Alicante: The Complete Guide

Alicante is a vibrant Mediterranean city that offers a perfect mix of coastal beauty, urban charm, and cultural experiences. Its seafront promenade, Explanada de España, is a must-visit, featuring palm-lined walkways, lively cafés, and stunning ocean views. The city’s main beach, Playa del Postiguet, provides golden sands and clear waters, ideal for sunbathing or enjoying a sunset stroll. Whether relaxing along the coastline or exploring the picturesque streets of the Old Town, Alicante presents a dynamic yet laid-back atmosphere that makes it an appealing destination for all travelers.

For those seeking panoramic views and adventure, a visit to Castillo de Santa Bárbara is essential. This impressive medieval fortress, perched atop Mount Benacantil, offers breathtaking vistas of Alicante and the Mediterranean Sea. Visitors can reach the castle by foot, elevator, or car, each route providing its own unique perspective of the city’s skyline. Once inside, travelers can explore ancient fortifications, discover historical exhibitions, or simply admire the scenic surroundings from its terraces. Whether embracing Alicante’s rich heritage or natural beauty, this castle remains one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Alicante’s gastronomic scene adds another layer to its charm, featuring traditional flavors influenced by Mediterranean and Valencian cuisine. The city’s local markets, such as Mercado Central, provide an excellent opportunity to sample fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and seafood delights. Visitors should also indulge in arroces (rice dishes), particularly the famous arroz a banda, which showcases Alicante’s coastal culinary traditions. Paired with locally produced wines or refreshing horchata, the city’s food offerings provide an authentic taste of Mediterranean culture. Whether drawn to beachfront relaxation, historical exploration, or flavorful cuisine, Alicante delivers a truly unforgettable experience.

History of Alicante

Early History of Alicante

Alicante’s history dates back to ancient times when the area was inhabited by Iberian tribes. The town, originally known as Akra Leuka, meaning “White Summit,” was founded by the Greeks in the 4th century BC. It later became an important trading post for the Carthaginians.

Roman Era in Alicante

During the Roman period, Alicante was known as Lucentum. It flourished as a Roman town, benefiting from its strategic coastal location and becoming a significant center for commerce and trade. Remains of this era, including the Roman city of Lucentum, can still be seen today in the Tossal de Manises archaeological site.

Alicante Under Moorish Rule

In the 8th century, the Moors conquered Alicante, renaming it Al-Laqant. The town prospered under Moorish rule, with advancements in agriculture, architecture, and trade. The construction of the Castle of Santa Bárbara during this period provided a strong defensive fortification, which remains a prominent landmark.

The Christian Reconquest of Alicante

In 1246, Alicante was captured by King Alfonso X of Castile during the Christian Reconquest. The town was officially incorporated into the Kingdom of Castile in 1308. This period saw the construction of significant Christian structures, including churches and the expansion of the Castle of Santa Bárbara.

Alicante in the Modern Era

The 15th and 16th centuries marked a period of growth and development for Alicante. The town became an important port, facilitating trade with the rest of Europe and the Mediterranean. In 1490, King Ferdinand II granted Alicante city status, further boosting its economic and political significance.

The War of Spanish Succession and Alicante

During the War of Spanish Succession in the early 18th century, Alicante faced significant turmoil. The city was besieged and heavily damaged, particularly during the siege of 1709. However, it quickly recovered and continued to grow in the subsequent years.

Alicante in the 19th and 20th Centuries

The 19th century brought industrialization to Alicante, with the development of industries such as textiles, agriculture, and tobacco. The construction of the railway in 1858 connected Alicante to the rest of Spain, enhancing its role as a major port and trade center.

In the 20th century, Alicante continued to expand, with significant urban development and modernization. The city’s port became one of the busiest in Spain, and tourism emerged as a vital industry, driven by Alicante’s beautiful beaches and favorable climate.

Contemporary Alicante

Today, Alicante is a vibrant and modern city that seamlessly blends its rich historical heritage with contemporary amenities. The city is a major tourist destination, known for its cultural festivals, historic sites, and stunning coastline. The annual Hogueras de San Juan festival, with its spectacular bonfires and fireworks, is one of the most significant cultural events in Alicante.

Alicante’s history is a testament to its resilience and adaptability, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in exploring Spain’s diverse historical and cultural landscape.

Visiting Alicante for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Alicante on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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1. Explore Castillo de Santa Bárbara in Alicante

Perched atop Mount Benacantil, Castillo de Santa Bárbara is one of Alicante’s most iconic landmarks, offering breathtaking panoramic views over the city and coastline. This medieval fortress, dating back to the 9th century, showcases impressive defensive structures, ancient dungeons, and exhibition spaces detailing Alicante’s history. Walking its stone pathways provides an immersive experience into the city’s past, while its elevated location makes it the ideal spot for stunning sunset vistas.

Visitors can access the castle by foot, car, or an elevator from the base of the hill, adding flexibility to the trip. Opening hours vary by season, typically 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, and entry is free, making it a must-see for history lovers and photographers alike.

2. Stroll Along Explanada de España in Alicante

Alicante’s Explanada de España is one of the city’s most famous promenades, featuring a beautiful mosaic walkway made from over 6 million tiles that create a stunning wave pattern. Lined with palm trees and charming cafés, this seafront boulevard is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, offering views of Alicante’s marina and harbor.

Street performers, artisan markets, and local musicians add to the lively atmosphere, making it an excellent spot to soak in the Mediterranean ambiance. Whether visiting during the day or at sunset, the Explanada provides an unforgettable experience that reflects Alicante’s vibrant coastal energy.

3. Relax at Playa del Postiguet in Alicante

For sunseekers, Playa del Postiguet is the most popular beach in Alicante, offering golden sands and clear waters right next to the city center. This urban beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying a seaside drink at one of the nearby beach bars. The gentle waves and shallow waters make it great for families, while beachgoers can also spot the Castillo de Santa Bárbara towering above from the coastline.

With easy access from Alicante’s main attractions, Playa del Postiguet is the perfect place to unwind before heading out for evening activities. The beach is free to access and is best enjoyed between May and September when temperatures are at their warmest.

4. Visit Mercado Central in Alicante

For food lovers, Mercado Central is the heart of Alicante’s culinary scene, offering an incredible selection of fresh produce, seafood, Iberian ham, and traditional delicacies. The historic market, housed in a beautiful early 20th-century building, is a paradise for discovering local specialties like turrón, salted fish, and artisan cheeses.

The market operates Monday to Saturday from 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM, providing the perfect morning outing to explore Alicante’s gastronomic richness. It’s a fantastic spot to shop for authentic ingredients or simply savor the lively atmosphere of Spanish market culture.

5. Discover Barrio Santa Cruz in Alicante

Alicante’s Barrio Santa Cruz is a picturesque neighborhood known for its whitewashed houses, vibrant floral displays, and winding alleys that create an enchanting old-town feel. Climbing through the steep streets leads to breathtaking views of the city, making it a favorite spot for photographers and explorers alike.

This charming district is best experienced in the early evening when local taverns and terraces fill with people enjoying traditional tapas and a relaxed atmosphere. The colorful façades and intimate plazas make Barrio Santa Cruz one of the most beautiful parts of Alicante.

6. Visit the MARQ Archaeological Museum in Alicante

The MARQ Archaeological Museum is one of Spain’s most innovative museums, offering interactive exhibits and digital reconstructions that bring Alicante’s history to life. The museum covers prehistoric, Iberian, Roman, and medieval periods, providing an engaging overview of the region’s past through artifacts, immersive displays, and reconstructed archaeological sites.

Opening hours are typically 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and entry costs around €4, making it a worthwhile stop for those interested in Spain’s ancient civilizations.

7. Take a Day Trip to Isla de Tabarca from Alicante

Just off the coast of Alicante, Isla de Tabarca is a small island paradise known for crystal-clear waters, marine reserves, and charming stone streets. The island’s fortified town, originally built as a defensive outpost, now hosts quaint seafood restaurants and secluded beaches, making it perfect for a day of relaxation.

Ferries depart from Alicante’s harbor, with round-trip tickets costing around €20–€25. The island is best visited between May and September, when the weather is ideal for snorkeling and coastal hikes.

8. Explore Basílica de Santa María in Alicante

The Basílica de Santa María, Alicante’s oldest church, is an architectural treasure built over a former Moorish mosque. Its Baroque façade, gothic interiors, and intricate altarpieces showcase centuries of artistic influence, making it a must-see for history and art enthusiasts.

The basilica is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and entry is free, allowing visitors to admire its grandeur at their own pace.

9. Experience Alicante’s Tapas and Gastronomy Scene

Alicante’s food culture blends Mediterranean freshness with Valencian tradition, offering a wide array of seafood, rice dishes, and traditional tapas. Must-try dishes include arroz a banda (seafood rice) and esgarrat (roasted red pepper and cod salad), both of which showcase Alicante’s coastal influences.

Popular dining spots can be found in El Barrio (Old Town) and along the Explanada de España, making it easy to find high-quality cuisine while enjoying the city’s energetic atmosphere.

10. Visit the Contemporary Art Museum of Alicante (MACA)

For art lovers, MACA (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante) offers a stunning collection of modern and contemporary works, featuring pieces by Joan Miró, Pablo Picasso, and Salvador Dalí. Housed in a historic Baroque building, the museum combines old and new in an impressive artistic setting.

Entry is free, and the museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM