What to Do in Alicante?

Vacation time in Spain is coming soon, but you're not sure what to do in Alicante? That's great, this practical guide is here to help you discover the must-visit places. Here, I share my selection of points of interest and monuments to explore during your trip, as well as some tips for your entry tickets!

Alicante, located on the Costa Blanca in Spain, is a destination that attracts more and more travelers looking for where to go in Spain for a vacation. Bordering the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, this sun-drenched city offers a mix of traditional Spanish culture and modernity, with charming sites and villages nearby.

Unsurprisingly, the city has miles of golden coastline and pristine beaches, such as Playa del Postiguet, a popular spot for relaxation in addition to the San Juan and La Albufereta beaches. The Santa Barbara Castle, perched on a hill, overlooks the city, while the winding alleys of the old town, El Barrio, are full of charm with their colorful buildings, squares, and small cafés ☕️

Of course, you will venture to explore villages and towns like Elche, home to the largest palm grove in Europe, Santa Pola for a beachside atmosphere, or picturesque villages like Villajoyosa for its colorful houses, Dénia for its coves, or explore the beautiful island of Tabarca! To learn more and make sure you don't miss anything, I invite you to read on in this article

Santa Barbara Castle, located on Mount Benacantil in Alicante, is one of the city's must-visit attractions This historic fortress not only offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea but also serves as a living testament to the region's history.

The roots of this structure date back to antiquity, but it has undergone significant renovations over the centuries. During your visit, you'll be able to explore various parts, including cannon rooms, dungeons, walls, and gardens. Highlights include the People's Arm Tower, the Felipe II room, and the Powder Tower, which today houses a museum of ancient weapons!

If you wish, you can opt for a private tour of the castle and the old town on an E-Bike with a guide. A great way to discover Alicante and its treasures in an unusual and 100% authentic manner! Alternatively, for beer enthusiasts, you will have the opportunity to participate in a craft beer tasting at Santa Barbara Castle, all while enjoying a magnificent view of the sea

Alicante is home to beaches that attract visitors all year round. Among the must-sees, Playa del Postiguet is located in the heart of the city, with an unbeatable view of Santa Barbara Castle As for San Juan beach, it is situated a bit further north of the city, but is renowned for its vast stretches of fine sand, crystal-clear waters, and summer activities!

If you're looking for a more tranquil spot, La Albufereta is a peaceful option, while the coves at Cabo de las Huertas beach are perfect for diving. Don't miss Tabarca Island, a protected natural paradise accessible by boat, where you can indulge in diving and relaxation on its secluded beaches. I'll elaborate more on that later in this post!

The old town of El Barrio reveals the authentic charm specific to Alicante! Its narrow cobblestoned streets, lined with colorful houses, transport you back to the medieval past of Alicante. Among the iconic sites to admire are the Santa Maria Basilica, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, and the Saint Nicholas Cathedral, which I will discuss in detail just below

You can also stroll around Plaza del Ayuntamiento and explore the lively Plaza Portal de Elche filled with restaurants and bars. Every corner of El Barrio is full of fascinating discoveries, from artisan shops to quaint cafés. A true delight if you want to wander through the city!

The Santa Maria Basilica, located in the heart of Alicante's old town, was built on the foundations of an ancient mosque. It reflects a rich combination of architectural styles, ranging from Gothic to Baroque, with an equally impressive interior, showcasing golden altars, religious sculptures, and stained glass windows.

Among the notable things to see is the Chapel of the Holy Cross, adorned with a magnificent fresco of the Holy Shroud, as well as the altarpiece of the Master of the Cathedral, a remarkable work of art from the 16th century. You can also explore the crypt which houses burials and medieval archaeological remains.

The Saint Nicholas Cathedral of Alicante, also known as the Co-Cathedral of San Nicolás de Bari, is an iconic architectural masterpiece in Baroque style. Built between the 14th and 18th centuries, the cathedral features a richly adorned façade! As you continue your visit, you will find its interior just as impressive with vaulted ceilings, ornate wooden altars, and magnificent frescoes

Inside, you will find the chapel of the Virgen del Remedio, which houses a precious sculpture of the Virgin, as well as the treasury room where important liturgical objects are displayed. Visitors can climb to the top of the cathedral's bell tower for a panoramic view of Alicante. Note that the Saint Nicholas Cathedral is one of the major tourist, cultural, and historical attractions sought by tourists!

The Central Market of Alicante, also known as Mercado Central, is a must-visit for food lovers and visitors seeking authenticity Located in the heart of the city, this vibrant market is a true feast for the senses. It offers an immersive experience to explore the culinary culture of Spain!

Inside the market, stalls overflow with local fresh produce, from freshly caught seafood to colorful fruits and vegetables, not to mention spices and cured meats. The atmosphere is warm with the lively crowd, chatting with vendors, and sampling olives, cheeses, and Iberian hams To learn more, feel free to join a guided tour of the city, which will let you taste the best specialties! Additionally, for €29 per person, the tour of the castle and a tapas restaurant are included in the excursion You will also discover the secrets of the city!

In addition to all these delights, the building itself showcases a beautiful modernist façade. The azulejos and brick vaults add even more charm and authenticity to this gathering place!

The Explanada de España is one of the most iconic promenades in Alicante. Located by the sea, this beautiful promenade is lined with trees, palm trees, and colorful marble mosaics that create a checkerboard pavement, a must-see viewpoint regularly photographed by tourists and locals alike!

Among the interesting points of interest around, you will find the Alicante Casino, an elegant Neoclassical style building, as well as numerous restaurants and cafés where you can enjoy local dishes while taking in views of the Mediterranean Sea. The promenade is also the meeting point for many cultural and festive events throughout the year, notably the Hogueras in June.

If you're looking for things to see in Alicante, then the Santa Cruz neighborhood at the foot of Santa Barbara Castle is famous for its colorful houses and authentic atmosphere. As you stroll through the cobblestone streets of Santa Cruz, you'll be charmed by its peaceful vibe

Among the points of interest in this area, there's the small church of Santa Cruz, dating back to the 18th century, an example of local religious architecture. The Plaza del Carmen is a square where you can sit and enjoy a refreshing drink in one of the outdoor cafés. But venturing further, you'll be rewarded with beautiful views of the city from the Ereta Park, both a viewpoint and a must-see spot.

Tabarca Island is an idyllic destination for a day trip. It is the largest island in the Valencia region and is renowned for its preserved natural beauty and historical heritage. The island was once a pirate hideout, but today it is a protected marine natural park that is a must-see!

If you wish to visit the island, I recommend booking a round-trip boat ticket in advance to Tabarca Island. There, you can discover the small fishing village of the same name, with its narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and small seafood restaurants. A picturesque place to explore The Tabarca Museum allows you to learn more about the island.

As you venture around the island, you'll find beautiful beaches, such as La Nao beach, perfect for swimming in its crystal-clear waters. The underwater landscapes of Tabarca are a favored spot for scuba diving enthusiasts. At the end of the day, enjoy fresh seafood dishes in the local restaurants before taking in the evening entertainment!

The Alicante Archaeological Museum, commonly known by its acronym MARQ, is one of the cultural highlights of Alicante. This renowned museum offers a journey through the history of the Alicante region, from Prehistory to the medieval era. It stands out for its modern and interactive approach to presenting history, providing an educational experience suitable for all, even the little ones

The MARQ houses a vast collection of archaeological objects, underwater discoveries, historical reconstructions, and temporary exhibitions. Among the highlights are the remnants of the ancient Roman city of Lucentum nearby, as well as exhibitions on Iberian art and underwater archaeology.

This cultural gem nestled in the heart of the old town of El Barrio is an elegant home, built in the early 20th century, and is a magnificent example of modernist architecture in Alicante. The Casa Carbonell Museum presents a vision of the city and regional history, as well as bourgeois life of the time.

You can admire architectural elements, such as colorful mosaics, intricately carved wooden ceilings, and decorative details. The museum's exhibitions also provide insight into daily life in the early 20th century through period furniture, costumes, and personal items.

Located about 30 minutes drive from Alicante, the Elche palm grove is an invaluable botanical treasure and a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2000 It is the largest collection of palm trees in Europe, home to more than 200,000 specimens, some of which are centuries old. This lush oasis is ideal for a peaceful getaway, as well as for nature and gardening enthusiasts!

Among the notable points of interest, the Garden of the Empress is an enchanting place where palms are intertwined with fountains and ponds, creating a serene atmosphere. The Huerto del Cura, on the other hand, is a botanical garden renowned for its extraordinary palms.

The Serra Gelada Natural Park is located between the coasts of Benidorm and Altea, close to Alicante! It is a natural treasure of great beauty that deserves to be explored. This park offers a variety of outdoor experiences for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, but it is especially famous for its spectacular cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

If you're in search of breathtaking panoramas, don't miss this place! To explore the coast from another angle, you can also join a catamaran cruise to Serra Gelada from Altea, accessible for only €12 per person ⛵️

Hikers can follow steep trails to admire panoramic views, while birdwatchers can observe a wide variety of seabirds. The park also features a historic lighthouse, the Faro de l'Albir, for stunning views.

Dénia is known for its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and local cuisine! One of its most famous attractions is the Dénia Castle, a medieval fortress with stunning views of the sea and the town The golden beaches of Dénia, such as Les Rotes and Les Marines, are ideal spots for relaxation that I highly recommend discovering.

The historic center of Dénia is a maze of narrow streets and picturesque houses, while the fish market will delight food lovers! The town is also known for its specialties, notably paella (arroz on restaurant menus), available in many local restaurants. Dénia is also the perfect starting point to explore the natural reserve of Mont Montgó, a preserved area of mountains, cliffs, and hiking trails, officially designated a natural park since 1987.

Much like Serra Gelada, I highly recommend an evening catamaran cruise from Dénia Additionally, for only €18 per person, you can enjoy a glass of cava, a delicious Catalan sparkling wine!

Known for its fishing port, Santa Pola is a popular destination for lovers of fresh seafood and unspoiled beaches. Playa de Levante and Playa de Tamarit are two popular beaches for relaxation and swimming. By the way, this is a city highly favored by Spaniards, particularly Madrilenians who leave the capital for the weekend or a few days to enjoy life by the sea

The city also features the Santa Pola fortress with its sea views, and the Santa Pola Salt Flats Natural Park is another remarkable point of interest, home to fascinating birdlife For a stunning view of Tabarca Island, head to the Faro. Tip: Kiosks located at the port sell round-trip tickets to Tabarca Island for just €10 per person!

With its name literally meaning 'joyful village', this charming Spanish village truly lives up to its name Here, you can admire pretty fisherman houses painted in bright colors lining the waterfront. It is one of the most beautiful villages to discover around Alicante, highly appreciated for its peaceful atmosphere and picturesque charms.

The old town is a must-see where you can stroll through narrow streets, admire historical architecture, and enjoy fresh seafood dishes in the restaurants. Don't miss visiting the Valor chocolate factory to learn about the chocolate-making process, not to mention the most important part of the visit: tasting the best products You can even take this opportunity to buy some souvenirs!

If you are unsure when to visit Alicante, know that this destination is ideal, regardless of the time of the year! Aside from January and February, which are a bit cooler, the region offers mild temperatures.

The best season remains October, with pleasant warmth during the day, cooler evenings, and significantly fewer tourists!

Spring is also an excellent season, as temperatures rise from March. It's an ideal period for enjoying walks, hiking, and discovering the surrounding villages. However, be cautious, as tourists start to appear by April, so plan your departure well!

As for the summer season, July and August are very hot. Temperatures can reach very high peaks, up to 113 degrees Fahrenheit in some cases

That's it for this article! I hope you liked it and now know what to do in Alicante and the surrounding areas If you have the opportunity to discover other places in the country and are looking for what to see in Seville or what to do in Madrid for example, you can check out my dedicated articles to find all the info!