Destination guide

Alicante

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Alicante is a lively port city on Spain's Costa Blanca, with a castle on a hill, a palm-lined promenade and a long, sunny season. It is a real Spanish city rather than a resort, with a historic quarter, markets and a big local culture of eating out.

It is a good base for the beaches of the Costa Blanca and for day trips along the coast. It is popular with UK visitors for its easy flights and warm winters.

How many days: 4

Four days is a good length for the city, a beach and a day trip. A long weekend works if you stay in the centre.

The coast to the north has pretty villages, and the island of Tabarca is a short boat ride away. Both make good day trips.

What to do in Alicante

Climb to Santa Bárbara Castle
A fortress high above the city, reached by a lift inside the mountain or on foot. It has views over the bay.
Wander the Santa Cruz quarter
The old neighbourhood has steep, narrow streets, painted houses and flower pots. A good place to wander.
Walk the Explanada
A promenade paved with a wavy mosaic of red, cream and blue tiles, lined with palm trees. A favourite place for an evening stroll.
Visit the Central Market
A modernist market hall, with fresh fish, fruit and local food. A good place for breakfast or a snack.
Take a boat to Tabarca
A small island with a walled village and clear water for swimming and snorkelling. Boats leave from the port.
Swim at Postiguet beach
A city beach right below the castle, with sand and a lively atmosphere.
Visit Guadalest or Altea
Pretty villages in the hills and on the coast, both about an hour away.
Cycle or walk the coast path
A path runs along the sea to the lighthouse at Cabo de las Huertas, with small rocky coves. A good morning outing.
Visit the archaeological museum
A well-regarded museum covering the region's history from the earliest settlers. A good wet-day option.
Browse the old town's craft shops
Small shops sell ceramics, espadrilles and local sweets. A pleasant hour of browsing before lunch.

What to eat and drink

Paella and arroces
Rice dishes are a speciality of the region. Look for ones with local seafood or rabbit.
Turrón
A sweet nougat made with almonds and honey, from nearby Jijona. Popular at Christmas, but sold all year.
Local tapas
Small plates of local ingredients, such as grilled prawns, anchovies and potatoes.
Horchata and granizado
Cold drinks made from tiger nuts or ice. Refreshing in summer.
Fresh seafood
The port supplies the restaurants. Ask for the catch of the day.
Local wine
The Alicante area produces red and sweet wines. Ask for a local recommendation.
Coca and savoury pastries
Flat breads topped with tomato, peppers and fish, a regional tradition. Sold in bakeries.

Getting around

The centre is compact and mostly flat, so you can walk to most places. A tram runs along the coast to nearby resorts.

Buses and trains link Alicante with other towns on the coast. Check timetables.

The airport is close to the city and linked by bus.

Good to know

  • Summers are hot, and the beaches are busy. Spring and autumn are comfortable.
  • Winter is mild and sunny, which makes the city popular for winter breaks.
  • The Hogueras festival in June features bonfires and fireworks. It is lively and noisy.
  • Spain uses the euro. Cards are widely accepted.
  • Restaurants open late for lunch and dinner. Adjust to local hours.
  • Alicante is a very easy city for a short stay, with the beach, castle and old town all within a 15-minute walk of each other.
  • The sea is warm enough to swim from late spring to October, and even in winter some locals swim.

Where to stay in Alicante

6 neighbourhoods, described the way a friend would - what each is actually like, not the brochure version.

Centro

Central Alicante combines shopping streets, restaurants, plazas and easy access to the marina, old town and Postiguet Beach. It is the most practical base for first-time visitors, though busy streets can reduce tranquillity.

Casco Antiguo

Alicante's old town sits beneath Santa Bárbara Castle and features narrow streets, colourful buildings, restaurants and lively bars. It is highly atmospheric and ideal for nightlife, although noise can continue late into the evening.

Postiguet Beach

Postiguet Beach sits directly beside Alicante's city centre and marina, making it unusually easy to combine a beach holiday with urban sightseeing. It suits couples and families, though the central location means the beach becomes crowded in high season.

Playa de San Juan

Playa de San Juan is a long sandy beach north-east of central Alicante with apartments, hotels, restaurants and excellent tram connections. It is particularly strong for families and longer beach stays, though nightlife is quieter and the historic centre is further away.

Albufereta

Albufereta is a quieter coastal residential area between central Alicante and Playa de San Juan, with a small beach and good tram links. It works well for relaxed stays and families, though restaurant and nightlife choices are more limited.

Cabo de las Huertas

Cabo de las Huertas is an upscale residential peninsula between Albufereta and San Juan, with rocky coves, sea views and a peaceful atmosphere. It is attractive for quiet romantic stays, but is less practical without a car or frequent taxi use.

What it costs

A typical day in Alicante, per person, in pounds.

£146

Shoestring - hostels, street food, public transport.

£152

Comfortable - a decent hotel, restaurants, the odd taxi.

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