfe, connect Alicante with cities like Madrid, Valencia, and Barcelona. After visiting Alicante we spent almost 5 hours travelling to Barcelona and it was a hastle free experience.

Book Your Train Tickets Here. I always use RailEurope when out of the UK >>>

Driving to Alicante with Kids

Driving along Spain’s coast is a sensory treat. As you approach Alicante, the roads promise well-signposted routes, ensuring a seamless journey. Many hire car companies operate in Alicante offering a great way to see the Alicante province and further afield.

Coaches to Alicante

Most of the coaches to Alicante are run by ALSA bus. We enjoyed an easy and affordable journey on a day trip to Benidorm. Tickets can be bought online or in the machines at stations up to 10 minutes before departure.

Coaches also run to major cities like Valencia, Murcia and Barcelona but can often take longer than travelling by train.

Where to Stay in Alicante with Kids

Meliá alicante – luxury.

📍 LOCATION: Right on the beach -at the end Plaza de España | ✅   Book it!

Meliá Alicante has got a super spot between the beach and the city’s marina. It’s been around for about 50 years, so they know their stuff.

The rooms? They’re modern and have great views, either of the sea or the cool Santa Bárbara Castle up on the hill. There is a large pool as well as amazing restauraunts . There’s also a special club for the kids age 6+. Best part? You’re super close to all the cool spots in town.

👉   Click here to book your stay at the Melia Alicante

AC Hotel by Marriott Alicante – Mid-Range

📍 LOCATION: Near Alicante Bus Station | ✅ Book It

The AC Hotel by Marriott in Alicante is in a handy location. The rooms are fresh, and modern, and even have some local artwork.

Families? You’ll get plenty of space. The rooftop pool’s a hit – you can see across the whole city from up there. We stayed here, and we totally loved it.

Oh, and you won’t want to miss the food; it’s a tasty mix of local and international dishes. The pool also has a rooftop bar serving delicious tapas and cocktails. It did have more of an adult vibe but there were other children staying.

Breakfast was also delicious. There is a large spread of everything you could want as well as amazing coffee.

👉   Click here to book your stay at ACby Marriott Alicante

Ibis Alicante – Budget

📍 LOCATION: Between Alicante Airport and the city centre

If you’re looking for something wallet-friendly but still comfy for the family, Ibis Alicante is a top pick. Close to the airport and with views over the sea, it’s super convenient.

The rooms are neat, simple, and have everything you need. They also offer a breakfast buffet to start your day right. Alicante is a short bus ride away or a quick drive. I had this hotel booked before rebooking the Marriott when I had saved more. We would have been happy here.

Top 12 Things to Do in Alicante with Kids

9. hop on hop off bus.

An effortless way to explore Alicante’s landmarks, the Hop On Hop Off Bus caters especially to tourists. With flexible schedules and routes, it’s an ideal mode of transport for families looking to get a comprehensive overview of the city.

The best stop to get on is outside the Melia Alicante. Do not wait at the bus station stop because you’ll be waiting a while!

1. Santa Bárbara Castle

Perched atop Mount Benacantil, Santa Bárbara Castle offers breathtaking panoramic views of Alicante’s coastline. Rich in history and architecture, this fortress provides a glimpse into the region’s past.

Children will enjoy exploring the castle grounds, making it both an educational and fun experience.

2. Postiguet Beach

Located right at the city’s doorstep, Postiguet Beach boasts soft golden sands and clear waters. It’s a perfect spot for families to relax, build sandcastles, and swim.

The adjoining promenade offers a range of cafes and eateries for refreshments. This is the beach that the Melia is located on. There’s also a great children’s playground and many of the city’s best bars and cafes overlook the beach.

3. Alicante Marina

The vibrant Alicante Marina is bustling with activity. From luxury yachts to a plethora of dining options, the marina area provides a relaxed environment suitable for a family evening out.

Several boat tours originate here, offering views of Alicante from the water. This is also where you get the boat to Tabarca island and trips to Benidorm by boat go from here too.

4. Explanada de España

A quintessential part of Alicante, the Explanada de España is a tree-lined promenade known for its iconic wave-patterned tiles. Often, you’ll find street musicians and artisan stalls, making it a delightful place for a leisurely stroll.

5. El Palmeral Park

This verdant park is a tranquil spot complete with waterfalls, lakes, and an array of palm trees. Families can enjoy paddle boating on the lake or simply relax amidst nature.

6. Alicante Museum of Contemporary Art

Showcasing an impressive collection of 20th-century art, this museum is housed in a renovated historic building. The interactive exhibits engage visitors, and even young patrons will find elements of interest.

7. MARQ – Archaeological Museum

A fascinating journey through time, the MARQ introduces visitors to various ancient civilizations. Interactive and innovative displays ensure that children remain engaged while learning about Alicante’s archaeological heritage.

8. San Juan Beach

Stretching over 7km, San Juan Beach is one of Alicante’s crown jewels. A short tram ride from the city center, it’s popular among both locals and tourists for its vast expanse of fine golden sand and azure waters.

The beach is especially family-friendly, offering numerous facilities like sunbeds, umbrellas, playgrounds, and beach volleyball courts.

The promenade behind the beach boasts a range of cafes, restaurants, and ice cream parlors, ensuring families have all the amenities they need for a full day of seaside fun.

10. Alicante Central Market

A hub of local activity, the market is brimming with fresh produce, meats, and regional specialties. It’s an immersion into the local culture and a great place to pick up some regional delicacies. We had a quick walk here and it was well-worth a visit.

11. Canelobre Caves

While just outside the city, these mesmerizing caves are worth the short trip. The stunning stalactites and stalagmites formations provide a unique experience reminiscent of a subterranean wonderland.

You can book a guided tour from Alicante here >>>

12. Turron Museum

Dedicated to the local delicacy of turron, a type of nougat, this museum details its history and production. Visitors have the chance to taste this sweet treat, gaining an appreciation for Alicante’s culinary heritage.

Getting Around Alicante

Hop on Hop off Bus: Alicante’s hop on hop off bus service is an ideal choice if you want to explore the main attractions at their own pace. With multiple stops covering the city’s highlights, this bus service provides a flexible itinerary coupled with informative onboard commentary.

Public Bus: The public bus system covers extensive routes across the city.

Taxis in Alicante: For those looking for direct and convenient travel, taxis in Alicante are easily available. They offer a more private means of transport and can be hailed from designated taxi stands or booked via phone apps. We got a taxi from the Marriott to the train station, and it was just 5 euro.

Trams: Alicante’s tram network offers a delightful way to experience the city. The routes provide scenic views of both the urban centers and the coastal periphery. It’s especially recommended for those who want a blend of transportation and sightseeing.

Walking in Alicante: Given the city’s compact nature and beautiful promenades, walking can be both an enjoyable and practical way to get around. Whether strolling down the Passeig Esplanada d’Espanya or exploring narrow historic alleys, Alicante is very pedestrian-friendly.

Spending the Day in Alicante from a Cruise Ship: 1 Day in Alicante Itinerary

When Alicante’s picturesque port becomes your stopover, even a day is enough to get a taste of this Mediterranean jewel. Here’s a guide to make the best out of your short stay:

Morning: 1 Day in Alicante

Hop on the Hop Off Bus Tour: As you disembark from the cruise ship, a great way to begin your Alicante adventure is by hopping onto the city’s Hop On Hop Off Bus.

These double-decker buses offer a comprehensive tour of the city’s major attractions, complete with informative audio guides. It provides a perfect overview and helps you pick your favourite spots to explore in detail later.

Lunch on Passeig Esplanada d’Espanya

Post your morning tour, get off at the Marina and head to the iconic Passeig Esplanada d’Espanya. This palm-lined boulevard is brimming with restaurants and cafes, offering a gamut of culinary delights. Relish the local dishes while enjoying the sea’s mesmerizing views.

Afternoon: 1 Day in Alicante

Option 1: Soak up the Sun at Postiguet Beach: If you’re in the mood for relaxation, the golden sands of Postiguet Beach beckon. Located conveniently close to the cruise port, you can spend your hours here sunbathing or taking a refreshing swim in the azure waters of the Mediterranean.

Option 2: Dive into History at Castillo de Santa Bárbara: For the history enthusiasts, the ancient fortress of Castillo de Santa Bárbara awaits. Either take the elevator or embrace the climb, and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Alicante and insights into the city’s rich past. Wander through its ancient walls and discover tales of yore.

Day Trips from Alicante

Alicante, while captivating, is but a gateway to the broader wonders of the Costa Blanca:

A popular resort town, Benidorm offers a combination of beautiful beaches, promenades, and a lively atmosphere. Its modern skyline juxtaposed with old town charm provides an interesting blend for exploration.

How to Get There: It’s approximately a 40-minute drive or you can opt for the tram, which takes about an hour from Alicante. We got the ALSA bus which took just under 1 hour.

A gem on the Costa Blanca, Altea is famed for its historic old town, which sits perched on a hilltop offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Cobbled streets lined with whitewashed buildings lead to the iconic blue-domed church, providing an atmospheric backdrop for leisurely strolls. The town also boasts a picturesque seafront and art-rich ambiance.

How to Get There: Altea is roughly a 50-minute drive from Alicante. Alternatively, take a tram for a scenic route that lasts about an hour and fifteen minutes.

Tabarca Island

The tranquillity of Tabarca Island stands in pleasant contrast to the mainland’s hustle and bustle. Declared a marine reserve, the island offers pristine beaches, perfect for diving or snorkelling, coupled with a rich history reflected in its architecture and museums.

How to Get There: Regular ferries are available from Alicante’s port, with the journey to Tabarca taking around an hour.

Rio Safari Elche

Situated a short distance from Alicante, the Rio Safari Elche is a sanctuary diverse animal species. Wander through dedicated zones, each echoing habitats from around the world, and see giraffes, lions, and more in thoughtfully designed enclosures.

Beyond the animals, water zones offer respite from the sun, and designated play areas are outlined for recreation.

How to Get There: Take a bus headed to Elche. Upon reaching Elche’s main bus terminal, a local bus route or a brief taxi ride will bring visitors to the park’s entrance. From Alicante, a straightforward drive of approximately 25-30 minutes leads to Rio Safari Elche. Parking facilities are comprehensive and conveniently located.

Pola Park, Santa Pola

Pola Park in Santa Pola, just a short drive from Alicante, is a haven of entertainment spread across 24,000 square meters.

Established in 1996, Pola Park boasts well-maintained gardens, over 20 diverse activities ranging from bouncy castles and mini-golf to thrilling rides and a panoramic 60m high tower.

How to Get There: There are regular buses from Alicante to nearby the park. Driving or a taxi will take 20-30 minutes.

Get Your Tickets Here >>>

Aqua Natura, Benidorm

Aqua Natura in Benidorm is a water park that’s perfect for everyone! Ready for a rush? Try the big slides. Ever dreamt of being a mermaid or a triton? Here, you can put on a special tail fin and swim just like one. And if you’re looking for something truly special, you can even snorkel with sea lions.

For thrill-seekers, there’s the La Cresta slide where you’ll feel like you’re floating in air. If you prefer waves, head over to the wave pool. And for the little ones? They’ll have a blast in the fun water playground.

How to Get There: Frequent bus services run between Alicante and Benidorm. Upon arriving in Benidorm, local buses or taxis can whisk you to Aqua Natura within minutes. A 45-minute drive from Alicante via the AP-7 will land you at Aqua Natura’s gates. Parking is ample, ensuring a hassle-free experience for those arriving by car.

Alicante with Kids: Final Words

After spending 4 days in Alicante, we could have stayed longer. It’s such a good starting point for day trips that you could stay a few weeks. Accommodation choice is crucial when travelling with kids as it can make or break the trip.

Make sure you book any tickets in advance, too, especially if you want to visit Tabarca. Happy travels in Alicante with kids!

Don’t forget to plan ahead when visiting Alicante:

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Get up to 10% cashback on flights with WayAway Plus ! Use the code EuropeanCitieswithKids2023 for 10% off a plus membership.

🛏️ Find the perfect place to stay with Booking.com ,

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Sylvie Simpson

Sylvie Simpson is the founder of European Cities with Kids. For the past 6 years, she has been travelling all over Europe whenever she has the chance, both solo, for work and with her daughter. Sylvie is on a mission to help people make the most of city breaks in Europe with kids and helps over 50,000 readers per month plan and make the most of their trips in Europe with kids.

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Where to Stay in Alicante: 7 Best Areas

Located in the Costa Blanca (White Coast) region of the Iberian Peninsula, Alicante is a port city where visitor can enjoy many attractions at reasonable prices. If you are looking for the best areas to stay in Alicante , the first thing you should know is that this is a favorite destination for many Spanish tourists, particularly those who travel from Madrid.

Something else to know about this city is that many of the best neighborhoods to stay in Alicante are contiguous , which means that you do not have to travel far to catch all the wonderful sights.

For many travelers, especially those arriving from other European destinations, Alicante is mostly a transportation hub or waypoint on their way to other spots along the Costa Blanca , namely the resort towns of Benidorm and Torrevieja, but they are truly missing out on everything that this sunny city has to offer.

The problem is that the travel industry has mostly focused on whisking arriving visitors away from the Alicante-Elche International Airport and off to the more established beach towns in a fast and efficient manner.

Before deciding where to stay in Alicante , it helps to learn what you can expect when you visit:

* White and golden sandy beaches. * A pulsing nightlife district. * Medieval castles. * Ruins dating back to Roman times. * Museums and cultural performance venues. * Amazing architecture. * Nice beachfront hotels. * Excellent cuisine at very affordable prices. * Offshore fishing. * Countryside lodges and ecotourism.

Table of Contents

Where to stay in Alicante? Best areas to stay in Alicante

Here’s a rundown of the main neighborhoods in Alicante where you will certainly enjoy your stay.

1. Centro (Old Town), where to stay in Alicante for your first time

Located just 15 minutes away from the airport, El Centro is one of the most visited areas and one of the best places to stay in Alicante. Frequent bus service is provided by line C6, and a one-way trip costs less than $6 in 2019.

A local tourism chamber office is strategically situated near the bus terminal, and this is where you can get a free map, advice on where to stay in Alicante, directions, and recommendations.

If you are fortunate enough to arrive in early June, you will enjoy Les Fogueres, a month-long celebration to San Juan, patron saint of this city. The “parades” are highly recommended because they mix religion and patriotism with tradition; these street parties feature fireworks, local cuisine and beauty pageants.

Getting to the beach can be accomplished by walking, taking a taxi or catching the tram. Even though the Moorish and neo-classical architecture of El Centro evokes a historical vibe, you will find quite a few modern conveniences nearby.

Aside from numerous museums, theaters, castles, seafood restaurants, and tapas bars , you can also enjoy walking tours of the most labyrinthine neighborhood in Alicante.

Even though the Santa Barbara Castle is not in this district, it is located nearby, and you should not skip it during your stay in Alicante.

If you book a multilevel hotel on a hilltop, you may get a nice view of the Mediterranean or a medieval fortress such as Saint Ferdinand Castle .

Families take note: El Mundo de los Niños is a seaside amusement park located on the southwestern corner of El Centro, and you can’t beat its prices.

Smart travelers who stay in El Centro will find accommodations that are more reasonable than at the nearby beaches; they range from backpacker hostels to boutique inns as well as international chain hotels.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN THE OLD TOWN

• ($$$) Hospes Amérigo
• ($$) Eurostars Mediterranea Plaza
• ($) Mendez Nuñez Alicante

2. Postiguet Beach, where to stay in Alicante for nightlife and close to everything

There are only a handful beaches in Alicante, and the most legendary is Postiguet because it put this city on the map as a favorite coastal resort for Spanish visitors.

During the 1960s and 1970s, Postiguet emerged as a bustling resort located just a few minutes away from the train termina l and international airport.

Staying at one of the hotels developed during the Golden Age of tourism in Alicante is a special treat because they have been carefully maintained to preserve the original ambiance, which is quite elegant and family-friendly .

If anything, Postiguet is an all-inclusive type of coastal resort where you can improve your suntan, relax at the beach , enjoy poolside bars, dance the night away at local clubs just blocks away from the water.

Most importantly, however, this is where you can enter a tunnel, board an elevator and be magically transported to the Santa Barbara Castle and its imposing fortress. Even if you stay elsewhere in Alicante, you should make it a point to float up to the castle from Postiguet Beach .

You should expect to pay more for lodging at Postiguet Beach; after all this is one of the best places to stay in Alicante and quite a few hotels offer multiple views of the beach and the Mediterranean.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN ALICANTE IN POSTIGUET BEACH

• ($$$) Eurostars Pórtico Alicante
• ($$) Melia Alicante  
• ($) Guest House Capitan Meca

3. Cape Huertas – Almadraba Beach, where to stay in Alicante in a family-friendly area

Located about a 15-minute drive east of El Centro, Cap de l’Horta is a coastal district of Alicante where the beaches are more organic and feel more natural because they have not been subject to excessive development.

This is a family-friendly beach town that attracts travelers interested in ecotourism.

Prices are more reasonable than Postiguet, and the beaches are less crowded. The beach sand is darker and rich in nutrients because of oceanic erosion, which makes it easier to build sandcastles.

Narrow spits of sand and coral reef that extend into the ocean are ideal for hiking, and the nearby Nautical Sports Club offers opportunities for offshore fishing, windsurfing, stand-up paddle boarding, sailing, and ocean charter excursions.

It should be noted that Almadraba is an Arabic expression that roughly translates into “place where you struggle,” and it refers to a bluefin tuna fishing technique that involves plenty of wrangling by hand.

While subsistence fishing is not seen too much in Almadraba Beach these days, local restaurants offer plenty of tuna dishes.

As for lodging options in Cape Huertas, quite a few of them are long-term apartment rentals or bed-and-breakfast arrangements.

A nice touch in Almadraba Beach is that many hotels offer balconies with sweeping views of the Mediterranean along with room service, which means that you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner, or cocktails while looking at the sea right in your room.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CAPE HUERTAS AND ALMADRABA

• ($$) Seaside Villa
• ($) Hotel Boutique Calas de Alicante
• ($) Hostal Mont Royal

4. Albufereta Beach, upscale beach area

Whereas Spanish families from Madrid prefer to spend their beach vacations at Postiguet, Albufereta is where Alicante locals flock on weekends. The beach area is smaller, but the fine golden sands make it very attractive and relaxing.

This is a Blue Flag beach, which means that it is super clean and eco-friendly despite being a fully developed resort town.

Albufereta Beach is where you can find the Lucentum ruins of Tossal de Manises , the most important archaeological attraction of Alicante; these ruins correspond to the days when the Roman Empire settled in the Iberian Peninsula, we are talking about the 4th century B.C.

The Mediterranean views from Albufereta hotels are among the best you can find in the Costa Blanca.

Since this is a more upscale part of town , you can expect to pay more to stay at the imposing towers in front of the beach; many of these resorts double as miradores, viewing spots where you can drink and dine while enjoying sweeping ocean vistas.

The long-term apartments tend to be luxurious and well-appointed. While there are a few boutique hotels in Albufereta, there are no hostels.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN ALICANTE IN ALBUFERETA

• ($$$) Casa Imas
• ($) Hotel Albahia Alicante
• ($) Sandra Rooms

Read also: How to get form Alicante Airport to city centre

5. San Juan Beach, best place to stay in Alicante for a beach holiday

Located just north of Cape Huertas, San Juan Beach is an updated version of Postiguet Beach. Initially developed a couple of decades after vacationers from Madrid discovered Alicante, San Juan Beach is a premier resort town where the ambiance is reminiscent of Costa del Sol.

All the conveniences you demand from a modern beach resort can be found in San Juan: lifeguards on duty, sand courts for volleyball, playgrounds for children, all-inclusive resorts, seaside restaurants, areas for pets, and a pristine boardwalk.

If your ideal beach vacation includes sports and adventure , San Juan is where you will want to stay in Alicante. A few of the resorts and local tour operators organize weekend beach soccer matches as well as ocean kayak races .

Windsurfing classes are very popular, and the same goes for cross-country athletic events for beginners.

San Juan Beach is a great place to stay in all-inclusive beach resorts. There are a few boutique resorts and long-term apartments, but they tend to get booked very quickly.

Golf players looking for the ultimate country club experience should consider the hotels near the challenging Alicante Golf course , which offers views of the beach and city castles from some of its fairways.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN SAN JUAN BEACH

• ($$) Port Alicante City & Beach
• ($) Hotel Almirante
• ($) Hotel Castilla Alicante  

6. Alicante Main Train Station, where to stay in Alicante on a budget

Of all neighborhoods in Alicante, this district is one of the most convenient places to stay in Alicante for business travelers and backpackers .

You will find convenience aplenty near the train terminal, everything from fast-food restaurants to neighborhood bars and from laundromats to gyms can be reached within walking distance.

When you feel like watching the sunset from an oceanfront location, you can walk down General Marva Avenue, which connects with Federico Soto and Dr. Gadea Avenue before ending at Almirante Julio Guillén Tato Avenue; this is a nice boulevard stroll along a busy commercial district .

You will not find luxury hotels in this district, but you will be close to all the attractions.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN ALICANTE MAIN TRAIN STATION

• ($$) Eurostars Centrum Alicante
• ($) La City Estación
• ($) Old Town Alicante

7. Alicante Airport (ALC) Area, reasonably priced hotels

This busy and ultra-modern international airport is known to many travelers who vacation at Benidorm or relocate to Torrevieja, home to many expats from around the world.

The Alicante Airport is located south of El Centro , and it is surrounded by residential areas and a few industrial zones. Aside from city parks and shopping plazas , there are not many tourism attractions near Alicante Airport.

If you are not sure as to where to stay in Alicante upon arrival, you will find a few attractive options to the northwest.

The hotel diversity surrounding the Alicante Airport is surprising : the backpacker hostels here cost a little more than the ones located closer to downtown, but they are worth every penny because they offer extras such as bars and restaurants .

As expected, you will also find business hotels with free shuttle service to the airport, but a couple of country inns are located farther out west. International chain hotels are closer to La Torreta district , and they are very reasonably priced compared to their counterparts in El Centro.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN ALICANTE AIRPORT

• ($$) El Plantío Golf Resort
• ($) Hotel Areca 
• ($) Port Elche

Read also: Where to stay in Madrid , where to stay in Barcelona , where to stay in Ibiza , where to stay in Valencia

Photos: Shutterstock

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‘Drunk’ woman crashes football star’s €215,000 Ferrari in Madrid: Sports car is mangled after smashing into a metal fence

A ‘DRUNK’ woman has crashed a football star’s €215,000 Ferrari into a metal fence in Madrid, mangling the car.

The Brazilian woman was driving footballer Ferrerira Sousa’s Ferrari on Tuesday, May 7 down the Paseo del Prado. 

According to laSexta, she had swapped cars with Sousa just minutes before hitting a fence near the Plaza de Neptuno and turning the car 180 degrees. 

Although she stated she was not driving at the time of the incident, police verified using security cameras that she was.

READ MORE: Loan shark warning in Spain: How a woman who borrowed €120 amassed a €16,000 ‘debt’ with mobsters who ‘attacked and threatened her’ to pay up

The driver was found to be two times over the legal alcohol limit. 

When police arrived at the scene, they found the 40-year-old woman alongside a man, of around 20 years old, leaning on a nearby Mercedes. 

READ MORE: Female patient, 70, hurls xenophobic abuse at ‘foreign’ doctor trying to treat her in southern Spain

Sousa was driving the Mercedes but had left the scene to ‘find the Ferrari’s papers’. 

Another man arrived at the scene, claiming to be the driver despite the Banco de España footage which proved otherwise.

READ MORE: Manhunt for British and Irish ‘gangsters’ who ‘shot up restaurant in Marbella after arguing with staff the night before’: Pair abscond after being released on bail

• The Olive Press

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Yzabelle Bostyn

After spending much of her childhood in Andalucia and adulthood between Barcelona and Latin America, Yzabelle has settled in the Costa del Sol to put her NCTJ & Journalism Masters to good use. She is particularly interested in travel, vegan food and has been leading the Olive Press Nolotil campaign. Have a story? email [email protected]

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