Alicante, Spain: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2026

Alicante
Alicante

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.

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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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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13 Best places to See in Alicante

This complete guide to Alicante not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Alicante and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

1. Mercat Central d'Alacant

Mercat Central d’Alacant
Mercat Central d’Alacant
CC BY-SA 1.0 / Zarateman
Mercat Central d’Alacant is Alicante’s main indoor food market, housed in a purpose-built early-20th-century hall designed to be airy and sanitary. The rectangular building mixes Modernist and eclectic touches, with broad corridors, high ceilings, and stained-glass windows that pour daylight onto the stalls. On the main façade, the Rotonda’s semi-spherical roof is the feature most people remember once they step back outside. Inside, nearly 300 units spread across roughly 11,000 square meters, from gleaming seafood counters and butcher stalls to piles of citrus, nuts, and bakery treats. Visitors often graze as they browse, picking up small tasting portions and quick bites at the bars.
Location: Av. Alfonso El Sabio, nº 10, 03004 Alicante (Alacant), Alicante, Spain | Hours: Monday – Friday: 07:00–14:30. Saturday: 07:00–15:00. Closed on Sunday. | Price: Free. | Website | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Mercat Central d'Alacant

We recommend to rent a car in Spain through Discover Cars, they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies. Book your rental car here.

2. Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante

Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante
Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante
CC BY-SA 1.0 / Zarateman
Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante (MACA) is the city-run contemporary art museum set in Alicante’s Old Town, steps from the Basilica of Santa María, linking modern work to a distinctly historic setting. Its core strength is the 20th-century collection shaped by Eusebio Sempere’s donation, giving the museum real weight in how Alicante presents its cultural identity beyond the coast. Inside, the visit unfolds through bright, vertical galleries that reward a steady, room-by-room flow rather than quick hopping around. Visitors often notice the strong Spanish focus—pieces by Sempere and Equipo Crónica come up often, alongside works by Joan Miró—and the calm, compact scale. Many travelers appreciate that entry is free and that you can take it in comfortably in under an hour.
Location: Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante MACA, Plaza Santa María, Alicante, Spain | Hours: (Summer) 1 July – 30 September. Tuesday – Friday: 10:00–20:00. Saturday: 11:00–20:00. Sunday & Public holidays: 10:00–14:00. Monday: Closed. (Winter) 1 October – 30 June. Tuesday – Friday: 10:00–20:00. Saturday: 11:00–20:00. Sunday & Public holidays: 10:00–14:00. Monday: Closed. | Price: Free | Website | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante

Here is a complete selection of hotel options in Alicante. Feel free to review each one and choose the stay that best suits your needs.

3. Archaeological Museum of Alicante

Archaeological Museum of Alicante
Archaeological Museum of Alicante
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Rodriguillo
The Archaeological Museum of Alicante (MARQ) is a modern archaeology museum that traces roughly 100,000 years of local and Mediterranean history, helping visitors understand how the region’s past was uncovered. The permanent route moves from prehistory through classical antiquity and the Middle Ages, with standout objects like ancient coin collections, Iberian ceramics, and a figure of the goddess Tanit. A substantial medieval section displays more than 300 objects, giving a close look at everyday life and craftsmanship. The museum also explains key nearby dig sites such as Lucentum, Illeta dels Banyets, and the Sanctuary of Pla de Petracos, tying artifacts to real places. Interactive stations and large-screen videos add atmosphere, though some on-screen text may be limited in English.
Location: Pl. Dr. Gómez Ulla, S/N, 03013 Alacant, Alicante, Spain | Hours: (Summer) June 17 – September 14; Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00–22:00. Sunday: 10:00–14:00. Closed on Monday. (Winter) September 16 – June 16; Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00–19:00. Sunday: 10:00–14:00. Closed on Monday. | Price: Adults: €6; Sundays & public holidays: €3. | Website | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Archaeological Museum of Alicante

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4. Rambla de Méndez Núñez

Rambla de Méndez Núñez
Rambla de Méndez Núñez
CC BY-SA 1.0 / Zarateman
Rambla de Méndez Núñez (La Rambla) is a broad, tree-lined avenue in central Alicante, functioning as a social promenade and a practical corridor linking the city center with the port and beach. With wide sidewalks, benches, and pockets of greenery, it’s designed for lingering—people-watching, meeting friends, and drifting between cafés, bars, and small shops. The street is named for Casto Méndez Núñez, a 19th-century Spanish naval figure, adding a subtle historical layer to an otherwise everyday urban scene. As you walk between Avenida Alfonso el Sabio and the Explanada de España, the mood shifts from commercial bustle to seaside ease, especially in the evening when it feels clean, lively, and full of character.
Location: Rbla. de Méndez Núñez, Alicante (Alacant), Alicante, Spain | Hours: 24 Hours. | Price: Free. | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Rambla de Méndez Núñez

Explore Alicante at your own pace with our self-guided walking tour! Follow our curated route to discover must-see sights and local secrets that makes Alicante one of the best places to visit in Spain.

5. Castell de Santa Bàrbera

Castell de Santa Bàrbera
Castell de Santa Bàrbera
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Diego Delso
Castell de Santa Bàrbera is a vast fortress crowning Monte Benacantil above Alicante, built to command approaches from land and sea and still defining the city’s skyline. Its earliest core dates to the 9th-century Moorish alcázar, later taken during the Reconquista on Saint Barbara’s feast day—giving the castle its name—and reshaped again under Philip II with Renaissance-era additions. Wandering the terraces, you can climb to La Torreta, cross the Patio de Armas, and spot features like the Revellín del Bon Repós rampart and the grand reception hall. From the ramparts, the view sweeps over the old town, marina, and the Mediterranean, a panorama many visitors remember most.
Location: Castillo de Santa Bárbara, 03002 Alicante (Alacant), Alicante, Spain | Hours: (November 15 – February 27) Monday – Sunday: 10:00–18:00. (February 28 – June 16) Monday – Sunday: 10:00–20:00. (June 17 – September 4) Monday – Sunday: 10:00–23:00. (September 5 – November 14) Monday – Sunday: 10:00–20:00. | Price: Free entry; lift: €2.70. | Website | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Castell de Santa Bàrbera

6. Alicante City Hall

Alicante City Hall
Alicante City Hall
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Emilio J. Rodríguez Posada
Alicante City Hall (Ayuntamiento de Alicante) is an 18th-century Baroque civic building facing Plaza del Ayuntamiento, where its symmetrical façade, Solomonic entrance columns, and twin towers make a striking first impression. Inside, a red marble staircase leads to the Isabelline-style Blue Room, with the Plenary Room and a small chapel above. Look for the “Cota Cero” marker used as a reference point for measuring elevations, and a nearby Salvador Dalí sculpture that adds an unexpected note of whimsy. The modern annex contrasts with the ornate main block and displays archaeological remains from medieval Alicante, plus a glazed terrace with views toward Santa Bárbara Castle. The palm-lined square is a pleasant place to pause for photos.
Location: Plaça de l'Ajuntament, 1, 03002 Alacant, Alicante, Spain | Hours: (October – June) Monday – Friday: 09:00–14:00. Closed on Saturday, Sunday. (July – September) Monday – Friday: 09:00–13:00. Closed on Saturday, Sunday. | Price: Free. | Website | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Alicante City Hall

7. Cocatedral de Sant Nicolau

Cocatedral de Sant Nicolau
Cocatedral de Sant Nicolau
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Emilio J. Rodríguez Posada
In Alicante’s Casco Antiguo, the Cocatedral de Sant Nicolau is a Roman Catholic co-cathedral dedicated to Saint Nicholas of Bari, built from 1613 to 1662 on the foundations of an earlier mosque. Its Spanish Baroque design follows a Latin-cross plan with short transepts, six linked side chapels, and an ambulatory wrapping the apse. Above the crossing, a blue dome rises about 45 meters, while the sober exterior contrasts Doric and Ionic façades. Inside, many visitors linger in the cloister for a quieter pause, and those who climb the upper levels remember the long stairways and the wide city views from the bell tower.
Location: Plaza de, Pl. del Abad Penalva, 2, 03002 Alicante (Alacant), Alicante, Spain | Hours: Monday – Friday: 07:30–13:00 & 17:30–20:00. Saturday: 08:30–13:00 & 17:30–20:30. Sunday: 08:30–13:30 & 17:30–20:30. | Price: Church entry: Free. Cultural/audioguided visit (cloister + upper areas + bell tower): €8. | Website | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Cocatedral de Sant Nicolau

8. Basilica of St Mary of Alicante

Basilica of St Mary of Alicante
Basilica of St Mary of Alicante
CC BY-SA 1.0 / Diego Delso
The Basilica of St Mary (Basílica de Santa María) in Alicante’s Barrio Santa Cruz is the city’s oldest church, begun in the 14th century on the site of the main Moorish-era mosque, and reshaped by later Catholic rebuilding. Its bones are Gothic, but the 18th-century makeover brought a Baroque façade and a lavish Rococo high altar that changes the mood once you step inside. Outside, look for Juan Bautista Borja’s finely carved stone Virgin above the entrance and the two bell towers that don’t match—one medieval, one added centuries later. Visitors often remember the quiet interior light and the demanding stair climb up to the belfry for rooftop views.
Location: Pl. Sta. María, 1, 03001 Alicante (Alacant), Alicante, Spain | Hours: Monday – Saturday: 10:00–19:00. Sunday: 13:00–19:00. | Price: Adults (18–64): €6; Seniors (65+): €5; Youth/Students: €4; Under 12: free (with an adult). | Website | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Basilica of St Mary of Alicante

9. Playa del Postiguet

Playa del Postiguet, with Castle in Background
Playa del Postiguet
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Eduardo Manchon
Playa del Postiguet is Alicante’s central city beach, a broad stretch of soft sand tucked beneath Benacantil hill with Santa Bárbara Castle rising directly above. Its location beside the waterfront promenades makes it a natural pause point between the old streets and the sea, with gentle water that suits an easy, spontaneous swim. Visitors remember the castle-on-the-horizon backdrop, the level promenade edge, and the lively evening scene of joggers and beach games. Expect an urban setup with cafés close by, taps for rinsing off sand, and seasonal services like sunbeds. In peak sun it can feel packed, and some days bring seaweed and less-than-great-smelling patches near the waterline.
Location: Playa del Postiguet, Spain | Hours: 24 Hours | Website | Distance: 0.8km
Visiting Playa del Postiguet

10. Casa Carbonell

Casa Carbonell
Casa Carbonell
CC BY-SA 4.0 / H.Helmlechner
Casa Carbonell is a grand residential building from 1925 on Alicante’s Explanada de España, facing the marina, designed by local architect Juan Vidal Ramos for textile magnate Enrique Carbonell. Its symmetrical, academic façade is dressed with French-style ornament, a rhythmic stack of ornate balconies, and a domed roofline you notice immediately as you approach the promenade. Look closer for the contrast of materials: sandstone at the base, iron-and-glass canopies, and a roof finished to resemble slate, with marble used inside the halls. Today it’s still part of daily city life, with shops and offices on the lower levels and rental apartments above.
Location: Passeig Esplanada d'Espanya, 1, 03002 Alacant, Alicante, Spain | Hours: 24 Hours. | Price: Free. | Distance: 0.8km
Visiting Casa Carbonell

11. Passeig Esplanada d'Espanya

Passeig Esplanada d’Espanya
Passeig Esplanada d’Espanya
CC BY-SA 1.0 / Zarateman
Passeig Esplanada d’Espanya is Alicante’s seafront promenade, running parallel to the water from the port toward Canalejas Park, where the city’s daily life meets the marina. Underfoot, the walkway’s tricolor marble paving is set in a rolling wave pattern that catches the light and becomes the detail most visitors photograph. Along the palm-lined stretch you’ll look out over yachts and working boats, with café terraces and small souvenir stalls adding to the steady, unhurried flow. Architectural landmarks punctuate the route, including Casa Carbonell and the Royal Casino de Alicante, with the Hotel Gran Sol rising nearby. It’s a place remembered for shade, sea breeze, and the rhythm of footsteps on stone.
Location: Passeig Esplanada d'Espanya, Alacant, Alicante, Spain | Hours: 24 Hours. | Price: Free. | Distance: 0.9km
Visiting Passeig Esplanada d'Espanya

12. Albufereta Beach

Playa de la Albufereta
Playa de la Albufereta
CC BY-SA 1.0 / Zarateman
Albufereta Beach is a compact urban beach in northeast Alicante, Spain, tucked into a sheltered bay where the water is often calmer than the city-centre sands. The cove-like setting, framed by low headlands and the rise of Serra Grossa, gives it a contained feel and an easy “quick swim” rhythm rather than an all-day beach sprawl. Visitors tend to notice the local, quieter atmosphere—especially outside peak season—along with clean sand and a relaxed shoreline. It’s close enough to reach by bus or TRAM from central Alicante, making it a low-effort stop when you want sea air without the bustle. Reviews often mention the calm vibe and occasional late-summer seaweed or algae.
| Hours: 24 hours | Price: Free | Website | Distance: 3.6km
Visiting Albufereta Beach

13. Lucentum Archaeological Site

Lucentum Archaeological Site
Lucentum Archaeological Site
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Concepcion AMAT ORTA
Lucentum Archaeological Site is the compact footprint of ancient Alicante on the Tossal de Manises ridge above La Albufereta, where a Roman municipium once sat with the sea in clear view. Rather than scattered stones, you walk a legible city plan: defensive walls with tower points, straight street lines, and the outlines of house plots and civic areas that still read as an organized town. The settlement grew from earlier Iberian roots and peaked in the early Imperial period before declining after the late 1st century AD and being abandoned by the 3rd. Later reuse as a quarry and an Islamic-period burial ground adds visible layers to the ground you’re tracing.
Location: Lucentum Tossal de Manises Carrer Zeus 03016 Alicante Spain | Hours: (Summer) 15 June – 15 September: Tuesday – Saturday: 09:00–13:00 & 18:00–21:00. Sunday & Public Holidays: 09:00–13:00. Monday: Closed. (Winter) 16 September – 14 June: Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00–14:00 & 15:30–17:30. Sunday & Public Holidays: 10:00–14:00. Monday: Closed. | Price: Entrance fee: €3.00 (Sundays & public holidays €1.50). | Website | Distance: 4.3km
Visiting Lucentum Archaeological Site

Best Day Trips from Alicante

A day trip from Alicante offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Alicante provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary. If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

1. Isla de Tabarca

Isla de Tabarca
Isla de Tabarca
Isla de Tabarca is the Costa Blanca’s most rewarding “small effort, big payoff” excursion: a short boat ride takes you to a compact, walkable island where you can circle the coastline on foot, swim in startlingly clear water, and wander a fortified historic core that feels genuinely distinct from mainland Alicante. The vibe is part seaside village, part heritage site,…
Location: Isla de Tabarca, Spain | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free to visit (you only pay for the boat crossing). | Website | Distance: 20.8km
Visiting Isla de Tabarca
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2. Murcia

cathedral mercia
cathedral mercia
Murcia is a city in southeastern Spain and serves as the capital of the Autonomous Community of the Region of Murcia. As of 2018, it is the country's seventh-largest city with a population of 447,182, and its metropolitan area had 689,591 inhabitants in 2010. Situated along the Segura River on the southeast of the Iberian Peninsula, Murcia is characterized by…
Visiting Murcia

3. Denia

costa blanca Denia.pg
costa blanca Denia.pg
Dénia is a relaxed coastal town on Spain’s Costa Blanca, in the northern part of Alicante province within the Valencian Community. It sits between the Mediterranean and the foothills of the Montgó Natural Park, so you get a rare mix of sea views and mountain scenery in the same frame. The town feels like a working port as much as…
Visiting Denia
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4. Cartagena

Cartagena Spain
Cartagena Spain
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Bybbisch94, Christian Gebhardt
Cartagena, located in the Region of Murcia, is a captivating coastal city offering a blend of stunning Mediterranean views, lively urban culture, and archaeological wonders. Its waterfront promenade, lined with charming cafés and seafood restaurants, provides the perfect setting for a relaxing stroll while taking in the sights of Cartagena’s deep-water port. Visitors can explore the city’s dynamic local scene,…
Visiting Cartagena
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5. Valencia

Valencia
Valencia
Valencia, the capital of the Valencian Community, is a dynamic city that seamlessly blends historical charm with modern innovation. Its Ciutat Vella (Old Town) is a treasure trove of architectural wonders, where visitors can stroll through Plaza de la Virgen, admire the Valencia Cathedral, and explore the atmospheric streets of Barrio del Carmen. Meanwhile, the futuristic City of Arts and…
Visiting Valencia
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6. Lorca

Castillo de Lorca
Castillo de Lorca
Public Domain / Jose Lorca
Lorca, situated in the Region of Murcia, offers visitors a rich blend of cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant local traditions. The city is best known for its Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebrations, which feature elaborate processions and striking religious imagery, making it one of Spain’s most spectacular Easter festivities. Beyond its renowned events, Lorca boasts charming plazas, historic streets,…
Visiting Lorca
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7. Albacete

Albacete
Albacete
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Angel Aroca Escámez
Albacete is a city and municipality in the Spanish autonomous community of Castilla la Mancha, serving as the capital of the province of Albacete. Located in the southeast of the Iberian Peninsula, it lies within the Meseta Central and the historic region of La Mancha, specifically La Mancha de Montearagón, with the surrounding area known as Los Llanos. With a…
Visiting Albacete
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Where to Stay in Alicante

Alicante offers a wide range of accommodations suited to visitors seeking beachfront relaxation, historic charm, or modern convenience. El Barrio (Old Town) is the perfect place for travelers who want to immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant atmosphere, with easy access to Plaza del Ayuntamiento, charming streets, and cultural landmarks such as Santa Bárbara Castle. The area is packed with traditional tapas bars, lively cafés, and boutique shops, making it ideal for those who want to experience Alicante’s authenticity. A great hotel in this district is Hospes Amérigo, offering a sophisticated stay with elegant rooms and a rooftop terrace overlooking the city.

For visitors drawn to the seaside, Playa del Postiguet and the Marina District provide fantastic waterfront accommodations. These areas offer easy beach access, stunning Mediterranean views, and lively promenades lined with seafood restaurants and cocktail bars. Guests staying here can enjoy scenic morning walks, boat excursions, and refreshing swims in Alicante’s clear waters. A recommended hotel in this area is Melia Alicante, featuring spacious rooms and an unbeatable seaside location next to the marina.

If you prefer a quieter, upscale retreat, La Albufereta and San Juan Beach are excellent choices. These districts offer more serene surroundings, luxury resorts, and expansive beaches, making them ideal for relaxation while still being a short drive from the city center. The area is well-suited for travelers looking for spa treatments, golf courses, and fine dining options with Mediterranean cuisine. A recommended stay in this district is Hotel Alicante Golf, featuring premium accommodations with access to golf facilities and a tranquil atmosphere. Whether you’re seeking historic charm, beachfront beauty, or modern luxury, Alicante has a range of stays to match every traveler’s preference.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Alicante. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Alicante Accommodation Map

Best Time to Visit Alicante

Visiting Alicante in Spring

Spring, from March to May, is an excellent time to visit Alicante. The weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This season is perfect for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions, such as the Castle of Santa Bárbara and the Explanada de España, and enjoying the blooming flowers and vibrant greenery.

Visiting Alicante in Summer

Summer, from June to August, is the peak tourist season in Alicante. The weather is hot and sunny, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). This is the best time to enjoy Alicante’s beautiful beaches, such as Postiguet Beach and San Juan Beach, and take part in water sports and outdoor activities. The city’s lively nightlife and festivals, including the famous Hogueras de San Juan in June, make summer a vibrant and exciting time to visit.

Visiting Alicante in Autumn

Autumn, from September to November, is another great time to visit Alicante. The temperatures are cooler, ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), making it comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The crowds from the summer have dispersed, allowing for a more relaxed exploration of Alicante’s historical sites and cultural attractions. The autumn colors add a picturesque backdrop to the city’s landscapes.

Visiting Alicante in Winter

Winter, from December to February, is mild in Alicante, with temperatures averaging between 10°C and 15°C (50°F to 59°F). This is the off-peak tourist season, offering a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere. Winter is a good time to explore indoor attractions such as museums and historic buildings without the crowds. The festive holiday decorations and events, including Christmas markets and celebrations, add a charming touch to the city during this season.

Annual Weather Overview

  • January 15°C
  • February 16°C
  • March 19°C
  • April 20°C
  • May 23°C
  • June 28°C
  • July 30°C
  • August 31°C
  • September 27°C
  • October 23°C
  • November 19°C
  • December 16°C

How to get to Alicante

By Air to Alicante

Alicante is served by Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC), located approximately 9 kilometers southwest of the city. The airport offers numerous domestic and international flights, making it a convenient entry point. From the airport, you can reach the city center by taxi, car rental, or the C6 bus line. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Alicante on Booking.com.

By Train to Alicante

Alicante has a well-connected train station, Alicante-Terminal, with regular services from major Spanish cities. High-speed AVE trains from Madrid take about 2.5 hours, while trains from Barcelona take around 5 hours. The train station is centrally located, providing easy access to the city's main attractions. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

By Bus to Alicante

Several bus companies operate routes to Alicante from various cities across Spain. The main bus station, Estación de Autobuses de Alicante, is located near the city center. Buses from Madrid, Valencia, and other cities offer a convenient and cost-effective way to travel.

By Car to Alicante

Driving to Alicante is a convenient option, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding region. From Madrid, the drive takes approximately 4-5 hours via the A-31 highway. From Valencia, it takes about 2 hours via the AP-7 and A-7 highways. The city is well-connected by road, making it easy to navigate by car. If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

By Ferry to Alicante

Alicante has a port that receives ferries from various Mediterranean destinations. While it is not the most common way to reach the city, it is an option for travelers coming from the Balearic Islands. The port is close to the city center, providing easy access to accommodations and attractions.

By Local Transportation in Alicante

Once in Alicante, you can explore the city by walking or using the local bus and tram network operated by TRAM Metropolitano de Alicante. Taxis are also readily available for getting around the city. Walking is particularly enjoyable in Alicante due to its compact size and the close proximity of major attractions.

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Self-Guided Walking Tour of Zaragoza

Self-Guided Walking Tour of Zaragoza (2026)

Zaragoza is one of Spain’s most underrated historic cities, set on the Ebro and shaped by Roman, Islamic, Jewish, Christian, and Aragonese history. Spain’s official tourism site highlights the Basilica of Nuestra Señora del Pilar as the city’s symbol, while the Aljafería Palace reflects Zaragoza’s Islamic and royal Aragonese past. For visitors, Zaragoza is rewarding […]

Your Self-Guided Walking Tour of Valencia
Your Self-Guided Walking Tour of Valencia

Self-Guided Walking Tour of Valencia (2026)

Valencia is one of Spain’s most appealing Mediterranean cities, combining a historic centre, beaches, food culture, modern architecture, and green space created from the former Turia riverbed. Its great historic monument is La Lonja de la Seda, the Silk Exchange, which UNESCO describes as an exceptionally well-preserved late Gothic secular building and evidence of Valencia’s […]

Self-Guided Walking Tour of Madrid
Self-Guided Walking Tour of Madrid

Self-Guided Walking Tour of Madrid (2026)

Madrid is Spain’s capital and one of Europe’s great museum cities, with royal, political, artistic, and everyday urban life concentrated in a large but highly walkable centre. The Royal Palace, although no longer the royal family’s home, remains the official residence and is presented by Madrid’s tourism office as a route through the history of […]

Self-Guided Walking Tour of Tarragona
Self-Guided Walking Tour of Tarragona

Self-Guided Walking Tour of Tarragona (2026)

Tarragona is one of Spain’s best cities for Roman heritage, built over ancient Tarraco, once one of the major Roman centres of Hispania. UNESCO describes the Archaeological Ensemble of Tarraco as preserving remains from the city’s Republican foundation in the 3rd century BCE through to the Early Christian era. For visitors, Tarragona combines archaeology with […]

Self-Guided Walking Tour of La Coruna Old Town
Self-Guided Walking Tour of La Coruna Old Town

Self-Guided Walking Tour of La Coruna Old Town (2026)

La Coruña, or A Coruña, is a Galician Atlantic city known for its harbour, glass-fronted galleries, beaches, old town, seafood, and the Tower of Hercules. UNESCO describes the Tower of Hercules as a Roman lighthouse and landmark at the entrance to La Coruña harbour since the late 1st century AD, with Roman masonry still forming […]