ALICANTE: Where Coastal charm meets city energy
Alicante is the capital of Costa Blanca, both geographically and culturally. A city that blends Mediterranean relaxation with Spanish vibrancy. Its golden beaches, iconic Santa Bárbara Castle, palm-lined Explanada promenade, and lively tapas bars make it a year-round favorite for travelers.
Whether you’re sipping coffee on the Explanada, hiking up to Santa Bárbara Castle for panoramic views, wandering through the colorful narrow streets of the Old Town (El Barrio), or enjoying late-night bites paired with local wines, Alicante offers something for every type of traveler. Beyond its stunning coastline, the city boasts rich cultural festivals, modern shopping districts, and a welcoming community, making it not just a place to visit but an ideal destination for relocation.
Explore Alicante: Top Sights & Experiences
This post may contain affiliate links. If you book through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting this site!
Santa Bárbara Castle – History with a View
Atop the 166 metres of Mount Benacantil sits the Castillo de Santa Bárbara. This castle was designed as one of the largest medieval fortresses in Spain, from which visitors can enjoy 360º views of the city of Alicante. The Castillo de Santa Bárbara has been considered a Cultural-Interest Site since 1961.
Soak in panoramic views from Santa Bárbara Castle, Alicante’s iconic hilltop fortress steeped in centuries of history. For a unique twist, join the Santa Bárbara Castle Wine Tasting Tour a guided experience that combines storytelling, scenic vistas, and regional wines paired with gourmet bites. It’s an unforgettable way to explore the city’s past while indulging in its finest flavours.
Explanada de España & El Barrio – Alicante’s Heartbeat
Begin your evening with a walk along the iconic Explanada de España, a palm-lined promenade alive with music, art, and atmosphere. Then step into El Barrio, Alicante’s vibrant Old Town, where colourful streets lead to lively tapas bars, hidden plazas, and local nightlife. For the full experience, the Alicante Must-See Walking Tour is a great way to explore both — with local insights and stories along the way.
Postiguet Beach & Afternoon Cruise – Sun, Sea & Scenic Views
Soak up the sun at Postiguet Beach, just minutes from the city centre, where golden sands and clear waters meet postcard views of Santa Bárbara Castle. Then set sail on an unforgettable Alicante Afternoon Cruise with Appetisers and Live Music a 3-hour catamaran experience with live music, sea breezes, and a tasty appetisers served onboard. It’s the ideal way to enjoy Alicante’s radiant coastal vibe from a whole new perspective.
MACA (Museum of Contemporary Art) – A surprisingly rich collection of 20th-century icons like Picasso, Dalí, and Miró, housed in a stunning Baroque-meets-modern space.
Central Market & Hidden Bites – Taste Alicante Like a Local
Step into Alicante’s bustling Mercado Central, a vibrant hub of fresh seafood, local produce, and Mediterranean aromas. For a deeper culinary experience, join the Secret Flavors: Food and Tapas Tour. This guided journey takes you beyond the market to tucked-away tapas bars and wine spots, where you’ll savour regional specialties and uncover the rich food culture that defines the city.
Tabarca Island
Escape the mainland with a 6-hour catamaran cruise to Tabarca Island, sailing along Alicante’s stunning coastline. Relax onboard, enjoy a homemade paella lunch with drinks, and snorkel in crystal-clear coves within the marine reserve. You’ll visit the charming fishing village of Tabarca—known for its laid-back vibe and fresh seafood. It’s the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation
Getting Around
On Foot – Alicante’s compact city center makes it easy to explore on foot. From the beach to the castle to tapas bars — everything is within a pleasant walking distance.
Tram – Clean, scenic, and budget-friendly — the coastal tram connects Alicante with charming towns like El Campello, San Juan, and even Benidorm.
Must-Try Food, Drink & Culinary Experiences in Alicante
Traditional Paella – Taste (or Cook) Alicante’s Signature Dish
You can’t leave Alicante without trying a traditional paella de marisco or arroz a banda — both bursting with local seafood and rich Mediterranean flavour. Want to go beyond the plate? Join a hands-on Paella Cooking Class, Tapas, drinks & Market Tour to learn how it’s made from scratch. Explore the local market, sip on drinks, and cook up your own authentic feast guided by a local expert.
Tapas Hopping in El Barrio – A Flavour-Packed Adventure
Wander through the Old Town’s lively streets and uncover a world of tapas — from crispy patatas bravas and fried calamari to melt-in-your-mouth jamón ibérico. For an insider experience, join the Alicante Secret Flavors: Food & Tapas Tour and let a local guide lead you to hidden gems and family-run spots you might otherwise miss. Come hungry — you’ll leave full and smiling.
Turrón (Nougat)– Alicante’s Sweet Treasure
This almond-and-honey delicacy is a beloved local specialty, especially around Christmas, but you’ll find it year-round in shops and markets. Turrón makes the perfect gift or keepsake — a delicious reminder of your Alicante trip.
Alicante Wines – Sip Your Way Through Local Vineyards
Discover the bold Monastrell reds and crisp white wines that define the DO Alicante region. Whether you’re a casual sipper or wine enthusiast, there’s no better way to experience the local flavour than with a guided tasting. Join a relaxed Alicante Wine Tour with Food & Transport to explore local wineries and sample regional pairings, or opt for the Premium Winery Experience for an exclusive tasting with private transport and top-tier wines.
Horchata and Granizado – Alicante’s Coolest Refreshments
Beat the heat like a local with two classic Spanish drinks: horchata, a sweet and nutty tiger nut milk, and granizado, a zesty crushed ice drink (lemon is a favourite). Both are refreshing, nostalgic, and perfect on a sunny Alicante afternoon.
Events & Fiestas
Alicante’s calendar is brimming with vibrant festivals and cultural celebrations throughout the year. Here are some of the city’s most iconic events:
Hogueras de San Juan (June 20–24) – Alicante’s most renowned festival, featuring parades, fireworks, music, and the spectacular burning of satirical sculptures.
Carnival (February) – A lively celebration filled with costumes, parades, and street parties, bringing color and joy to the city.
Moors and Christians (varies by neighborhood) – Historical reenactments with colorful costumes and music, commemorating the battles between Moors and Christians.
Good to Know
Alicante Airport (ALC) is one of Spain’s busiest, with easy transfers to the city
English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas
Sunday closures – Many shops and businesses close on Sundays
Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated (5–10% in restaurants)
The city is very walkable, but wear comfortable shoes, some areas are hilly.
Nearby Places to Visit
Elche – Home to Spain’s largest palm grove and a UNESCO-listed mystery play
Santa Pola – A coastal town with a fishing harbor, salt flats, and boat trips to Tabarca
San Juan Beach – Just 15 minutes by tram, with wide stretches of golden sand
Villajoyosa – Known for its colorful seafront houses and chocolate museum
🌿 Just so you know: Some of the links on this page are affiliate links. They don’t cost you anything extra, but if you book through them, I may earn a small commission — which helps support this site and keep the Costa Blanca spirit alive for future travelers. Gracias!