Visit the historic port city of Alicante for an authentic Spanish experience and some of the best beaches in the country. The city offers a charming mix of traditional cuisine and architecture, international galleries and museums and fantastic beaches. It’s located in the Costa Blanca, which rather describes its coastline of white sandy beaches that sit on the Mediterranean Sea. Although many people come to the Costa Blanca to indulge in the resort lifestyle, Alicante can also provide a more authentic Spanish experience.
Begin your visit to Alicante with an incredible view over the city. High above the town, sitting on top of Benacantil Hill, is the Castillo de Santa Bárbara. You can reach the summit on foot, by car or by lift and enjoy the views from the walls.
Under the fortress stretch the streets of the Old City. The Casco Antiquo is an area full of art museums and historic buildings. The Concatedral de San Nicolás de Bari is considered one of the finest examples of Spanish Baroque architecture, while the Basilica de Santa María is the oldest church in the city, and it is still used today. Visit the administrative heart of Alicante, Alicante Town Hall and admire the rich interiors that were once commonplace in the region.
To enjoy the beaches of Alicante you don’t have to go far. Follow the mosaic tiles of the Esplanada de Espana to reach the Playa del Postiguet, at the foot of the Benacantil. Or take the tram to the vast bay of the Playa de San Juan for a day of sailing, volleyball and windsurfing.
Taste fresh food and join the locals at the Mercado Central. Visit the Port of Alicante, where the restaurants are famous for their seafood dishes. Make sure you try the paella and arroz negro, a rice dish that is made with black squid ink.
Alicante is a compact city and most attractions are within walking distance of the historic centre, while an ever-growing network of trams and buses will take you to the more distant destinations. Even the depths of winter the Mediterranean climate provides mild temperatures and it rarely rains.
The port is a popular gateway to the city and many visitors arrive by ferry or cruise ship. The nearest international airport is just 20 minutes away by bus, and there are regular high speed train connections from Barcelona and Madrid.