Alicante Spain
The One-Stop Visitor Travel Guide
Alicante is one of those places that takes you by surprise. You might think it’s just another sunny coastal city, but the moment you step onto its palm-lined promenades and see that deep blue Mediterranean, you realise there’s something special about it.
Arriving for the first time you will be completely drawn in by the mix of beach life, history, and proper Spanish energy—it’s got a bit of everything.
You can’t miss Santa Barbara Castle, towering over the city from its rocky perch. The hike up is a bit of a workout (or you can cheat and take the lift), but once you’re at the top, the views are unreal—a sea of terracotta rooftops stretching to the coastline. It’s the perfect spot to just sit for a while and take it all in.
Then there’s El Barrio, Alicante’s old town, where the real magic happens. The streets are narrow, colourful, and buzzing with life, especially in the evenings when everyone spills out into the little squares for a drink. If you find La Taberna del Gourmet, order whatever the waiter recommends—the food here is next level. And don’t even think about leaving without trying a proper plate of arroz a banda, Alicante’s local rice dish that somehow tastes even better when eaten by the sea.
And, of course, there’s the beach. Playa del Postiguet is right in the city, but if you want a quieter spot, hop on the tram and head up the coast to Playa de San Juan—a proper golden stretch of sand that goes on for miles.
Alicante isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a place to soak up, slow down, and keep coming back to.
PAGE CONTENTS
- About Alicante Province
- Top 10 things to do in Alicante
- 5 Interesting facts
- Historic and cultural sites
- Top attractions
- Alicante Gastronomy
- Getting around Alicante
- Where to stay
- Alicante province accommodation
- Alicante weather
- FAQs - Frequently asked questions
Alicante Province
Alicante Province is renowned for its stunning Mediterranean coastline, historic charm, and vibrant culture.
Here's a closer look at what makes this province famous and what it has to offer:
1. Beach Resorts: Alicante is home to some of Spain's most popular beach resorts, including Benidorm, Javea, Calpe, and Torrevieja. These coastal havens draw tourists with their golden sands, and lots of water sports and beachfront activities.
2. Pristine Beaches: The province boasts numerous Blue Flag beaches, known for their cleanliness and water quality. Playa de San Juan, Postiguet Beach, and La Granadella Beach are among the favourites, offering a relaxing atmosphere and water-based fun.
3. Historic Charm: Alicante's capital city, also named Alicante, features a historic Old Town (Barrio de la Santa Cruz) with narrow streets, colourful houses, and a wealth of tapas bars and cafes. The Santa Barbara Castle, perched on a hill, offers panoramic views of the city.
4. Festivals: Alicante is famous for its vibrant festivals, with Hogueras de San Juan being one of the most notable. This lively celebration features massive bonfires, fireworks, and street parades in honour of the summer solstice.
5. Gastronomy: The province is a food lover's paradise, known for its seafood, rice dishes, and traditional Spanish cuisine. Don't miss trying the local speciality, paella, and indulging in tapas at local bars.
6. Natural Beauty: Alicante is surrounded by natural beauty, including the Sierra de Aitana mountain range and the Tabarca Island marine reserve, which offers excellent opportunities for hiking, diving, and snorkelling.
7. Historic Sites: Beyond Alicante's Old Town, the province is home to historical gems like the medieval town of Elche, famous for its palm groves and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
8. Diverse Activities: Whether you're into water sports, golfing, hiking, or simply relaxing on the beach, Alicante Province offers a diverse range of activities to suit every holidaymaker's preferences.
Top 10 Things To Do In Alicante Spain
- Chill out on the long sandy beach at Playa de Postiguet.
- Visit Santa Barbara Castle with its panoramic views.
- Take a boat trip to nearby Tabarca Island.
- Visit the Basilica Santa Maria, a Gothic church from the 1500s.
- Enjoy a stroll around the old town.
- Explore the Archaeological Museum of Alicante.
- Admire the yachts in Alicante port.
- Visit the Gravina Fine Arts Museum.
- Shop for fresh fish and garden produce at the Central Market.
- Have fun at the Playa Almadraba, a sheltered beach with many amenities.
5 Interesting Facts about Alicante Spain
- Alicante city is dominated by Santa Barbara castle, it’s quite a hike up to its hilltop location but is worth it for the spectacular views.
- The rice fields in Alicante produce over 115,000 tonnes per year so it’s little wonder it has influenced the region's cuisine for centuries.
- The name Costa Blanca, literally meaning White Coast, was dreamt up in the 1950s by a European airline to boost trade in the early days of package holidays.
- Alicante city dates back to Roman times when it was called Lucentum, or city of light.
- The popular Explanada de Espana is lined by over 400 palm trees and paved with almost 7 million coloured marble tiles.
Historic and Cultural Sites
For history lovers, there are plenty of historic sites to visit, given the city’s constant occupation by many different cultures.
Alicante's most prominent landmark is the Santa Barbara Castle - Castillo de Santa Barbara a magnificent fortification crowning Mount Benacantil.
For a bird’s eye view of the city and surroundings, visit L’Ereta Park, a wonderful green area in which to explore.
The fame and sophistication of Alicante become apparent when you step on the Esplanada de Espana, the city’s own promenade. Paved with 6.5 million wavy marble tiles it makes for great photos. Flanked by the Mediterranean Sea on one side and rows of tropical palm trees on the other, the Esplanade is a perfect place to take an early evening stroll or simply watch the sunset.
Another popular thing to do is head out to Tabarca Island on a local ferry for a fun day out with the family. Once frequented by pirates, the island is now renowned for its marine biodiversity.
Santa Barbara Castle
Standing proud at the top of Mount Benacantil, Santa Barbara Castle overlooks the city, offering stunning views out to sea, especially in the summer months.
One of Spain’s largest medieval fortresses, the castle was built by the Moors in the 10th century. King Alfonso named it to commemorate the day it was captured—on the feast of Saint Barbara.
Admission to the castle is free, so you can explore the dungeons in your own time and marvel at the vast cannons on display.
In July and August, several concerts are held in the courtyard of the castle, where you can enjoy music in a medieval backdrop.
Tickets are snapped up quickly due to the limited number of spaces available, so book early.
Tabarca Island
Tabarca Island is a small rocky outcrop 10 miles off the coast of Alicante. It is accessed via daily ferries.
The island is ideal for a trip, with a small number of hotels and restaurants on the island and a beach for sitting back and enjoying the sun for an hour or two.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try cove jumping, launching yourself off the rocks into the sea.
There are also scuba diving and snorkelling tours available on the island.
Caves of Canelobre
Situated in the town of Busot, just outside Alicante, the Caves of Canelobre formed over 150 million years ago, tucked away at over 700 meters up the side of the Cabeco D’Or Mountain.
The caves act as a venue for classical music concerts, although most of the 60,000 yearly visitors are there to see the natural rock formations that have an eerie effect on them when illuminated.
Guided tours of the caves take around 45 minutes and offer plenty of photo opportunities.
Villajoyosa
Villajoyosa, a picturesque coastal town on the Costa Blanca in Spain, is a place that lives up to its name, which translates to "Joyful Village."
Nestled between Benidorm and Alicante, Spain, this gem of a town captivates visitors with its vibrant, colourful charm and rich history.
The most striking feature of Villajoyosa is its rows of brightly painted houses that line the seafront promenade.
These cheerful colours have earned it the nickname "Chocolate Town," as it's famous for its chocolate industry. Villajoyosa's Chocolate Museum provides a delightful insight into this sweet tradition.
The town's stunning beaches, including Playa Centro and Playa Paradís, offer fine golden sands and crystal-clear waters for sunbathing and swimming. Villajoyosa's quaint Old Town boasts narrow, winding streets, historic buildings, and a lively atmosphere, especially during its bustling market days.
One of the town's standout attractions is its annual Moors and Christians festival, a vibrant celebration featuring colourful parades, reenactments, and fireworks that showcase the town's rich history and culture.
Villajoyosa's fishing port is another focal point, where you can watch the daily catch being unloaded and sample the freshest seafood in the local restaurants.
This coastal town is a delightful escape for those seeking relaxation, culture, and a taste of authentic Spanish coastal life. With its vibrant personality and idyllic surroundings, Villajoyosa is a joyful destination that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.
El Campello
El Campello is a modern coastal resort located around a 30-minute drive from Alicante airport.
The resort boasts over 20 kilometres of white sandy beaches, excellent beach promenades, and fascinating historic sites.
Places well worth visiting include the tower Torre Vigía De La Illeta and La Illeta dels Banyets, one of Alicante's earliest excavated archaeological sites.
The two-mile-long Paseo del Mar ( promenade) is perfect for evening strolls and watching the sunset.
Aqualand Water Park Benidorm
Not far away in Benidorm is Europe’s biggest water park, Aqualand.
With some high-adrenaline rides such as the aptly named Kamikaze slides, the black hole, and the Big Bang, which claims to be the highest chute ride in Europe.
There are many food stalls and restaurants where parents can grab lunch onsite. They can also chill out at the Jacuzzi bar while the kids enjoy themselves.
See http://www.aqualandia.net/ for further details
Aitana Safari Park
Aitana Safari Park is around 30 30-minute drive from Alicante and well worth the trip.
The main park and a children’s zoo are two separate areas, each catering to all age groups.
The main park boasts tigers, lions, elephants, giraffes, and zebras, while the small children’s area offers an animal nursery for the park's new members.
Discover The Vineyards of Alicante
Alicante Province is home to a burgeoning wine scene gaining worldwide recognition. The province boasts several wine regions, each with unique characteristics and varietals.
One of Alicante's most prominent wine regions is the Vinalopo Valley, particularly around Monovar, Novelda, and Petrer. Here, vineyards cultivate indigenous grape varieties like Monastrell and Muscat, producing robust reds and aromatic whites.
Further south, near Jumilla, the wines made predominantly from Monastrell grapes have garnered acclaim for their depth and complexity.
You can embark on wine tours and tastings to explore these vineyards and learn about Alicante's wines.
Wineries like Bodegas Bocopa, Enrique Mendoza, and Heretat de Cesilia welcome visitors with open arms. You'll have the chance to stroll through vineyards, witness the winemaking process, and taste their exceptional wines.
Many tours also include visits to historic cellars and barrel rooms, where you can delve into the art of wine ageing and blending. These experiences allow you to immerse yourself in the rich wine culture of Alicante, appreciating both the traditional and modern approaches to winemaking.
The wine regions of Alicante Province are not only picturesque but also a testament to the dedication and passion of the local winemakers. A wine tour in this vibrant province is a journey through history, terroir, and the flavours that define Alicante's unique wine heritage.
Bonfires of Saint John
Held on June 24th, the official festival of Alicante, Las Hogueras de San Juan is a traditional celebration in which locals create wooden or paper mache statues which are paraded through the town before they are put on a bonfire at the end of the celebrations.
The festival includes areas called barracas, where you will find orchestras, a dance area and food and drinks.
The closing ceremony involves a huge fireworks display over St Barbara Castle, illuminating the Alicante skyline.
Visit El Postiguet Beach
El Postiguet Beach is a cherished urban beach nestled in the heart of Alicante, just a stone's throw from the city center.
With its fine golden sands and gentle waves, it's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
The beach offers all the amenities you'd expect, from sunbeds and parasols to beachside cafes serving delectable seafood. Its proximity to the city makes it easily accessible, and the views of the Santa Barbara Castle perched on a nearby hill add to its charm.
Whether you're looking for a leisurely sunbathing spot or a quick escape from the city's hustle and bustle, El Postiguet Beach delivers.
Explanada de Espana
Similar to La Rambla in Barcelona, Explanada de Espana is a walkway located by the Alicante harbour.
The Explanada de Espana is a picturesque promenade that captures the essence of this beautiful Mediterranean city.
Stretching alongside the city's marina, this palm-lined esplanade is a beloved gathering spot for locals and a must-visit for tourists.
What sets the Explanada apart is its unique mosaic paving.
The promenade is adorned with six million colourful tiles arranged in a wavy pattern resembling ocean waves, representing the nearby Mediterranean Sea. This intricate mosaic is known as "El Paseo de la Explanada" and is a true work of art.
Strolling along the Explanada, you'll find an array of outdoor bars where you can enjoy a coffee or a refreshing horchata while taking in the vibrant atmosphere. It's a prime spot for people-watching and enjoying Alicante's mild climate.
The Explanada is also home to various cultural events and artisan markets, making it a lively hub of activity throughout the year.
As the sun sets, the promenade becomes even more enchanting, with its seafront location offering stunning views of the sunset over the Mediterranean.
The Explanada de Espana is not just a walkway; it's a symbol of Alicante's vibrant spirit and a delightful place to experience the city's unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Play Golf in Alicante
Alicante Province boasts several top-notch golf courses that cater to both beginners and seasoned pros.
Here are some of the best golf courses in Alicante Province:
- La Finca Golf: Located in Algorfa, this course features lush fairways, water hazards, and impeccable greens. It's known for its challenging layout and stunning views of the Vega Baja mountains.
- Villamartín Golf: Situated in Orihuela Costa, this course offers a delightful Mediterranean setting with palm trees and scenic lakes. It's one of the oldest and most respected in the area.
- Las Colinas Golf & Country Club: Tucked away in a valley near San Miguel de Salinas, this course is renowned for its eco-friendly design and picturesque landscape. It consistently ranks among Europe's best.
- Font del Llop Golf Resort: A course designed with respect for the natural environment in Monforte del Cid, it offers challenging play amid rolling hills and olive groves.
- Bonalba Golf Resort: Located in Mutxamel, this course combines wide fairways with a mountain backdrop and is suitable for all skill levels.
- Alicante Golf: Just minutes from the city centre, this is one of the oldest golf clubs in the Costa Blanca region, offering a traditional yet enjoyable experience.
- Alenda Golf: Near the town of Monforte del Cid, this course offers a fair test of golfing skills, with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
Whether you're an avid golfer or just looking to enjoy a leisurely round in a beautiful setting, Alicante Province's golf courses provide a fantastic golfing experience against the backdrop of Spain's Mediterranean charm.
Playa Carabassi
Playa Carabassi is a stunning gem along the Alicante coastline, nestled within the municipality of Elche.
This Blue Flag beach is celebrated for its natural beauty and pristine environment. With its fine golden sands and clear waters, it's a haven for both relaxation and water sports enthusiasts.
What sets Playa Carabassi apart is its unique dune system, which forms an otherworldly landscape of shifting sands and native vegetation.
These dunes have been meticulously preserved to protect the fragile ecosystem and provide a serene backdrop for beachgoers.
The beach offers various amenities, including sunbeds, parasols, and beach bars, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable day by the sea.
The waters are relatively shallow, making it safe for swimming, especially for families with children.
For those who enjoy snorkelling, the underwater world of Playa Carabassi is teeming with marine life and offers excellent visibility.
The beach also features a beach volleyball court and a picturesque coastal promenade, ideal for leisurely walks while enjoying the breathtaking views.
Alicante Festivals
There are plenty of festivals in Alicante and celebrations all year round, which can make your fun and exciting.
January – St Anthony’s Market: a local market held in the bullring, where locally produced food is sold. The day is named after the patron Saint, San Anton.
February—Carnival: During February, huge processions and parades are led through the town, with marching bands, dance troupes, street performances, and parties.
March – Semana Santa: the holy week in March, with religious events held around Easter, including the Silencio Del Jueves Santo, the Veronica procession and the Santa Cruz procession.
April – Santa Faz Pilgrimage: probably the most significant event in the calendar of Alicante, with 200,000 people walking from the centre of town to the Monastery of Santa Faz. There are also markets, fairs and picnics around Alicante to celebrate this annual tradition.
May—Cruces de Mayo: The town is decorated with crosses and dressed in flowers, while musical performances, parties, and food and drink stalls are held, usually in the Santa Cruz area.
June—Bonfires of St John: As mentioned above, homemade sculptures are carried through the town and then put on a huge bonfire, while a fireworks display over the castle of St Barbara closes the event.
July—Jazz festival: During the summer months, jazz music is celebrated in most of the bars in town, with live bands on most days.
August—Virgen Del Remedio: To honour the patron saint, Our Lady of Remedy, there is a procession, concerts, and a feast day on August 3rd.
September – Virgen del Socorro: a festival held by fishermen, including cooking contests, games, dancing, food, and drink in honour of a patron Saint, our Lady of Succour.
Later in the year, the parties quieten down, with the national day of Spain on October 12th and the usual New Year's celebrations at the end of December.
Gastronomy Of Alicante Spain
The Alicante region has a rich history of gastronomy dating back to ancient times, influenced by various cultures such as the Greeks, Romans, Moors, and Christians. This fusion of culinary traditions has given rise to a unique cuisine that now has some of the best food in Spain.
The most popular dishes in Alicante include paella, arroz a banda, Fideua, and Caldero.
Paella is a rice dish that is cooked with saffron, seafood, and meat. Arroz a banda is another rice dish that is cooked with fish stock and typically served with seafood. Fideua is a variation of paella where the rice is substituted with pasta noodles, and the Caldero is a hearty fish soup that is served with potatoes and garlic mayonnaise.
Apart from these dishes, Alicante is famous for its seafood, particularly the red prawns, which are a local delicacy.
Other seafood dishes include Esgarraet, which is a salad made of cod, peppers, and onions, and sepia Amb Ceba, a dish made of cuttlefish and onions.
The region is also known for its sweet treats, such as Turron, a nougat made with almonds and honey, and horchata, a refreshing drink made with tiger nuts.
Another famous dessert is the Pastissets de Boniato, which is a pastry filled with sweet potato.
The region is also home to a variety of first-class wines, including the famous Fondillon, a sweet dessert wine made with overripe grapes.
Getting Around Alicante Spain
Getting around Alicante city and the region is very easy thanks to a modern public transport system. Alicante has good connections to the top nearby resorts Torrevieja and Benidorm.
The city is served by a regular bus network and a modern tram system that runs along the coast and connects the city with other nearby towns.
If you plan to drive, there are several motorways in the region, including the AP-7, a new toll road and the main highway connecting Alicante with other parts of Spain. Additionally, the A-31 and A-70 motorways are also popular options for getting around the region.
As the weather is pretty warm and sunny for at least eight months a year, a great way to explore the city is by bike. There are a number of bike rental shops in the city, and it's a fun, eco-friendly way to see the sights.
Resources:
» Alicante bike hire
» Renfe Intercity and urban trains
» Alicante Tourism Board
Alicante, a charming city on Spain's eastern coast, offers a variety of neighbourhoods and accommodation options for travellers with different preferences and budgets.
Here are some of the best places to stay in Alicante:
Alicante Old Town (El Barrio):
Charming and Historic: Staying in the heart of the old town allows you to immerse yourself in Alicante's history and culture. Narrow streets, colourful buildings, and historical sites like Santa Barbara Castle are within walking distance.
Luxury: Consider Hotel Hospes Amerigo, a boutique hotel housed in a renovated Dominican Convent, offering luxury amenities and stunning views.
Explanada de España:
Seaside Promenade: This waterfront area is known for its iconic mosaic pavement and is a great place to stay for those who love the sea.
Mid-Range: Hotel Sercotel Suites del Mar offers comfortable accommodations with sea views and easy beach access.
Playa de San Juan:
Beach Paradise: If you're looking for a beach holiday, Playa de San Juan is the place to be. It's far from the city centre but boasts a stunning sandy beach.
Mid-to-Luxury: Melia Alicante is a beachfront hotel with excellent amenities, while Hotel Alicante Golf offers a golf-and-beach experience.
Albufereta:
Peaceful Escape: This residential area offers a quieter atmosphere than the city centre while remaining close enough for easy access.
Budget to Mid-Range: Hotel Albahía is a comfortable, budget-friendly option with sea views, while Hotel Almirante offers mid-range accommodations.
Alicante Airport Area:
Convenience for Travelers: If you have an early flight or late arrival, consider staying near the airport. Several hotels offer shuttle services.
Budget to Mid-Range: Try Hotel Areca or Hotel El Plantío Golf.
San Gabriel:
Tranquil Suburb: San Gabriel offers a suburban feel, ideal for travellers seeking peace.
Budget: Campanile Alicante provides budget-friendly accommodations with easy access to the airport.
Alicante offers many accommodations, including luxury, mid-range, and budget-friendly options. Luxury travellers can indulge in seaside resorts like Hospes Amerigo or Meliá Alicante.
Those looking for mid-range options can consider Hotel Sercotel Suites del Mar or Hotel Alicante Golf. Budget-conscious travellers can choose from Hotel Albahía, Hotel Almirante, Campanile Alicante, or Hotel Areca.
Alicante Province Accommodation
If you're open to exploring areas outside of Alicante City, the Costa Blanca region offers a variety of towns and beach destinations with their own unique charm. Here are some excellent places to consider:
Torrevieja:
Salt Lakes and Beaches: Torrevieja is known for its salt lakes, which provide a unique landscape. It also boasts several beautiful beaches and a vibrant waterfront promenade.
Accommodation: Hotel Madrid and Hotel Masa International are mid-range options in the city's heart.
Benidorm:
Beach Resort: Benidorm is famous for its lively atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife.
Accommodation: Grand Luxor Hotel and Hotel Villa Venecia are popular for those seeking luxury, while Hotel Helios Benidorm offers mid-range options.
Calpe:
Iconic Rock Formation: Calpe is home to the Peñón de Ifach, a towering rock formation that offers hiking opportunities and scenic views.
Accommodation: AR Diamante Beach Spa Hotel and Hotel Bahía Calpe are notable choices.
Javea (Xabia):
Coastal Beauty: Javea is known for its stunning coastline, crystal-clear waters, and charming Old Town.
Accommodation: Parador de Javea is a luxurious option with breathtaking views, while Hotel Triskel is a boutique hotel in the Old Town.
Altea:
Artistic Town: Altea is renowned for its picturesque old quarter, artistic community, and pristine beaches.
Accommodation: SH Villa Gadea is a luxury beachfront resort, and Hotel Abaco is a boutique hotel in the heart of the town.
Denia:
Culinary Delights: Denia is famous for its gastronomy and the Montgó Natural Park, which offers outdoor adventures.
Accommodation: Marriott Denia La Sella Golf Resort & Spa is a notable option, and Hotel Costa Blanca is a charming boutique hotel.
Oliva:
Secluded Beaches: Oliva is known for its quieter beaches, golf courses, and natural beauty.
Accommodation: Oliva Nova Beach & Golf Resort offers a luxury beachfront experience, while Hotel Font Salada is a serene rural option.
These towns along the Costa Blanca provide a range of experiences, from lively beach resorts to tranquil seaside escapes.
Whether you're interested in nightlife, outdoor activities, or cultural exploration, this stunning stretch of the Spanish coast has a destination for you.