Alicante - Discovering Spain

Travelling to Alicante

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Alicante, a pretty good destination in Spain (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Alicante and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Alicante, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Spain, here's everything to know about Alicante for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Alicante

Alicante is a city located on the east coast of Spain, in the province of Alicante of the Valencian Community. It is a popular travel destination for its beautiful beaches, rich history and culture, and delicious cuisine. Alicante has a mild Mediterranean climate with sunny weather throughout the year, making it an ideal place to visit any season. The local language spoken is Spanish, though many locals also speak Valencian, a regional dialect. The city is easily accessible by plane, train or bus, and getting around is also convenient with the city's efficient public transportation system. Some of the most notable attractions in Alicante include the Santa Barbara Castle, the beautiful beaches of Playa del Postiguet and Playa de San Juan, the historic old town, and the famous El Barrio district, where visitors can experience the local nightlife and cuisine.

What to visit in Alicante

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Alicante along with some additional information: 1. Castle of Santa Barbara: This is an ancient castle that is located at the top of Mount Benacantil and is a great place to get a panoramic view of the city. It is considered one of the largest medieval fortresses in Europe and is a must-visit attraction in Alicante.
2. Explanada de España: This is a beautiful promenade that runs parallel to the seafront, and it is well known for being one of the most colourful streets in Alicante. Visitors can find street performers, craft stalls, and restaurants along this promenade.
3. Mount Benacantil: This mountain is located right next to the castle of Santa Barbara and is a great place for hiking and enjoying nature. On the way to the top, visitors can see many ancient ruins, caves and enjoy some really stunning views.
4. Basilica of Santa Maria: This is a beautiful Gothic style church and the oldest church in Alicante. Its construction began in the 14th Century, and it's well known for its intricate design elements.
5. Mercado Central: This is the main market of Alicante, offering everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to seafood and spices. It is a very lively market with lots of colours, noise and a must-visit to get a flavour of the local lifestyle.
6. Museu de les Fogueres: This is a small museum dedicated to the annual festival of Las Hogueras de San Juan. The exhibits provide visitors with a detailed understanding and experience about the festival traditions, which are celebrated for one week from 20th -24th June every year.
Overall, Alicante has many exciting places to visit and activities to do, which are guaranteed to be a memorable experience for all visitors!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Spain, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Alicante.

When to go on holiday to Alicante

The best time to visit Alicante is from May to June or September to October as the temperatures are pleasant and there are fewer crowds. In these months, you can still enjoy the beach and outdoor activities without the intense heat of summer. Summer months, from July to August, are the peak tourist season when temperatures can reach up to 30°C or more, and the beaches are crowded. If you prefer cooler weather, you may want to visit during the winter months from December to March, but note that some businesses may be closed during this time.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Alicante

There are several ways to get to Alicante, Spain: 1) By plane: Alicante-Elche Airport is the main airport in the region, situated just 11km from Alicante city centre. It is well-connected with many European cities and has daily flights from major airlines.
2) By bus: Alicante has a central bus station located near the city center where national and international buses arrive. There are several bus companies that offer services to Alicante including ALSA, Avanza and Eurolines.
3) By train: Alicante is served by the Spanish rail network, Renfe. There are daily trains from major Spanish cities including Madrid, Valencia and Barcelona.
4) By car: Alicante is connected to the rest of Spain and Europe by the AP-7 motorway, which runs along the eastern coast of Spain. There are also several car rental companies at the airport and in the city center.
Overall, the easiest and quickest option is to fly to Alicante-Elche airport.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Alicante, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Alicante

Here are some typical foods from Alicante: 1. Paella: A rice dish cooked with different ingredients like rabbit, chicken, seafood, and vegetables. It is a popular dish in Alicante and all over Spain.
2. Arroz a banda: A rice dish that comes with fish, mainly cuttlefish and red prawns, cooked in fish broth. It also has a garlic and tomato base.
3. Turrón: A sweet made of almonds, sugar, and honey. It's a traditional Christmas dessert in Alicante and all over Spain.
4. Calamares a la Romana: Deep-fried squid rings dipped in flour and egg batter. It is typically served as an appetizer.
5. Ensalada Alicantina: A salad made with tomatoes, peppers, onions, olives, and salt-cured fish. It is typically served as a starter.
6. Gambas rojas: Red prawns that are grilled or cooked in garlic oil. They are quite delicious and a must-try in Alicante seafood restaurants.
7. Huevos con sobrasada: A dish made of eggs cooked with sobrasada, a type of pork sausage from the Balearic Islands. It's a popular breakfast dish.
8. Coca de mollitas: A savory flatbread topped with tomato sauce, tuna, olives, and grated cheese.
These are some of the typical foods you should try when visiting Alicante!
You can find general info about typical foods in Spain here.

Is Alicante an expensive destination for tourists?

Alicante can be considered a moderately priced destination for tourists when compared to other popular European travel destinations. Accommodation costs can vary depending on the time of year and location, with prices generally increasing during peak tourist season. However, there are many affordable options available, including budget-friendly hotels and hostels.
Food and drink prices in Alicante are generally reasonable, with options for both budget and higher-end dining. Transport costs, including public transport and taxis, are also relatively affordable compared to other European cities.
Overall, while Alicante may not be the cheapest travel destination, it is still a very popular and accessible option for those looking to explore Spain's beautiful Mediterranean coast.

Where to find accomodation in Alicante

The best areas to find accommodation when visiting Alicante, Spain are the Old Town, the city center, and the beachfront areas such as Playa de San Juan and El Campello. In the Old Town, you'll be close to many of the city's historic landmarks and charming streets. The city center is great for those who want to do some shopping or explore the nightlife. If you want to spend most of your time at the beach, then the beachfront areas offer many accommodation options and easy access to the sea.
You can check hotel prices at Alicante here:
Booking.com

Is Alicante a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Alicante is generally considered a safe place for tourists. It is one of the more popular tourist destinations in Spain, attracting thousands of visitors every year. Crime rates are generally low, and the city has a well-developed infrastructure to cater to tourists. However, as with any destination, it's always wise to take basic precautions to ensure your safety, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and being aware of your surroundings.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Spain here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Alicante.

What type of travelers will enjoy Alicante the most?

Alicante, Spain offers something for everyone, but it can be particularly enjoyable for couples and families. Couples can explore the romantic old town, enjoy the panoramic views from the Santa Barbara Castle, or take a stroll along the picturesque marina. There are also plenty of waterfront restaurants and bars for a romantic evening out.
For families, Alicante offers several family-friendly attractions such as the sandy beaches, the Explora Science Center, and the Terra Mítica theme park. Families can also enjoy a boat tour to the Island of Tabarca, where children can discover the unique marine ecosystem of the island.
Young people looking for fun shouldn't miss the chance to visit the nightlife district "El Barrio" with its lively bars and clubs. Alicante is also famous for its fantastic beaches, water sports activities, and outdoor adventures, perfect for those looking for an active vacation. Overall, Alicante is a versatile destination that caters to all types of travelers and interests.

How to get around Alicante

Alicante has an excellent public transportation system, including buses and trams that cover the city and nearby areas. Hiring a taxi or a rental car may also be convenient options, depending on your needs and preferences. The city is also bicycle-friendly, and there are several bike rental services available.

What to see around Alicante

Sure, here are some great options for day trips from Alicante: 1. Guadalest: A beautiful medieval town located in the mountains with stunning views and interesting museums.
2. Altea: A charming coastal town known for its whitewashed houses, picturesque streets, and beautiful beaches.
3. Tabarca Island: A small and quaint island situated in the Mediterranean Sea, known for its crystal clear waters and rich marine life.
4. Elche: A historic and cultural city famous for its palm groves, Elche's palm grove is the largest in Europe.
5. Villajoyosa: A colorful and vibrant coastal town with a beautiful beach, seafront promenade, and a charming old town.
6. Jijona: A town famous for its production of turron (nougat), a Spanish Christmas sweet, and its castle.
7. Santa Pola: A coastal town with a long beach promenade, a historic castle and port, and a great selection of seafood restaurants.
I hope you find these options helpful!
For every travel information about Spain you can click here.

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