Alicante is one of those Spanish cities that feels easy from the moment you arrive. It has beaches right in the city, a historic old town, good food, and a relaxed Mediterranean vibe. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying longer on the Costa Blanca, Alicante offers a mix of sightseeing, beach time, culture, and local life.
This guide covers the best things to do in Alicante, written in a simple and practical way. You’ll find what each place is, why it’s worth visiting, operating hours, entry fees, and what you can do there, so you can plan without confusion.
Castillo de Santa Bárbara
Being one of the largest medieval castles in Spain, Castillo de Santa Bárbara is the most famous landmark in Alicante. It sits on Mount Benacantil and offers panoramic views over the city, port, and Mediterranean Sea. The castle reflects different historical periods, from Moorish rule to Spanish military use.
Operating Hours:
- Daily: 10:00 to 20:00 (hours may vary by season)
Entrance Fee:
- Castle access: Free
- Elevator to the top: Small fee (varies by season)
Things to do:
- Walk along ancient walls and towers
- Enjoy city and sea views
- Visit small exhibitions inside the castle
- Take photos from the viewpoints
Alicante Old Town (El Barrio & Santa Cruz)
The Old Town of Alicante, including Barrio de la Santa Cruz, is full of narrow streets, colorful houses, and local charm. This area shows the traditional side of the city and feels lively both day and night.
Operating Hours:
- Open all day
Entrance Fee:
- Free
Things to do:
- Walk through historic streets
- Visit small churches and plazas
- Enjoy local bars and cafés
- Explore street art and viewpoints
Explanada de España
The Explanada de España is Alicante’s most iconic promenade, known for its wavy marble floor and palm trees. It runs along the harbor and is a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.
Operating Hours:
- Open 24 hours
Entrance Fee:
- Free
Things to do:
- Take a relaxing walk
- Sit on benches under palm trees
- Enjoy street performances
- Visit nearby cafés and ice cream shops
Playa del Postiguet
Located right next to the city center, Playa del Postiguet is Alicante’s most accessible beach. With golden sand and calm water, it’s ideal for a quick swim or relaxing break.
Operating Hours:
- Open all day
Entrance Fee:
- Free (sunbeds available for rent)
Things to do:
- Swimming and sunbathing
- Walk along the beach promenade
- Enjoy nearby restaurants
- Watch the sunset near the port
Playa de San Juan
Playa de San Juan is the largest and most popular beach in Alicante. It’s clean, spacious, and perfect for families.
Operating Hours:
- Open all day
Entrance Fee:
- Free
Things to do:
- Swimming in clear water
- Beach sports like volleyball
- Long seaside walks
- Relax at beach bars and cafés
Central Market of Alicante
The Central Market is a must-visit to experience local food culture. The building itself is historic, and inside you’ll find fresh seafood, fruits, meats, and local products.
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: Morning hours (closed Sundays)
Entrance Fee:
- Free
Things to do:
- Taste local food
- Buy fresh fruits and snacks
- Experience daily life in Alicante
- Try local seafood and cheeses
MACA – Contemporary Art Museum
Located in the Old Town, MACA focuses on modern and contemporary Spanish art. It’s a quiet and educational stop.
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday
- Closed Mondays
Entrance Fee:
- Free
Things to do:
- View modern art collections
- Learn about Spanish artists
- Enjoy a calm cultural visit
MARQ Archaeological Museum
MARQ is one of Spain’s best archaeological museums, presenting history in an interactive and easy-to-understand way.
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday
Entrance Fee:
- Small entrance fee (free on some days)
Things to do:
- Learn about ancient civilizations
- See Roman and Iberian artifacts
- Visit temporary exhibitions
Alicante Port & Marina
The Alicante Port area is perfect for relaxing walks, dining, and evening time.
Operating Hours:
- Open all day
Entrance Fee:
- Free
Things to do:
- Walk by the marina
- Enjoy seafood restaurants
- Take boat tours
- Relax in the evening atmosphere
Day Trip to Tabarca Island
Tabarca Island is a small island near Alicante, known for clear water and marine life.
Operating Hours:
- Ferry schedules vary daily
Entrance Fee:
- Island access free (ferry ticket required)
Things to do:
- Snorkeling in protected waters
- Walk around the island village
- Eat fresh seafood
- Enjoy quiet beaches
Food and Local Cuisine in Alicante
Alicante is famous for rice dishes like arroz a banda and seafood-based meals.
Must-try experiences:
- Traditional paella
- Tapas bars in Old Town
- Beachside seafood restaurants
- Local desserts and wines
Nightlife in Alicante
Alicante has a relaxed but lively nightlife scene.
Things to do at night:
- Visit bars in El Barrio
- Enjoy beach bars near the port
- Listen to live music
- Take evening walks along the promenade
Shopping in Alicante
From local markets to modern malls, Alicante offers easy shopping options.
Popular areas:
- Central Market
- City center streets
- Local souvenir shops
Best Time to Visit Alicante
- Best months: April to June and September
- Summer: Hot and lively
- Winter: Mild and quiet
FAQs – Things to Do in Alicante
Is Alicante worth visiting?
Yes, Alicante offers beaches, history, food, and a relaxed atmosphere in one place.
How many days are enough in Alicante?
2 to 4 days are ideal to see the main attractions and enjoy the beaches.
Are there free things to do in Alicante?
Yes, many beaches, walking areas, museums, and landmarks are free.
Is Alicante good for families?
Yes, the beaches, parks, and calm city environment make it family-friendly.
What is Alicante famous for?
Alicante is famous for its beaches, castle, rice dishes, and Mediterranean lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
Alicante is a city that balances sightseeing and relaxation perfectly. From historic castles and old streets to clean beaches and great food, there are plenty of things to do in Alicante for every type of traveler. Whether you’re visiting for culture, beach time, or local experiences, Alicante delivers without feeling overwhelming.
Useful Resources:
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