Things to do and see in Alicante

Capital of the province of the same name, Alicante offers travellers an infinite number of treasures to discover. Visit the most incredible places to see in Alicante and fall in love with its coastal charm. This city in the Valencian Community, located on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, has a great cultural and scenic heritage that is worth visiting.

Here you can enjoy both a good swim in any of its coves, as well as endless activities around the city, discovering its most interesting corners. In this post we will give you a selection of some of the most charming places in the city of Alicante as well as the province as a whole, so that you can make your trip an unforgettable experience.

What are the must-see places in the city of Alicante?

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1. Castle of Santa Barbara

Climbing to the top of Santa Bárbara Castle is one of the experiences you cannot miss on your trip to Alicante. It is one of the most popular spots in the city for its splendid panoramic views and its structure worthy of an ancient medieval castle. All this and more make it an unforgettable experience, from the moment you see it in the distance, until you have the entrance at your feet.

It is worth noting that the castle has to be visited on foot. You have to walk a little way to get to the top of the hill on which this imposing castle stands, and which offers some of the best views in all of Spain. If you want to save yourself the walk, there is now a lift that will take you to the top in seconds.

2. Co-cathedral of San Nicolás de Bari of Alicante

The Co-cathedral of San Nicolás de Bari has a totally unique architecture, from its interior decoration with great musical organs and important paintings, to the amount of light that penetrates it. All this makes it the perfect place for locals to have weddings and baptisms.

In addition to the internal structure of the Co-cathedral, its exterior is quite striking, especially because of its bright colours. On the other hand, its location is excellent and allows easy access to other places in the city centre.

3. Alicante City Council

It is a baroque style building, which is striking due to its spaciousness. The architecture and two towers give it a classic and ancient touch, adorning the square in front of the town hall, along with the trees, colonial houses and benches. Ideal if you want to take some retro photos.

Both the exterior of the town hall and its surroundings are just as much part of its great attraction. You can also go inside where you will find the famous Cota Cero by the sculptor Salvador Dali, as well as triptych paintings, or the hall of the mayors which is full of photos of the last 57 mayors.

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4. Basilica of Santa María de Alicante

The quintessential jewel of the city of Alicante. The Basilica of Santa Maria is a temple dating back to the 14th century, with a characteristic Levantine Gothic style. This basilica has a stupendous exterior architecture. It was built on the site of the old Great Mosque of the city, consecrated by King Jaume I to the Virgin of the Assumption, making it one of the main attractions to see in Alicante.

Highlights include its large altar and rococo-style baldachin, in addition to the ribbed vault that has Gothic features. There is also the altarpiece of the Santos Juanes belonging to the old high altar, the Gothic image of Santa Maria Blanca, and finally, the baptismal font of the school of Michelangelo in Carrara marble is especially impressive. These are some of the architectural features to see in the Basilica of Alicante.

5. Carbonell House

Probably the most iconic building you should see in Alicante. It belongs to the famous Carbonell family, and hides a beautiful history and amazing architecture in each of its walls. It highlights the perfectionism that flooded the houses of the old nobles, who hired the best architects to create works that would later become great tourist sites.

In addition to the fascinating house, you can visit the shops that are located on the sides and surroundings of the building. They give it life and colour, as well as an excellent flavour from the restaurants that are also located near the building.

6. Alicante Central Market

Central markets are key places to see on your trip to any city and Alicante is no exception. Its eclectic exterior façade invites you to explore its interior, where you’ll find stalls selling meat, fish, fruit and vegetables that are fresh and inexpensive.

It has two main entrances, the first of which has a clock fixed at the time when the fascist attack took place. The second entrance is in the Plaza de las Flores, where you can find a plaque paying homage to the victims of the 1938 attack.

7. Alicante Bullring

The Alicante Bullring is located in the centre of the city, which makes it easy to see. It is a second category bullring according to the Royal Decree, which organises bullrings into three categories, according to age, tradition, size and number of annual festivities. It is one of the oldest bullrings in operation in the Valencian Community, which gives it great historical and cultural importance, as bullfighting is a Spanish tradition with a very long history.

8. La Marjal Park

A beautiful park, but perhaps difficult for people with reduced mobility as there are many stones in the way. Even so, the water in the park is quite clean and clear, which makes it an excellent place to admire the purity of nature. The play area of the park is painted in a green colour which makes it a great place for children to play freely.

9. Quijano’s Pantheon

The Panteón de Quijano is a traditional place in Alicante, a small, pretty and cosy park with lots of shade. But the best part is its history, which almost nobody knows. Quijano was an illustrious man from Alicante who, during a pandemic, dedicated himself body and soul to helping the sick. So much so that he died infected helping his fellow man. And that is why this beautiful park was named in honour of him.

10. Luceros Square

This is Alicante’s most iconic square, formerly known as Plaza de Cataluña and Plaza de la Independencia. It is located in the centre of the city, where different social, sporting and festive events are held thanks to its size. Come and stroll around the restaurants, shops, buildings and bars in the surrounding area and see the beautiful water fountain in the centre of the square.

11. Port of Alicante

If you are looking for a romantic place to go for dinner or to watch the sunset, the Port of Alicante promises to be the best option. Appreciate the wonders that the sky offers, or the variety of food from the numerous restaurants that are located above this magnificent port.

From eating a good paella to admiring the sky, the Port of Alicante is one of the most attractive places to see. Especially when the sun goes down and the immensity of the night sky can be seen. The best bars are are also found around this area.

12. Ereta Park

An ideal place to read, disconnect from the outside world and meditate, take a deep breath and enjoy. In summer, the Parc de l’Ereta is quite sunny. In winter, on the other hand, it is an ideal place to sunbathe and feel some of the natural warmth.

It has different levels and a wonderful fountain at the top. There is a picnic area with tables to play chess and other board games, and there are also restaurants nearby, making it a perfect place to meet up with a friend and have lunch.

What are the best beaches in the city of Alicante?

1. San Juan Beach Alicante

San Juan Beach is incredibly large and quite clean, reflecting the continuous care taken by the staff and the respect required to preserve beauties such as this one.

With a totally flat shore, swimming is much easier and more comfortable. Everything about this beach encourages you to spend one of the most incredible afternoons during your trip, along with its accompanying restaurants and bars. It is very difficult to get bored here, mainly because of its size.

2. Postiguet Beach

The Postiguet beach is located right in the centre of the city of Alicante, at the foot of the Santa Bárbara Castle and next to the famous Explanada promenade. It is one of the most beloved beaches by the people of Alicante, as it stands out for the quality of its fine golden sand and its calm waters, perfect for a swim in the Mediterranean.

At almost 700 metres long, the Postiguet also has blue flag beach status. It is also accessible for people with reduced mobility and, thanks to its location, it has a wide gastronomic offer.

3. Albufereta Alicante

This is the perfect beach to visit in the summer holidays, that’s why we recommend having a good plan and enjoy this fine golden sand. It is located in the northwest of the city, in the neighbourhood of the same name. Here, you will find toilets, footbaths, sports areas, lifeguards and access for people with reduced mobility.

4. Beach of San Gabriel Alicante

It is a quiet place, a relatively small beach in comparison to others but very tranquil, which makes it ideal to visit in summer seasons, when the beaches are crowded. This beach reminds us that there are still some hidden treasures.

5. Almabrada Beach

This is a semi-urban beach, known for its rocky shore and dark sand. It is secluded and cosy, perfect for spending a pleasant day at the beach and enjoying the coast of Alicante. Free of waves and crowds, on this beach you can enjoy fantastic sunsets.

Alicante travel map

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Things to see around Alicante

1. Canelobre Caves

If you are someone who loves huge underground structures, the Cuevas del Canelobre are the ideal place to visit on your trip to Alicante. Why? Because it has everything a good nature lover is looking for.

The views from this cave are unbeatable. As it is a group of caves, there is plenty to see around every corner. In addition, you have the option of taking a video tour of the cave at a very cheap price (6 euros). A place that nature gives us with spectacular views to enjoy with the whole family. What are you waiting for?

2. Illeta dels Banyets

A perfect place to visit for an amazing beach day full of history. This place tends to be quite busy during the summer season, due to its beautiful views and large area.

However, it is quite a rocky place, so there are not many places to sit down. So don’t forget to bring chairs as well as food or drink, as the bars and restaurants are not very close to the area. Nevertheless, it is a perfect place to unwind.

3. The Red Wall, the building to see in the province of Alicante 

La Muralla Roja, this unique apartment building, located in the urbanisation La Manzanera, is without a doubt a place you must visit in Calpe. It is an architectural classic, which stands out for its striking colours and geometric conception. It is also recognised for its creator, the architect Ricardo Bofill.

The labyrinthine forms of this original building will show you a different perspective of Calpe. It also offers an exceptional view of the Mediterranean Sea. At this point you will also find the Cala de La Manzanera, an intimate cove named after this enigmatic building that gives light and colour to the coast of Calpe.

4. The fountains of Algar

Les Fonts d’Algar, located 30 minutes from Calpe, are a natural spot worth seeing. It is a place with a high degree of conservation, but it also has several tourist services. This area was declared a protected wetland area by the Valencian Government in 2002.

The visit consists of a 1.5 km circuit along the course of the river Algar, where you can see the spectacular waterfalls. Also, the numerous fountains that spring from the rock “tolls” (pools of water) are areas where you can take a dip and admire these pure and crystal clear waters.

5. El Hondo Natural Park

El Hondo Natural Park in Alicante, part of the old Elche lagoon, is one of the places you should visit in the Comunitat Valenciana. This park was created by the mouth of the Vinalopó river and is a marshy area that offers a beautiful wetland setting. Moreover, this park has been a Natural Site since 1988 and was declared a Natural Park by the Generalitat Valenciana in 1994.

Up to 172 species have been found in the El Hondo Natural Park, of which fifty or so are nesting birds. It also has picturesque wooden walkways and observatories where you can get to know every corner of the park, bird-watch and enjoy the sunset over the park’s water.

6. Els Frares de Quatretondeta

Els Frares de Quatretondeta are impressive limestone rock formations in the shape of large needles, up to 50 metres high, which can be found on the north face of the Sierra de la Serrella, in the town of Quatretondeta in Alicante. The karstic modelling has sculpted these enormous rocky pinnacles, making this place an impressive environment that defies nature with impossible shapes. Likewise, this place has paths and trails where you can take walks through the most spectacular corners and investigate the environment.

7. The Salinas de Torrevieja

Discover the curious phenomenon of the Salinas de Torrevieja; a pink paradise.

Located in the La Mata-Torrevieja Natural Park, the Torrevieja Salt Flats form a magical and unique landscape in the Valencian Community. It is a natural phenomenon created by a bacterium that releases a pink pigment in waters with a high concentration of salt. It is an idyllic image where huge mountains of salt are surrounded by pink lagoons.

In the heart of the Alicante region, this giant 1,400 hectare pink lagoon forms part of the Natural Park of the Lagunas de la Mata and Torrevieja, and is one of the most special spaces in the whole community. In addition to its undeniable beauty, it is also the most productive salt lagoon in Europe, extracting some 800,000 tonnes of salt per year, so it is not surprising that in 1992 it was declared a Natural Park.

8. Sierra Gelada Natural Park

In the Sierra Gelada Natural Park you can follow the route to the Albir Lighthouse, where you can enjoy beautiful views of the sea and mountains. The path goes to the end of Punta Bombarda, where you will find the L’Albir lighthouse and the ruins of the Bombarda Tower, built in the 16th century.

9. Tabarca Island

Tabarca is one of the most beautiful islands you can visit, and without a doubt, one of the best places to see during your stay in Alicante. This incredible island promises plenty of things to do all day long, such as snorkelling, scuba diving or simply admiring the sunsets that paint the turquoise waters an incomparable orange colour.

With all the restaurants and bars on the island, there is no time to get bored, especially when you consider the marine life in the sea around the island, full of small fish that nature lovers will want to get up close and swim with.

10. Covetes dels Moros (Moorish Caves)

In Barranc de la Fos there is a network of artificial caves carved into the wall of a cliff. The purpose of the Covetes dels Moros was probably similar to that of a Berber collective storehouse between the 10th and 11th centuries. It seems to be a model of a granary transferred from North Africa. It is a unique and impressive place that will transport you back in time.

11. Bernia mountain range

If you love nature, you should cross the Sierra de Bernia, a mountain range that stretches for about 11 km. It is a perfect place for hiking. The total hike takes approximately 4 hours. The Sierra was a key feature during the Muslim settlement and other civilisations, and there are remains from these times such as the Fort of Bernia, a fortress built in a strategic position at an altitude of 800 metres.

12. Serra Grossa

This is a mountain range that allows you to isolate yourself from the city of Alicante. You can go up various routes and slopes. At the top there is a large esplanade where you can stroll to admire the views and breathe in the fresh air. If you want you can take some sandwiches to eat and spend the day with the kids or alone; either way, it is an ideal place to spend a quiet and serene day, away from the noise of the city and a little more connected with nature. It is a common place for people who train for mountain races, which makes you feel accompanied at all times.

What are the most beautiful towns and cities to see in the province of Alicante?

1. Guadalest

Without any doubt, one of the villages in Alicante that you must visit is Guadalest. Located in the interior of the province, Guadalest Castle is a World Heritage Site. It also has the impressive views of the Guadalest Reservoir, which makes it even more attractive. If you want to know what you can see and do in this village and its wonderful natural environment, don’t miss our post: Things to see and do in Guadalest.

2. Jávea

It is one of the most charming villages of the whole Costa Blanca and one that you cannot miss if you are in Alicante. It has many coves, excellent restaurants and the perfect climate almost all year round that gives you the feeling of an eternal summer.

If you want to know more about this beautiful town and find out everything there is to do in Jávea read our post: Things to see and do in Jávea.

3. Altea

It is the perfect destination to visit if you are in Alicante. Altea, with its white facades and beautiful coves, is one of the most beautiful villages on the Costa Blanca, but it is also considered one of the most sustainable in Spain. To find out more about this wonderful town be sure to read our post: Things to see and do in Altea.

4. Dénia

A town with a lot of history and culture, you can get lost in its old town and discover its incredible hidden history. And, of course, you will be delighted by the magnificent Mediterranean cuisine. Do you want to discover more? Read our post: Things to see and do in Dénia.

5. Calpe

Located on the northern coast of Alicante, Calpe stands out among the destinations on the Costa Blanca for its beauty, and for the imposing Peñón de Ifach that dominates the landscape. Calpe is a destination you must not miss, for its beaches, its smell of salt, and for its fishing tradition. Find out which places you can visit in Calpe by reading our post: Things to see and do in Calpe.

How to plan your Alicante itinerary?

This amazing and beautiful city in the Valencian Community has many places to see and activities to do. That’s why Passporter will help you plan your itinerary in order to make your travel experience the best it can be!

Sign up or download the Passporter app, select your destination and the places you want to visit and organise them by days. With Passporter you can:

• Get to know and be inspired by the experiences of other travellers.
• Save information related to the places you want to visit so you always have it at hand and don’t miss anything.
• Save your tickets and reservations.
• Plan your routes on Google Maps from wherever you are to your destination.
• Get information about how to get around in the city you are in.
• Save and publish your best photos during your trip, sharing them with the community of travellers. Let your experience inspire others!

If you have any doubts about how to do it, you can check our post: How to create a travel itinerary in Passporter.

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