Alicante (province) Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and food and drink scene in Alicante (Province) with this comprehensive travel guide.


Alicante (province) is a beautiful region situated in Valencian Community, in Eastern Spain, in Iberia, in Europe. It boasts a rich history, stunning natural scenery, and a vibrant culture that draws travelers from all over the world. With this ultimate guide to Alicante (province), you’ll discover the best places to visit, things to do, and food and drink scene in the region.

Introduction to Alicante (Province)

Alicante (province) is one of the most beautiful regions in Spain, situated on the Mediterranean coast. The region is home to several cities and towns, including Alicante, Elche, Benidorm, Torrevieja, and Altea. The region is known for its stunning beaches, charming historic towns, and vibrant culture.

List of Places to Visit in Alicante (Province)

If you’re planning a trip to Alicante (province), here are some of the best places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Castle of Santa Barbara: a stunning castle with panoramic views of Alicante.
  • Archaeological Museum of Alicante (MARQ): a museum showcasing the region’s rich history and prehistory.
  • Elche Palmeral: a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest palm grove in Europe.
  • Santa Maria Basilica: a stunning Gothic church in Elche.
  • Guadalest Castle: a picturesque castle overlooking the village of Guadalest.

Natural Attractions of Alicante (Province): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Montgo Natural Park: a stunning park with hiking and biking trails.
  • Sierra de Mariola Natural Park: a beautiful natural park with hiking trails and scenic views.
  • Tabarca Island: a small island with crystal-clear waters and numerous beaches.
  • Algar Waterfalls: a series of waterfalls with numerous natural pools for swimming.
  • El Peñón de Ifach: a massive limestone rock formation in Calpe.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Alicante (Province)

  • The Ruta de la Tuna: a stunning trail from Xixona to Tibi.
  • The “Wine Trail” of Alicante: a trail that takes you through Alicante’s wine region.
  • The Greenway of the Alcoyana: a beautiful bike trail through Alcoyana.

Best Things to Do in Alicante (Province): Activities and Tours

  • Wine Tasting in Alicante: sample some of the region’s best wines on a tour of the country’s top wineries.
  • Snorkeling in Tabarca: explore the beautiful waters of Tabarca Island.
  • Paella Cooking Class: learn how to cook the iconic Spanish dish, paella, from a local chef.
  • Segway Tour of Benidorm: explore the city on a Segway and experience its stunning views first-hand.

Week-Long Itinerary for Alicante (Province)

If you have a week to explore Alicante (province), here’s a sample itinerary:

  • Day 1-2: Alicante: explore the city’s stunning castle, museums and cathedral, and relax on the beach.
  • Day 3: Elche: visit the Elche Palmeral and its many museums.
  • Day 4-5: Calpe: relax on the beach and hike El Peñón de Ifach.
  • Day 6-7: Altea: explore the charming town and nearby Sierra de Mariola Natural Park.

Food and Drink Scene of Alicante (Province)

One of the highlights of a trip to Alicante (province) is the incredible food and drink scene. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Paella: a rice dish with seafood or chicken and rabbit.
  • Arroz a banda: a rice dish with squid and fish.
  • Gazpacho: a cold soup made with tomatoes, peppers, cucumber, and garlic.
  • Fideua: a noodle dish with seafood or chicken.
  • Turrón: a nougat-like sweet made with almonds and honey.

Local Beverages

  • Agua de Valencia: a refreshing alcoholic beverage made from cava, orange juice, gin, and vodka.
  • Vermouth: a fortified wine that is often enjoyed as an aperitif.
  • Horchata: a sweet, milky drink made from tiger nuts and sugar.

Where to Stay in Alicante (Province): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are numerous options for accommodation in Alicante (province), including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some of the best options include:

  • Hospes Amerigo: a luxury hotel situated in the heart of Alicante.
  • Hotel Boutique La Serena: a charming hotel in Altea’s historic town center.
  • Hostal La Lonja: a budget-friendly option in Alicante’s old town.
  • Casa Del Maco: a stunning guesthouse situated in the countryside of Benissa.

What to Buy in Alicante (Province): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and local products to bring home, consider these options:

  • Ceramics from Agost: this town is known for its beautiful ceramics, including plates, bowls, and vases.
  • Almond sweets: the region is known for its delicious almond sweets, including turrón and marzipan.
  • Esparto Grass Products: esparto grass grows in the region and is used to make baskets, bags, and other products.

Local Culture and Customs of Alicante (Province)

The people of Alicante (province) are known for their friendly, welcoming nature. The region is home to numerous fiestas and celebrations throughout the year, including Las Hogueras de San Juan in Alicante and the Moors and Christians festival in Villena.

Best Time to Visit Alicante (Province)

The best time to visit Alicante (province) is in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November), when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists. The summer months (June to August) can be crowded and hot, while the winter months (December to February) can be chilly and rainy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Alicante (Province)

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Alicante (province):

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.
  • Visit the region’s numerous historic and cultural sites.
  • Be respectful of the local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local customs and traditions.
  • Ignore important safety guidelines when participating in outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Alicante (province) is generally a safe place to visit, but it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take appropriate safety precautions. In terms of health, it’s a good idea to have all necessary vaccinations up to date and to take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses during the summer months.

Getting to Alicante (Province): Transportation Options and Logistics

There are numerous transportation options for getting to Alicante (province), including:

Airports Near Alicante (Province)

  • Alicante International Airport (ALC): the main airport serving the region.

Bus Stations Near Alicante (Province)

  • Alicante Bus Station: the main bus station in the city of Alicante.

Other Options

  • Train: there is a high-speed train that connects Alicante to Madrid and other major cities in Spain.
  • Car: renting a car is a popular option for exploring the region.

How to Get Around in Alicante (Province)

The best way to get around Alicante (province) is by car, as it allows you to explore the region at your own pace. Alternatively, there are numerous public transportation options, including buses and trains.

Where to Go Next from Alicante (Province): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you want to continue your adventure beyond Alicante (province), there are several nearby destinations worth exploring, including:

  • Valencia: a beautiful city known for its impressive architecture and the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences.
  • Murcia: a historic city known for its stunning cathedral and beautiful Gardens of Floridablanca.
  • Cartagena: a historic port city with numerous historic sites, including a Roman theater and a medieval castle.

Conclusion

Alicante (province) is a stunning region of Spain with something for every type of traveler. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your visit and experience everything that Alicante (province) has to offer.

Costa Blanca Costa Blanca TRAM train TRAM train Map of the Alicante Metropolitan TRAM network Map of the Alicante Metropolitan TRAM network The Torreón Malladeta (Malladeta Keep) is a 19th-century neo-Gothic keep (fortified tower) positioned above Paradise Beach in Villajoyosa, on the coast the province of Alicante The Torreón Malladeta (Malladeta Keep) is a 19th-century neo-Gothic keep (fortified tower) positioned above Paradise Beach in Villajoyosa, on the coast the province of Alicante


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