Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante

Museum in Alicante

Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante
Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante
CC BY-SA 1.0 / Zarateman

MACA (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante) is one of those museums that fits perfectly into a city day: central, calm, and genuinely rewarding without demanding hours of your time. It sits right in Alicante's Old Town beside the Basilica of Santa María, combining crisp, contemporary gallery spaces with the atmosphere of the historic quarter just outside the door.

If you are doing a self-guided walking tour through the Old Town, MACA is an ideal anchor stop: you can pair it with Santa María, the Town Hall area, and the waterfront in a simple loop. It also works as a “reset” break from the heat or crowds, with a collection that's easy to browse even if you're not a devoted modern-art specialist.

History and Significance of the MACA (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante)

MACA's importance in Alicante is closely tied to the city's decision to make modern and contemporary art part of its civic identity, not a niche add-on. The museum is owned by the city and has grown into a key cultural institution in the historic centre, drawing in both locals and visitors who might otherwise focus only on beaches and castles.

A major pillar of the museum is the “Arte Siglo XX” collection, shaped by the donation made to the city by Eusebio Sempere. That foundational gift set the tone: not just a few headline names, but a broad, curated survey that helps visitors understand movements and shifts across 20th-century art, particularly with strong Spanish representation.

The setting adds a second layer of interest. You are looking at contemporary works in a part of the city where architectural history is immediate, which makes the visit feel distinctly “Alicante” rather than a generic white-box museum experience.

Things to See and Do in the MACA (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante)

Start with the permanent collections to get your bearings. Even a quick pass gives you an overview of styles and themes that recur across the 20th century, and it makes the temporary exhibitions easier to place in context. If you prefer a structured visit, aim to follow the museum’s natural flow rather than hopping randomly between rooms.

Temporary exhibitions are worth prioritising if you have limited time, since they are the most time-sensitive part of the experience. A practical approach is to do the temporary show first, then “cool down” through selected highlights of the permanent collection on your way out.

Finally, do not rush the building itself. The museum's location and vertical, light-seeking interiors create a strong sense of moving between old city fabric and modern presentation, which is part of what makes MACA feel more distinctive than its modest size suggests.

How to Get to the MACA (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante)

Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC) is the closest airport and is the practical choice for most international arrivals. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Alicante on Booking.com.

If you arrive by train, Alicante-Terminal is the main station; from there it's an easy taxi ride, or a straightforward walk if you are already staying centrally and travelling light. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

For local public transport, the Old Town is best approached on foot from central Alicante, with bus and tram stops clustered around the city centre and the waterfront; once you enter the historic streets, walking is usually faster than trying to navigate multiple short hops.

Driving is rarely worth it for this stop because the Old Town streets are narrow and parking is easier in larger garages nearer the port or central avenues, then finishing on foot. 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.

Practical Tips on Visiting the MACA (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante)

  • Entrance fee: Free
  • Opening 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.
  • Official website: https://maca-alicante.es/
  • Best time to visit: Late morning for a quieter feel, or early afternoon if you want a cool indoor break after exploring the Old Town.
  • How long to spend: Plan 45-90 minutes for a satisfying visit, longer if you like to read wall text and move slowly through the permanent collection.
  • Accessibility: The museum is generally manageable for visitors with reduced mobility, but the surrounding Old Town streets can be uneven; plan a smoother approach route from the flatter central areas.
  • Facilities: Expect a museum-style visit focused on galleries; use nearby Old Town cafés for longer breaks before or after.

Where to Stay Close to the MACA (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante)

For a culture-heavy itinerary, base yourself in Alicante's Old Town around Santa María and the historic lanes; if your trip leans more toward the beach, dining, and evening atmosphere, the marina and Explanada area will feel more convenient while still staying walkable.

For a polished, central stay a short walk from MACA, consider Hospes Amérigo, which places you right between the Old Town and the waterfront. If you want something simpler and excellent value in the heart of the historic quarter, Hotel La Milagrosa is a practical base that keeps everything close. For a bigger, resort-leaning hotel with sea views and easy access to the promenade, Meliá Alicante works well, especially if you want the marina and beach in your daily routine.

Is the MACA (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante) Worth Visiting?

Yes-MACA is absolutely worth it, especially because it is central, free, and delivers a concentrated modern-art experience without the “big museum” time commitment. It's one of the easiest high-quality cultural wins in Alicante, and it fits naturally into an Old Town day.

Honest pivot: if you strongly dislike modern and abstract art, or you only want panoramic viewpoints and outdoor sights, you can skip MACA and put that time into Santa Bárbara Castle or a longer waterfront walk instead.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.5 (2,382)

Reviewers describe a free, well-laid-out modern and contemporary art museum with an impressive collection, especially of Spanish artists, including notable names like Miró, Picasso and Dalí. The building itself is frequently praised for its striking historic setting, and visitors mention friendly staff and occasional talks or presentations. Most found it easy to explore in a short visit, though a few felt some floors or pieces were less interesting or uneven in quality.

Hana Zaimović
2 months ago
"This museum is quite wonderful, and it's nice that entry is free. The art works are truly impressive. Since it's not very large, you can comfortablysee everything in about 30-40 minutes...."
cristian patrizio
a month ago
"Nice place, according to my tastes just 2 floors were really interesting but this is personal. Nonetheless the staff was nice and they could driveyou with interesting hints. Additionally it is for free..."
Mike Leibowitz
2 months ago
"A lovely modern art museum focusing on Spanish artists. There are a number of Joan Miro's here as well as many other artists. We sat through apresentation by an artistic director on a nice auditorium. Entry to the museum is gratis...."

For Different Travelers

Families with Kids

Keep the visit short and goal-based: pick a few rooms and turn it into a “spot the shapes/colours” hunt so it feels active rather than instructional. Pair it with a nearby open space stop afterwards so kids can reset after gallery time.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

MACA works nicely as a calm, shared experience between Old Town wandering and a leisurely lunch. The area around Santa María is particularly atmospheric, so you can treat the museum as a quiet interlude inside a more romantic historic-centre walk.

Budget Travelers

This is a strong budget-friendly anchor because it adds real substance to your day without adding cost. Use it to build a “free culture loop” through the Old Town, then spend your budget where it matters more-food, a viewpoint, or a day trip.

History Buffs

Even if you are not deeply into contemporary art, the museum's setting in the historic core makes it worthwhile as a cultural contrast: old city, new ideas. Treat it as context for how Alicante presents itself today, not just as a beach destination but as a living cultural city.

FAQs for Visiting MACA (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante)

Getting There

MACA is in Alicante’s Old Town beside the Basilica of Santa María, in one of the most walkable parts of the historic centre. It’s an easy stop to combine with nearby churches, squares, and the waterfront.
Aim for the Santa María area and follow signs toward the basilica; MACA is essentially adjacent. If you are coming from the promenade, walk uphill into the Old Town via the central lanes rather than trying to zigzag through the narrowest streets.
A taxi is the easiest option if you want a direct trip without navigating old streets. If you walk, treat it as a city-centre stroll and plan for extra time if you are carrying luggage.

Visiting Experience

You can get a satisfying visit in under an hour by focusing on one temporary exhibition and a handful of permanent highlights. If you have 90 minutes, you can slow down and let the collection “read” more clearly.
Yes, because it is compact and central, and it gives your day cultural depth without derailing your sightseeing plan. It pairs especially well with a quick Santa María stop and a walk toward the seafront.
A simple mini-route is Santa María and MACA, then down toward the Explanada and the marina for food and atmosphere. If you want a viewpoint finale, add Santa Bárbara Castle afterwards.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Many Old Town walks pass directly by it because of its location beside Santa María and other key historic stops. Even without a formal tour, it functions like a natural “museum waypoint” on a classic Old Town loop.
Independent works well because the museum is manageable and easy to navigate. A guided visit can add value if you want deeper context on the collection and artists rather than a quick visual browse.

Photography

It can be, especially for clean architectural lines and the contrast between historic surroundings and modern interior spaces. Always be mindful of gallery rules and other visitors, particularly in quieter rooms.
Late afternoon often gives the Old Town streets softer light and a warmer look around Santa María. For fewer people in the frame, earlier is generally easier.

Accessibility & Facilities

The museum itself is typically easier than the surrounding Old Town, where cobbles and gradients can be the bigger challenge. Plan a flatter approach route and allow extra time moving between nearby sights.
Yes-this part of the Old Town has small squares and nearby cafés that work well for a reset. If you prefer something breezier, the waterfront promenade is a comfortable option a short walk away.

Nearby Attractions to the MACA (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante)

  • Basilica of Santa María: The landmark church next door, and one of the most atmospheric stops in Alicante's Old Town.
  • Alicante Town Hall: A short walk away, with a grand façade and a lively surrounding area for a quick look and photos.
  • Explanada de España: Alicante's iconic palm-lined promenade, ideal for a relaxed stroll and people-watching.
  • Santa Bárbara Castle: The city's headline viewpoint, best for panoramas over the port and coastline.
  • Postiguet Beach: The closest central beach, convenient for a swim or a sunset walk after your Old Town loop.

The Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Alicante!

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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Planning Your Visit

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

Address: Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante MACA, Plaza Santa María, Alicante, Spain
Alicante: 1 km
Official Website

Nearby Attractions

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