Things To Do
in Alicante
Alicante is a sun-drenched port city on Spain's Costa Blanca known for its golden beaches, a medieval castle perched above the harbor, and a lively waterfront promenade. The old town blends whitewashed houses, narrow lanes, and a cathedral with ocean views. Mild winters and warm summers make outdoor strolling a year-round pleasure, from the Explanada de España to the castle overlook.
Whether you seek beach relaxation, cultural sights, or a tapas-filled evening by the marina, Alicante offers a relaxed Mediterranean vibe with easy access to nearby towns.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your adventure in the heart of Alicante at the Santa Barbara Castle, perched atop Mount Benacantil. After exploring the castle's ancient walls and breathtaking views, wander through the tranquil streets of the Old Town, soaking in the Moorish architecture. Stop by a local café to enjoy a traditional Spanish breakfast of tostada with tomato and olive oil.
Continue your exploration by visiting the Basilica of Santa Maria, where you can admire its intricate Gothic architecture and beautiful altars. Stroll along the lively Explanada de España, lined with palm trees and colorful tiles, and browse the local artisan shops. Treat yourself to a leisurely lunch at a seaside restaurant, savoring a plate of paella with fresh seafood.
As the sun sets, head to the beach for a relaxing evening walk along Playa del Postiguet. Enjoy dinner at a beachfront restaurant, where you can indulge in tapas and local wines while listening to the gentle waves. End your day with a stroll through the vibrant nightlife of Alicante, perhaps stopping for a drink at a rooftop bar with stunning views.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a beachside café before diving into the azure waters of Playa de San Juan. Rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the coastline from the sea, feeling the invigorating Mediterranean breeze. Alternatively, join a snorkeling tour to discover the vibrant marine life just off the shore.
After enjoying some time in the sun, grab lunch at a chiringuito, a traditional beach bar, where you can feast on grilled fish and refreshing sangria. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the sandy beach, soaking up the sun or participating in beach volleyball games with locals. If you're feeling adventurous, try your hand at windsurfing or take a jet ski ride for an adrenaline rush.
As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, find a cozy spot along the beach to watch the stunning sunset. Enjoy a casual dinner at a nearby seafood restaurant, sampling local specialties like grilled octopus. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk along the promenade, taking in the lively atmosphere and street performances.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-60 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (0.5 liter) | $2-3 |
| 🚕Taxi 1 mile (2 km) in city | $4-7 |
| 🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment in city center (monthly) | $900-1,200 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and warm climate
- Rich seafood and rice cuisine
- Compact city center with walkable historic sites
- Access to nearby islands and nature reserves
- Crowds and higher prices in peak season
- Some areas can be touristy and busy
- Limited English-speaking staff in some small eateries
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Alicante
Visit one of these nice places.
Hilltop fortress with sweeping views over the city and coastline, especially dramatic at sunrise or sunset.
Iconic mosaic promenade lined with palm trees, ideal for morning light and architectural shots.
Harbor scenes with moored boats, reflections, and the Ajuntament (city hall) spire in the background.
Golden sands and blue water, wonderful for golden-hour beach photography and people-watching.
Colorful hillside streets with white houses, flower pots, and staircases—great for street photography.
Food in Alicante
Alicante Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A saffron-infused rice dish cooked in fish stock, typically served with a separate plate of seafood.
Must-Try!
A hearty fish and seafood stew cooked in a cauldron, traditionally from the region's fishing villages.
Rice prepared with fish and shellfish, finished with a distinctive saffron aroma.
Lightly battered fried fish and shellfish, a staple at seaside taverns and chiringuitos.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A historic market near the port offering fresh seafood, fruit, vegetables, and local bites; great for sampling seasonal produce.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting such as 'hola' is appreciated; address people with 'usted' in formal situations.
Lunch is commonly served 1–3 pm and dinner after 8 pm; expect cafes and shops to close briefly for siesta in smaller towns.
Keep voices moderate in public and be respectful around religious sites; ask before taking photos of people.
Safety
Tipping in Alicante
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Spain; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in tourist areas.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is still common in markets and small eateries.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild weather with blooming gardens; ideal for outdoor markets, coastal walks, and day trips to nearby towns.
Hot days and breezy evenings; beach days, late dinners, lively nightlife, and waterfront festivals.
Warm colors and comfortable temperatures; good for hiking, outdoor dining, and fewer crowds.
Mild and relatively quiet; occasional rain; pleasant for museum visits and city strolls without peak tourist crowds.
Alicante at Night
Hiking in Alicante
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal hillside park with sweeping sea views, moderate to challenging trails, and biodiversity.
Cliff-top hikes along the coastline with panoramic Mediterranean views and limestone formations.
Forest trails, springs, and scenic ridges suitable for day hikes in the inland countryside.
Airports
How to reach Alicante by plane.
Major international gateway just south of the city; frequent domestic and European flights; easy access by bus or taxi.
Major hub ~170 km north; good option for long-haul connections; train + bus options connect to Alicante.
Smaller regional airport about 75–100 km from Alicante; several seasonal and domestic routes; accessible by road or bus.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-time Alicante families and retirees who know the coast well.
Seasonal and year-round residents from across Europe attracted by the climate and lifestyle.
A growing community attracted by universities, internships, and startups.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and a passionate fan base; games and training are common weekend activities.
Sailing, windsurfing, paddleboarding and snorkeling along the coast.
Public and private courts are available around the city and suburbs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Alicante.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Alicante, look for vegetable-forward dishes in tapas bars and markets; request veggie versions of seafood dishes when possible or choose arroz con verduras.