Things to do in Alicante

So you are planning a visit to Alicante but have no idea where to go or which places to visit? This best 5 places to visit in Alicante list will help you on your way in getting to know Alicante better.

Alicante is a port city situated along the Mediterranean sea on the Costa Blanca. Besides Malaga airport and Madrid Airport, Alicante airport is serving as one of Spains busiest travel hubs. It functions as a gateway to the Valencian community for the traveller wanting easy access to all the picturesque cities, authentic old and small towns full of heritage, museums, history, art and festivals. Every where you can find traces of Moorish legacy.

Alicante is one of the paces to visit in Europe and many people have it on their bucket list. It is a place tourists enjoy for the sandy beaches, day trips, gastronomy, nightlife, outdoor recreation,  watersports,  learning the Spanish language and beautiful resorts. 

With cheap flights to Alicante that departure from Gatwick and Stansted (with for example Ryanair and Easyjet) the flight is short. At the airport you can find the car rental locations with the main rental companies like Goldcar, Herz and Sixt (all located in the arrivals hall of the new terminal). 

If you don’t need a rental car you can hop on a coach at the airport bus station. There you can also find the airport transfers (your hotels airport bus) and a bus service to Torrevieja and Benidorm. The taxis are on the departure level (near Costa Coffee).

1. Playa Postiguet 

This beach is known for its very well maintained golden sand (cleaned every day in the summer), clear blue waters and great facilities. The slope into the water is very gradual so comfortable access for older people and younger children with their parents. Parasol and bed hire available. Not always the cheapest option but nonetheless very comfortable. With a 2-3 minute walk it is very close to the town. Really no need to leave the beach and go into town for food or drinks because there are plenty of cafes and restaurants along the promenade. As an added bonus you get a great view of Castillo Santa Barbara from the beach

To get to this beach, click on the following Google maps link to navigate there: MAP

2. Castillo Santa Barbara

Get there early on a week day and you stand a good chance of finding a parking spot at the top! On the other hand, getting there in the evening, around sunset time, will give you stunning sunset views over the Mediterranean. Either way, you will be treated to an amazing vista. The castle is free to visit, there are signs to guide you around and a restaurant and a cafe are right there at the top. 

You can walk up to the top but in the heat of August it can be challenging as the climb is pretty steep. For a couple of euro's you can get into the lift and be taken up there. After your visit you can walk down along a meandering path or take the lift down again. The visit, including a stop at the cafe and the walk down, can easily last a couple of hours. Take your time and enjoy the views in good company.

To get to this location click on the following Google maps link to navigate there: MAP

3. Barrio Santa Cruz

For most people this is the most fascinating part of Alicante - the old town. The picturesque narrow streets and houses are decorated with flower pots. The well preserved traditional architecture is so full of colours that it looks like a scene from a postcard. No surprise that apparently many artists live there. Walking through this part of the town you can also gain access to Castillo Santa Barbara. On your way you can stop at one of the restaurants enjoy a drink or lunch and watch the world go by. At night time this place is buzzing and many visit the restaurants, tapas bars and cocktail bars.

To get to this location click on the following Google maps link to navigate there: MAP

4.Mercado Central

A market situated in an old historic building that will tickle all your senses and make you realise what you are missing back home. Full of fresh produce that is purchased by the locals for their weekly shop. The quality of the meat and fish if just fantastic, you can see the Spanish take huge pride in their produce. Prices are also very acceptable.

To get to the market click on the following Google maps link to navigate there: MAP

5. Basilica St. Maria

This church was built in the 13th century in Gothic style. It is the oldest church in Alicante. Walk-in and appreciate the magnificent altar and lots of gilding. Open every day 10.30-12.00. The Maca museum for contemporary art is located right across the church square. Two birds with one stone. The Basilica St. Maria is a must-see if you visit Alicante!

To get to the basilica click on the following Google maps link to navigate there: MAP

Maybe you have other trip ideas, ideas for family fun or know great places to travel in the Valencian community? Then let us know!