Alicante: Sun, Sand, Sangria, and Hidden Gems
Discover the Mediterranean charm of Alicante, where stunning beaches and vibrant culture await.
14 October 2023
Pablo Escudero
Spain Travel Writer
A trip to Alicante, Spain offers a delightful blend of rich history, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Explore the ancient Castillo de Santa Barbara, a hilltop castle with panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. Indulge in the beautiful beaches of Playa del Postiguet and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Explanada de España promenade, lined with palm trees, cafes, and shops.
Travel plan
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- Start the day with a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of Playa del Postiguet, Alicante's main beach.
- Stroll along the vibrant Explanada de España, a mosaic-covered promenade lined with palm trees and bustling cafes.
- Climb up to the Santa Bárbara Castle, perched high on Mount Benacantil, for breathtaking views of the city and coastline.
- Indulge in some tapas at El Portal or La Taberna del Gourmet, where the traditional flavors will make your taste buds dance with joy.
- Explore the picturesque old town, known as El Barrio, with its narrow cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and charming squares.
- End your day with a glass of sangria at La Pecera, a quirky bar adorned with fish tanks and funky decor.
- Take a scenic boat ride to Tabarca Island, a hidden gem that feels like stepping into a different era, with its tranquil beaches and quaint streets.
- Discover the Mercado Central, a bustling indoor market where you can feast your eyes on colorful displays of fresh produce, local delicacies, and aromatic spices.
- Wander through the vibrant streets of the trendy neighborhood of El Barrio de Santa Cruz, filled with hip boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafes.
- Savor a traditional paella at Restaurante Dársena, where the authentic flavors transport you straight to foodie heaven.
- Get lost in the labyrinthine streets of the Santa Cruz District, where every corner reveals a hidden plaza, picturesque alleyway, or charming garden.
- Wrap up your day by sipping on a cocktail at Kafka, a quirky bar with a literary theme and an intriguing atmosphere.
- Note: While the suggested activities and places are based on research, it's always a good idea to check for any closures or schedule changes before visiting Alicante. Enjoy your adventure!
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Alicante, Spain by plane is to fly into Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC). There are numerous international and domestic flights that operate to this airport, making it easily accessible from various destinations.
Car
If you prefer to travel by car, you can drive to Alicante using the AP-7 motorway. The journey offers stunning views and takes approximately 4-5 hours from Madrid or Barcelona. Alicante has various parking facilities available in the city.
Train
Unfortunately, there is no direct train to Alicante. However, you can take a train to Alicante Estación, which is the main train station in the city. From there, you can easily connect to Alicante by bus or taxi.
Boat
While there are no direct passenger boats to Alicante, you can consider taking a ferry to nearby destinations such as Ibiza or Mallorca, and then connect to Alicante by either plane or bus. The Alicante Port is well-connected and offers ferry services to nearby islands.
Bus
One of the most convenient ways to reach Alicante is by bus. The main bus station in Alicante is Estación de Autobuses de Alicante. There are regular bus services that connect Alicante with other major cities in Spain and Europe.