Alicante
Alacant
A sunny coastal city crowned by the imposing Santa Bárbara Castle overlooking the Mediterranean. Its palm-lined Explanada promenade and lively beaches make it a favorite gateway to the Costa Blanca.
Things to do
- Santa Bárbara Castle — Climb or take the free elevator from Postiguet beach up to this hilltop fortress for sweeping views over the city and the Mediterranean.
- Stroll the Explanada de España — Walk the famous wave-patterned marble promenade lined with palm trees, street performers, and seaside cafes.
- Relax on Playa del Postiguet — This central sandy beach sits right beneath the castle and is perfect for a quick swim or sunbathing session.
- Wander El Barrio (Santa Cruz) — Get lost in the old quarter's narrow, colorful, flower-pot-lined streets climbing up toward the castle.
- Visit the MARQ Archaeological Museum — Explore award-winning exhibits on Iberian, Roman, and medieval history of the region.
- Day trip to Tabarca Island — Take a short ferry from the harbor to Spain's smallest inhabited island, known for clear waters and a marine reserve.
- Browse Mercado Central — Sample fresh seafood, local produce, and jamón at this bustling early 20th-century market hall.
- See the Basilica of Santa María — Step into Alicante's oldest church, built in Gothic style atop a former mosque.
Food to try
- Arroz a banda — A local rice dish cooked in fish and seafood stock, typically served with allioli on the side.
- Turrón de Alicante — A hard almond-and-honey nougat that originates from the wider Alicante province, especially Xixona.
- Arroz con conejo y caracoles — A hearty rice dish with rabbit and snails, a staple of inland Alicante cuisine.
- Salazones and Nordic-style dried fish — Try cured, salted fish like mojama or dried tuna roe, a Mediterranean tradition sold in local markets.
- Coca amb tonyina — A flatbread topped with tuna, tomato, and peppers, popular as a light snack or tapa.
- Horchata and fartons — Pair the cold tiger-nut drink with sweet glazed pastries at a local horchatería.
Local customs & good to know
- Meal times run late — Lunch is typically eaten around 2-3pm and dinner rarely starts before 9pm, so plan accordingly.
- Hogueras de San Juan festival — In late June the city holds massive bonfire and fireworks celebrations similar to Valencia's Las Fallas, so expect crowds and noise.
- Both Spanish and Valencian are spoken — Street signs and announcements often appear in both languages, reflecting the region's bilingual identity.
- Beachwear stays at the beach — It's considered impolite to walk around town in swimsuits away from the immediate beachfront area.