10 Things to Do in Alicante (Spain): Best Attractions and Activities

Introduction
Alicante is a beautiful coastal city in Spain that attracts thousands of tourists every year. With its sunny weather, rich history, and stunning beaches, Alicante is the perfect destination for travelers who want to experience the best of Spain. However, with so many things to do and see in Alicante, it can be challenging to create an itinerary that covers everything. In this guide, we’ll share the top 10 things to do in Alicante to help you plan your trip.

1. Castle of Santa Barbara

The Castle of Santa Barbara is one of the most famous landmarks in Alicante. Located on top of Mount Benacantil, the castle offers panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. The castle dates back to the 9th century, and it has played a crucial role in the history of Alicante. To get to the castle, you can take a lift or walk up the hill. Once you’re there, you can explore the castle’s towers, dungeons, and gardens.

2. Explanada de España

The Explanada de España is a beautiful promenade that runs alongside the port of Alicante. The promenade is made of 6.5 million marble tiles, creating a stunning mosaic effect. There are palm trees and benches along the promenade, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy the sea breeze. The promenade is also home to many restaurants, cafes, and bars. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a coffee, or a sit-down meal, you’ll find plenty of options along the Explanada de España. Many of the restaurants and cafes have outdoor seating, so you can enjoy the beautiful views of the sea while you eat. Some of the most popular dishes to try include paella, fresh seafood, and local rice dishes. You can also find many ice cream and dessert shops along the promenade, perfect for a sweet treat after your meal.

3. Archaeological Museum of Alicante

The Archaeological Museum of Alicante, also known as MARQ, is one of the most important museums in Spain. The museum is located in a modern building that houses over 80,000 artifacts that tell the story of Alicante’s history. The exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from prehistoric times to the modern era. Some of the most impressive artifacts include the Treasure of Villena and the Iberian Lady of Guardamar. The museum also offers interactive exhibits and audiovisual displays.

4. Santa Maria Basilica

The Santa Maria Basilica is a beautiful church located in the heart of Alicante’s old town. The church dates back to the 14th century, and it has undergone many renovations and additions over the years. The interior of the church is breathtaking, with beautiful stained glass windows, high ceilings, and intricate sculptures. Visitors can also see the Chapel of the Holy Communion, which contains the Holy Chalice, a cup that is said to be the one used by Jesus at the Last Supper.

5. Playa del Postiguet

Playa del Postiguet is the most famous beach in Alicante, and it’s located in the heart of the city. The beach is surrounded by palm trees and has crystal clear water, making it the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. There are also many restaurants, bars, and shops along the beach, so you can easily spend the entire day there.

6. Barrio de Santa Cruz

The Barrio de Santa Cruz is a charming neighborhood in Alicante’s old town. The neighborhood is known for its narrow streets, colorful houses, and beautiful flowers. There are also many restaurants and bars in the neighborhood, making it the perfect place to grab a drink or a bite to eat. The best time to visit the Barrio de Santa Cruz is in the afternoon or evening, when the streets are filled with locals and tourists alike.

7. Mercado Central

The Mercado Central is a traditional market in Alicante where you can buy fresh produce, meats, and seafood. The market is housed in a beautiful building that dates back to the early 20th century. It’s the perfect place to try some of the local specialties, such as Iberian ham, fresh fish, and fresh fruit. The market is also a great place to buy souvenirs and gifts to take home.

8. Tabarca Island

Tabarca Island is a small island located off the coast of Alicante. The island is home to a small fishing village, and it’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors can take a boat from Alicante to the island and spend the day exploring the village, swimming in the crystal clear waters, and trying the local seafood.

9. El Palmeral Park

El Palmeral Park is a beautiful park located on the outskirts of Alicante. The park is home to over 10,000 palm trees and has many walking paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds. It’s the perfect place to spend a relaxing afternoon in nature.

10. Alicante Harbour

Alicante Harbour is a beautiful place to visit in the city. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists, and it’s a great place to take a stroll and enjoy the beautiful views. You can watch the boats and yachts coming and going, or you can take a boat tour of the harbor. There are also many restaurants and bars along the harbor, making it a great place to grab a bite to eat or a drink.

Conclusion
In conclusion, Alicante is a beautiful city with many things to do and see. By visiting the Castle of Santa Barbara, the Explanada de España, the Archaeological Museum of Alicante, the Santa Maria Basilica, Playa del Postiguet, Barrio de Santa Cruz, Mercado Central, Tabarca Island, and El Palmeral Park, you can experience the best of what Alicante has to offer. Remember to plan your itinerary in advance and enjoy your trip to this beautiful city.