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If you have done the things to do in Spain, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Alicante.
Alicante, a gem on the southeastern coast of Spain, beckons travelers to immerse themselves in a world of sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and unparalleled cultural experiences.
From savoring gastronomic delights to exploring the depths of marine life, there’s no shortage of activities to indulge in.
Get ready for a thrilling ride into the diverse and enchanting journey that awaits you in Alicante!
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Alicante:
1. Santa Barbara Castle
A medieval fortress built in the 9th century on Mount Benacantil in Alicante, Spain.
What to see or do: Visit the castle’s towers, bastions, and cannons for panoramic views of the city, sea, and surrounding mountains. Explore the museums, exhibitions, and audiovisual shows that showcase the castle’s history and archaeology.
Join a guided tour or an augmented reality experience to learn more about the castle’s strategic role in defending the coast against invaders.
Don’t miss: The Baluarte del Duque de Mandas, a circular tower with a drawbridge over a deep ravine, that offers a thrilling entrance to the castle.
The Salón Felipe II, a spacious hall with a grand fireplace, that hosted royal banquets and ceremonies.
The Iglesia de Santa Bárbara, a 18th-century chapel with colorful tiles and a baroque altarpiece, that honors the patron saint of miners and gunners.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the climb to the top of the castle can be steep and sunny.
Check the castle’s schedule and ticket prices online, as they may vary depending on the season and the type of visit.
Consider attending one of the castle’s cultural events, such as concerts, theater plays, or medieval markets, to experience the castle’s lively atmosphere.
2. Postiguet Beach
A picturesque, crescent-shaped beach located in the heart of Alicante.
What to see or do: Soak up the sun, swim in the crystal clear waters and take in the stunning view of the city from the shore.
You can also enjoy various water sports activities, rent a sun lounger or parasol, and sip on refreshing cocktails at beachside bars and restaurants.
Don’t miss: Taking a stroll along the palm-lined promenade, admiring the colorful beach huts, and visiting the Castillo de Santa Barbara, a medieval fortress perched on a hill overlooking the beach.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to visit the beach early in the morning or during the late afternoon to avoid the crowds and intense sun.
Bring your own towel and sunscreen as rentals can be expensive. Also, try the traditional Paella dish at the beachfront restaurants for an authentic taste of Alicante cuisine.
3. Explanada de España
A beautiful and iconic promenade located in the heart of Alicante, Spain.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the picturesque views of the Mediterranean Sea, colorful flowers, palm trees, and marble floor tiles.
You can also stop by one of the many cafes and restaurants for a coffee or a meal.
Don’t miss: The stunning mosaic floor tiles that feature intricate patterns and designs.
Also, be sure to check out the bronze statue of the famous Spanish journalist, Josep Maria Py, at the eastern end of the promenade.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the early evening to catch the beautiful sunset over the sea. Arrive early on weekends to secure a good spot for people watching and enjoy the local street performers.
Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and a hat, as it can get quite hot during the day.
4. Basilica of Santa Maria
The Basilica of Santa Maria is a historic church located in the heart of Alicante’s Old Town. Built in Gothic and Baroque styles, it is one of the oldest and most significant landmarks in the city.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the impressive architecture and intricate details of the church’s façade, interior, and altarpieces. The church also houses an extensive art collection, including paintings, sculptures, and tapestries from the 15th to 20th centuries.
Don’t miss: Make sure to see the church’s bell tower, which offers stunning views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.
Insider travel tips: Visit during Holy Week to see the elaborate processions and events that take place in and around the church. Avoid peak tourist hours and consider a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the basilica.
5. Central Market
Central Market is a bustling indoor market in the heart of Alicante, popular among locals and tourists alike.
What to see or do: Stroll around the market’s dozens of vendors, selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other local products. Marvel at the colorful displays of fruits and vegetables, and take in the lively atmosphere of the market.
Don’t miss: Sample some of the delicious foods on offer, from freshly squeezed juices to traditional Spanish tapas. Pick up some local souvenirs, such as saffron or olive oil, to take home with you.
Insider travel tips: Try to visit the market during the morning hours, when it’s at its busiest and most vibrant. Don’t be afraid to haggle a bit with vendors, especially when buying in bulk.
And bring your own reusable bags to help reduce waste and show your commitment to sustainability.
6. MUBAG (Museum of Fine Arts Gravina)
MUBAG (Museum of Fine Arts Gravina) is a beautiful art museum located in the heart of Alicante, Spain.
What to see or do: The museum houses an impressive collection of over 800 works of art that range from the medieval period to the early 20th century.
Visitors can explore a variety of art forms such as painting, sculpture, and pottery.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the collection of Valencian Gothic paintings that dates back to the 14th century.
Be sure to also check out the 16th-century Flemish paintings and the collection of Spanish sculptures from the 18th century.
Insider travel tips: The MUBAG offers free admission on Sundays and public holidays.
7. MARQ (Archaeology Museum of Alicante)
MARQ is a modern and interactive museum that showcases the archaeology and history of the Alicante region in Spain.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the permanent collection which includes artifacts from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages. The museum also features temporary exhibits, workshops, and educational activities for all ages.
Don’t miss: The Iberian Gallery which displays the most significant Iberian art collection in the world, and the Treasure Room which showcases the most valuable pieces in the museum’s collection.
Insider travel tips: – Visit in the morning to avoid crowds.
8. San Nicolas Cathedral
San Nicolas Cathedral is a Gothic-style Catholic Church in Alicante, Spain.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning architecture and intricate details of the cathedral’s exterior and interior. The cathedral also houses some beautiful works of art, including paintings and sculptures.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the Cathedral Museum, which features a collection of religious artifacts. Visitors can also climb the bell tower for stunning views of the city.
Insider travel tips: The cathedral is still an active place of worship, so be respectful of any ongoing ceremonies.
9. Contemporary Art Museum
Contemporary Art Museum is a modern art museum located in the heart of Alicante, Spain. It showcases contemporary art exhibitions from national and international artists.
What to see or do: Visitors can see a wide range of contemporary art such as paintings, sculptures, installations, and digital art. The museum also hosts educational workshops and cultural events related to art.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the temporary exhibitions that are held regularly throughout the year. These exhibitions showcase works of emerging artists, which are worth exploring.
Also, don’t miss the rooftop terrace of the museum, which offers beautiful views of the city.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly.
10. Lucentum Archaeological Site
Lucentum is an amazing archaeological site located in the city of Alicante.
It was once a Roman settlement, and now offers a glimpse into the life of the ancient people who lived in the area.
What to see or do: At Lucentum, visitors can see the remains of a forum, thermal baths, houses, and even a small amphitheater. The site is quite large, making it easy to spend a few hours exploring everything that is on offer.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the impressive city gates, which have been beautifully preserved.
The amphitheater is also quite unique, and it is thought to have once been able to hold up to 5,000 spectators.
Insider travel tips: If you are visiting in the summer, be sure to bring plenty of water and a hat, as there is little shade within the site.
Additionally, the site is not particularly well-known, so there are fewer crowds than at other popular attractions.
11. El Palmeral Park
El Palmeral Park is a beautiful public garden in Alicante, Spain, known for its lush palm trees.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll along paths lined with palm trees and other tropical plants, relax on benches, have a picnic, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
There are also playgrounds, a lake, and a small animal park for children.
Don’t miss: Be sure to see the ornamental lake, which is home to ducks and swans, and the impressive palm grove with over 3,000 palm trees.
Insider travel tips: – The park is a perfect spot for a family outing or a romantic walk.
12. Tabarca Island
Tabarca Island is a small, picturesque island located off the coast of Alicante in Spain.
What to see or do: The island has a beautiful, clear beach where visitors can swim and sunbathe.
Another popular activity on Tabarca Island is snorkeling, as the waters are home to a wide variety of marine life including sea turtles.
Visitors can also take a stroll through the charming old town, which features narrow streets and historic buildings.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the 18th-century fortress, which was built to protect the island from pirates and is now home to a museum.
Additionally, try some of the local seafood cuisine at one of the island’s many restaurants.
Insider travel tips: To avoid crowds, try to visit the island during the week rather than on weekends. Additionally, consider taking a guided tour for a more in-depth look at the island’s history and culture.
13. San Juan Beach
San Juan Beach is a stunning sandy beach located in Alicante, Spain. It’s considered one of the best beaches in the Mediterranean and stretches over 7 kilometers.
What to see or do: San Juan Beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and taking long walks on the coast. The crystal clear water makes it ideal for water sports such as surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
The long promenade along the beach is perfect for cycling or taking a jog while enjoying scenic sea views.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the stunning sunrise or sunset over the Mediterranean sea, it’s a truly magical experience. San Juan Beach is also home to several beachfront bars and restaurants that serve delicious seafood and local cuisine.
Insider travel tips: During peak season, it can get crowded so it’s recommended to arrive early to secure a spot on the beach.
14. Les Fogueres de Sant Joan Festival
Les Fogueres de Sant Joan is a popular festival in Alicante, Spain, celebrating the summer solstice.
What to see or do: During the five days of the festival, visitors can witness the spectacular displays of fireworks, parades, and traditional dances.
Several massive statues made of paper-mache and wood are created and placed throughout the city, and on the final night of the festival, they are burned in a spectacular display called “La Crema.
Don’t miss: The parade of the “Fogueres,” which involves the locals parading through the city in traditional costumes and carrying statues to be placed in the squares.
The “Mascletà,” a daily pyrotechnic show in the Plaza de los Luceros, is also a must-see spectacle that will leave you in awe.
Insider travel tips: – Book your accommodation in advance, as the city gets crowded during the festival.
15. Casa de la Asegurada Museum
Casa de la Asegurada Museum is a contemporary art museum situated in a historic building in Alicante, Spain.
What to see or do: The museum features works of some of the most renowned Spanish contemporary artists and has a collection of over 800 pieces of various art forms, including sculptures, paintings, and installations.
Visitors can admire the unique architecture of the building, which was originally a hospital in the 17th century, and enjoy the wide range of contemporary artwork on display.
Don’t miss: The museum’s permanent exhibition includes works of artists such as Pablo Picasso, Joan Miró, Salvador Dalí, and Antoni Tàpies. The temporary exhibitions held throughout the year showcase young and emerging artists, making it a dynamic attraction to visit repeatedly.
Insider travel tips: – Visit the museum during a weekday to avoid crowds.