Exploring Santa Bárbara Castle
Discover the historical Santa Bárbara Castle perched on Mount Benacantil, offering panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.
Top hotels & flights
Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Alicante.
Top Hotels in Alicante
Top Flights to Alicante
Popular activities
Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Alicante.
Tours
Shopping
Shopping in El Corte Inglés
Shop till you drop at El Corte Inglés, the largest department store group in Europe, offering a wide range of products from fashion to electronics.
Outdoor
Beach Day at Playa del Postiguet
Enjoy a relaxing or active day at Playa del Postiguet, one of the main city beaches in Alicante.
Hiking at Serra Grossa
Take a scenic hike at Serra Grossa, a small mountain area offering trails and panoramic views of Alicante and the sea.
Location videos
Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.
From travelers
Watch & explore
Practical info
The essentials for planning your time in Alicante.
Currency
€ | EUR | Euro
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Alicante, Valencia, Spain is 1.9 million.
Local guide
What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Alicante.
What people love
Alicante, located in the Valencia region of Spain, is a popular destination for travelers due to its many attractions and offerings. Here are some pros of traveling to Alicante:
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Beautiful Beaches: Alicante is known for its stunning beaches, including popular ones like Playa del Postiguet and Playa de San Juan. The warm Mediterranean waters and sandy shores make it a great destination for beach lovers.
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Vibrant Culture: Alicante boasts a rich cultural heritage, with influences from various civilizations throughout history. Visitors can explore historic sites such as Santa Barbara Castle, the Old Town, and the Archaeological Museum of Alicante.
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Delicious Cuisine: Alicante is a food lover's paradise, with a wide variety of traditional Spanish dishes and fresh seafood. Don't miss trying local favorites like paella, tapas, and horchata.
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Festivals and Events: Alicante hosts a number of festivals and events throughout the year, such as the famous Bonfires of Saint John (Hogueras de San Juan) in June and the Moors and Christians festival in April. These events offer a glimpse into the local culture and traditions.
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Outdoor Activities: The surrounding region of Alicante offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, water sports, and golfing. The beautiful natural landscapes and mild climate make it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Overall, traveling to Alicante offers a combination of beautiful beaches, rich culture, delicious cuisine, vibrant festivals, and outdoor activities, making it a versatile and enjoyable destination for all types of travelers.
What to know
There are a few potential cons to consider when traveling to Alicante, Spain:
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Crowds: Alicante is a popular tourist destination, especially during the summer months. This can lead to crowded beaches, restaurants, and attractions, which may impact your overall experience.
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Hot Weather: Alicante experiences very hot weather during the summer, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). If you are not a fan of hot weather, this may not be the best destination for you during certain times of the year.
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Language Barrier: While many people in Alicante speak English, especially in tourist areas, you may encounter some language barriers, particularly if you venture off the beaten path or visit more local establishments.
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Cost of Living: Compared to other parts of Spain, Alicante can be slightly more expensive due to its popularity among tourists. Prices for accommodations, dining, and activities may be higher than in other Spanish cities.
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Transportation: While Alicante has a good public transportation system, getting around the city and its surrounding areas may be more challenging if you are not familiar with the local buses or trams. Renting a car could be an option, but parking can be difficult in the city center.
Overall, while Alicante is a beautiful destination with plenty to offer, it's important to consider these potential downsides when planning your trip.