10 Essentials Not to Be Missed!

Are you going to Alicante soon? This superb sunny city of Costa Blanca is a beautiful mix of beaches and culture. Although it is not one of the most visited Spanish cities, unlike Barcelona or Seville, it is full of places to explore that will not leave you indifferent. So, whether you are passionate about history or dreaming of a stay to relax at the beach, Alicante will seduce you. In this article, I share with you 10 must-sees to see and do in this magnificent destination.

1. Santa Barbara Castle

Santa Barbara Castle proudly dominates the city from Mount Benacantil. At its summit, you can enjoy a superb view of Alicante and the Mediterranean Sea. Built during the 9th century by the Muslims, this castle will invite you to discover the history of this region. It is in fact made up of three enclosures which were built at distinct periods. Although it was abandoned in the late 19th century, it has now been renovated to provide locals and visitors with a pleasant stroll. To avoid spoiling anything, this visit is completely free and will therefore be ideal for reducing your travel budget in Spain.

2. Esplanade of Spain (Explanada de España)

This beautiful seaside promenade is lined with palm trees and wavy mosaics, creating an original path for its visitors. You will hardly be able to miss the Esplanade de España during your visit to Alicante.

On site, there are a few stalls, as well as terraces where you can have a coffee. Also take advantage of your walk to enjoy an ice cream and soak up the atmosphere of the city. This esplanade leads to Canalejas Parkwhich offers a very appreciable shaded space in summer.

3. Postiguet beach

If you visit the east coast of Spain, it is probably also to enjoy some swimming! Located a stone's throw from Alicante city center, Postiguet Beach is a great place to relax and cool off. This long golden sand beach is one of the favorite beaches of locals and visitors. Indeed, it is well appointed with a supervised swimming in summer, deck chairs and an access area for people with reduced mobility. Whether for sunbathing, swimming or practicing a water sport, this beach should undoubtedly be included in your vacation schedule!

4. El Barrio Historic District

To get to know the soul of Alicante, I invite you to explore the winding streets and colorful houses of historic El Barrio. Indeed, if there was only one thing to do in Alicante, it would undoubtedly be this. Take the time to stroll through the oldest district of the city and discover monumentsu through the streets. You can then let yourself be seduced by its architecture, its churches or even by the many small businesses that mark this area.

This “barrio” is also an ideal neighborhood for enjoy your evening : enjoy tapas on the terrace and mingle in local life. Alicante's nightlife is famous for being lively!

5. Archaeological Museum of Alicante (MARQ)

If you are a history lover, the MARQ will be a obligatory passage during your stay in Alicante. Indeed, this museum, founded in 1932, was recognized “ best European museum » at the beginning of the 2000s. And since then, visitors still seem as attracted to it.

This museum houses a vast collection of archaeological objects which trace the history of the region, from prehistory to contemporary times. Its originality lies in the fact that it mixes archeology to audiovisual art, offering a particularly astonishing immersive experience.

This low-cost museum also offers guided and dramatized tours on certain days of the week.

6. The central market of Alicante

Discover the culinary soul of Alicante by visiting its central market. Here you will find fresh produce such as fruit and vegetables and fish from the day's catch. So many elements that will allow you to discover the local gastronomy which will delight your taste buds. This covered market was built in beginning of the 20th century. It is open Monday to Saturday from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Don't miss the facade of the building which houses it, which is one of the city's architectural treasures.

7. Reach the island of Tabarca

Have you ever toured the city of Alicante? So, it's time to take a boat to reach the island of Tabarca. This small island is located a only a handful of kilometers from the Spanish coast.
Book a day trip that will allow you to visit the city and its fortifications, but above all to enjoy its beaches. Indeed, this island will amaze you with its crystal clear waters and wild expanses. With its extremely rich biodiversity, it has been named a “Mediterranean marine reserve”. It is also the last place in Spain where you can see Mediterranean monk seals.

Furthermore, after your swim, take the time to stroll through its streets and savor seafood dishes in local restaurants.

8. The Alicante Water Museum

The “Museo de Aguas” is a museum that sometimes goes unnoticed. It is located at the foot of Mount Benacantil. However, he offers a original visit explaining the history of water in Alicante. It is possible to visit old cisterns built to combat drought. We learn information both on the Alicante water network, but on the history of the city itself. It is a very fun museum which will particularly appeal to young people. The most? It is completely free.

9. The Ocean Race Museum

This Alicante museum is dedicated to one of the city's flagship activities: regattas. It mainly focuses on the history of the Ocean Race which is a famous race that starts in Alicante since 2008. You will be able to dive into the heart of the greatest champions, the surprising events and the most stressful moments of this race, while enjoying games and entertainment for the whole family. If you want to relax for a few hours in Alicante, while enjoying an interesting cultural activity, this museum is what you need!

10. The archaeological site of Lucentum

3 km from the center of Alicante, there is an area called Tossal of Manises where the archaeological remains of ancient Alicante called Lucentum are located. These remains of the Ibero-Roman period extend over more than 5 hectares and thus offer the largest archaeological site in the region. The ideal will be to schedule a guided tour (there are generally 2 per day), in order to better understand these ruins and their history.

You will have understood, Alicante is a destination full of charm which will appeal to all types of travelers. Whether you are passionate about the beach or history, but also if you are traveling to Spain with your family, this town on the Costa Blanca can offer you a superb vacation. For the rest of your trip, discover Andalusia and Malaga further south or Valencia and Barcelona further north!

I hope that this article has allowed you to plan the activities of your stay according to your desires. Don’t hesitate to share with us in the comments your favorite places in Alicante.