On a sunny day most days the strip is filled with people strolling. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Alicante Dont miss this spectacular natural phenomenon during your time in Alicante. It was established so as to protect the city from an overland attack. Built over a ninth-century Arabic fortress, the. Construction on the Valencian Gothic church began in the 14th century, and some of its most memorable features include the ornate sculptures at the entrance and the two towers. If you dont want to venture too far Alicante Golf Club is a 15-minute drive from the city centre and was designed by Seve Ballesteros. As you nibble on thin slices of prosciutto and plump olives impaled on toothpicks, youll get to learn all about the citys booming culinary culture, and maybe get some inspiration for where to go next! Why go? It is a beautiful and clean city beach with close access to everything. Alicante. The city . 37 Best Things To Do In Alicante: A Complete Alicante Guide - hoppa On your wander around Old Town, you'll also happen upon the city's town hall which you can enter to marvel at its Baroque architecture and its famous Blue Room as well as many cathedrals, including the San Nicols Co-Cathedral, which was constructed in the 1600s. 17 Best Things to Do in Alicante As a souvenir you could get some turrn, a kind of nougat with honey and almonds. Exciting Things to Do in Alicante for Thrill Seekers. What is it? The healthy animal environment also makes for a pleasing not to mention ethical visit for humans. 7. Calle de Las Setas (The Mushroom Street). Curious about the wines of Alicante and how they differ from other Spanish regions? Its dedicated to Alicantes patron saint, whose statue occupies a lavishly decorated baroque chapel. Castle of Santa Barbara. It has some historic walls from an 18th-century fortification and an attractive fishing port to explore. The two-kilometre-long island is a marine reserve, and its rocky coastline is perfect for exploring with a snorkel. Right next to the old-town is a very serviceable beach, if you dont want to travel far for a dose of sea and sand. Its located near the Roman ruins of Lucentum, on the edge of the city, and handily placed for a trip to the Albufereta beach afterwards. Visit the valley of Guadalest and its enchanting scenery, including the waterfalls and cascades of Las Fuentes del Algar and the fountain spring of Los Chorros. 7 Great Things to Do in Alicante - Pauline Travels Map. Located in a local shopping mall, this gorgeous theater offers all of the latest hits, with state-of-the-art sound and visuals to make the whole experience even more memorable. Alicante boasts a gorgeous coastline with scores of pale sandy beaches to choose from. The two-kilometre-long island is a marine reserve, and its rocky coastline is perfect for exploring with a snorkel. Meet born and bred locals who will show you where to pick up the freshest ingredients and what to look out for. And then its leapin time! This is a great way to get an overview of Alicantes history, with dramatically lit displays of ancient bones, amphorae, coins and ceramics that make the past come alive. Other popular courses on the Costa Blanca include Aleda Golf, Melia Villaitana Golf Club, Font del LLop Golf Resort and Vistabella Golf. See the coastline in a unique and invigorating way. And at Hotel Albahia Alicante, you can try a new workout at the gym, test your skills on the tennis court, or stroll over to neighboring attractions like theme parks, shopping centers, and the Santa Barbara Castle. Las Hogueras de San Juan (the Bonfires of Saint John) is a festival that occurs each year in late June, and it's one of the most important events in Alicante. Sep 25, 2019 - Alicante is the capital of eastern Spain's Costa Blanca holiday region. If you'd rather walk to the top (and burn off a few paella calories), you can head east from Plaza del Carmen. In the winter months, the weather is cool, and you won't run into many tourists. Watch the beaches and buildings unfurl beneath you, as your pilot points out areas of interest that cant be properly appreciated from the ground. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions. Popular things to do Culinary Tour Walking Tours Points of Interest & Landmarks Private Sightseeing Tours Cultural Tours Beaches Wine Tastings Mountain Bike Tours Speciality Museums Historical Tours Airport & Hotel Transfers Parks Top Picks Luxury & Special Occasions Churches & Cathedrals Outdoor Activities Kayaking Tours Monuments & Statues Then relax with some tapas at one of the cafs the Tapeta del Mercat is a top choice. There isnt much by way of tourist development here save a few isolated apartment blocks on the edge of the sand dunes. It features the masters pure, graceful lines and lack of adornment although if thats your bag, youll also find some giddy baroque chapels. Down this yellow brick road, visitors are treated to toadstool houses and massive mushroom sculptures. Things to do in Alicante - GetYourGuide You can take the lift or stroll through the modern Parque de la Ereta to reach this mighty cliff-top castle. Though tucked a little out of the way, St. Marys is worth a visit to take in the peaceful ambiance and exquisite decor. This beautiful co-cathedral, with a huge dome punctuated by an oculus, was designed by Agustn Bernardino, a disciple of the great Juan de Herrera. Within check out the gothic 14th-century statue of Santa Mara and a medieval incunable, an early printed book from the 1200s. See what life is like onboard for the crew and learn all about the state-of-the-art vessels that undertake this grueling expedition. The local zip parks are great for the whole family, with a variety of courses and lines offering excitement galore. The nearby boardwalk has some great cafes, restaurants and vendors where you can grab a snack or coffee. The festival features street parties, food stalls, a market, a beauty queen, flower offerings and a lot of drinking. Daredevils only need to apply for this one. The waves are typically calm, making it safe for kids to play in the water and the sand. Alicante has some fantastic festivals and there are many which occur throughout the year. These zippy, fun-filled vehicles are perfect for getting out and about, offering a little more range and excitement! Terra Mtica: One Of The Best Things To Do In Alicante Spain With Children. Along with the fantastic flavors, these excursions are a great way to learn more about the local agriculture a pretty unbeatable combination! Are you crazy for caves or gaga for grottos? Its larger mammals are nothing short of glorious and include elephants, rhinos and tigers. Located a short boat ride from Alicante, Tabarca is Spain's smallest inhabited island, and it's the perfect place for a daytrip from Alicante. However, the multitude of surrounding businesses mean the beach can quickly get crowded, especially in the summer months. Conveniently located near Alicantes Old Quarter, El Postiguet is the citys main beach. Then you have to check out the amazing Canelobre Caves on a day trip from Alicante. This 18-hole par-72 makes a nods to the local Roman heritage in the shape of recreated Roman ruins that you have try and avoid on the 14th hole. A fun fact about this attraction devoted to modern art is that its housed in Alicantes oldest secular building, a former granary constructed in 1687 next to the Santa Mara Basilica. Alicante can almost be summed up in two words: beaches and bars. 6. Its a real Spanish favourite, especially popular at Christmas. MARQ Museo Arqueologico de Alicante. Bonfires marking St. Johns Eve on June 23 are common across Spain. A modern,clean and air conditioned tram ride to Benidorm that follows the coast and goes through tunnels in the hills. Its dedicated to Alicantes patron saint, whose statue occupies a lavishly decorated baroque chapel. Visitors also enjoy theMuseu de Arte del Siglo XX Asegurada, which showcases modern art that juxtaposes its location in the city's oldest building. There is no hassle to go or to leave. And with so many amazing things to do in Alicante, youll have plenty of motivation to make a return trip or several! It is conveniently close to the Museum of Contemporary Art and admission is free. Exploring the picturesque mountain town of Guadalest is one of the best day trips from Alicante. There are also festivals celebrating historic battles of the area and the citys Carnival celebrations in late February/March are really something to behold. Lets discover the most fun things to do in Alicante. Although many visitors head straight to the beaches when they arrive in Alicante, you would be remiss to skip out on a stroll through the city's Old Town. It was founded in 1976 by the Alicante sculptor Eusebio Sempere, displaying his private collection. Fresh fruit and vegetables also abound, and youll be able to seek out some regional specialities like turrn nougat and Mistela, a sweet dessert wine. This area is considered a National Artistic Garden, and it's home to the Imperial Palm Tree a massive and nearly two-centuries-old palm. Dont worry, this isnt some dystopian thought experiment; its just a round of bungee jumping! Just behind the beach are restaurants, nightlife venues and even an 18-hole golf course. Visitors enjoy relaxing on the shore and soaking in the views of Castillo de Santa Barbara, which overlooks the popular strip of sand. Located in the grand Palacio del Conde de Lumiares, it has over 500 works by mostly Spanish artists, many local, from the last 200 years. The Old Town is also home to a convent and a handful of museums, including the Gravina Museum of Fine Arts, which focuses on traditional art and sculptures by artists from the local area. Follow this guide to pack like a pro and ensure airport security is a breeze. Aqualandia is home to Europes highest waterslide, the aptly named VertiGo. The Barrio de Santa Cruz is a must-see for its colorful buildings, quaint shops and outdoor restaurants. The ideal place to people-watch, the trademark Explanada de Espaa is a marble-laden promenade, constructed from 6.5 million mosaic tiles. Throw in Moorish architecture, stunning oceanside views, and plenty of places to eat and drink, and you have a neighborhood that stands above the rest! Built over a ninth-century Arabic fortress, the current construction dates to the eighteenth century and is home to the citys history museum. Take in the picturesque views and discover the history of this amazing building during your time in Alicante. It's not a large area, but the pedestrian-only streets are filled with enough antique charm and lively chatter that you may want to stay for a while. MUBAG, the citys museum of fine arts would be a great place to start. Attractions. THE 10 BEST Adrenaline Activities in Alicante (Updated 2023) Alicantes oldest church sits pretty on a charming square in the old town. Why go? It features the masters pure, graceful lines and lack of adornment although if thats your bag, youll also find some giddy baroque chapels. The smaller and most atmospheric of two neighbouring outposts of this popular tapas bar, this tiny spot is always packed to the rafters with a friendly local crowd. Santa Brbara Castle What is it? Score a slam dunk as you spin through 180-degrees or backflip into a foam pit, this place is so much fun! Nibble tapas at La Taberna del Gourmet, or enjoy tea and Middle Eastern meals at Mish Mish. Enjoy unparalleled views of Alicante and its mountains, beaches, and the sea on this parasailing tour. A must-see landmark in the Guadalest Valley is the hilltop castle, which was made extremely secure in its construction and can only be reached by walking through a tunnel. Like many churches in Spain Santa Mara was built over a former mosque after Alicante had been taken back from the Moors in the 13th century. The scuba diving in the region is famously fabulous, with a stellar combination of clear waters and abundant wildlife to enjoy. Stop for a chilledhorchata the creamy summer drink made of chufa nuts at this 90-year-old institution. Its charmingly run-down, with steep stairways and alleys winding past colourful houses spilling over with flowers. As an added bonus, these trips can often be combined with other adventures, such as kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. Nowadays, this park of palm trees makes for a picturesque stroll. But the museums including the award-winning MARQ Provincial Archaeological Museum . Discover the races record times, heroes and legends in this unique multimedia exhibition. Alicantes oldest civil building the seventeenth-century Casa de la Asegurada has been spectacularly extended and renovated to hold an excellent collection of modern and contemporary art. Well-designed for tourists, Alicante has many high-rise hotels near the harbor and the beach. 2023 Atlas Obscura. In 2004, MARQ won the esteemed European Museum of the Year Award by the Council of Europe. Past travelers highlighted the animal shows, some of which feature parrots, sea lions and dolphins, as the chief reasons to plan a visit. U.S. News rates the cheapest travel insurance options, considering pricing data, expert recommendations and consumer reviews. Inside, the golden altar is striking as are the various paintings and high ceilings. Anjother of Alicantes interesting museums and exhibition spaces is the Sala de Exposiciones de la Lonja del Pescado. Grab a jet ski and start exploring! Things to do Hotels Dining When to visit Getting around Map & Neighborhoods Photos Why Go To Alicante About 100 miles south of Valencia and along the Costa Blanca (White Coast) is Alicante,. Lovely sandy beach for miles, great for kids and water that gradually deepens at a distance. Its most delicious corner is the Santa Cruz district. Similar to Valencia's Las Fallas event, Alicante's version includes a huge parade with elaborate ninots (effigies). Every year in Alicante the whole city celebrates with a big fiesta in which they honor the Bonfires of Saint Joan. 6. Elche is also home to the Palmeral of Elche, the largest plantation of date palms in Europe. This is the largest palm grove in Europe, planted by the first Muslims to settle here in the early-middle ages. 2022. Considered one of Alicantes most attractive neighborhoods, Santa Cruz has maintained its traditional feel. Theres a small, walled community on Tabarca with the same kind of whitewashed houses and blue shutters youll see in Alicantes old-town. Recent visitors were especially impressed with some of the three-dimensional art and the unique selection of pieces. When you feel the urge to catch a flick, you cant do much better than this classy joint! The portal is a masterpiece of Baroque (you can admire it from the terrace of the Sampa Picnic bar opposite), and inside youll find a gilded rococo altarpiece and a beautiful white Carrara marble font. This waterfront club is the place to be in Alicante and if youre in search of the citys nightlife, start here. The castle, though exceptionally preserved, has a history of battles and wars. From scuba diving to wine tastings, camping to kitesurfing, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the area further and fall even more in love with it! 20+ Things to Do in Alicante, Spain That You Can't Miss (2023 Guide) The city has all the relaxation and fun of the seaside with the history and sights youd want from a city break: Theres a medieval fortress towering over the city and a classic Mediterranean old-town with whitewashed houses and cobblestone streets. The Costa Blanca also means an abundance of golf courses. Visitors to the city would be forgiven for thinking that it was a royal palace or some kind of grand municipal building but it was constructed as a home. The island has a town with some great restaurants and visitors should definitely try the local specialty known as caldero.. 4. Its charmingly run-down, with steep stairways and alleys winding past colourful houses spilling over with flowers. Guadalest is also home to the Antonio Marco Dolls House Museum and what is thought to be the worlds largest collection of salt and pepper shakers. According to past visitors, the views are worth the walk. This is a must-see for lovers of history. The Museo de Arte Contemporaneo de Alicante (also known as the MACA or the 20th Century Art Collection) has nearly 200 works displayed in the 17th-century baroque building. This spectacular fort was constructed between the 9th and 13th centuries when the area was under Muslim control. What is it? But none of these are as large as those that take place on Alicante. Why not take a vineyard tour and discover the traditions and processes that go into making the districts best wines. Whether youre looking to grab a quiet drink or to dance the night away to some thumping beats you can find it in Alicante. This neighbourhood is sprawled on the hill side beneath the castle, and to get around youll need to negotiate steep streets and stairways between high whitewashed walls. It never saw proper use as a fortress but served as a prison until 1939. #1 in Alicante Beaches, Free TYPE 2 hours to Half Day TIME TO SPEND You'll find this stretch of shoreline just about 6 miles northeast of Alicante city. Situated on a mountaintop overlooking Alicante, Castillo de Santa Barbara is one of the largest medieval fortresses in the country. Airplane tours are known for their spectacular scenery and thrilling flight patterns, and these small, lightweight specimens offer a great perspective on the world below. Some of the citys best and most creative tapas are dished up by wise-cracking waiters. Relax at the Beaches. It is a bit of a walk but the impressive views from the top of the hill make it worthwhile. It stretches opposite the marina about 6.5 million red, black and cream tiles. It has grand buildings, a yacht marina, a selection of restaurants and delightful sea breezes. Alicante is the capital of eastern Spains Costa Blanca holiday region. Castillo de Santa Barbara. Related tour: Alicante Two-Hour Sunset Catamaran Cruise. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. Recent visitors raved about the market's organization and cleanliness, and they recommended asking vendors about their products because many are conversational and happy to give information. Pack a picnic and explore this tiny island, a designated marine reserve famous for its crystal clear waters and bird life. Explore its unspoiled coves and beaches and take a dip in its transparent waters. Lovers of great Mediterranean foods and ingredients will be in their element here. Why go? The surrounding area has lots of nice bars and restaurants that cater to the many yacht and sailboat owners and their crew. Try arroz a banda or arroz al horno, both enhanced by the terrific seafood available in this part of Spain. This valley, which sits about an hour's drive north of the city, draws visitors with its turquoise blue reservoir and surrounding mountains. Pen de Ifach, the watchtower peak. What is it? If you are lucky enough to be in the neighborhood for Easter, expect lots of decorations and festivities, including an elaborate Holy Wednesday Procession. Those who make the climb (or choose to drive or take the elevator) to the top will be greeted with sprawling views of the bay. Take one of these fun guided tours and get up to date on the citys history and culture from a knowledgeable local guide. It now houses shops and restaurants on the ground floor, offices on the second and luxury apartments on the top two floors. As you spring off the top, youll quickly feel the tension of the rope safely pulling you back but not before you get the thrill of flight, plus a bit of a bounce! the creamy summer drink made of chufa nuts at this 90-year-old institution. Or take things down a notch in Valencia, where outdoor adventures and exciting learning opportunities blend together at every turn. Tabarca Island, the only inhabited island in the region. From the moment your aircraft takes off, youll find yourself blown away by the views and the adventure! If you are looking for fun things to do in Alicante, a trip to this museum might be just the thing youre looking for. Aside from its fair share of palm trees, check out the large collection of desert plants such as yucca and cacti. The town is a popular stop-off on the Camino de Santiago route and this church is the main reason. Though it's a rural area, there is a village in the valley with quaint restaurants and shops as well as ruins of ancient city walls. Morant is the largest public park in Alicante and has games facilities, including areas for petanque and croquet. Visitors will find a selection of great bars and clubs to enjoy the evening in this historic part of the city. Alicante isnt short of excellent golf courses. Visit a few of the best local eateries and sample delicious local foods and drinks. Alicantes MARQ Provincial Archaeological Museum is just the place if youre wondering about Alicantes origins. Hit up the most famous spots, including the Old Town, La Explanada and the Town Hall and discover the best places to shop, eat and party in Alicante. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Alicante - 2023 (with Photos) - Tripadvisor TourScanner is the worlds largest website to search for tours & travel activities. Marmerela is all of these. This is where La Ereta Park can be found which is nearly seven hectares of pathways, epic vistas and natural Mediterranean landscapes. Nevertheless it is a dynamic, attractive Spanish city with a castle, old quarter and long waterfront. And dont miss El Portal Alicante, which provides world-class ambience and phenomenal, multi-course menus. Come with U.S. News on a tour of L'Ermitage Beverly Hills in Los Angeles, Come with U.S. News on a tour of the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills in Los Angeles, Come with U.S. News on a tour of The Peninsula Beverly Hills in Los Angeles, Come with U.S. News on a tour of Hotel Bel-Air in Los Angeles, Come with U.S. News on a tour of The Beverly Hills Hotel in Los Angeles. Romans and Arabs later used the fort and added to it with drawbridges, battery, hospitals, dungeons and more. From vibrant forests to thrilling dirt trails, every bend in the road offers a new adventure on this wild, wonderful drive. You can also pose for photos with the resident parrots and make a souvenir youll really love. Traditionally people would burn off their old furniture for San Juan, but in 1928 the city decided it needed a fiesta to go with these fires, and it takes place across four days up to the 24th. Things to do in Alicante Year-round sunshine, seafood delicacies, and a vibrant nightlife on the doorsteps of Spain's Costa Blanca. The surrounding area and views are nothing short of spectacular and the facilities are excellent. It has roots that are "traditionally attributed to the Phoenicians and Carthaginians in the 1st millennium BC," according to UNESCO. Thanks for subscribing! Try the local dishes and flavors but be sure to arrive early as many stalls may be closed by 1 p.m. Back on the surface, you can put your sense of adventure and your arms! Ready to plan your trip? As one of the oldest cities in the country, its streets tell an amazing story of human civilization, from nomadic groups and Roman emperors to a series of political regimes. The castle is open to the public for tours and there are lifts inside Mount Benacantil to make the trip accessible to everyone. The park is themed around the ancient civilizations of the Mediterranean, with themed areas dedicated to Egypt, Greece, Rome, and Iberia. Old Town Alicante's boundaries are roughly drawn by Rambla de Mndez Nnez andExplanada de Espaa, and Mount Benacantil, which is topped by theCastillo de Santa Brbara. The views from up here are truly extraordinary, and all the more worth it if youve opted for the sweaty climb uphill rather than the lift. Step away from the tourist traps and visit the places where locals go to eat. 1. While Alicante doesn't strike as a historic destination, its past is hidden in Castillo de Santa Barbara. They are a series of coves fringed with flat rocks where you can spread your towel or slip into the sea. If you want lots of space then Saladar Beach to the south of Alicante is a 1600-metre-long sweep of golden sand. For free Free Things to Do in Alicante Some say the best things in life are free. The exhibits showcase art of all media including paintings, sculptures and even lithographs (designs drawn onto stone). Escape the crowds in the busy little old town and step back in time at this gorgeous basilica.