Alicante-Alacant
A city on the Mediterranean coast of Spain
Alicante, a city on the Mediterranean coast of Spain, is known for its stunning beaches of golden-tinged sand. The formidable Castle of Santa Barbara overlooks the city from a hilltop, offering spectacular panoramic views.
The city’s picturesque old town, such as Santa Cruz, is visually appealing because of the traditional colourful houses it features.
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MUST-SEE
The old town
You can visit historic buildings such as the Town Hall, the central market, the Co-cathedral of San Nicolas and the Basilica of Santa Maria. Also, the hermitages of Santa Cruz and San Roque.
The Castle of Santa Barbara
It is one of the most emblematic monuments of the city, offering visitors the chance to explore the historic rooms and cisterns. For many years, it was under Muslim rule. Guided and dramatised visits are now organised to explain its 15 centuries of history.
The island of Tabarca
It is the only inhabited island in the Valencia region, and it is quite close to Alicante. Its transparent waters hosted the first marine reserve to be created in Spain. Boats depart for the island throughout the day.
Parks and gardens
The promenade Paseo de la Explanada is one of the most emblematic places in Alicante. This is the city's seafront promenade, which runs parallel to the port and the promenade Mártires de la Libertad. A good idea is to visit the Gabriel Miró square, the Portal de Elche and the Canalejas park.
Beaches of Alicante
You cannot leave without visiting the beach of San Juan, the coves of Cabo de la Huerta, the beaches of Almadraba, Albufereta, Playa del Postiguet and Playa Saladares-Urbanov.
Mosques
There are presently three mosques in the city of Alicante. The largest is that of the Islamic Community in Virgen del Remedio, and there are two smaller ones in Colonia Requena and Garbinet. There is also an oratory in the Virgen del Remedio area.
Bonfires of San Juan
It might be a good idea to make a visit at the end of June. Alicante celebrates the arrival of summer with the Bonfires of San Juan on 23 June. In the midst of music, colour and spectacle, thousands of people take to the streets to experience this festival of fire worship.
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WHAT CAN YOU EAT IN ALICANTE?
Alicante has a rich culinary tradition that combines Mediterranean and local influences. Remember to try the Alicante rice, Alicante gazpacho, lobster stew and fideuá. Also typical are the nougat of Jijona and Alicante, which are especially popular during the Christmas holidays. You can stop by Baeza & Rufete or La Finca to sample the delicacies of great, award-winning chefs.
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SHOPPING
The region is known for its high-quality leather goods, decorative items such as carpets, wickerwork and pottery, as well as toys and dolls. The main shopping areas are to be found near the Teatro Principal theatre and the central market, and Avenida Maisonnave.
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HOW CAN YOU GET TO ALICANTE?
The city has an airport 12 kilometres away (Alicante Elche Miguel Hernández Airport) for those travelling by plane. It can also be reached by the AVE/Euromed high-speed train and by commuter train from different Spanish cities. It can also be reached by road from Barcelona on the AP-7 motorway, or from Madrid.
