Castle of Santa Barbara

Castle of Santa Barbara
Castle of Santa Barbara
Castle of Santa Barbara showing views, château or palace and heritage architecture
Castle of Santa Barbara showing a sunset, views and a marina
Castle of Santa Barbara featuring heritage elements, general coastal views and views

Looming over the city centre, this hilltop castle is the main attraction in Alicante and one of the largest castles in Europe.

Perched 545 feet (166 meters) above sea level, upon the top of Mount Benacantil, this monumental fortification overlooks the city of Alicante and is one of the city’s major attractions. The Castle of Santa Bárbara is one of the largest castles from the medieval period remaining in Europe. It covers the entire summit of the mountain. Despite dating back more than a millennium to a period of Muslim rule in the ninth century, the castle has been expertly cared for and is almost entirely intact. Whether you have a passion for history or just make the trip for the panoramic views, no visitor to Alicante should miss the Castle of Santa Bárbara.

The journey to the top of Mount Benacantil can be half the fun. Simply drive to the top or, if you’re feeling adventurous, make the trek on foot. Follow the walking trail through pine woods and vast parks on your way to the summit. Here you’ll be rewarded with some of the most spectacular views in the region. Look across the rooftops of the historic city in one direction and out across the Mediterranean Sea in the other.

Explore the castle grounds to find the ruins of the original church, a great moat and a series of cannons that once protected the city. Inside the huge castle you’ll see a lookout tower, dungeons and a lavish palace. The tower hangs over a cliff and, while not for the faint of heart, provides a breathtaking experience. Visit the Museum of the City of Alicante, housed within the castle walls, to learn about the history of the castle, the city it protected and the various rulers who called it home.

The drive to the Castle of Santa Bárbara takes approximately five minutes from the city center, while walking may take an hour. An elevator, free of charge for the elderly and disabled, also operates from the base of the mountain to the top there is a small fee for everybody else. Castle entrance is free. The castle is open daily, but it may close at midday.

Plan a trip to see Castle of Santa Barbara

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Hotel Port Elche

Hotel Port Elche

4 out of 5
Save 100% on your flight
per person
3 Oct - 6 Oct
found 15 hours ago
Return flight included
London (STN) to Alicante (ALC)
8.8/10 Excellent! (670 reviews)
Really enjoyed our last minute stay at this hotel, food was really good especially the 3 course lunch menu very tasty. We didn't go down to evening meal until later on about 9ish Nd by then food was just warm but was had good choices. I think water should be made available at every meal and not just breakfast but overall a good time loved pool and would stay here again

Reviewed on 14 Jul 2025

Huerto Del Cura Hotel

Huerto Del Cura Hotel

4 out of 5
Save 100% on your flight
per person
23 Sept - 27 Sept
found 1 day ago
Return flight included
Belfast (BFS) to Alicante (ALC)
9/10 Wonderful! (744 reviews)
This holiday has been nothing short of incredible. The hotel is absolutely amazing — top-notch in every way. From the moment we arrived, the staff have gone above and beyond to make our stay special. Special thanks to Borja (concierge), Stafane (bartender), Jose (grounds manager), and many others who’ve treated us with such warmth and care. The bedroom is pure comfort — the mattress is one of the best I’ve ever slept on, and the room is spotless. As for the food… it’s exceptionally exquisite — every meal has been a treat. This place is the perfect escape, even if just for a couple of days. Whether you’re looking to relax, recharge, or just be surrounded by beauty, this is it. My wife and I are truly enjoying this magical paradise — and we’ll definitely be coming back next year. 🌴✨ #GratefulGetaway #LuxuryRetreat #VacationBliss

Reviewed on 1 Aug 2025

Port Denia Hotel

Port Denia Hotel

3 out of 5
Save 100% on your flight
per person
10 Oct - 14 Oct
found 1 day ago
Return flight included
Bristol (BRS) to Alicante (ALC)
8.2/10 Very Good! (229 reviews)
Clean . great location. lovely not expensive place. I really loved it. But people in the front desk very not friendly. If you ask them for anything , they never do anything about it. Sorry to say it, but they just LYING that they will help you, but they never do. They should take classes on how to be more polite and attentive to the costumers. But i liked hotel very much.

Reviewed on 18 Jun 2025

Tours & day trips

See all 74 activities
Alicante Charming Villages Tour: Villajoyosa and Altea

Alicante Charming Villages Tour: Villajoyosa and Altea

Activity duration is 6 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is £65 per adult
Alicante Charming Villages Tour: Villajoyosa and AlteaOpens in new tab

Private & custom tours

See all 18 activities
Alicante’s History and Highlights: Self-Guided Walking Tour

Alicante’s History and Highlights: Self-Guided Walking Tour

Activity duration is 3 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is £9 per adult
Alicante’s History and Highlights: Self-Guided Walking TourOpens in new tab

Adventure & outdoor

See all 14 activities
Alicante: Canelobre Caves & Busot Tour with Local Guide

Alicante: Canelobre Caves & Busot Tour with Local Guide

Activity duration is 3 hours
10.0 out of 10 with 1 review
Free cancellation available
Price is £52 per adult
Alicante: Canelobre Caves & Busot Tour with Local GuideOpens in new tab

Popular places to visit

Postiguet Beach which includes tropical scenes, swimming and a beach

Postiguet Beach

4.5/5(126 reviews)

Alicante’s city beach offers a clean, child-friendly day out, surrounded by some of the best restaurants in town.

Postiguet Beach
Alicante Museum of Contemporary Art which includes interior views and art

Alicante Museum of Contemporary Art

4.5/5(2 reviews)

See art treasures by Picasso, Dalí and Miró, as well as works by big international names of the 20th century, within the walls of one of the city’s oldest buildings.

Alicante Museum of Contemporary Art
Basilica of Santa Maria which includes a church or cathedral, religious aspects and heritage architecture

Basilica of Santa Maria

4/5(39 reviews)

For more than 500 years this church has been at the heart of Alicante’s Roman Catholic community. Today it’s worth a visit just for its inspiring architecture.

Basilica of Santa Maria
Archaeological Museum of Alicante showing interior views as well as a small group of people

Archaeological Museum of Alicante

4/5(1 review)

With eight permanent exhibitions and interactive and child-friendly displays, it’s not surprising this museum once won the European Museum of the Year Award.

Archaeological Museum of Alicante
Alicante Town Hall which includes a city, heritage architecture and a square or plaza

Alicante Town Hall

4/5(80 reviews)

Still the home of the Alicante civic life, this landmark structure is a superb example of 18th-century baroque architecture.

Alicante Town Hall
Explanada de Espana which includes street scenes and markets as well as a large group of people

Explanada de Espana

4.5/5(40 reviews)

Take a walk along Alicante’s waterfront on this beautiful mosaic walkway and experience life in the slow lane.

Explanada de Espana

Top Hotel Deals

Odyssey Rooms

Odyssey Rooms

4 out of 5
Carrer Gravina, Alicante, Alicante
Odyssey Rooms
Melia Alicante

Melia Alicante

4 out of 5
Plaza del Puerto, 3, Alicante, Alicante
Melia Alicante
Estudiotel Alicante

Estudiotel Alicante

2 out of 5
Calle Poeta Vila y Blanco, 4, Alicante, Alicante
Estudiotel Alicante
AC Hotel Alicante by Marriott

AC Hotel Alicante by Marriott

4 out of 5
Avenida Elche, 3, Alicante, Alicante
AC Hotel Alicante by Marriott
Dormirdcine Alicante

Dormirdcine Alicante

4 out of 5
Calle Gravina, 5, Alicante, Alicante
Dormirdcine Alicante
Hotel Serawa Alicante

Hotel Serawa Alicante

4 out of 5
Calle San Fernando 16, Alicante, Alicante
Hotel Serawa Alicante
Eurostars Lucentum

Eurostars Lucentum

4 out of 5
Alfonso X El Sabio, 11, Alicante, Alicante
Eurostars Lucentum
Hotel Les Monges Palace Boutique

Hotel Les Monges Palace Boutique

3 out of 5
Calle San Agustín 4, Alicante
Hotel Les Monges Palace Boutique
Hotel Maya

Hotel Maya

3 out of 5
Canónigo Manuel Penalva, 2, Alicante, Alicante
Hotel Maya
See all 2,110 properties in Castle of Santa Barbara
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Castle of Santa Barbara

Near the Castle of Santa Barbara in Alicante, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including shopping and local festivals that showcase the vibrant culture. Additionally, the castle serves as a unique venue for corporate events, providing a stunning backdrop for business gatherings. Overall, the area offers a delightful blend of historical charm and modern amenities, making it an ideal destination for both leisure and professional occasions.

Shopping

The nearest shopping spot is Central Market, a vibrant public market just 311m from Castle of Santa Barbara, perfect for local gifts. Plaza Mar 2 Shopping Centre and Bulevar Plaza, both 0.5 and 497m away respectively, offer a mix of shopping and entertainment for the whole family.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Jose Rico Perez Stadium, just 621m from Castle of Santa Barbara, where you can immerse yourself in local sports culture. Alternatively, enjoy a concert at ADDA Alicante, located 373m away, for a delightful evening of entertainment and relaxation.

Adventure

Take the Lift to Castillo de Santa Barbara, a thrilling cable car ride with spectacular views, only 124m from the castle. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Paintball Tactics Alicante, located 4.3km away, offers an exciting adventure experience. Don't miss the Skate Park Monte Tossal, 497m away, for some outdoor fun.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Castle of Santa Barbara by visiting the Alicante Principal Theatre for a captivating performance, just 311m away. Alternatively, enjoy the grandeur of the Benidorm Palace, 14.9km away, for a spectacular show that promises entertainment and romance.

Find the best attractions near Castle of Santa Barbara

When visiting the Castle of Santa Barbara in Alicante, you'll find a wealth of attractions nearby, including stunning beaches, a modern civic government building, and even a nudist beach. This historic site offers an enriching cultural experience amidst the vibrant city life. Don't miss the chance to explore other highlights such as Santa Bárbara Castle and the captivating sights of Alicante that showcase the region's heritage.

  • Postiguet Beach: Just a short walk from the Castle of Santa Barbara, Postiguet Beach offers a delightful seaside escape with its golden sands and inviting waters. Perfect for sunbathing or a leisurely swim, it captures the essence of beach vibes, making it an ideal spot to unwind and soak in the sun.
  • Explanada de España: This picturesque esplanade, adorned with palm trees and vibrant mosaics, is a romantic haven for couples and families alike. Stroll along the promenade, enjoy the lively atmosphere, and perhaps indulge in some local tapas from nearby cafés.
  • Alicante Town Hall: A striking example of modern civic architecture, Alicante Town Hall is both functional and beautiful. Its elegant façade and surrounding gardens make it a great place to appreciate the city's civic pride while enjoying a moment of reflection.

Best time to go to Castle of Santa Barbara

The best time to visit Castle of Santa Barbara can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Castle of Santa Barbara falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain (dry). The coolest average temperature around Castle of Santa Barbara falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain (dry).

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January52.7°F (11.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February53.4°F (11.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March56.5°F (13.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April60.6°F (15.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May66.9°F (19.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
June74.3°F (23.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
July79.5°F (26.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August80.1°F (26.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September75.0°F (23.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
October68.7°F (20.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
November60.1°F (15.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
December54.7°F (12.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Castle of Santa Barbara

To save money during your visit to the Castle of Santa Barbara, consider travelling in the off-peak months from December to February when accommodation prices drop. Booking about a month in advance often yields the best rates, particularly if you choose to stay on a Tuesday rather than a Saturday. Utilise Expedia to compare hotel deals, refine your search by budget and location, and explore package options that combine flights and activities. Don't forget to check for last-minute deals and eco-certified hotels for additional savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Castle of Santa Barbara are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Castle of Santa Barbara about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Castle of Santa Barbara is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Castle of Santa Barbara is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best bargains, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy savings by combining your hotel stay at the Castle of Santa Barbara with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.