Things To Do In Alicante 21 Things To Do In Alicante For The Curious Tourists 2024

Discover the Real Alicante, Your Way

There are so many things to do in Alicante, a city on Spain’s Costa Blanca, beyond just beaches and sunshine (though it has those in spades).

It’s a place where centuries-old castles share the skyline with modern architecture, where lively local markets hum with activity, and where the aroma of freshly caught seafood wafts through narrow alleyways.

Among the many things to do in Alicante, this city rewards those who venture beyond the well-trodden paths.

From exploring the medieval fortress of Santa Bárbara to wandering through the colourful Barrio de Santa Cruz, you’ll find 21 things to do in Alicante that offer a wealth of experiences for the curious tourist.

So, leave the guidebook behind and let the city’s vibrant spirit guide you as you discover new things to do in Alicante.

Beyond the 21 things to do in Alicante listed in this guide, there are countless other hidden corners to explore and a rich history to immerse yourself in. Your adventure discovering all the things to do in Alicante starts here.

An Essential Guide to 21 Things to Do in Alicante Like a Local

Alicante, a vibrant city on the Costa Blanca, offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

With so many things to do in Alicante, it’s the perfect destination for tourists seeking diverse experiences. Here are 21 things you can do in Alicante to make the most of your visit:

1. Castillo de Santa Bárbara

This hilltop castle offers stunning views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.

Location: Mount Benacantil, accessible by foot, lift, or bus.
Cost: Free admission, but the lift has a small fee.
Recommended Time: Morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun.
Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for the walk-up, bring water, and don’t forget your camera!

2. Explanada de España

his beautiful promenade, lined with palm trees and colourful mosaics, is a great place to relax and people-watch.

Location: Alicante’s waterfront.
Cost: Free.
Recommended Time: Anytime, but the evening is especially lively.
Tips: Grab an ice cream and people-watch, or sit on one of the many benches to enjoy the sea breeze.

3. Barrio de la Santa Cruz

Get lost in the charming narrow streets, admire the colourful houses, and soak up the local atmosphere.

Location: At the foot of Mount Benacantil, behind city hall.
Cost: Free.
Recommended Time: Early morning or late afternoon when the light is best for photography.
Tips: Wear comfortable shoes, as the streets are steep. Be sure to visit the small shops and cafes tucked away in the alleyways.

4. Alicante Beaches

Alicante has several beautiful beaches, including Playa del Postiguet and Playa de San Juan, making a relaxing day at the beach a top choice among the things to do in Alicante.

Location: Playa del Postiguet is in the city centre, while Playa de San Juan is a short tram ride away.
Cost: Free.
Recommended Time: Anytime during daylight hours, but early morning and late afternoon are best for avoiding crowds.
Tips: Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.

5. Alicante Cuisine

Alicante is a foodie paradise, with a wide variety of tapas bars and restaurants serving traditional dishes.

Location: Tapas bars and restaurants are scattered throughout the city.
Cost: Varies by establishment.
Recommended Time: Lunch is usually 1 to 4 pm and dinner is 8 to 11 pm.
Tips: Ask locals for recommendations or join a food tour to discover hidden gems.

6. Mercado Central

This bustling market is a great place to buy fresh produce, local delicacies, and souvenirs.

Location: In the heart of the city, near the Rambla de Méndez Núñez.
Cost: Free.
Recommended Time: Morning, when the market is most lively.
Tips: Bring cash as not all vendors accept cards.

7. Tabarca Island

This small island is a marine reserve with crystal-clear waters and beautiful beaches.

Location: A short boat ride from Alicante’s marina.
Cost: Varies by boat operator and time of year.
Recommended Time: Allow a full day to explore the island.
Tips: Book your boat tickets in advance, especially during peak season.

8. MARQ Archaeological Museum

Learn about the region’s history through the museum’s extensive collection of artefacts.

Location: Plaza Dr. Gómez Ulla.
Cost: Admission fee applies.
Recommended Time: Allow at least two hours to explore the exhibits fully.
Tips: Consider an audio guide for a more in-depth experience.

9. Modern Architecture

Alicante has several interesting modern buildings, including the Auditorio de la Diputación de Alicante and the Centro Comercial Panoramis. These architectural landmarks are some of the more unique things to do in Alicante.

Location: Scattered throughout the city centre.
Cost: Free.
Recommended Time: Anytime during daylight hours.
Tips: Take a guided architecture tour to learn more about the city’s modern buildings.

10. Guadalest Valley

This picturesque valley is home to several charming villages and stunning scenery.

Location: About 50 km from Alicante.
Cost: If driving, factor in fuel costs and parking fees. Organised tours are also available.
Recommended Time: A full-day trip is recommended.
Tips: If visiting independently, rent a car or take a bus from Alicante.

11. El Palmeral Park

This park is a beautiful oasis in the city centre, with over 7,000 palm trees.

Location: Near the city centre, accessible by foot or tram.
Cost: Free.
Recommended Time: Anytime, but mornings and evenings are cooler.
Tips: Perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic lunch.

12. Calle Maisonnave

This street is lined with high-end shops and boutiques.

Location: In the city centre.
Cost: Free to window shop, but prices vary in stores.
Recommended Time: Late morning or afternoon.
Tips: This is Alicante’s main shopping street, so be prepared to spend!

13. Alicante Nightlife

Alicante has a lively nightlife scene, with a variety of bars and clubs to choose from.

Location: Concentrated in the old town (El Barrio) and the port area.
Cost: Varies depending on the venue and drinks.
Recommended Time: Starts around 11 pm and goes until the early hours.
Tips: Do a bar crawl in El Barrio to experience the local scene.

14. Santa María Basilica

This beautiful church is one of the oldest in the city.

Location: In the old town.
Cost: Free.
Recommended Time: Morning or afternoon when it’s less crowded.
Tips: Dress respectfully when visiting religious sites.

15. Santa Cruz Neighborhood

This colourful neighbourhood is full of charming houses and narrow streets.

Location: Next to the old town, at the foot of Mount Benacantil.
Cost: Free.
Recommended Time: Anytime during daylight hours.
Tips: Get lost in the maze-like streets and admire the colourful houses.

16. MACA Contemporary Art Museum

This museum houses a collection of modern and contemporary art.

Location: In the city centre, near the promenade.
Cost: Admission fee applies.
Recommended Time: Mornings are typically less crowded.
Tips: Check websites for temporary exhibits and events.

17. Cooking Classes

Learn to cook traditional Alicante dishes with a local chef. This hands-on experience is a delicious addition to the list of things to do in Alicante.

Location: Varies by provider.
Cost: Varies by duration and class type.
Recommended Time: Book in advance, as classes can fill up quickly.
Tips: This is a great way to learn about Alicante’s culinary traditions and bring some recipes home.

18. Hiking and Biking

The mountains around Alicante offer stunning views and a variety of trails to explore.

Location: The mountains surrounding Alicante offer various trails.
Cost: Free.
Recommended Time: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
Tips: Research trials beforehand to choose one suitable for your fitness level.

19. Alicante Bullring

This historic bullring is now a museum dedicated to the history of bullfighting.

Location: In the city centre.
Cost: Admission fee applies.
Recommended Time: Check the website for opening times and tour schedules.
Tips: The museum offers insights into the history and culture of bullfighting in Spain.

20. Wine Tours

Alicante is home to several wineries, and you can take a tour to learn about the winemaking process and sample the local wines.

Location: Wineries are outside downtown.
Cost: Varies by a tour operator and inclusions.
Recommended Time: Book in advance, especially during peak season.
Tips: Many tours offer transportation from Alicante.

21. Festivals in Alicante

Alicante hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Hogueras de San Juan festival in June, which is a vibrant cultural experience among the things to do in Alicante.

Location: Varies by festival.
Cost: Some festivals are free, others require tickets.
Recommended Time: Check the tourism website for a calendar of events.
Tips: The Hogueras de San Juan is a must-see in June, known for its bonfires and fireworks.

General Tips:

The best time to visit Alicante is during spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller.
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to help you navigate the city and interact with locals.
Alicante is a walkable city, but you can also use the tram or bus.
Pack comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.

With this practical information in hand, you’re ready to check off all the incredible things to do in Alicante on your adventure!

Tips to Plan a Smooth Trip to Explore 21 Adventures

Planning your Alicante adventure? Here’s a breakdown of essential details to help you make the most of your experience:

Essential Tips to Plan Things to do in Alicante

Best Time to Visit:

Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-October): Ideal weather, fewer crowds.

Summer (June-August): Beach weather, but very crowded and hot.

Winter (November-February): Mild temperatures, some attractions closed.

Transportation:

Flights: Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC) is well-connected internationally.

Train: Renfe offers connections to major Spanish cities.

Bus: ALSA operates routes within Spain and to neighbouring countries.

Local Transportation:

Tram: Excellent for reaching beaches and nearby towns.

Bus: Extensive network within Alicante.

Taxi: Readily available.

Accommodation:

City Center: Convenient for sightseeing, but can be noisy.

Beachfront: Great for relaxation and water activities.

Old Town: Charming, but hilly and less accessible.

Consider:

Budget: Hostels, guesthouses, budget hotels

Mid-Range: Boutique hotels, apartments

Luxury: Resorts, upscale hotels

Language:

Spanish is the official language.

English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Learning a few basic Spanish phrases is helpful.

Currency:

Euro (€) is the official currency.

Credit cards are widely accepted.

Local Customs:

Siesta: Many shops and businesses close for a few hours in the afternoon.

Tipping: Not mandatory, but appreciated for good service.

Visas and Travel Documents:

Check visa requirements for your nationality.

Travel insurance is highly recommended.

Additional Tips:

Pack: Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, comfortable shoes.

Food: Try the local cuisine, especially seafood paella and tapas.

Water: Tap water is generally safe to drink.

Safety: Alicante is generally safe, but be aware of your surroundings.

Ready to discover the city’s authentic charm and all the things to do in Alicante?

Alicante is not just a pretty face. It’s a city of hidden stories and countless things to do in Alicante, waiting to be uncovered. From historic castles and bustling markets to vibrant neighbourhoods and sun-drenched beaches, Alicante offers a diverse range of things to do for every tourist.

So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip and uncover the 21 things to do in Alicante.

Let the unique things to do in Alicante captivate you as you explore its rich history, try its delicious cuisine, and soak up its lively atmosphere.