Nestled on the Costa Blanca of southern Spain, the city of Alicante is perfect for a little city break or a day trip when flying into the area. Yes, there are heaps of the best things to do in Alicante dotted around the town, but there are also heaps to do all around Costa Blanca as part of a wider trip to Spain.
Over the years, we’ve explored Alicante and the Costa Blanca many times, and the city is so much more than just its convenient airport. There are heaps to do once you arrive. In fact, I’d even go as far as saying that it’s one of the best cities in Spain to visit if you’re heading focusing your trip to the south of Spain.
So, to help you get the best out of your trip to Alicante, I’m sharing some of our top spots you really cant miss. This way, you can focus on all the exploring without getting bogged down with the tedious planning.
1.) Castillo de Santa Bárbara
Once you’re in Alicante, one spot you can’t miss is Castillo de Santa Barbara. You see, Castillo de Santa Barbara is a historic castle that dates back to the 8th Century castle and a fortress that is situated on the mountain overlooking Alicante itself. It’s absolutely incredible to visit and you can still wander around the ground and explore over 1,00 years of history whilst you’re here.
Once here, make sure to explore the castle walls and see the views over the Mediterranean. It’s stunning.
Admission is only a few euros, and a visit to Castillo de Santa Barbara will take around 60-90 minutes. Oh, and be sure to wear some comfy shoes and take SPF. The cobbled walkways can be presky and the sun is strong at the height of midday.
Read more: Best places in the south of Spain to visit
2.) Explanada de España
Explanada de España is a lovely Alicante walkway perfect for an afternoon or evening stroll by the harbour.
You can also easily visit Explanada de España after visiting Castillo de Santa Barbara. They’re pretty close by (to each other) and perfect if you fancy walking around Alicante.
Once here, make sure to wander the waterfront, explore the shops and cafes along the promenade, and just chill. Oh, and be sure to book yourself in for dinner at Terre. Their tuna is delicious. Now, food and wine will likely set you back around 80-100 euros, making it a great dinner option.
Read more: Best places in the south of Spain to visit
3.) Santa Cruz (old town)
Just shy of the castle, visiting Santa Cruz is one of the best things to do in Alicante if you want to explore more of the old town. You see, here, you’ll find heaps of little alleys and streets with a mix of restaurants and cafes that’s perfect if you don’t fancy staying on the waterfront.
Not only that, you can easily visit Contemporary Art Museum of Alicante (MACA) whilst around the Santa Cruz area. They have heaps of permanent exhibits but also seasonal ones from world-renowend artists. We loved it for a 45-minute trip.
For tapas nearby, make sure to stop by La Taberna Ibérica, they make some of the best patatas bravas in all of Alicante.
4.) MARQ Archaeological Museum of Alicante
If you love learning about the history of places when you visit, you must visit the Archaeological Museum of Alicante. It’s one of the best things to do in Alicante, as it reveals the region’s vast history and how it came about.
The Archaeological Museum of Alicante exhibits focus on the last 100,000 years of history. Its galleries exhibit different geological and cultural periods, from prehistoric to medieval. It’s amazing.
Afterwards, book this roundtrip boat tour to Tabarca Island. It’s a great way to explore one of the south of Spain’s most iconic islands. It’s quaint and gorgeous to walk around, and you can even stop by the local village while you’re here. We loved it.
5.) Mercado Central de Alicante
Not too far from the streets of Santa Cruz, Mercat Central d’Alacant (Alicante Market) is one of the top places in Alicante for foodie lovers. You see, inside this historic market are heaps of different vendors and shops where you can buy anything from tapas and fresh produce to wines. Just make sure to give yourself around 30-45 minutes to properly look around.
If you’ve got time, book this incredible food tour around the city of Alicante itself. You’ll get to eat around Alicante and get a great overview of the region’s delicious cuisine. Just be sure to book this food tour in advance; tickets sell out fast at peak times.
6.) Guadalest Valley
Fancy spending some time outside of the city limits of Alicante? Then, the Guadalest Valley is the perfect place to go for a long day trip or overnight stay.
From hiking trails to hilltop castles, this place has heaps to offer. Guadalest is a valley town in the mountainous area popular for its turquoise blue lake and surrounding mountains. There are many restaurants to stop by, and this place offers some amazing views from the top.
Also, for a bite to eat in the area, head to Venta La Montaña. It’s a perfect spot for lunch when exploring the wider Guadalest Valley region, and their baked olleta de blat is so yummy.
Read more: Best places in the south of Spain to visit
7.) Playa del Postiguet
Fancy a beach day when visiting Alicante? Then get yourself over to Playa del Postiguet. Truth be told, you can’t really miss Playa del Postiguet in Alicante. After all, it’s right at the foot of Alicante Castle and within walking distance of Santa Cruz.
Now, a heads up: Playa del Postiguet can get busy in the peak of summer, so if you like a more chilled and relaxed beach – head outside Alicante.
Afterwards, you can book these tickets for this catamaran cruise that takes you around the shoreline here. Typically, these take place in the late afternoon, with stunning views. Plus, you’ll be able to stop off for some snorkelling.
8.) Basilica of St Mary (Basilica de Santa María)
Built by the Catholic ruling class, way back when, visiting the Basilica of St Mary is easily one of the best things to do in Alicante when exploring the city’s long history.
There is a charge to enter, but it’s well worth it to explore one of the oldest religious sites in Alicante.
The church was built on the site where a mosque was previously erected. There is honestly so much history on this site. You can go there and see its lovely architecture, which is Valencian Gothic.
Just make sure to give yourself around 30 minutes to stroll around.
9.) Cabo de las Huertas
Nestled on the northwest coast of Alicante city, Cabo de la Huerta is well worth visiting for a few hours when in the city.
It is an amazing place with beaches and secluded coves like La Calita Playa and Cala de la Palmera. These are tiny little coves, and totally beautiful. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a more accessbile beach, then head to Playa de las Huertas.
During a day at the beach, check out Alohers Coffee Surf for a yummy lunch.
Read more: Best places in the south of Spain to visit
10.) Tabarca
As I mentioned, you can easily book this tour of Tabarca Island (roundtrip boat), which departs from Alicante. This is the smallest inhabited island in the region, and it’s so quaint to explore.
Once here, you’ll find a historic church, a port, a lighthouse, and so much more as you stroll Tabarca Island.
You can go there by boat (with these tickets) and have an amazing experience visiting this beautiful place. Just be sure to give yourself at least half a day in total. You’ll be surprised how quicky time flies here.
Read more: Best places in the south of Spain to visit
Check Out The Very Best Of Great Britain!
Pop Over To Our YouTube Channel For Travel Videos!
