Top 8 things to see in Alicante

April 1, 2020

It has to be said that Alicante is most famous to countries outside of Spain for its international airport. The airport has become a hub for budget airline flights to Barcelona, Rome and the Canary Islands. Holiday makers from all over the world fly in to Alicante for easy access to the Costa Blanca and its beautiful coastal towns.

However, the City of Alicante is fast becoming a hot spot for weekend city breakers. It has something for everyone. From the pretty cobbled streets of the old town to the bustling promenade that stretches the length of the port. It is a city to walk round at your leisure. There is beach life, art, archaeology and history all within easy, walking distance.

8 top things to see in Alicante

1. Castell de Santa Bárbara– 166 metres above sea level, the castle is visible from anywhere in the city. The castle dates back to the 9th century when large parts of Spain were under Muslim rule. A pedestrian only walkway is a great way to climb to the top, although not in mid summer perhaps! There is also an elevator if you are short of time. The castle houses a museum which gives a fascinating insight in to the cities history and its people.

Castell de Santa Bárbara

2. Central Market of Alicante- It is always a must to see the busy markets of Spanish cities. It gives such a great insight in to the every day life of the locals. Go first thing and catch the atmosphere of the stall holders setting up their fresh produce. The bustle and chatter, as well as the rich rainbow of colours and the smell of fresh baked pastries and bread, make it a real taste of Spain.

Central Market of Alicante

3. Art museums- There are several to choose from but must visits are; MACA, The Contemporary Art museum of Alicante. Choc full of 20th century art, near the castle and the old town. MUBAG, Musea Bellas Artes Gravina. Inside the 18th century Gravina Palace, with a multimedia experience to gain insight in to the lives of 18th century residents.

18th century Gravina Palace

4. Explanada de España- This palm lined promenade stretches the length of the port. With bars and cafes, it is a wonderful place to wander, eat and enjoy some serious people watching. It comes alive after sunset when the stall holders set up market and locals and holiday makers alike come out to enjoy the nightlife.

Explanada de España

5.   MARQ, The Archaeological Museum of Alicante– With its fabulous interactive exhibits, this is a must if you love archaeology. The building is an old converted hospital. You can also get tickets here for three sites of archaeological interest close to town, including Lucentum, which is ancient Roman Alicante.

6.  Casco Antiguo, The Old Town- If you want the essence of Alicante you should spend a few hours wandering round the Old Town. Largely residential, it is in its original form. Huge town houses of the past converted in to flats and apartments but still painted in the original, pastel colours. Some lovely architecture and a equally lovely ambience. Visit first thing for a sense of the city waking up and venturing out for breakfast.

El Barrio Santa Cruz

7.  Basilica of Santa Maria- Built in the Valencian Gothic style this former church was given Basilica status in 2007. Stunning inside as well as outside.

Basilica of Santa Maria

8.  San Juan Beach- Although there is a beach in the city it is nevertheless, worth travelling 6 miles north to the beautiful beach at San Juan. The white sands go as far as the eye can see. So no matter the time of year, there is always a feeling of space and freedom. Dotted along the beach are chiringuitos (beach bars) where you can enjoy a cocktail or a leisurely lunch. If you happen to be here on 23rd June, on the feast day of San Juan you are in for a treat. They light bonfires the whole length of the beach and have evening picnics and parties until day break. It is said that if you jump over the fire 3 times you will be cleansed, purified and your problems burn away.

San Juan Beach

So… you thought it was just where the airport was….? Alicante is bursting with life, and you would be foolish to underestimate it!