Alicante Things to Do
Situated on the Spanish coast, Alicante offers a rich mix of historical sites, shopping destinations, and beachfront amenities. The beautiful scenery makes this seaside city a favorite for tourists.
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Historic Locales
While visiting Alicante, take some time to visit some of the historic sites this city has to offer. El Barrio is the old quarter, which is lined with colorful buildings. It sits in the shadow of the Castillo de Santa Barbara, and the area is home to numerous pubs and restaurants. Narrow streets and breathtaking architecture make this spot a must-see for tourists.
Castillo de Santa Barbara is a medieval castle, and portions of the structure date back to the 14th century. It is now home to the Museo de Alicante, which has four rooms to explore. Entrance to the museum is free, but be aware that the castle is closed during the winter . You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes when you visit; the castle is a 350-foot climb to the top. You can also take a tunnel and elevator if climbing proves to be too much.
Unique Shopping Districts
Visitors in Alicante can find a variety of places to shop. La Explanada de Espana is an expansive promenade lined with vendors and shops, and tourists can purchase everything from sunglasses and jewelry to toys, all at affordable prices. Due to its open-air setup and popularity with locals and visitors, be mindful of your wallet while you shop in this area.
If you are in the mood for fresh seafood, produce, or other delicious ingredients while staying in Alicante, head to El Mercado Central. This market, located in a historic building, features vendor stalls filled with a mouthwatering array of foods. It has a reputation for being the best place to do your shopping, and it offers a great way to enjoy the tastes of Spain.
Beautiful Beaches
Alicante’s position on Costa Blanca gives visitors access to stunning beaches, including San Juan Beach. This small little stretch on the coast boasts white sand and relaxing surf, and its location near a residential area puts it a bit off the beaten path. San Juan Beach is also known for its cleanliness, so be sure to pick up any trash before you leave the area. While the beach is bustling during the summer months, it is quiet and peaceful during the off-season. With volleyball nets, children’s playgrounds and plenty of restaurants, there’s no shortage of things to do in the area.
Playa del Postiguet features a pal-lined promenade, as well as an array of additional services and facilities to enjoy. Its location next to the city center makes this beach easy to access. With plenty of room to sunbathe or take a stroll, Playa del Postiguet is an excellent place to spend an afternoon in the sun.
More from SmarterTravel:
- Alicante Travel Guide
- Tips on Alicante Warnings or Dangers – Stay Safe!
- Alicante Transportation – Taxi, Train, Bus & Airport Tips
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Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do in Alicante.
We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.
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