Alicante tourist attractions and things to do

Alicante is a beautiful coastal city located in the province of Alicante, on the southeastern coast of Spain. The city is known for its stunning beaches, historic sites, and vibrant nightlife. Some of the top attractions in Alicante include the Castle of Santa Barbara, which sits atop Mount Benacantil and offers panoramic views of the city and the sea, the Explanada de España, a promenade lined with palm trees and mosaics, and the Gothic-style Basilica of Santa Maria, which dates back to the 14th century. Additionally, the city is home to several museums, including the Museum of Contemporary Art, which features works by local and international artists. The city is also well-known for its delicious local cuisine and lively festivals.

Santa Barbara Castle:

Santa Barbara Castle, located on top of Mount Benacantil, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Spain, Alicante. The fortress, which dates back to the 9th century, offers panoramic views of the city and the sea, making it a great spot for taking in the sights and sounds of Alicante. The castle has been used for various purposes throughout history, including as a military fortress and as a prison. Visitors can explore the castle’s ramparts, towers, and underground tunnels, which provide a glimpse into its rich history. The castle also features a museum, where visitors can learn more about the castle’s past and the history of the city. With its stunning views and rich history, Santa Barbara Castle is a must-see attraction for any visitor to Alicante.

Castillo de San Fernando:

The Castillo de San Fernando is a 19th-century castle located in the heart of the city of Alicante. The castle, which was built to protect the city from invasion, features beautiful architecture and an exhibition of local history and art. Visitors can explore the castle’s rooms and courtyards, which offer a glimpse into the city’s past. The castle also has a terrace with panoramic views of the city, where visitors can take in the sights of Alicante. The castle is also a popular spot for photography, especially during sunset and the castle has the perfect view of the Mediterranian sea. With its rich history, beautiful architecture and stunning views, the Castillo de San Fernando is a must-see attraction for any visitor to Alicante.

Explanada de España:

The Explanada de España is a seaside promenade located in the heart of Alicante. The promenade, which stretches for over a kilometer, features palm trees, mosaic pavement and sculptures, making it a popular spot for taking in the sights and sounds of the city. The Explanada is a perfect place for a relaxing walk or a bike ride, where visitors can enjoy the Mediterranean sea breeze and the sound of waves. The promenade is also a popular spot for outdoor events and festivals, such as concerts, markets and cultural events. Along the Explanada, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes where visitors can stop and enjoy a drink or a meal while looking out to the sea. The Explanada de España is a must-visit attraction for anyone looking to experience the best of Alicante’s coastal culture and scenery.

Basilica of Santa Maria:

The Basilica of Santa Maria is a Gothic-style church located in the old town of Alicante. The church, which dates back to the 14th century, features a beautiful bell tower and a colorful stained glass window that are the main highlights of the church. Inside the church, visitors can admire the intricate architecture, including the ribbed vaulting, pointed arches and the ornamented chapels. The church is also a great place to learn about the history of the city and the region, as it holds many religious artifacts. The church is a popular spot for photography and the bell tower offers a great view of the city. The Basilica of Santa Maria is a must-see attraction for any visitor to Alicante, both for its historical and architectural value, as well as for its spiritual significance.

Postiguet Beach:

Postiguet Beach is a popular beach located in the city center of Alicante, known for its golden sand and crystal-clear waters. The beach is a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities. The beach is also popular for water sports like windsurfing, kitesurfing, and paddleboarding. Along the beach, there are plenty of beach bars and restaurants where visitors can stop and enjoy a drink or a meal while looking out to the sea. The beach is also surrounded by a beautiful promenade, where visitors can take a stroll and enjoy the sea breeze. At night the promenade is lit up and it is a perfect place for a romantic walk. The beach is also a great place to watch the sunset. Postiguet Beach is a must-visit attraction for anyone looking to experience the best of Alicante’s coastal culture and scenery.

Central Market:

The Central Market of Alicante, also known as “Mercado Central,” is a vibrant market located in the heart of the city. The market, which dates back to the early 20th century, offers a wide variety of local products, such as fruits, vegetables, meats, and cheeses, as well as seafood and other fresh produce. Visitors can stroll through the market’s many stalls, sampling the local delicacies and chatting with the vendors. The market is a great place to learn about the local cuisine, as well as to pick up some souvenirs. The market is also a popular spot for photography, and it is a great place to capture the bustling atmosphere of the city. With its wide variety of products and its lively atmosphere, the Central Market is a must-see attraction for any visitor to Alicante.

Alicante Museum:

The Alicante Museum is a museum located in the old town of Alicante, showcasing the history and art of the city and the surrounding region. The museum is housed in a beautiful 19th-century building, and it features a collection of artifacts and artworks that tell the story of the city’s past and its people. Visitors can explore the many galleries and exhibitions, which cover everything from archaeology to modern art. The museum also has a library and research center where visitors can learn more about the history and culture of the region. The museum also has a terrace with panoramic views of the city, where visitors can take in the sights of Alicante. With its rich collections and beautiful setting, the Alicante Museum is a must-see attraction for any visitor to the city.

Port of Alicante:

The Port of Alicante is a bustling port area located in the heart of the city. The port is a popular spot for shopping, dining, and entertainment, and it offers a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can also take a boat tour from the port to nearby islands, such as Tabarca Island, which is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. The port also features a marina, where visitors can admire the many boats and yachts that are docked there. The port is also a great place to watch the sunset, as it has a great view of the Mediterranean sea. Along the port, there are several monuments and sculptures that are worth checking out. The Port of Alicante is a must-visit attraction for anyone looking to experience the best of the city’s coastal culture and scenery.

Alacant Terra i Mar Museum:

The Alacant Terra i Mar Museum is a modern museum showcasing the culture and history of the region of Alicante, including the famous local ceramics. The museum is located in the heart of the city, the museum covers the history of the region from prehistoric times to the present day. The museum has a wide range of interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, which makes it an ideal place to visit for families and children. The museum also has a section dedicated to the traditional ceramics of the region, which is known for its vibrant colors and intricate designs. The museum also has a terrace with panoramic views of the city and the sea, where visitors can take in the sights of Alicante. With its interactive exhibits, and historical and cultural value, the Alacant Terra i Mar Museum is a must-see attraction for any visitor to the city.

Montgó Natural Park:

Montgó Natural Park is a nature reserve located on the outskirts of the city of Alicante. The park, which covers an area of over 7,000 hectares, is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including Mediterranean pine forests, rocky cliffs, and sandy beaches. The park is a perfect spot for hiking, picnicking, and bird-watching, and it offers a wide range of hiking trails, picnic areas, and viewpoints. The park is also home to the Montgó Massif, a limestone mountain that rises 753 meters above sea level and offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding mountains. The park is also a great place for rock climbing and paragliding. The park is also a popular spot for photography, especially during sunset. Montgó Natural Park is a must-visit attraction for anyone looking to experience the best of Alicante’s natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Bottom Line

Alicante is a coastal city located in the southeast of Spain, known for its beautiful Spanish beaches, rich history and culture. The city offers a wide range of tourist attractions, including the Santa Barbara Castle, a fortress located on top of Mount Benacantil offering panoramic views of the city and the sea; the Explanada de España, a seaside promenade with palm trees, mosaic pavement and sculptures; and Postiguet Beach, a popular beach located in the city center, known for its golden sand and crystal-clear waters. The city also features a vibrant market, Central Market where visitors can find local products and learn about the local cuisine. Alicante also offers a variety of museums such as the Alicante Museum, showcasing the history and art of the city. The city has a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a popular tourist destination.