Alicante travel guide

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Introduction to Alicante

Home to more than 349.3 thousand people and the magnificent Santa Bárbara Castle, Mercat Central d'Alacant, and Archaeological Museum of Alicante, Alicante is an adventure awaiting you. With a unique historical background and an incredible variety of natural and architectural beauty, Alicante is a highlight in Spain. This city in Valencian Community, Spain is a travel destination with plenty to offer curious travelers.

Traveling to Alicante is especially rewarding for anyone eager to connect with locals and learn more about their unique culture and traditions. Catalan and Spanish is the official language in Alicante.

Easily accessible from Alicante–Elche, Alicante is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Spain any time of the year. Before booking a flight to Alicante, it's helpful to know that the city observes the UTC+01:00 time zone.

Explore this culturally-rich city and easily plan your trip to Spain. For an enriched understanding of the city’s cultural tapestry and local events, you might want to consult the official website of Alicante.

History of Alicante

Alicante's history is rich and diverse, steeped in a blend of cultures that have left their mark on this vibrant city. Its origins date back to 5000 years ago, when it was established by the Greeks.

The Romans later took over, giving the city its name 'Lucentum' meaning 'City of Light'. After the fall of the Roman Empire, Alicante was ruled by the Visigoths and later the Moors. It was under Moorish rule that the city experienced significant growth and development.

In 1246, Alicante was retaken by the Castilian forces under King Alfonso X, marking the beginning of the city's association with the Kingdom of Spain. The city flourished in the 15th and 16th centuries due to a thriving trade in wine and olive oil.

One of the city's most iconic landmarks, the Castle of Santa Barbara, was built during this period, offering an insight into Alicante's fascinating past. Today, Alicante is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends its rich history with modern Spanish culture, making it a captivating destination for travellers.

Top services in Alicante

On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Alicante, Spain. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Alicante, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place.

Discover the cheapest and most popular flights offered by a variety of airlines that fly to Spain. Check out the best things to do in Alicante by browsing over 330 top-rated tours available to you in the city. Compare the rates and services of the 5 types of stays and 14 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage.

Experience the best of Alicante with an expertly curated and fully customizable itinerary. Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Alicante from our free 24/7 customer support. We make it easy for you to find and book every detail of your trip to Alicante with this travel guide.

Continue reading this Alicante travel guide to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Alicante!

Best time to visit Alicante

The best time to explore Alicante, Spain is during the late spring and early fall, specifically from May to June and September to October. The weather during these periods is comfortably warm, averaging between 20°C to 28°C, and the city is less crowded compared to the peak tourist season in July and August. These months offer the ideal conditions for strolling through the charming old town, relaxing on the beautiful beaches, or enjoying the vibrant nightlife. For cultural enthusiasts, the Bonfires of Saint John festival in June is a spectacular event to witness. This unique celebration features stunning firework displays, traditional music, and parades. However, if you prefer a quieter visit, the post-summer months provide a serene environment with a temperate climate, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the nearby vineyards. Lastly, keep in mind that Alicante's Mediterranean climate means mild, wet winters, so it's best to avoid the period from November to March if you're seeking sunshine.

Local tip for visiting Alicante

One insider tip for experiencing Alicante like a local is to visit the Mercado Central de Alicante. This bustling market is a beloved cornerstone of everyday life in Alicante, yet it's often overlooked by tourists. Open every day except Sunday, you'll find stalls brimming with fresh produce, meats, fish, and cheeses, as well as local delicacies. However, the real gem of the market is the lively tapas bars nestled within. These spots are frequented by locals who enjoy a mid-morning tapa with a small beer or wine, a tradition known as 'Almuerzo'. It's a wonderful opportunity to mingle with locals and experience the authentic Alicantino lifestyle. Don't forget to try 'Gambas al Ajillo', a local garlic shrimp tapa, accompanied by a glass of 'Fondillón', a uniquely Alicante wine. Enjoying 'Almuerzo' at the market is a truly immersive experience that will give you a taste of the local culture unlike any other.

Learn more about Spain

With destinations such as Alicante, a trip to Spain needs no further explanation. Spanning over 505,990 square kilometers, Spain is an expansive playground of discovery, offering a wealth of diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and captivating experiences awaiting exploration. From bustling metropolises to historic towns and modern urban hubs, Spain has something to enchant every traveler.

In Alicante alone, travelers are spoiled for choice with an array of experiences and world-famous attractions such as Santa Bárbara Castle, Mercat Central d'Alacant, and Archaeological Museum of Alicante. Thus, a trip to Spain becomes essential. Whether you're drawn to historical sites, natural wonders, or vibrant cultural experiences, Spain offers an abundance of treasures waiting to be discovered.

There's so much to explore and uncover in Spain. Click or tap the link below to discover more about Spain and its offers.

What to see in Alicante

Photo of Altea Playa del Albir of white stones in Alicante Mediterranean Spain.

Expect an exhilarating journey through Alicante, a haven brimming with attractions to suit every traveler’s taste. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, and delectable cuisine, Alicante offers an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dive into this ultimate Alicante travel guide to uncover must-visit spots and get the scoop on what makes the city so special.

Top attractions in Alicante

With its blend of traditional and modern culture, Alicante is more than just a wonderful city in Spain. It's a hub for diverse experiences, boasting top attractions that range from historical landmarks to modern marvels, offering a glimpse into Spain's rich heritage and innovative spirit.

One popular place to visit in Alicante is the unforgettable Santa Bárbara Castle. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn't miss on your trip to Alicante. This remarkable attraction is located at Castillo de Santa Bárbara, 03002 Alicante (Alacant), Alicante, Spain, and is open for visitors Monday - Sunday, between 10:00-20:00.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Alicante, check out our list of top attractions below. Discover the best places to visit in Alicante, including the fascinating Santa Bárbara Castle, Mercat Central d'Alacant, Archaeological Museum of Alicante, Parc El Palmeral, and Cocatedral de Sant Nicolau de Bari d'Alacant.

Map of attractions

Take a closer look at the city map below for the exact locations of all the top attractions in Alicante.

Things to do in Alicante

Photo of panorama of Alicante old town.

You've explored Alicante's top attractions and marked them on your map. So now, it's time to delve deeper and discover the top things to do in Alicante. These activities not only offer excitement and adventure but also provide unique insights into the city's culture and heritage. Take your experience to the next level by checking out the best sights with a knowledgeable guide, embarking on fun adventures unique to Alicante, or learning more about the city's rich history and traditions.

Discover the most popular tours and experiences in the city below.

Most popular experiences in Alicante

A visit to Alicante gets more exciting with memorable experiences. And the city is just perfect for that, with plenty of fun activities. Walking Tours, Historical Tours, Half-day Tours, and more are just some of the options you could explore to fully immerse yourself and make the most of your time.

In this travel guide, we've included some of the best things to do in Alicante, adding a special touch to your journey in this vibrant city. Explore bustling markets, embark on scenic hikes, sample local delicacies, or immerse yourself in the rich history and heritage of Alicante. Browse this diverse array of unforgettable experiences Alicante offers and let your adventures begin!

Top tours & tickets starting in Alicante

In Alicante, travelers are spoiled for choice with a dazzling array of 15 categories of top-rated tours and tickets.

Alicante also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience. Alicante: Visit with Audio Guide Bullring and Bullfighting Museum, for example, is the cheapest Museum Ticket option in the city. This experience costs around 9 EUR.

Elevate your upcoming Alicante adventure with unforgettable experiences by booking top-rated tours in the city. Uncover the finest tours, activities, and tickets awaiting you in Alicante right below.

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Discover the best things to do in Alicante. Choose from 330 fantastic tours and activities available in the city.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Alicante. Click the green button to view your options and discover a variety of exciting things to do in Alicante.

What to eat in Alicante

Alicante, a city steeped in history and culture, is also known for its vibrant culinary scene. The heart of this scene is the Central Market, where the fresh produce of the land and sea come together to create mouthwatering dishes. Here you can find some of the best places to eat in Alicante, offering a range of dining experiences from traditional street food to high-end restaurants. A trip to Alicante would not be complete without trying the traditional 'paella alicantina', a rice dish made with rabbit, chicken, and snails. Seafood lovers should not miss the 'Caldero', a fish stew originating from the island of Tabarca. For dessert, the 'Turron de Jijona', a soft nougat made with almonds, is a must-try. Wine lovers will appreciate the local wines, especially the Moscatel dessert wine. To enhance your dining experience, engage with the local chefs and vendors, who are often eager to share their cooking secrets and stories. Your culinary journey in Alicante will be an unforgettable gastronomic adventure.

Best shopping in Alicante

Alicante, the vibrant city in Spain's Costa Blanca, is a shopper's paradise. The city's central shopping district, Avenida Maisonnave, is the best place to go shopping in Alicante. It boasts a wide range of high-end boutiques and international brands, catering to all fashion enthusiasts. For a more local shopping experience, wander in the quaint streets of the Old Town where you'll find unique boutiques offering local craftsmanship and the famed Spanish leather goods. Alicante’s Central Market is a must-visit for food lovers. Here, you can buy fresh local produce, spices, and delicacies. Explore the El Corte Inglés department store for a comprehensive shopping experience. A visit to Alicante isn't complete without buying a souvenir, and hand-painted ceramics or a bottle of the local wine, Fondillón, make perfect keepsakes. Most shops in Alicante observe siesta (afternoon rest), typically closing around 2 pm and reopening at 5 pm, so plan your shopping spree accordingly. With its fusion of contemporary fashion and traditional Spanish crafts, shopping in Alicante is an experience not to be missed.

Best free things to do in Alicante

Alicante, a charming Spanish city, offers a wealth of free attractions that allow you to soak in its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and picturesque landscapes. Among the best free things to do in Alicante is a visit to Castillo de Santa Bárbara, a magnificent castle perched atop Mount Benacantil. Here, you can immerse yourself in the city's rich history while enjoying panoramic views. Wander through the narrow, cobblestone streets of Barrio de la Santa Cruz, a colorful and historic neighborhood decorated with blooming flowers and murals. Don't miss out on the city's beautiful beaches, such as Playa de San Juan, where you can take a leisurely stroll or simply bask in the Spanish sun. Alicante's marina, with its luxury yachts and sea views, is another must-see. Finally, immerse yourself in local culture by exploring the Central Market, which, although not free to purchase items, is free to enter and browse. Here, you'll discover a vibrant display of fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies.

How to get to Alicante

International travelers can fly to Alicante by booking flights with Vueling, Eurowings, Ryanair, Iberia Airlines, and Jet2, offering flights to Alicante–Elche. From the arrival airport, travelers can choose from various public and private transfer options to Alicante.

For those seeking the best flight ticket deals to Alicante, knowing the cheapest travel times and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we provide this information to help you discover the cheapest and most popular flights to Alicante. Go to this page to compare all flights to Alicante.

Find cheap flights to Alicante

Photo of San Juan of Alicante beach playa at Costa Blanca of Spain.

Booking budget-friendly flights to Alicante is a crucial part of planning your trip to the city. This section will guide you through the process, helping you find the best deals for your journey.

Booking in advance is a smart move when traveling to Alicante. Airlines release their best deals months ahead of departure, so early birds catch the lower fares. Consider flexible travel dates while planning your visit to the city. Mid-week and off-peak seasons often offer more wallet-friendly options.

To help you find cheap flights to Alicante, you can use the powerful booking widget below. Enter your departure city, choose between round trip or one-way, pick your fare class, select travel dates, and specify the number of travelers. Click "Search" and the widget will do the rest. You'll see a list of flights matching your criteria, making your trip to Alicante even more convenient.

Fine-tune your search with filters to sort by price, airline, layovers, and more. Once you've found your ideal flight, click "Book" and you'll be redirected to the booking page to complete your reservation. Enter your payment details and receive a confirmation – it's that simple!

Remember to book ahead, stay flexible, and utilize the widget's features to make your journey to Alicante both affordable and unforgettable.

Popular flights to Alicante

Travelers visiting Alicante can easily access the city via Alicante–Elche, offering direct connection to 10 destinations worldwide. To streamline your travel planning process, explore the most popular flights to Alicante below. Discover direct routes from major international hubs and convenient connections tailored to suit your travel preferences. Click to delve into the diverse array of flights available to Alicante and embark on an unforgettable journey.

Where to stay in Alicante

Photo of coastal city located in the Valencian Community, Alicante, Spain.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Alicante is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience. The best place to stay in Alicante usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodations in central Alicante offers a ton of benefits.

Staying in the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Alicante and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Alicante planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Alicante, you'll find 5 different types of places to stay, catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Spain can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the luxury hotels in Alicante. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range and budget-friendly hotels in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Alicante.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Alicante in the following sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Alicante

A trip to Alicante means opportunities to relax at any of the 5 different types of places to stay in the city. While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Alicante provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Among all the choices available in the city, Hotel Maya Alicante is one of the top picks of travelers in Alicante. Hotel Maya Alicante is a 3-star stay with an average rating of 7511 stars out of 5 from 4 guests. The hotel is located at Canónigo M. L. Penalva, 2 and boasts many great utilities, including air conditioning, bar, and swimming pool.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Alicante. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

In Alicante, travelers looking for an economical yet top-rated place to stay usually choose Pension Alicante San Nicolas. For approximately 41 EUR, guests can book a comfortable Single Room at this popular guesthouse, which also offers air conditioning, family rooms, and more.

Below is a list of all 5 different types of places to stay in Alicante. Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Alicante

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Alicante for the unique experience they provide. Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Alicante provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Alicante are created equal, finding the best in the city often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Alicante.

Hospes Amérigo offers the most luxurious rooms and is perfect for travelers looking for the ultimate 5-star hotel experience in Alicante. If comfort, convenience, and affordability are your non-negotiables, check out Meliá Alicante, the top 4-star hotel in the city. When all you need is a pleasant place to rest and sleep in between your activities in Alicante, the highest-rated 3-star hotel, Hotel Maya Alicante, is for you.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in Alicante. Travelers are encouraged to book early, as these hotels quickly reach capacity. Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel in Alicante by clicking the cards.

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Search for accommodation in Alicante

Finding the perfect stay for your visit to Alicante is made easy with our search tool. With just a few clicks, explore a range of available hotels and accommodations, complete with prices and amenities for easy comparison. Simply input your check-in and check-out dates, along with the number of guests and rooms needed. Start planning your trip to Alicante effortlessly now!

Car rentals in Alicante

Photo of woman tourist on the tropical beach, Calpe, Alicante province in Spain.

To navigate Alicante effortlessly, renting a car is an excellent choice. With your own wheels, you can explore every nook and cranny of the destination without relying on public transportation and even venture off the beaten path. On our website, you'll discover a selection of over 14 car rental companies in Alicante, ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Alicante start at 10 EUR per day or 70 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Peugeot 208 Automatic. If you prefer driving a manual car, you'll find multiple options for rent in Alicante, starting at 6 EUR per day or 41 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Fiat 500.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Alicante, Spain below.

Popular types of cars for rent in Alicante

Renting a car in Alicante is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore the city at their own pace. A wide variety of popular car rentals are available to choose from in Alicante, ensuring you find the best car for your travel plans.

Check out all the options available and book your car rental in Alicante for your upcoming adventures in Spain below. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Search for car rentals in Alicante

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Alicante. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Alicante, Spain, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Popular destinations to visit after Alicante

Photo of postiguet beach and coastline in Alicante resort town, Spain.

The city of Alicante is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Spain. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Spain has it all.

Each destination in Spain offers something unique to experience! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Spain that are as magical as the city of Alicante. The most popular travel destinations in Spain are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Spain

When unsure about where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Spain. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Alicante

Photo of spanish mediterranean sunny scenic coastline. La Granadella beach. Alicante, Valencia.

Experience the authentic charm of Spain by expanding your travels beyond the boundaries of Alicante. Explore other destinations around Spain with a domestic flight. A domestic flight is typically a short-haul flight, with the longest duration not exceeding two hours. To find the best flights from Alicante to other amazing locations in Spain, add the required details below and select 'Search' to view the best domestic flights in Spain for your chosen dates. You can also jump to the last section of this travel guide to find the most popular domestic flights from Alicante.

Popular domestic flights from Alicante

Travelers in Spain can catch flights to domestic airports in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Valencia, Seville, Santiago de Compostela, and Tenerife. Domestic flights in Spain are operated by 6 airlines, including Eurowings, Vueling, Ryanair, Jet2, and Air Europa. There are around 25 scheduled flight routes operating to Alicante on a weekly basis.

From Alicante, travelers can book scheduled flights to 22 domestic destinations. The most popular flights from Alicante depart to many top-rated destinations in Spain and are offered by Eurowings, Vueling, and Ryanair.

Search domestic flights from Alicante

Traveling to another city or region in Spain? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Alicante to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Spain on the selected dates.

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