Alicante Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Alicante with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, food to eat, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Alicante

Alicante, a vibrant city on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, is the second-largest city in the Valencian Community in Eastern Spain. With its picturesque beaches, historical landmarks, and charming old town, Alicante is a popular destination for tourists.

List of Places to Visit in Alicante

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Santa Barbara Castle

This 16th-century castle sits atop the Benacantil Mountain and offers a panoramic view of Alicante and the surrounding landscape. The castle has a long history, dating back to the Roman Empire.

Archaeological Museum of Alicante

The Archaeological Museum of Alicante, also known as MARQ, is one of the most important archeological museums in Spain. The museum has 10 galleries displaying the history of Alicante from prehistory to the Middle Ages.

Basilica de Santa Maria

Basilica de Santa Maria is a Gothic church that was built on the site of an old mosque. The church’s façade has a Baroque style, and the interior features beautiful stained-glass windows.

Natural Attractions of Alicante: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Tabarca Island

This small island situated 22 km from Alicante’s coast is famous for its crystal-clear waters and scenic beauty. The island has a rich history, dating back to when it was used as a pirate refuge.

Sierra de Mariola Natural Park

This natural park is located in the mountainous region of Alicante. It’s a popular destination for hiking, rock climbing, and camping. The park features scenic trails and breathtaking views.

El Palmeral Park

This urban park features a beautiful collection of palm trees and a tranquil lake. It’s the perfect place to take a stroll and enjoy the scenery.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Alicante

Serra Gelada Nature Park

This park is one of the most spectacular natural areas of the Valencian Community and offers a range of hiking and biking trails. The park also features the famous Albir Lighthouse, which is an ideal spot for views of the surrounding coastline.

Montgó Natural Park

Montgó Natural Park is located near Denia and features a range of hiking trails for all fitness levels. The park’s iconic mountain peak is visible from afar and offers an incredible panoramic view once you reach the top.

Best Things to Do in Alicante: Activities and Tours

Alicante Segway Tour

This guided tour takes visitors through the streets and alleys of the historic center of Alicante on a Segway. It’s a fun and unique way to explore the city.

Cooking Class

Learn how to cook traditional Spanish dishes with a professional chef. This class will teach you how to make paella and other traditional Spanish dishes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Alicante

Day Itinerary
1 Visit Santa Barbara Castle and explore the old town
2 Take a day trip to Tabarca Island
3 Visit the Archaeological Museum of Alicante
4 Explore the Montgó Natural Park
5 Relax on the Postiguet Beach
6 Take a cooking class
7 Visit El Palmeral Park and enjoy the palm trees

Food and Drink Scene of Alicante

Must-Try Dishes

Paella

Alicante is a foodie’s paradise, and there’s nothing more iconic than a delicious plate of Paella. This traditional dish is made with rice, vegetables, and meat or seafood and is cooked in a big flat-bottomed pan.

Arroz a banda

This rice and seafood dish is a staple of the Alicante region. The rice is cooked in a flavorful fish broth with spices like saffron and paprika.

Local Beverages

Horchata

Horchata is a traditional drink made from tiger nuts, sugar, and water. It’s a refreshing drink that’s perfect for a hot day in Alicante.

Sangria

Sangria is a popular drink made with red wine, fruit, and a touch of brandy. It’s commonly served in restaurants and bars throughout Alicante.

Where to Stay in Alicante: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Hotel Melia Alicante

This modern hotel is located in the city center and provides breathtaking views of the sea. It’s just a stone’s throw away from Postiguet Beach and the historic center.

Hostal La Lonja

This charming hotel is located in the old town and features well-equipped rooms and a rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city.

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

Turron

Turron is a traditional almond and honey nougat, and it’s the perfect souvenir to bring back home.

Esparto Grass Products

Esparto grass is a plant that grows in the Alicante region, and local artisans use it to create beautiful baskets, bags, and other handicrafts.

Local Culture and Customs of Alicante

The people of Alicante are known for being lively and friendly, and they take pride in their local traditions and festivals. The most significant festival is the Hogueras de San Juan, which takes place every June and features bonfires, fireworks, and street parties.

Best Time to Visit Alicante

The best time to visit Alicante is between May and September when the weather is sunny and warm. However, keep in mind that this is peak tourist season, and prices will be higher.

Do’s and Don’ts of Alicante

Do:

  • Do try the local dishes and drinks.

  • Do pack sunscreen and sunglasses.

  • Do take a Segway tour of the city.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to bring a jacket.

  • Don’t try to swim in restricted areas.

  • Don’t forget to carry a map while exploring the city.

Safety and Health

Safety in Alicante

Alicante is a safe city, but like any other city, it’s essential to take precautions. Don’t leave your belongings unattended, especially in public places and beaches.

Health in Alicante

Visitors to Alicante do not need any specific vaccinations. The city has excellent medical facilities in case of emergencies.

Getting to Alicante: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Alicante

Alicante has an international airport, Alicante-Elche airport, that serves destinations across Europe. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a bus or taxi to the city center.

Bus Stations Near Alicante

The Estacion de Autobuses is Alicante’s main bus station, and it has regular services to cities across Spain, as well as international destinations like France, Portugal, and Morocco.

Other Options

Visitors can also arrive in Alicante via train or car. Alicante’s train station provides connections to major cities across Spain, while the AP-7 motorway connects the city with other cities along the Mediterranean coast.

How to Get Around in Alicante

Alicante is a small city, and most of its popular attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, visitors can also take advantage of the city’s comprehensive public transportation system, which includes buses and trams.

Where to Go Next from Alicante: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Valencia

Valencia is a vibrant city that has preserved its traditional culture while embracing modernity. The city has a beautiful old town, an impressive modern art museum, and a futuristic City of Arts and Sciences.

Madrid

Madrid, Spain’s capital city, is home to some of the country’s most famous landmarks, such as the Royal Palace and the Prado Museum. Visitors can also take advantage of the city’s famous nightlife and culinary scene.

Conclusion

Alicante is a beautiful city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you want to explore the old town, relax on the beach, or hike in the mountains, Alicante has something for everyone.

Mount Benacantil in Alicante, view from the sea Mount Benacantil in Alicante, view from the sea Bus on route C6 in Alicante Bus on route C6 in Alicante Esplanada de España Esplanada de España Mount Benacantil and Santa Barbara Castle Mount Benacantil and Santa Barbara Castle Facade detail of the Basílica de Santa Maria Facade detail of the Basílica de Santa Maria Iberian artifacts on display at MARQ (Archaeological Museum of Alicante) Iberian artifacts on display at MARQ (Archaeological Museum of Alicante) Museu de la Universitat d’Alacant Museu de la Universitat d’Alacant Auditori de la Diputació d'Alacant Auditori de la Diputació d'Alacant One of the elaborate monuments that can be found throughout Alicante during Las Hogueras de San Juan One of the elaborate monuments that can be found throughout Alicante during Las Hogueras de San Juan Platja del Postiguet Platja del Postiguet Mercat Central Mercat Central ''Arroz con costra'' (rice topped with sausages and eggs), a regional specialty ''Arroz con costra'' (rice topped with sausages and eggs), a regional specialty ''Arroz alicantino'', a local variant of Valencian paella ''Arroz alicantino'', a local variant of Valencian paella Michelin-starred Monastrell Michelin-starred Monastrell Coves del Canelobre Coves del Canelobre