Details for Alicante
With shattered mountains in the background, the city is located in a bay with a cosmopolitan harbour. Tropical palms line the avenues. From the sea front you can look up towards Mount Benacantil, where the historic Castillo de Santa Bárbara, open to the public, is located. You will find small narrow streets near big avenues with lively business activities in the area of Rambla Méndez Núñez. Elegant pubs and sophisticated restaurants can be found in the more modern part of the city between the seafront, Explanada de España, and Avenida Alfonso El Sabio. In the evenings in 'El Barrio', a pedestrian area in the Old Town around the Cathedral, locals meet up with visitors of all ages and from all over the world.
380,577 (2025)
Euro, €1 = 100 cents
112 Emergencies
091 Police
062 Guardia Civil
Smaller, privately-owned shops are mainly open from 10am to 2pm and 5pm to 8:30pm. Big department stores, larger chains and shopping centres are open from 10am to 10pm, Mondays to Saturdays. Shops may be closed on Sundays. Most banks are open from Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 2/2:30pm. Only some branches open on Saturday mornings.
Aquopolis Torrevieja
Aquopolis Torrevieja
In Aquopolis Torrevieja, you will find attractions for everyone: if you want an adrenaline rush, slide down in High Emotion. Speed, a water slide, is designed for adrenaline lovers, which will appeal to both adults and children. All children under 10 years will have fun in the Kids Zone, MiniPark and Charmed Lake. Have a relaxing time with your family in our Sand Beach or at The VIP Area. The park opens seasonally from June to early September.
Archaeological Museum of Alicante — MARQ Museum
Archaeological Museum of Alicante — MARQ Museum
Created in 1932, MARQ Museum was originally located on the ground floor of the Provincial Council building on Avenida de la Estación in Alicante. In 2002 it was transferred to the former site of the San Juan de Dios Provincial Hospital. If you visit this highly innovative and visual museum, you can enjoy an avant-garde approach to archaeology supported by modern audiovisual techniques. Its exhibits stretch from the Palaeolithic age to Contemporary Modern Culture.
Barri Vell Santa Creu — Old Town Quarter
Barri Vell Santa Creu — Old Town Quarter
No trip to Alicante would be complete without a stroll through El Barri Vell, the city’s charming Old Quarter. Its maze of narrow streets lies beneath the Santa Bàrbera Castle and is filled with taverns, small shops and local life. Among its most notable landmarks is the San Nicolás Co-Cathedral, an example of 17th-century architecture, though its cloisters date back to the 15th century in Herrerian Renaissance style. Other highlights include the Town Hall, an elegant 18th-century Baroque building, the Santa María Basilica, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Casa de la Asegurada Museum.
Basilica of Santa Maria of Alicante
Basilica of Santa Maria of Alicante
The Basilica de Santa María, just a short 15-minute walk from the beach, is one of Alicante’s most significant landmarks. Due to its popularity with tourists, a small entrance fee is now required. Inside, the layout is designed for self-guided visits, with numbered stations and audio explanations available in three languages. Built in the Valencian Gothic style between the 14th and 16th centuries on the site of a former mosque, the basilica is the oldest active church in Alicante. Its striking Baroque façade, spacious nave, and six chapels make it a highlight for anyone exploring the city.
Castell de Sant Ferran
Castell de Sant Ferran
If you’ve already explored the popular Santa Bárbara Castle but are still looking for views of Alicante, especially at sunset, make your way to Sant Ferran Castle. Located within Doctor Rico Park and next to Del Tossal Park, this historic fortress is far less crowded than other city viewpoints, making it an ideal spot for a picnic or a quiet break on a bench with a drink and some snacks. Its peaceful atmosphere is part of the charm, but keep in mind there are no shops or vendors nearby, so it’s best to bring everything you need before starting the climb.
Castell de Santa Bàrbera
Castell de Santa Bàrbera
A visit to the Santa Bárbera Castle is highly recommended. Located atop Mount Benacantil, at a height of 166 metres, it is one of the largest medieval fortresses in Spain, with unbeatable views over the Bay of Alicante and on clear days you can see all the way to Tabarca Island. Such is its relevance that during the 20th century it was declared a Monument of Historic and Artistic Importance and a Site of Cultural Interest. Here we can also find one of the most characteristic images of the city, a rock formation resembling a man’s profile on the southwestern slope, known as the Moor’s Face, which is best viewed from Postiguet Beach. The Museum of the city in Santa Bárbara's Castle 'MUSA', housed in the Castle itself, was included in its cultural offer and it explains in five theme rooms the history of the city of Alicante and their inhabitants. To descend down from the Santa Bárbara Castle, take the route through Parque de La Ereta, along the mountainside. Its location and views transform it into a place of relaxation as well as a great meeting place. It also has a spectacular restaurant and, on the way down to the old town quarter, you can visit the picturesque, quintessentially Spanish Santa Cruz district. Another attractive option between the castle and the Santa Cruz district is walking along the remains of the walls that surrounded the Castle, which now end in the Santa Cruz district. You can also access the castle via a lift built within the rock face opposite El Postiguet beach.
Central Market
Central Market
This building contains some modernist features and was built between 1911 and 1912 under the management of Juan Vidal Ramos over Balmes Square. With its rectangular shape, the Market mimics the layout of a basilica, with a circular appendix on the South-west side covered by a semispherical dome called 'La Rotonda', the roundabout. The building is split into two floors, one of which is a semi-basement due to the irregular surrounding streets. The front of the building was designed by Enrique Sánchez Sedeño and is presided by an impressive staircase surrounded by two emerging figures with decorative features. On 25th May 1938, the Mercado Central was hit during the worst bombing suffered by the city of Alicante during the Spanish Civil War, which resulted in 300 civilian victims. The Italian air force was responsible for that tragedy. All kinds of high-quality products can be bought at the Market, especially local fish and seafood, vegetables and fruit, as well as other typical local products. That is why the city’s top restaurants source their food from the Mercado Central.
Civil War Anti-aircraft Shelters
Civil War Anti-aircraft Shelters
Alicante still bears witness to the bombings it endured during the Spanish Civil War, with several preserved air-raid shelters dotted across the city. Some of these have been restored and now feature displays of artefacts, photographs and explanatory texts that provide insight into the historical and social context in which they were built and used between 1936 and 1939. The best known of these shelters is found in Plaza de Séneca, where a fully restored site now forms part of the 'Centro de Interpretación Sobre los Refugios Antiaéreos'. Another, just a short walk away in Plaza Dr. Balmis, stands out for its submarine-style doors, designed to seal off gases and protect those inside. If you want to explore more than just one of these historic spaces, the municipality runs guided tours that cover several shelters around Alicante. These tours are detailed, engaging and very reasonably priced.
Bar Guillermo
Bar Guillermo
It is a traditional tapas bar located in the centre of Alicante. Very popular due to their homemade meals and their 'montaditos', little sandwiches with varied fillings.
César Anca
César Anca
The César Anca bar stands out for its great variety of design tapas. In the renewed and beautiful square, Gabriel Miró. A modern and welcoming place in which everything is in constant movement.
El Cantó
El Cantó
El Cantó is a typical Alicante brewery and one of the most authentic tapas bars in Alicante. They don’t take bookings, but it is surely worth waiting for a table and enjoying their culinary delights.
El Portal Taberna & Wines
El Portal Taberna & Wines
El Portal is a restaurant, and a tapas and cocktail bar. In an informal atmosphere, El Portal offers good tapas, a creative cuisine and a wide selection of national and international wines.
La Taberna del Gourmet
La Taberna del Gourmet
La Taberna del Gourmet is a catering project that began in 1979 which is focused on the quality of the raw product. A place where innovation is at the service of organic food and traditional flavours, where succulent tapas, sandwiches, cured meats and cheeses from all regions are prepared in a lively Spanish barra. Also this is a gourmet corner and an elegant show room of the best fruits and vegetables from Alicante's garden, the most exclusive meats and the freshest seafood from the fish market. A national and international gastronomic reference that offers all kinds of delicatessen products, from the most prestigious Extra Virgin Olive Oils and cans to the finest wines.
La Taverna del Racó del Plá
La Taverna del Racó del Plá
This is a famous, family-run traditional restaurant. They take much care in choosing their raw materials to elaborate modern and old recipes. La taverna del Racó del Plá has menus for groups and tapas menus at night.
Nou Manolín
Nou Manolín
It is located in one of the pedestrian streets of Alicante city centre. It has a very good and varied à la carte menu and it is also considered to serve the best tapas in all of Spain.
Restaurante Dársena
Restaurante Dársena
Restaurante Dársena is one of the oldest restaurants in Alicante. It is located in the sports marina and it offers spectacular views of the seafront. They specialise in paella and Mediterranean food.
Cafeteria Tres Texturas
Cafeteria Tres Texturas
Cafetería Tres Texturas is a great choice for a hearty breakfast or brunch. Besides coffee, a selection of teas, freshly pressed orange juice and smoothies, the menu shines with its brunch options: Nordic, Tuna, Ibérico, Fit and XL. For something lighter, you can opt for sandwiches, omelettes, or toasts. There are also healthy bowls and salads on offer.
Madness Specialty Coffee
Madness Specialty Coffee
Madness Specialty Coffee lives by the motto “From the earth to your cup” — and they mean it. Carefully sourcing top-quality beans, they roast and grind them using professional equipment. With two locations in Alicante, it’s a great choice for breakfast or brunch. For food, the eggs Benedict with salmon comes highly recommended.
Noray Café & Bar Puerto de Alicante
Noray Café & Bar Puerto de Alicante
Noray Café is a great place to enjoy delicious tapas and ice-cold cocktails. Their terrace is right at the edge of the water. Sit back and enjoy your coffee or drink with a view of the harbour and the yachts.
Point Bianco
Point Bianco
Point Bianco sits just a few blocks from Alicante’s main theatre and the popular Bolets Street. The café offers a cosy atmosphere with thoughtful décor and soft background music. Alongside their perfectly foamed lattes, you’ll find sweet options such as croissants, macarons, cookies, and cakes. For something savoury, try one of their 'tostas' — toasted bread with a variety of toppings.
Soho Parc
Soho Parc
Soho Parc is located in an emblematic square with ancient trees called Portal de Elche, close to the old town of Alicante. It is a place where you can enjoy a relaxing coffee during the day or a great mojito in the evening.
Terraza Sotelo 10
Terraza Sotelo 10
Take your drink, coffee, beer or snacks in a different way, in a natural garden at La Porta de Sant Francesc square, a beautiful and comfortable place located in the commercial centre of the city of Alicante.
Café Pub La Historia
Café Pub La Historia
A good place to spend a Saturday afternoon or night in Castaños Street, in the centre of Alicante. All adorned with mojitos and beautiful people. It's open every day of the year till past midnight, with a license to sell alcohol until 4 am.
Concerto Club Culture
Concerto Club Culture
Concerto Club is an exclusive lounge bar, right in the city centre. At night, it offers music of the eighties and nineties, and also some commercial house music.
Confetti Alicante
Confetti Alicante
With over 18 years in the game, Confetti has mastered the art of entertainment. Known for its pulsating atmosphere and quality music, this Alicante hotspot is the place to be for indie and alternative tunes. The venue is a favourite among locals for late afternoon and early evening revelry. There's another location near San Juan beach.
Pub Carabassa
Pub Carabassa
Conveniently located in downtown Alicante, Pub Carabassa is the perfect setting to sip on cocktails, Spanish Sangria, mojitos and more, all reasonably priced. Inside, get ready to dance the night away to a diverse mix of music.
Sala Clan Cabaret
Sala Clan Cabaret
This bar is a classic in the Alicantinian night and has become a cultural reference point with performances, painting or comic exhibitions and concerts.
Santa Barbara Playa
Santa Barbara Playa
Santa Bárbara Playa, as its name suggests, is a pub located just a couple of blocks from the beach. This lively spot combines everything in one place: a terrace where you can enjoy shisha, a dance floor with DJs, and a fun atmosphere. Their strawberry daiquiri, piña colada, sex on the beach and coconut mojito are especially popular — and all offered at very reasonable prices.
Teatre Day & Night
Teatre Day & Night
Teatre Day & Night pub offers good drinks and great surroundings any time of the day and night. Today, the club is known for great techno nights.
Ten 10
Ten 10
Located in one of Alicante's most renowned streets for nightlife, Ten 10 is the epitome of evening elegance and nocturnal thrills. Famous for their cocktails — both alcoholic and virgin — the bar sets a luxurious tone that's worth every penny. The interior exudes a calming ambiance, making it an ideal spot to sit back and people-watch as the world goes by.
Area Avenida Maisonnave
Area Avenida Maisonnave
From the Esplanada, walk towards the Rambla. Once you reach the end of Gerona Street, you will find the heart of the city: Maisonnave Avenue. It is home to the big department stores, brand name shops and international franchises.
Area Teatro Principal
Area Teatro Principal
From Puerta del Mar square, having a walk along the Esplanada de Espanya will lead to the Rambla, one of the main streets in the city. Around this area you will find fashion, footwear, accessories, decoration items and delicatessen shops, on streets such as Gerona, Castaños, San Francisco and Teatro. If you have some energy left after shopping, you can visit the nearby Teatro Principal, Main Theatre.
Central Market
Central Market
Walking along the Rambla, we discover at the end of this avenue, the Central Market of Alicante. This is an emblematic building of the city, where you will find here all the charm of a traditional market together with the usual high quality of its products. All kinds of high-quality products can be bought at the Market, especially local fish and seafood, vegetables and fruit, as well as other typical local products. That is why the city’s top restaurants source their food from the Mercado Central.
El Barrio
El Barrio
A stone's throw from La Rambla, El Barrio serves as Alicante's historical heart. Its narrow, vintage streets host an eclectic assortment of businesses, including tobacconists, clothes and souvenir shops, adult stores, and flower vendors. This captivating neighbourhood is replete with must-see attractions. Take the opportunity to visit Casa Carbonell, a luxurious home dating back to the 1920s and inspired by Beaux-Arts architecture. Every weekend, El Barrio is busy with locals in search of food and entertainment, solidifying its role as a primary hub for dining and nightlife.
El Corte Inglés
El Corte Inglés
Spain’s largest chain of department stores is to be found at the intersection of Avenida Maisonnave and Avenida Federico Soto. Sooner or later, everyone comes here. Take the opportunity to buy 'turrones', nougat with nuts. You can also find Fondillon, a wine unique to the Alicante region.
Esplanada de España
Esplanada de España
Walking along the Explanada you will find a versatile craftwork market with a high number of stands offering clothes, leather goods and decorative items, perfect souvenirs of your visit to Alicante. You can now head on to Plaza Gabriel Miró. In this romantic corner of the city centre you will find bars and restaurants where you can stop, or continue until you reach Calle San Francisco, a decorated street full of shops you’ll love.
Passport & Visa
Passport & Visa
Citizens of European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) countries do not need a visa to enter Spain, only a valid ID. Many other countries, including the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, United Arab Emirates, Australia, and New Zealand, benefit from visa-free entry for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Visitors from visa-exempt countries must hold a valid passport and, starting in late 2025, will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) authorisation online before travelling. For those requiring a visa, such as travellers from some Middle-East, African or Asian nations, a Schengen visa must be obtained prior to arrival. All travellers should ensure their passport is valid for at least three months beyond their intended stay.
Alicante–Elche Miguel Hernández Airport (ALC)
Alicante–Elche Miguel Hernández Airport (ALC)
Alicante’s international airport is situated 11 kilometres south of the city and is called 'Alicante–Elche'. It is one of the most important airports in the country, with direct flights to 11 destinations in Spain, approximately 124 airports in Europe and North Africa, and flights to a total of more than 20 different countries. The cheapest way to get into the centre is by urban bus C-6. The bus departs every 20 minutes and takes around 30 minutes, depending on the traffic. A taxi journey takes around 10 to 15 minutes.
Public Transport
Public Transport
Visiting the city on foot is comfortable and practical, since the distances are short and it is easy to walk from one end of the city to the other. Nevertheless, Alicante has a public transport network connecting the most important points in the city and the province by bus. As well as within the city, you can also use the tram to get to the city's metropolitan area and the main towns of interest along the north coast of the Costa Blanca: Campello, Benidorm, Altea and Denia amongst others. The city also has a tourist bus service called, 'Turibús', that follows a route with stops at the places of interest. Passengers can get on and off the bus as many times as they wish over the course of a day. There is a multilingual audio system equipped with digital sound in 6 languages and it also has an access platform for people with reduced mobility.
Taxi
Taxi
In Alicante, you can easily hail a taxi on the street, but using apps such as Cabify, Uber or Pidetaxi is often more convenient. Alternatively, you can call a local company to book one in advance.
Electricity
Electricity
Spain’s power grid operates at 230 volts with a frequency of 50 Hz, using Type F, Schuko plug, and Type C, Europlug, outlets. Both types accept plugs with two round prongs, common across continental Europe.
Pharmacy
Pharmacy
In Alicante, you’ll find no shortage of pharmacies, with reliable options across the city. Farmacia Lahoz is one of the well-regarded choices.
Postal Services
Postal Services
Finding a post office or a mailbox to send letters or postcards in Alicante is straightforward. The Oficina de Correos on Arquitecto Morell Street is housed in one of the city’s emblematic buildings and is easy to reach.
Telephone
Telephone
Country code +34 Area code: 965/966
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