What’s there to do in Alicante, you ask? Imagine unwinding by the Mediterranean’s turquoise waters or witnessing the historic grandeur of the Santa Barbara Castle. Alicante in Spain is not your ordinary holiday destination – it’s an adventure that defies the usual!
As the vibrant capital of Spain’s Costa Blanca, Alicante has something for everyone. Picture this: beautiful beaches, endless sunshine, and an easy-on-the-pocket European city break. There’s a bit of magic here whether you’re a sun-chaser, a young adventurer, or a family on a memorable holiday in Spain.
How about a ferry ride to the tranquil island of Tabarca or a tour of the iconic Santa Bárbara Castle? And let’s not even start on the beaches – they’re some of the best in Europe! Alicante promises a diverse array of activities, whether you’re here for a few days or planning a longer stay.
When the sun sets, Alicante transforms. The city comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene, ready for those looking for some after-dark fun. And for the romantics, there are plenty of intimate spots and experiences to make your stay even more memorable.
Even in November, Alicante continues to charm. The city stays alive with activity, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. Plus, you’ll find numerous free activities that make exploring Alicante easy on the wallet too!
And for those who like to stray off the beaten path, Alicante’s hidden gems await. These unique finds offer a break from the well-trodden tourist spots, and who knows, you might just discover something extraordinary to add to your itinerary.
So, whether you’re sitting at home wondering about things to do near me, or meticulously planning your Spanish escapade, Alicante is your answer. With fun-filled activities, surprising experiences, and beautiful sites to explore, Alicante keeps you on your toes.
Alicante – car hire:
We have rented cars many times during holidays in Spain and we always used discovercars.com
Check out our guide to the best Spanish car hire company or simply explore the options directly on discovercars.com if you need a car during a trip to Alicante.
If you are looking for fun activities and unique things to do on your next holiday to Alicante city read our guide to Alicante’s best points of interest. We have created a list of top 15 must-see-and-do activities so you can make the most out of your visit to Alicante.
Make sure you add Alicante to your travel bucket list!
Is Alicante a nice part of Spain?
Yes, Alicante is generally considered to be a nice part of Spain. It is a coastal city located in the Valencia region and is known for its beautiful beaches, mild climate, and vibrant culture. Alicante offers a combination of historic charm, modern amenities, and a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle. The city also serves as a gateway to the Costa Blanca region, which is renowned for its picturesque coastal towns and resorts.
Where to stay in Alicante?
What is the best place to stay in Alicante? There is no shortage of amazing places to stay during your holiday in Alicante. Please see below some of the TOP hotels we have selected for you.
Places to stay in Alicante:
“Located 650 yards away from San Juan Beach and 10 minutes’ drive from the city centre. The hotel offers free outdoor parking and free Wi-Fi connection in public areas.”
“Tryp Alicante Gran Sol Hotel is just 350 yards from Alicante’s Postiguet Beach and offers wonderful city and sea views. It has a 24-hour reception and free Wi-Fi in all areas.”
Need more inspiration? Find a hotel in your favourite part of Alicante.
Alicante facts:
| Country: | Spain |
| Region: | South-East |
| Population: | ~338,000 |
| Best month to visit: | June |
| Festivals: | Bonfires of Saint John |
| Twin towns: | Brighton and Hove |
What are the best things to do in Alicante Spain?
Let us introduce you to the list of the 15 unusual things to do in Alicante:
1. Playa del Postiguet
What to do in Alicante? Playa del Postiquet is definitly top on Alicante things to do list! This gorgeous urban beach is covered in fine sand that will make your holiday worth remembering. It’s ideal for both swimming and sunbathing, as well as building the odd sandcastle.
Lined with palm trees and quaint cafés in which you can quench thirst and hunger, it also has a bi-level promenade. There’s a reason it’s one of the most popular beaches in Alicante, and this is it. It really is one of the best things to do in Alicante.
2. Tabarca
Looking for top Alicante attractions? Tabarca island is a must do activities in Alacante. This little islet in the Mediterranean Sea can be found close to the town of Santa Pola in Alicante. It is the only inhabited island in the region, and you can get there via boat.
You’ll want to put a whole day aside to visit this location, and there are some amazing beaches and caves that you can explore. Not to mention the amazing food and drink that can be sampled during your trip.
This is one of the best adventures in Alicante even if you only one day in Alicante!
3. Basilica of Santa Maria
Looking for best Alicante city things to do? From all the things to do in Costa Blanca, Basilica of Santa Maria is the one which is covered by almost every Alicante tourist guide.
This is the oldest active church in Alicante, and its Gothic architecture makes it one of the most beautiful. It was built somewhere between the 14th and 16th century, and while it may not be the largest, it certainly leaves an impression on all who visit.
It’s worth getting a tour of the interior while you are visiting Alicante, especially if you love history. It really is a contender for the most unusual things to do in Alicante.
4. Catamaran Cruise
A must-have on your Alicante best things to do list! Any Alicante city guide will recommend you to do a catamaran cruise while visiting this Spanish city.
From coastal catamaran cruise with snorkeling to Sunset cruise this really is one of the best Alicante Spain attractions. Are you going to book one? 🙂
5. Paseo de la Explanada
This promenade stretches parallel from the port, making for a relaxing and peaceful walk under gorgeous palm trees that line either side. It is also one fo the best and free Alicante tourist attractions.
The actual paving is stunning, with bright colours and a truly Spanish theme. It actually consists of 6.5 million tiles and is one of the most popular streets in the city. It really is one of the fun things to do in Alicante. You’re likely to find some great food and shopping as you walk along it as well.
6. Mount Benacantil
What to see in Alicante? This really is Alicante must see! When in the urban areas of Alicante, you will notice that this mount dominates the area. It stands tall and proud, with a view from the sea that leaves you feeling like you are in paradise. It’s probably one of the most popular tourist attractions in this Spanish city.
On top of the mount is an old fortress, known as the Castle of Santa Barbara. So, whether you want to visit history or admire the view of Alicante from the top, it’s worth visiting. It’s one of my favourite and possibly one of the best things to do in Alicante.
7. Tandem Paraglide Flight
This pobabaly isn’t for everyone but if you love adrenaline the tandem paraglide flight will be very top of your list of Alicante outdoor activities.
In adition, you will get the opportunity to see all best places in Alicante Spain from… above 😉
8. Port of Alicante
This is a seaport in Alicante, and it is used for both commercial and passenger traffic. It’s quite large as well, and despite being industrial, it remains carefully organised and is beautiful in its own right. It has an interesting history that you are able to learn more about. Walking around the port is one of the best things to do Alicante Spain. From here, you can also visit all the best places near Alicante.
If you are docking there, then you have quick and easy access to the city centre via a shuttle bus. Would you add this port to your list of the best stuff to do in Alicante?
9. Playa de Muchavista
What to do in Alicante Spain? Visit Playa de Muchavista! This beach is gorgeous, vast, and covered in gentle sand. The edges are lined with palm trees for that tropical feel. This really is one of the top Alicante Spain points of interest.
It’s the ideal place to be if you want to spend some time sunbathing, paddling, or building the ultimate sandcastle. You’ll find a whole host of restaurants, museums, and shopping along the beach as well, so you can combine relaxation and activities. We couldn’t forget to shout out Playa de Muchavista as one of the best tourist attractions in Alicante, could we? 🙂
Read more: 15 Best Beaches in Europe – TOP destinations for a Beach Holiday!
10. Wine Tasting Tour
Where to go for things to do in Alicante? If you love wine then this tour is Alicante must do! The famous vineyards are some of the most visited and best places in Alicante.
During this tour, you will learn all about the local winemaking process and you will have to opportunity to taste it too! Yes, you can buy a bottle or two and take this local wine as souvenirs 😉
11. Canelobre Caves
If you a looking for the best things to do near Alicante, go to Canelobre Caves.
23km away from the city of Alicante, you will find the small town of Busot. Here, you have the Canelobre Caves. They are famous due to the vaulted ceilings that stand 70m high; a lot like those found in a cathedral. Inside, you can have a tour of the caves, learning more about what makes them so spectacular, as well as their rich history.
The prices are incredibly reasonable and well worth it.
12. Mercado Central de Alicante
Need more top things to do in Alicante?
No matter where you go, marketplaces are somewhere you simply have to travel. This one has been running for decades and is exactly where you need to be if you want to sample the local cuisine. Stop and buy some meats and cheeses to create your own lunch, or some fresh fish to cook up for dinner.
You can even try the food lovingly created by those who are running street food stalls.
13. Guadalest Valley & Algar Waterfalls Tour
Where to visit for best places in Alicante on a day trip? If you like mountains and stunning valleys then you have to visit the village of Guadalest. It’s probably not what you would expect from our Alicante to do list but this tour really is worth doing!
In addition you will also have the opportunity to swim in the stunning crystal-clear spring pools of the Algar Waterfalls. This really is one of the best Alicante trips you can do.
14. Town Hall of Alicante
This is one of the most recognisable buildings in the city. Once you set your eyes on the glorious architecture, it is easy to see why. It was built on the site of the previous town hall, and you can take a tour on the inside. Nowadays this is great sightseeing in Alicante Old Town.
The interior rooms are amazing, with a sweet little chapel, as well as two exceptionally decorated rooms that you need to experience up close and in person.
15. Saint Ferdinand Castle
Visiting Saint Ferdinand Castle is also one of the top activities in Alicante. This castle may be in ruins, but it remains a site full of history and wonder. It was built in the 19th Century as a defence against the French forces, but it turned out to be useless and was abandoned.
You will find museums on the site, taking you through the 7,000 years history of the city and the buildings within it. The castle itself has ornate doorways and entrances intact, giving insight into what a modern castle looks like.
Is it worth visiting Alicante Spain?
So, is Alicante worth visiting? With so many unique things to do in Alicante, the Spanish city is a perfect place for a short break in Europe or just to relax on one of the best beaches in Europe. With so many Alicante activities there is a bit of everything for everyone.
It’s a very compact city so you wouldn’t have to rent a car while in the capital city of Costa Blanca. We really enjoyed our trip to Alicante – one of the cheapest places you can visit in Spain. Would you go on your next holiday to Alicante? 🙂
Planning a trip to Alicante soon? Make sure you use the below resources:
* Find a cheap flight to Alicante
* Rent a car at Alicante airport, but before you do that read our guide about renting a car in Europe
* Book accommodation: 3* Hotels in Alicante start at €45!
* Read our other Spanish articles: Gran Canaria, Ronda or Lanzarote
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ALICANTE FAQ:
What to visit in Alicante? One of the best things about Alicante is that it doesn’t matter who you are travelling with, there is plenty to do. For families, you can visit the Algar Waterfalls or perhaps the Terra Natura Zoo Theme Park. You may also want to plan a trip to the Rio Safari Park or the Aqua Natura Waterpark.
Looking for the best of both worlds during your time in Spain? If this is true for you then you might want to see whether or not you can get between Barcelona and Alicante. The good news is that you can travel between the two either by road or by train. However, it is important to know that this journey can take around 5 hours on the train.
There are many great places to visit in Alicante. It is no secret that the city is a popular tourist destination that many people want to visit at some point. However, you might be surprised to learn that it is thought that as many as 3 million tourists visit Alicante each and every year and that number doesn’t show any signs of slowing down.
Why is Alicante so popular?
Alicante is a popular tourist destination located on the south-eastern coast of Spain, in the region of Valencia. There are several reasons why Alicante is so popular among tourists:
- Weather: Alicante has a Mediterranean climate, which means that it has mild winters and hot summers. This makes it an ideal destination for people looking to escape the cold weather of their home country.
- Beaches: Alicante is home to several beautiful beaches, such as the Playa del Postiguet and the San Juan Beach. These beaches are known for their crystal clear waters, fine golden sands and wide range of facilities and services.
- History and Culture: Alicante has a rich history and culture, with a number of historical sites such as the Castle of Santa Barbara, the Basilica of Santa Maria and the Co-Cathedral of Saint Nicholas of Bari.
- Food and drink: The region of Alicante is known for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine and its wines. Visitors can enjoy a variety of seafood, paellas, and other traditional dishes.
- Nightlife: Alicante has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a wide variety of bars, clubs, and other venues to choose from.
- Good Connectivity: Alicante is well connected by air and road, making it easy to get to from many European cities.
All these factors combined make Alicante a very attractive destination for tourists from all around the world.
It’s worth noting that the information I have provided is based on the knowledge cut-off date, and it’s always best to check with the local authorities or the tourist board for any possible changes or updates.
Is Alicante the same as Benidorm?
Alicante and Benidorm are two different towns located in the same province of Alicante, in the region of Valencia, on the south-eastern coast of Spain.
Alicante is a historic port city and the capital of the province of Alicante. It is known for its beautiful beaches, rich history and culture, delicious Mediterranean cuisine and its lively nightlife. It’s also a university city, which gives it a lively and cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Benidorm, on the other hand, is a seaside resort town that is located about 50km north of Alicante. It’s known for its high-rise buildings and large hotels, as well as its long beaches, nightlife, and many theme parks. It’s a popular destination for tourists looking for a fun-filled beach holiday.
While they are two different towns, they are both located in the province of Alicante, and they share some similarities such as the Mediterranean climate, the beautiful beaches and the coastal location. However, they have different atmospheres, different types of tourist attractions and different types of visitors.
Is Alicante cheap for a holiday?
Alicante can be considered a relatively affordable holiday destination, compared to other European destinations. The cost of living in Alicante is generally lower than in many other popular European tourist destinations.
Accommodation in Alicante can range from budget-friendly hostels and apartments to more upscale hotels. Prices will vary depending on the time of year and location, but generally, you can find good deals on accommodation.
Food and drink in Alicante are also relatively affordable, especially when compared to other European cities. You can find a wide range of options, from street food to high-end restaurants, that offer delicious Mediterranean cuisine at reasonable prices.
Transportation in Alicante is also relatively cheap, with buses and trains that connect the city with other destinations. Taxis are also a good option, and they are reasonably priced.
Attractions and activities such as visiting museums, historical sites, or theme parks have different prices, but many of them offer discounted rates for online tickets or for groups.
Overall, Alicante can be considered a budget-friendly holiday destination, and it offers a great value for money. It’s always best to check with the local authorities or the tourist board for any possible changes or updates.
Which is better Malaga or Alicante?
The choice between Malaga and Alicante depends on personal preferences and what you are looking for in a destination.
Malaga is located in the Andalusia region and is known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and vibrant nightlife. It offers a mix of historic sites, such as the Alcazaba fortress and the Picasso Museum, as well as beautiful beaches and a lively atmosphere.
Alicante, on the other hand, is situated in the Valencia region and is known for its stunning coastline, with long stretches of sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. It has a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere compared to Malaga, with a focus on outdoor activities, such as water sports and coastal hiking.
Both cities have their own unique charm and offer a range of attractions and amenities. Ultimately, the better choice depends on your personal preferences regarding history, culture, nightlife, and the type of beach experience you are seeking.
How far is Alicante from the beach?
The distance from the center of Alicante to the nearest beach will depend on which specific beach you are looking to visit. The main beaches of Alicante city are Playa del Postiguet and Playa de San Juan.
The Playa del Postiguet is the closest beach to the city center, it’s located about 1.5 km from the city center, or around a 20-minute walk. The Playa de San Juan is located about 5 km from the city center, or around a 20-minute bus ride or car drive.
There are also other beaches in the surrounding areas, such as Altea, Santa Pola, and San Juan, that are easily accessible by bus or car, and they are located around 20-30 km from the city center, or around 30-40 minutes drive.
Is Alicante hot all year?
Alicante, located on the south-eastern coast of Spain, has a Mediterranean climate which means it has mild winters and hot summers. The city experiences hot and dry summers, typically from June to September, with average temperatures ranging from 28 to 32°C (82 to 90°F).
The winter months, typically from December to February, are mild, with temperatures ranging from 12 to 18°C (54 to 64°F). The weather in Alicante during the winter is usually quite pleasant with occasional rain.
The spring and autumn months, typically from March to May, and from September to November, are mild with temperatures averaging around 20-25°C (68-77°F) and occasional rain.
Overall, the weather in Alicante is quite pleasant all year round, however, the summer months are the hottest and the winter months are the mildest. It’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly.
What UK airports fly direct to Alicante?
Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC) is a major airport on the south-eastern coast of Spain, that is well connected to the United Kingdom. Many airlines operate flights from the United Kingdom to Alicante, several UK airports offer direct flights to Alicante. Here are some of the most popular UK airports that have direct flights to Alicante:
- London Gatwick (LGW)
- London Luton (LTN)
- London Heathrow (LHR)
- London Stansted (STN)
- Manchester (MAN)
- Bristol (BRS)
- Birmingham (BHX)
- Glasgow (GLA)
- Edinburgh (EDI)
These are just a few examples and the list might change depending on the season, the airlines and the current situation. It’s best to check with your preferred airline or travel agent to see if they offer direct flights from your nearest airport to Alicante, and to check the most current and accurate information on flight schedules and prices.
How long does it take to fly from the UK to Alicante?
The flight time from the UK to Alicante, Spain, can vary depending on the specific departure location and airline. On average, a direct flight from London to Alicante takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes. However, if you are departing from other cities in the UK, the flight time can range from 2-5 hours depending on the location and connection. It’s always best to check with a specific airline for the most accurate flight time for your departure location.
Can you swim in the sea in Alicante?
Yes, you can swim in the sea in Alicante. The city is located on the Mediterranean coast and has several beaches where swimming is popular. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include the Playa del Postiguet, the Playa San Juan, and the Playa de la Almadraba. These beaches offer clear waters and fine sandy beaches, ideal for swimming, sunbathing and other beach activities. Be aware that the sea temperature in Alicante varies depending on the season, with the warmest waters being during the summer months between June and September, when the average sea temperature can reach around 25°C.
How many days are enough for Alicante?
The amount of time needed to spend in Alicante will depend on your personal preferences and interests. However, generally speaking, a minimum of 3-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in Alicante to see the main attractions and get a sense of the city’s culture and atmosphere.
During 3-4 days, you’ll have enough time to visit the main beaches, such as Playa del Postiguet, Playa de San Juan or Altea, and enjoy the Mediterranean climate. You’ll also have time to explore the historic city center, with its charming streets and plazas, the Castle of Santa Barbara, and the Basilica of Santa Maria.
Additionally, you could also take a day trip to the neighboring towns such as Elche, which is known for its palm groves, or Santa Pola, which is a fishing village with a great beach and good seafood restaurants.
If you’re looking for more relaxation and beach time, a longer stay of 7-10 days would be ideal. This will give you enough time to explore the area more thoroughly and take your time to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle.
It’s always a good idea to check with the local authorities or the tourist board for the most current and accurate information on the available activities and attractions, and plan your trip accordingly.
How far is Alicante from Alicante airport?
Alicante is the city in which the Alicante Airport (also known as El Altet Airport) is located. The distance between the city of Alicante and the Alicante Airport is approximately 8 miles (13 kilometers). The typical drive time is around 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. There are several ways to travel from the airport to the city center, including by bus, taxi, or car rental. There are also shuttle buses and private transfer services available for travelers.
What is the coldest month in Alicante Spain?
The coldest month in Alicante, Spain, is January, when the average temperature ranges from 10 to 14°C (50 to 57°F). The temperatures during the day can reach around 17°C (62°F) and nighttime temperatures can drop to around 7°C (45°F).
Please keep in mind that while January is considered the coldest month in Alicante, it’s still relatively mild compared to other European destinations. The weather in Alicante during the winter months is usually quite pleasant and you can still enjoy some outdoor activities such as walking, hiking or cycling.
It’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Keep in mind that weather can be unpredictable, and you should always be prepared for the possibility of rain and cool temperatures.
Is Alicante a party town?
While it does have a vibrant nightlife, whether it can be considered a “party town” would depend on one’s perspective and the time of year. It has a good variety of options for night entertainment like pubs, clubs, and bars. Some areas of the city, such as El Barrio (the old town) and the Explanada de España, are particularly popular for their bars and restaurants. However, it also has many family-friendly activities and attractions.
Is this Spanish city good for a holiday?
If you are looking for a fun-packed, beautiful and relaxing holiday in a lovely destination, then Alicante is a great place to go. It doesn’t matter if you are travelling with friends, a partner or perhaps even your entire family, Alicante is a great place to travel to.
From romantic holidays to Alicante to just a day trip to Alicante you can be sure that you will have an amazing time in the beautiful Spanish city!
Day trips from Alicante
Whilst Alicante has plenty to offer, it is also an ideal base to explore the wider area. There are a variety of day trips available to book on from Alicante. You can choose to travel to Benidorm or perhaps Calpe. You could also take a bus from the centre of the city right to San Juan Beach too.
There are many great things to do around Alicante. If beaches are the main thing for you while on holiday in this part of Spain, you have to visit some of the best beaches in Torrevieja too – a perfect family day trip from Alicante!
What is there to do in Alicante in winter?
The majority of people are going to travel to Alicante during the summer months which means that there is going to plenty of time spent on the beach soaking up the sunshine. However, that doesn’t mean that it isn’t worthwhile travelling to Alicante in the winter too. There is so much to see in the area including the Basilica of Santa Maria and also the Contemporary Art Museum, all of which are ideal for any weather and must see Alicante.
Top free things to do in Alicante
None of us mind having to spend out some money during a holiday in order to see as much as possible. However, if you want to try and save yourself some money, then you are going to want to know more about the free things to do. The beach is usually the best place to spend some time if you want to limit your money.
However, you could also explore some of the best sights of the area too, taking advice from the tourist information board. They will let you know about the top 7 unique places in Alicante!
Love Spain?
Read our other articles related to this stunning country:
Unusual Things to do in Tenerife
Unique places to visit in Spain
11 Best things to do in Malaga
When you’re scouting for the next epic getaway, Alicante should be front and center! It’s not just a city, it’s a grand carnival of fun and unique things to do, intertwined with a dash of rich history and sprinkled with sun-kissed beaches.
Get ready for a thrilling roller coaster ride through Alicante’s colorful streets! Uncover the secrets of the ancient Santa Barbara Castle, lose yourself in the charming old town, and create a million memories in this Spanish extravaganza.
Calling all young adults – fancy a spot of adventure? Alicante’s got you covered. Dip your toes in exhilarating water sports, tickle your taste buds with authentic Spanish tapas, or soak up the local vibes – Alicante is your playground!
And for the starry-eyed romantics, Alicante crafts the perfect love story. Relish candlelit dinners by the Mediterranean, walk hand in hand along the stunning Explanada de España, or watch the sky paint a myriad of colors at sunset. Love is always in the air in Alicante!
What’s that? You’re on a budget? Alicante rolls out the red carpet for you too! With heaps of free attractions and activities that are easy on the pocket, you can still live the Costa Blanca dream.
Alicante’s appeal also lies in the unexpected. Venture off the well-trodden path and discover hidden gems, adding an exciting twist to your journey. Alicante isn’t just worth visiting, it demands to be explored! This Costa Blanca gem offers a kaleidoscope of experiences for every traveler.
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