Nestled along the southeastern coast of Spain, Alicante is a vibrant city that effortlessly blends Mediterranean charm, stunning beaches, and a rich history. As the gateway to the Costa Blanca, Alicante offers everything from scenic coastal views to a lively nightlife, making it a fantastic destination for sun-seekers, culture lovers, and anyone looking to experience the best of Spanish life.
Whether you’re strolling along the palm-lined promenades, exploring historic castles, or indulging in delicious local cuisine, Alicante is sure to leave a lasting impression. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this Spanish city so special!
How to Get to Alicante
Alicante is well-connected both domestically and internationally, making it easy to get to and around. The city’s main Alicante-Elche Airport is located just 15 kilometers (about 9 miles) from the city center, offering direct flights to major European cities and beyond. From the airport, you can easily take a taxi, bus, or tram to reach the heart of Alicante.
The Alicante railway station connects the city to major Spanish hubs, including Madrid, Valencia, and Barcelona, making it a convenient stop for travelers on the Mediterranean circuit. Once in the city, getting around is simple thanks to its efficient public transport system and walkable layout.
Must-See Sights in Alicante
- Santa Bárbara Castle Perched on the top of Mount Benacantil, Santa Bárbara Castle is Alicante’s most iconic landmark. Offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the Mediterranean Sea, and the surrounding area, the castle is a must-visit for anyone looking to learn about the city’s history. The castle dates back to the 9th century and offers both medieval and modern features, with well-preserved walls, a moat, and exhibits that showcase its rich history.
To get to the castle, you can either take a scenic hike up or opt for the elevator that goes from the beach area straight to the top.
Explanada de España One of Alicante’s most famous promenades, the Explanada de España is a beautiful, tree-lined walkway that runs parallel to the sea. With its colorful mosaic tiles and scenic views of the marina and palm trees, it’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll. Along the promenade, you’ll find street performers, cafes, and small shops selling local crafts, making it a lively spot for both locals and tourists.
Postiguet Beach Alicante’s Postiguet Beach is a golden stretch of sand located right next to the city center. It’s ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and people-watching. With its proximity to the city, it’s also a great place to relax after a day of sightseeing. Along the beach, you’ll find a variety of beach bars and restaurants serving refreshing drinks, fresh seafood, and traditional Spanish tapas.
The Old Town (El Barrio) The historic center of Alicante, known as El Barrio, is a charming maze of narrow streets, colorful buildings, and lively squares. This vibrant neighborhood is full of character, with its mix of traditional Spanish architecture, local cafes, and quaint shops. Don’t miss Plaza del Ayuntamiento, the central square of Alicante, where you can admire the City Hall and relax with a coffee while soaking in the atmosphere.
As you wander through El Barrio, be sure to stop by the San Nicolás Cathedral, a stunning example of Renaissance architecture with its impressive blue domes.
Museo de Arte Contemporáneo (MACA) For art enthusiasts, the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo (MACA) is a must-visit. Located in a beautiful 17th-century building in the Old Town, this museum houses an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art. The collection features works by Spanish and international artists, including Pablo Picasso, Joan Miró, and Eusebio Sempere. It’s the perfect place to dive deeper into Spain’s artistic legacy and contemporary art scene.
Cabo de las Huertas For a more tranquil experience, head to Cabo de las Huertas, a picturesque area of cliffs, coves, and crystal-clear waters. It’s a lovely place for hiking, swimming, and enjoying some peace away from the crowds. The coves here are less crowded than the main beaches, making it a great spot for those seeking a more serene seaside experience.
Alicante’s Markets: Mercado Central and Mercado de San Juan Alicante is home to several bustling markets where you can experience local food, flavors, and the city’s vibrant culinary scene. Mercado Central is one of the oldest and most charming food markets in Alicante, offering fresh produce, seafood, meats, and local specialties. For a more eclectic shopping experience, head to Mercado de San Juan, known for its antique finds, handmade goods, and vintage treasures.
Where to Eat and Drink
Alicante’s dining scene reflects the city’s coastal location and its deep-rooted Mediterranean traditions. From seafood to paella, tapas to pastries, the food in Alicante is as delicious as it is diverse.
Paella: No trip to the coast of Spain would be complete without sampling some paella. Alicante’s version of this iconic Spanish dish is arroz a banda, a seafood-based paella with rice cooked in fish stock. Restaurante Dársena, located along the marina, is known for its delicious paella and stunning sea views.
Tapas: Alicante is filled with bars and restaurants serving a wide variety of traditional tapas. Try classics like patatas bravas, croquetas, and gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp) at spots like El Canto or La Taberna del Gourmet in the Old Town.
Turrón: Alicante is famous for its traditional turrón, a sweet nougat typically made with almonds and honey. Visit Turronería El Abuelo for a taste of this regional treat.
Sangria and Cocktails: As a coastal city, Alicante is also known for its refreshing cocktails. Enjoy a glass of sangria or a cocktail de frutas at one of the beachfront bars along Postiguet Beach, or head to a rooftop bar, like The Loft, for a drink with a view of the city and sea.
Alicante’s Festivals and Events
Alicante is a city that loves to celebrate, and throughout the year, there are several festivals and events that highlight the city’s cultural richness and vibrant atmosphere.
Hogueras de San Juan (Bonfires of Saint John): Held in June, this is Alicante’s biggest and most famous festival. The city comes alive with parades, fireworks, live music, and massive bonfires on the beach. The celebrations culminate in the burning of the “hogueras” (giant papier-mâché figures), symbolizing the end of the old and the arrival of the new.
Alicante Jazz Festival: Every summer, the Alicante Jazz Festival brings world-class jazz artists to the city, with performances in venues around Alicante, including the Teatro Principal.
Moors and Christians Festival: This historic festival celebrates the victory of Christians over the Moors and takes place in the surrounding towns of Villajoyosa and Alcoi. It features vibrant parades, historical reenactments, and dramatic performances.
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