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Alicante
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Discover Alicante, a vibrant coastal city in Spain's Costa Blanca, known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and lively festivals. Perfect for sun, sea, and culture enthusiasts.

Alicante, nestled on Spain's southeastern coast, is a sun-drenched paradise where history and modernity blend seamlessly. This charming city, part of the famous Costa Blanca, offers an array of experiences, from its golden sandy beaches to its vibrant nightlife and rich cultural heritage. Alicante is not just a beach destination; it's a city with a soul, boasting historical landmarks, bustling markets, and delicious cuisine.
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Begin your journey at the iconic Santa Bárbara Castle, perched high above the city on Mount Benacantil. The castle offers stunning panoramic views of Alicante and the Mediterranean Sea, making it a perfect spot for photographers and history enthusiasts alike. Wander down to the historic old town, Barrio de la Santa Cruz, with its narrow streets, colorful houses, and hidden squares. Here, you can soak in the local atmosphere and perhaps enjoy a leisurely meal at one of the many traditional tapas bars.
For those who love the sea, Alicante's Explanada de España is a must-visit. This beautiful promenade, lined with palm trees and a mosaic of marble tiles, stretches along the waterfront and is ideal for a relaxing stroll. The nearby marina is packed with yachts and boats, and you can take a ferry to the stunning Tabarca Island for a day trip. Alicante's beaches, such as Playa del Postiguet and San Juan Beach, are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or engaging in various water sports.
Alicante is also a city of festivals. The most famous is the Bonfires of Saint John (Hogueras de San Juan), held in late June. This lively event features parades, fireworks, and the burning of large wooden effigies. Throughout the year, the city hosts various cultural events, concerts, and exhibitions that showcase its rich artistic heritage. The local cuisine, with its emphasis on fresh seafood and rice dishes like paella, is another highlight, and no visit to Alicante is complete without sampling its culinary delights.

When is the best time to visit Alicante?

Best: March–May · 21–29°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January1926
February1922
March (best)2122
April (best)2425
May (best)2918
June349
July394
August3910
September3427
October2844
November2350
December1937

Getting to and around Alicante

How to get there

Alicante is well-connected by air, road, and rail. The Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC) is the main international gateway, located about 9 kilometers southwest of the city center. It has numerous flights connecting to major European cities. For those traveling by train, Alicante's main railway station, Alicante Terminal, is linked to major Spanish cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia through the high-speed AVE trains. You can also reach Alicante by car via the AP-7 motorway, which runs along the Mediterranean coast.

Transportation

Alicante offers a variety of transportation options. The city's public transport system includes buses and trams operated by the Metropolitan Transport Consortium. The tram network (TRAM Metropolitano) is particularly convenient for reaching coastal areas and nearby towns. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked via phone. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also operational. For those who prefer cycling, Alicante has a bike-sharing program called 'Alicante Bici' with various stations across the city.

Best attractions in Alicante

Alicante, a charming coastal city in Spain, offers visitors a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the iconic Santa Barbara Castle perched on a hilltop overlooking the city to the picturesque Explanada de España promenade lined with palm trees, tourists can immerse themselves in the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of Alicante. Explore the bustling Mercado Central for a taste of local cuisine and fresh produce, or relax on the golden sandy beaches of Playa del Postiguet. Don't miss the opportunity to wander through the narrow streets of the Old Town, filled with colorful buildings, quaint cafes, and boutique shops. Whether you're a beach lover, history enthusiast, or foodie, Alicante has something to offer for everyone.

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Best landmarks in Alicante

Alicante offers visitors a captivating mix of historical landmarks, vibrant culture, and stunning coastal views. From exploring the imposing Santa Barbara Castle perched high on Mount Benacantil, to strolling along the picturesque Explanada de España promenade lined with palm trees and mosaic tiles, visitors can immerse themselves in the city's rich history and charming atmosphere. Don't miss the chance to wander through the narrow streets of the Old Town, where you'll find colorful houses, cozy cafes, and the iconic Basilica of Santa Maria. And for those seeking relaxation, the golden sands of Postiguet Beach provide the perfect spot to soak up the Mediterranean sun and enjoy the lively beachfront atmosphere. Alicante truly has something for everyone to discover and enjoy.

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Explore Alicante on the map

Plan your Alicante trip on one map. See where the top attractions, landmarks, restaurants, bars and hotels are, find what's near where you're staying, and book hotels and experiences in a few clicks.

Neighbourhoods in Alicante

Best restaurants in Alicante

Alicante's dining scene offers a delightful mix of traditional Spanish cuisine and international flavors, making it a paradise for foodies. From cozy tapas bars serving up local specialties like paella and fresh seafood, to trendy fusion restaurants blending Mediterranean and global influences, visitors can indulge in a culinary adventure like no other. With picturesque views of the Mediterranean Sea as a backdrop, dining in Alicante is not just a meal, but a sensory experience that captures the essence of the city's rich history and vibrant culture.

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Best bars in Alicante

Alicante's nightlife scene is vibrant and diverse, offering something for every type of visitor. From trendy rooftop bars overlooking the Mediterranean Sea to traditional Spanish tapas bars serving up local delicacies, the city has a wide range of options to choose from. As the night goes on, the streets come alive with bustling nightclubs where you can dance the night away to the latest music. Whether you're looking for a casual drink with friends or a night of non-stop partying, Alicante has it all.

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Best nightclubs in Alicante

Alicante's nightlife scene is vibrant and diverse, offering something for every type of visitor. From trendy rooftop bars overlooking the Mediterranean Sea to traditional Spanish tapas bars serving up local delicacies, the city has a wide range of options to choose from. As the night goes on, the streets come alive with bustling nightclubs where you can dance the night away to the latest music. Whether you're looking for a casual drink with friends or a night of non-stop partying, Alicante has it all.

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Best shops in Alicante

The shopping scene in Alicante offers a vibrant mix of traditional markets, modern shopping centers, and unique boutiques, providing visitors with a diverse shopping experience. From browsing through local handicrafts at the bustling Mercado Central to exploring high-end fashion brands at Panoramis Shopping Center, there is something for every shopper in Alicante. Don't miss the chance to stroll along the charming streets of the old town, lined with quaint shops selling everything from traditional Spanish ceramics to trendy souvenirs. With its lively atmosphere and wide range of shopping options, Alicante is a shopping paradise waiting to be explored.

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Alicante essentials

Currency and Payment
The official currency in Spain is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Alicante, including in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, especially in tourist areas, allowing you to withdraw cash as needed. It is always a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in local markets or smaller establishments where card payments might not be accepted.
Safety
Alicante is generally a safe city for tourists, but it's important to stay vigilant, especially in crowded tourist areas like the Explanada de España and the Old Town (El Barrio). Be cautious of pickpockets and avoid displaying valuable items. Certain neighborhoods, such as the area around the central bus station, can be less safe at night, so it's advisable to stay in well-lit, populated areas. Always keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.
Emergency Situations
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, fire services, and medical emergencies. Alicante has several hospitals and medical centers, including the Hospital General Universitario de Alicante and the Hospital Vithas Perpetuo Socorro. Pharmacies are widely available, and many are open 24 hours. It's advisable to carry travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and other unexpected events.
Do's and Don'ts
Fashion: Do dress comfortably but stylishly, as locals tend to value appearance. Avoid overly casual attire in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect religious customs, especially in churches. Dress modestly and remain quiet. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding and keep it with you. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. In informal settings, two kisses on the cheek are common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and tapas. Don’t rush through meals; dining is a social experience.
Local Tips
To experience Alicante like a local, visit the Mercado Central to buy fresh produce and enjoy local delicacies. Spend time at Postiguet Beach or venture to the nearby Playa de San Juan, a favorite among locals. For a cultural experience, attend a traditional fiesta like Hogueras de San Juan in June. Explore the Santa Cruz neighborhood for its charming narrow streets and vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss sampling turrón, a local nougat-like sweet, from one of the traditional shops.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloHola[oh-lah]
GoodbyeAdiós[ah-dee-ohs]
YesSí[see]
NoNo[noh]
Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada[por fah-vor/deh nah-dah]
Thank youGracias[grah-thyahs]
Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento[pehr-dohn/loh see-ehn-toh]
How are you?¿Cómo estás?[koh-moh ehs-tahs]
Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?[byehn. ee too]
Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?[ah-blahs een-glehs]
I don't understandNo entiendo[noh ehn-tee-ehn-doh]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver la carta, por favor[meh goos-tah-ree-ah behr lah kahr-tah, por fah-vor]
I don't eat meatNo como carne[noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
Cheers!¡Salud![sah-loohd]
I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor[meh goos-tah-ree-ah pah-gahr, por fah-vor]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!¡Ayuda![ah-yoo-dah]
Go away!¡Vete![veh-teh]
Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía![yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
Call a doctor!¡Llama a un médico![yah-mah ah oon meh-dee-koh]
I'm lostEstoy perdido[ehs-toy pehr-dee-doh]
I'm illEstoy enfermo[ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...[meh goos-tah-ree-ah kohm-prahr...]
I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando[soh-loh ehs-toy mee-rahn-doh]
How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?[kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
That's too expensiveEsto es demasiado caro[ehs-toh ehs deh-mah-see-ah-doh kah-roh]
Can you lower the price?¿Puedes bajar el precio?[pweh-dehs bah-hahr ehl pree-eh-soh]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?¿Qué hora es?[keh oh-rah ehs]
It's one o'clockEs la una[ehs lah oo-nah]
Half past (10)Las diez y media[lahs dyehs ee meh-dee-ah]
MorningMañana[mah-nyah-nah]
AfternoonTarde[tahr-deh]
EveningNoche[noh-cheh]
YesterdayAyer[ah-yehr]
TodayHoy[oy]
TomorrowMañana[mah-nyah-nah]
1Uno[oo-noh]
2Dos[dohs]
3Tres[trehs]
4Cuatro[kwah-troh]
5Cinco[theen-koh]
6Seis[sehs]
7Siete[syeh-teh]
8Ocho[oh-choh]
9Nueve[nweh-veh]
10Diez[dyehs]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?[dohn-deh ehs-tah]
What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?[kwal ehs lah dee-rehk-syohn]
Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes enseñarme (en el mapa)?[pweh-dehs ehn-seh-nyahr-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?[kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-ksee-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
A ticket (to ....)Un billete (a ...)[oon bee-yeh-teh (ah ...)]

History of Alicante

The Iberians and the Foundation of Alicante

Alicante traces its origins back to the 4th century BC, when the Iberians established a settlement known as 'Akra Leuka' (White Peak) on the slopes of Mount Benacantil. This early period set the foundation for the city's strategic importance due to its prime location along the Mediterranean coast.

Roman Conquest and Influence

In 201 BC, the Romans conquered the Iberian settlement, renaming it 'Lucentum.' The city flourished under Roman rule, becoming an important commercial hub. Roman architectural and cultural influences can still be seen in the area, including remnants of Roman baths and amphitheaters.

The Muslim Era and the Rise of Al-Laqant

During the 8th century, the Moors conquered Alicante, renaming it 'Al-Laqant.' Under Muslim rule, the city grew in importance as a center of trade and culture. The Castillo de Santa Bárbara, one of Alicante's most iconic landmarks, was originally constructed during this period to protect the city from invaders.

The Christian Reconquista

In 1247, Alicante was reconquered by the forces of King Alfonso X of Castile, marking the beginning of a new Christian era. The city was integrated into the Kingdom of Valencia in 1304. This period saw the construction of many of Alicante's historic buildings, including the Church of St. Mary, built on the site of a former mosque.

The Age of Exploration and Trade

Alicante thrived during the Age of Exploration, particularly in the 15th and 16th centuries. Its port became a pivotal point for trade with the Americas and other parts of Europe. The city's wealth grew, as did its cultural and architectural richness, evidenced by structures like the Alicante Town Hall and the Basilica of Santa Maria.

The War of Spanish Succession and British Occupation

The early 18th century brought turmoil with the War of Spanish Succession. In 1709, British forces occupied Alicante, causing significant damage to the city. The British occupation was short-lived, but it left a lasting impact on the city's fortifications and defenses.

Modernization and the 20th Century

The 19th and 20th centuries saw Alicante transform into a modern city. The arrival of the railway in 1858 and the development of the port spurred economic growth. Alicante also became a center for tourism, attracting visitors with its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and vibrant culture. The Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) left its mark, but the city's resilience led to a period of reconstruction and growth in the post-war years.

Cultural Renaissance and Festivals

Today, Alicante is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and lively festivals. The city celebrates numerous events, with the most famous being 'Las Hogueras de San Juan' (Bonfires of Saint John), a vibrant festival held in June that includes parades, fireworks, and the burning of large wooden sculptures. These celebrations reflect Alicante's enduring spirit and cultural vibrancy.

Alicante in Photos

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Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Alicante

Discover Alicante with Evendo, the 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore top attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with local tips and easy navigation.

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Unlock the beauty of Alicante with Evendo, your comprehensive and free travel guide app. Navigate through landmarks, attractions, and local hotspots effortlessly.

  • History and travel essentials for visiting Alicante.
  • Curated local tips for an authentic experience.
  • User-friendly navigation and 'Near me' feature to discover what's around you.
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases or additional costs.

Planning a trip to Alicante, Spain? Evendo is here to make your journey extraordinary! This free travel guide app is packed with detailed information on the city's best attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities. From exploring the historic **Santa Bárbara Castle** to sunbathing on the pristine **Postiguet Beach**, Evendo ensures you don't miss out on any of Alicante's must-see locations. Discover the vibrant nightlife at **El Barrio** or indulge in authentic Spanish cuisine at **Nou Manolin**. With rich descriptions, images, local tips, maps, and contact details for each location, planning your trip has never been easier. The app also allows you to book hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences directly, saving you time and effort. Features like the 'Near me' option help you find attractions and amenities close to your current location, while curated local tips let you experience Alicante like a true local. Download Evendo today and have all of Alicante—and 7,000+ other global destinations—in your pocket!

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