Image Source: AI Generated
Welcome to Alicante, a gem on Spain's Costa Blanca that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and seaside charm. With its year-round pleasant climate and stunning Mediterranean coastline, Alicante has become a top destination for tourists seeking sun, sand, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're drawn to its beautiful beaches, rich heritage, or vibrant nightlife, this city has something for everyone.
Your Alicante adventure awaits, packed with exciting activities and must-see attractions. Get ready to explore the winding streets of the historic Old Town, soak up the sun on San Juan beach, and immerse yourself in local art and culture. You'll also have a chance to savor delicious cuisine, experience the lively nightlife, and maybe even tee off at one of the nearby golf courses. So pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable journey through this captivating Spanish city.
Explore the Historic Old Town of Alicante
As you begin your journey through Alicante's historic old town, you'll find yourself immersed in a world of charm and history. This area, known as the Barrio de Santa Cruz, is a maze of narrow, winding streets lined with whitewashed buildings adorned with colorful flowers and vibrant shutters. It's a place where you can easily lose yourself in the beauty of traditional Spanish architecture and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Visit Santa Bárbara Castle
Your exploration of Alicante's old town wouldn't be complete without a visit to the iconic Santa Bárbara Castle. Perched atop Mount Benacantil at a height of 166 meters, this imposing fortress has a commanding presence over the city and bay. The castle's history dates back to the 9th century when it was originally an Islamic alcazar. As you wander through its ancient walls, you'll discover three distinct enclosures from different periods, each offering a unique glimpse into the past.
The upper enclosure, known as "La Torreta," houses the oldest remains of the fortress, mostly dating from the 14th century. In the mid-level enclosure, you'll find important buildings from the 16th century, including the magnificent Salón Felipe II hall and the Patio de Armas parade ground. The lower enclosure, dating back to the 18th century, is home to the Revellín del Bon Repós ravelin.
To reach the castle, you have several options. You can take a scenic walk through the old town, hop on a shuttle bus from Plaza del Doctor Gómez Ulla, or use the lift located in front of Postiguet Beach. Whichever route you choose, the panoramic views from the castle's ramparts are sure to take your breath away.
Wander through Barrio de la Santa Cruz
As you descend from the castle, take time to explore the charming Barrio de la Santa Cruz. This picturesque neighborhood is the oldest part of Alicante, with a distinct Moorish influence evident in its layout. The area has a unique atmosphere that feels like a traditional Andalusian village within the city itself.
Stroll along Calle San Rafael, one of the most iconic streets in the old town. Here, you'll find cute whitewashed houses with colorful doors, windows, and potted plants cascading down steep staircases. Another equally picturesque street to explore is Calle San Antonio, which offers fantastic views of the city from the Mirador de La Santa Cruz lookout point.
Admire the Basilica of Santa María
Your journey through Alicante's old town culminates with a visit to the Basilica of Santa María, the city's oldest active church. Built between the 14th and 16th centuries on the site of a former mosque, this beautiful example of Valencian Gothic architecture has a fascinating history.
As you approach the basilica, you'll notice its striking Baroque facade, crowned by two asymmetrical towers. The first tower dates back to the 14th century, while the second was added in the 18th century. Step inside to admire the intricate gold altar, constructed in the 18th century in the Rococo style, and the beautiful statue of Mary by 18th-century sculptor Jose Esteve Bonnet.
Relax on Alicante's Beautiful Beaches
Alicante's stunning coastline offers a perfect blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. With its year-round pleasant climate and crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea, the beaches in Alicante are some of the most beautiful in the Valencia region. Whether you're looking to soak up the sun, take a refreshing dip, or enjoy water sports, Alicante's beaches have something for everyone.
Playa del Postiguet
Playa del Postiguet is one of the best beaches in Alicante for convenience. Located right in the heart of the city, this urban beach stretches for almost 900 meters at the foot of Santa Barbara castle. Its fine golden sand and shallow, calm waters make it ideal for families with young children. The beach boasts excellent facilities, including showers, sun lounger rentals, and a children's play area.
One of the major advantages of Postiguet beach is its proximity to the town center. You can easily take a break from sunbathing to stroll along the promenade or explore nearby attractions. The beach is also known for its lively atmosphere, especially during summer evenings when locals and tourists gather to enjoy the vibrant nightlife.
San Juan Beach
If you're looking for a more expansive beach experience, San Juan Beach is the perfect destination. Located about 7 kilometers from the city center, this stunning stretch of coastline is often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Spain. San Juan Beach extends for nearly 7 kilometers, offering ample space for sunbathing, beach sports, and leisurely walks along the shore.
The beach is known for its excellent facilities, including volleyball courts, beach football areas, and a wide range of water sports activities. You'll find numerous beach clubs, cafes, and restaurants along the promenade, making it easy to spend a full day here. The calm waters and fine sand make it an ideal spot for swimming and relaxation.
Tabarca Island
For a unique beach experience, consider taking a day trip to Tabarca Island. This small island, located off the coast of Alicante, is the only inhabited island in the region and has been designated as a Mediterranean Marine Reserve. The island's beaches offer crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and diving, allowing you to explore the rich marine life that thrives in the protected waters.
Tabarca Island also boasts a charming village with narrow streets, historic buildings, and excellent seafood restaurants. While the island can get busy during peak summer months, it's still a great escape from the mainland and offers a different perspective on Alicante's coastal beauty.
Immerse Yourself in the Culture and Art of Alicante
Alicante isn't just about sun and sand; it's also a hub of rich cultural experiences and artistic treasures. The city boasts several world-class museums that offer a deep dive into history, archeology, and contemporary art. Let's explore some of the must-visit cultural institutions in Alicante.
MARQ Archeological Museum
The MARQ Archeological Museum, housed in the historic San Juan de Dios Hospital, is a standout attraction for history buffs and culture enthusiasts. This museum has taken on the challenge of being the first archeological museum of the 21st century, presenting its collection in an innovative and engaging way.
As you step into MARQ, you'll find yourself on an emotive journey through local history. The museum is divided into various thematic sections, covering Prehistory, the Iberians, the Romans, the Medieval Age, and the Modern and Contemporary Historical Periods. Interactive consoles provide detailed information on archeological sites and objects, offering insights into the different ways of life of various cultures.
One of the unique aspects of MARQ is its focus on archeological techniques. The museum features three galleries dedicated to Field Archeology, Urban Archeology, and Underwater Archeology. Through dioramas, audio-visual presentations, and interactive displays, you'll gain a fascinating insight into the methods archeologists use to uncover the past.
MACA Contemporary Art Museum
For a taste of modern creativity, head to the Alicante Museum of Contemporary Art (MACA). Located next to the Santa María church, this municipal museum showcases an impressive collection of 20th-century and contemporary art. The museum building itself is a work of art, combining the venerable Casa de La Asegurada, a remarkable example of Valencian baroque architecture from 1685, with a striking modern extension.
MACA houses three permanent collections totaling about 800 art pieces. The highlight is the collection of 20th-century art, which includes works by renowned artists such as Joan Miró, Pablo Picasso, and Salvador Dalí. This collection was generously donated to the city by local artist Eusebio Sempere in 1976.
Gravina Museum of Fine Arts
To complete your cultural tour, visit the Gravina Museum of Fine Arts (MUBAG). Situated in the Palacio del Conde de Lumiares, an architectural gem from the 18th century, MUBAG offers a journey through Alicante's artistic heritage from the 16th century to the early 20th century.
The museum houses nearly 500 works from the provincial council's collection, including a sculpture by Francisco Salzillo and a portrait of Ferdinand VII by Valencian painter Vicente López Portaña. You'll also find works by important regional painters of the 19th century, reflecting major trends such as historicism, customs, portraits, and landscapes.
Experience Alicante's Vibrant Nightlife and Cuisine
As the sun sets over the Mediterranean Sea, Alicante comes alive with a vibrant nightlife and culinary scene that will captivate your senses. From bustling tapas bars to lively clubs, you'll find plenty of options to keep you entertained well into the early hours.
Explore El Barrio
El Barrio, Alicante's charming old town, is the heart of the city's nightlife. This historic neighborhood, once considered the "bad part of town," has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent decades. Today, it's a hub of cultural and touristic attractions, lively bars, stunning architecture, and inviting terrace cafés.
As you wander through the winding streets of El Barrio, you'll discover a diverse range of venues to suit every taste. From traditional taverns serving local wines to modern cocktail bars with creative concoctions, there's something for everyone. The nightlife in this area starts relatively late, with many establishments not opening until 11 pm and continuing until the early hours of the morning.
For a unique experience, head to Plaza De Quijano, where you'll find La Plata Barrio. This traditional bar offers a superb setting with both indoor and outdoor seating options. Enjoy a cold Estrella Galicia beer while taking in the stunning views of Santa Barbara Castle.
Try local rice dishes and seafood of Alicante
No visit to Alicante would be complete without savoring the local cuisine, particularly the famous rice dishes and fresh seafood. The city's proximity to the Mediterranean Sea and its historical ties to Muslim culture have greatly influenced its gastronomy.
One of the most iconic dishes you must try is arroz alicantino, or Alicante-style rice. This dish comes in various forms, such as arroz a banda (fish and seafood rice), arroz con conejo y caracoles (rice with rabbit and snails), and arroz negro con sepia y gambas (black rice with cuttlefish and prawns). For an authentic experience, eat it directly from the paella pan if the restaurant allows it.
Seafood lovers should not miss the opportunity to sample the langostinos de Santa Pola (Santa Pola-style langoustines). These succulent prawns are renowned for their exceptional quality and exquisite flavor. You can enjoy them boiled or served with a delicate, creamy aioli sauce.
For a quick and tasty snack, try the local specialty called pericana. This flavorful paste is made with ñora peppers, flaked cod, garlic, olive oil, and salt. Spread it on toasted bread for a delicious tapa that captures the essence of Alicante's cuisine.
Visit the Alicante Central Market
To truly immerse yourself in Alicante's culinary culture, a visit to the Central Market is a must. This bustling market, located at the end of La Rambla, is housed in a beautiful early 20th-century building. Here, you'll find an incredible array of fresh produce, seafood, meats, and local specialties spread across two floors.
The Central Market is not just a place to shop; it's a sensory experience that showcases the best of Alicante's gastronomy. You can sample local cheeses, cured meats, olives, and other delicacies as you browse the stalls. The market is also an excellent spot to pick up ingredients for a picnic or to try some traditional tapas at one of the small bars inside.
As you explore Alicante's vibrant nightlife and indulge in its delicious cuisine, you'll discover why this Costa Blanca gem has become a top destination for food lovers and night owls alike. From the lively atmosphere of El Barrio to the mouthwatering flavors of local dishes, Alicante offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you wanting more.
Conclusion
Alicante offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and seaside charm that has a powerful impact on visitors. From exploring the winding streets of the historic Old Town to relaxing on beautiful beaches, immersing yourself in art and culture, and enjoying the vibrant nightlife and cuisine, this Costa Blanca gem provides unforgettable experiences. The city's rich heritage, stunning Mediterranean coastline, and year-round pleasant climate make it a top destination to visit.
To wrap up, Alicante's diverse attractions cater to all types of travelers, whether you're seeking sun and sand, cultural enrichment, or culinary adventures. The city's unique combination of historical sites, modern amenities, and natural beauty creates an environment that's both captivating and rejuvenating. As you plan your trip to this enchanting Spanish city, keep in mind the wealth of experiences waiting for you in Alicante.
Check here if you want to look at different properties in Alicante
