Exploring the Timeless Charm of Casco Antiguo, Alicante

Discover the historic charm and vibrant local life of Casco Antiguo in Alicante, where ancient landmarks, picturesque streets, and delicious cuisine await.

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Casco Antiguo

Nestled in the heart of Alicante, Casco Antiguo is a delightful blend of history, culture, and vibrant local life. This historic quarter, known for its narrow, winding streets and charming old-world architecture, offers a glimpse into the city's rich past while providing plenty of modern amenities for visitors. The neighborhood's picturesque streets are lined with colorful houses adorned with blooming flowerpots, creating a picturesque setting that is perfect for leisurely strolls and photo opportunities. One of the highlights of Casco Antiguo is the majestic Santa Bárbara Castle, perched high above the city on Mount Benacantil. This ancient fortress offers panoramic views of Alicante and the Mediterranean Sea, making it a must-visit spot for history buffs and photography enthusiasts alike. The castle's fascinating exhibits and well-preserved structures provide a captivating insight into the region's past. Casco Antiguo is also home to a variety of quaint cafes, tapas bars, and local shops, where you can sample delicious Spanish cuisine and purchase unique souvenirs. The lively Plaza del Ayuntamiento is a central hub of activity, hosting various events and markets throughout the year. Whether you're exploring the historic landmarks, savoring the local flavors, or simply soaking in the charming atmosphere, Casco Antiguo promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

Local tips in Casco Antiguo

Visit Santa Bárbara Castle early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the best light for photography.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the narrow streets and hills can be challenging to navigate.
Try the local tapas at one of the neighborhood's traditional bars for an authentic taste of Alicante.
Check out the local events calendar at Plaza del Ayuntamiento to catch a market or cultural event during your visit.

File:Vista de Alicante, España, 2014-07-04, DD 67-70 PAN.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

File:Alicante-Promenade.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Area at the church Santa Maria, Alicante.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Alicante town hall 2010.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Capilla mayor de la Concatedral de San Nicolás de Bari (Alicante).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Alacant, Museu d'Art Contemporani d'Alacant (MACA).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Barri de la santa Creu, Alacant.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

Archivo:Font de l'aiguadora a la plaça de Gabriel Miró, Alacant.JPG - Wikipedia, la enciclopedia libre

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Castell de Santa Bàrbara

Discover the historic Castell de Santa Bárbara in Alicante, a majestic castle offering stunning views and rich cultural heritage.

Cocatedral de Sant Nicolau de Bari d'Alacant

Discover the architectural beauty and spiritual significance of the Cocatedral de Sant Nicolau de Bari d'Alacant, a must-see landmark in Alicante.

Basilica of St Mary of Alicante

Explore the Gothic elegance of the Basilica of St Mary of Alicante, a historical treasure in the vibrant heart of Spain's coastal city.

Castell de Sant Ferran

Explore the stunning Castell de Sant Ferran in Alicante, a historical castle offering breathtaking views and an enriching glimpse into the region's military past.

Plaça de la Porta de la Mar

Explore the vibrant Plaça de la Porta de la Mar in Alicante, a blend of history, culture, and culinary delights in a stunning Mediterranean setting.

Queen's Staircase

Discover the Queen's Staircase in Alicante, a stunning historical landmark with 66 steps of colonial charm and breathtaking views, perfect for every traveler.

Panteó de Quijano

Explore the Panteón de Quijano in Alicante: a serene monument surrounded by lush gardens, perfect for relaxation and reflection.

Mirador

Experience breathtaking views and stunning sunsets at the Mirador in Alicante, a must-visit destination for all travelers.

Mirador de la Santa Cruz

Discover breathtaking views of Alicante at Mirador de la Santa Cruz, a scenic overlook blending culture and natural beauty.

Fuente de San Antonio

Experience the historical charm and beauty of Fuente de San Antonio, a must-visit tourist attraction in the heart of Alicante, Spain.

Antics murs d'Alacant

Uncover the rich history of Alicante at Antics murs d'Alacant, a stunning historical landmark with breathtaking views and architectural beauty.

Unmissable attractions to see

Parc del Tossal

Explore the serene beauty and historical significance of Parc del Tossal, a must-visit tourist attraction in Alicante, Spain.

Castell de Sant Ferran

Discover the rich history and breathtaking views at Castell de Sant Ferran, an iconic castle in Alicante, Spain, offering a glimpse into the past.

Museo de Aguas de Alicante – Pozos de Garrigós

Discover the historical significance of water in Alicante at the Museo de Aguas, where culture and innovation flow together.

Essential places to dine

Nou Manolín

Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine at Nou Manolín in Alicante - where exquisite tapas meet vibrant ambiance.

La Taberna del Gourmet

Discover the essence of Mediterranean cuisine at La Taberna del Gourmet in Alicante – where tradition meets innovation in every delicious bite.

Mish Mish

Experience the vibrant fusion of Lebanese and vegan cuisine at Mish Mish in Alicante – where every meal tells a story.

RESTAURANTE EL BUEN COMER

Experience the essence of Spanish cuisine at Restaurante El Buen Comer in Alicante – a culinary haven for food lovers.

In Bocca Al Lupo Alicante

Discover the heart of Italy in Alicante at In Bocca Al Lupo - where every bite tells a story.

La Crispeta

Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors at La Crispeta in Alicante - where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.

San Telmo Gastrobar

Experience authentic Spanish cuisine with a modern twist at San Telmo Gastrobar in Alicante – where every dish tells a delicious story.

Alma del Sur

Experience authentic Andalusian cuisine at Alma del Sur in Alicante - where fresh seafood meets Mediterranean flavors.

Restaurante L'Atelier

Discover the essence of Mediterranean cuisine at Restaurante L'Atelier in Alicante—where every dish tells a story.

La Taberna Ibérica

Experience authentic Spanish cuisine at La Taberna Ibérica, where traditional flavors meet a warm atmosphere in the heart of Alicante.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

ALE-HOP

Explore ALE-HOP in Alicante for a delightful selection of unique gifts, trendy fashion, and charming home goods, all in one vibrant shopping destination.

Stop And Look

Explore Stop And Look, your go-to souvenir store in Alicante for unique crafts and local treasures.

Pin-Up Vintage

Explore Pin-Up Vintage in Alicante for an unforgettable journey through fashion history with unique vintage clothing and delightful antiques.

I LOVE ALICANTE

Explore unforgettable souvenirs and unique novelties at I LOVE ALICANTE, the ultimate shopping destination for travelers seeking a taste of local culture.

WeloveAlicante

Explore WeloveAlicante for unique local souvenirs and artisan crafts that embody the spirit of Alicante's rich culture and heritage.

WE LOVE ALC - CHE PA' LANTE - TIENDA DE SOUVENIRS

Explore WE LOVE ALC - CHE PA' LANTE, a vibrant novelty store in Alicante offering unique souvenirs and gifts that capture the spirit of Spain.

Boutique 27 Alicante

Boutique 27 Alicante: Uncover handcrafted jewelry treasures that embody the spirit of Alicante's vibrant culture.

for you

Discover unique treasures and local handicrafts at this charming souvenir store in the heart of Alicante, perfect for memorable gifts.

MOTHER SHOP ALCANTE

Explore Mother Shop Alicante for stylish fashion accessories that embody local flair and elevate your wardrobe.

Encanto

Explore Encanto in Alicante for unique artisanal treasures that capture the spirit of Spain's vibrant culture.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Sento Barrio

Experience the vibrant flavors of Spain at Sento Barrio, a charming tapas bar and restaurant in Alicante offering authentic dishes and a warm atmosphere.

26 Cocktail Room

Experience the art of mixology at 26 Cocktail Room in Alicante, where innovative cocktails and a chic atmosphere await every visitor.

Ten 10

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Alicante at Ten 10, a lively pub with cocktails, coffee, and live piano music in a welcoming atmosphere.

Eclipse music & cocktails

Experience Alicante's vibrant nightlife at Eclipse Music & Cocktails, where creative drinks and lively music create unforgettable evenings.

Munich - Alicante

Discover the lively ambiance of Munich - Alicante, where locals and tourists gather for drinks, music, and unforgettable nightlife experiences.

Pub Baccus

Discover Alicante's vibrant nightlife at Pub Baccus, where locals and tourists gather for a memorable evening filled with great drinks and lively ambiance.

Pub Carabassa - Alacant, Alicante

Discover the lively Pub Carabassa in Alicante, where creative cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere await you. Experience local culture and socialize in style.

Divina Pub

Dive into Alicante's nightlife at Divina Pub, where vibrant energy meets excellent drinks in a cozy atmosphere.

CARPE DIEM ALICANTE

Discover the lively ambiance of Carpe Diem Alicante, the ultimate pub experience in the heart of Alicante’s vibrant nightlife.

Amapola Pub

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Alicante at Amapola Pub, where locals and tourists come together for drinks, live music, and unforgettable memories.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Casco Antiguo

Discover Casco Antiguo with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloHola
  [oh-la]
- GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dee-ohs]
- YesSí
  [see]
- NoNo
  [no]
- Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-vor/deh nah-dah]
- Thank youGracias
  [grah-thyas]
- Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento
  [pehr-dohn/loh syen-toh]
- How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
- Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [byen. ee too]
- Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glays]
- I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tee-ehn-doh]
- 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-lood]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah pah-gahr, por fah-vor]
- 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]
- 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 expensiveEs demasiado caro
  [ehs deh-mah-syah-doh kahr-oh]
- Can you lower the price?¿Puedes bajar el precio?
  [pweh-dehs bah-hahr ehl pree-syoh]
- 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)Y media (las diez)
  [ee meh-dee-ah (lahs dyehs)]
- 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
  [says]
- 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
- 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
- 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
- 10Diez
  [dyehs]
- Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah]
- What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwal ehs lah dee-rehk-syon]
- Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trar-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 Casco Antiguo

The history of Casco Antiguo can be traced back to the Roman period when Alicante, known as Lucentum, served as a significant settlement. The remnants of Roman walls, baths, and other structures can still be found in the area, showcasing the importance of this location as a hub for trade and military activity.
Following the fall of the Roman Empire, the Moors took control of Alicante in the 8th century. The influence of Islamic culture is evident in Casco Antiguo's architecture, narrow winding streets, and the construction of the Santa Bárbara Castle. This period marked a significant cultural exchange that shaped the identity of the region.
In 1248, King James I of Aragon captured Alicante from the Moors, marking a pivotal moment in the history of Casco Antiguo. This event initiated the Christian reconquest of Spain, leading to the establishment of new religious and administrative structures in the area, including the construction of churches and the establishment of the local council.
The 16th and 17th centuries were a period of economic growth for Alicante, driven by trade, agriculture, and the burgeoning wine industry. Casco Antiguo flourished during this time, leading to the construction of many of its historic buildings, including the Co-Cathedral of San Nicolás, which reflects the wealth and aspirations of the city’s elite.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Casco Antiguo underwent significant urbanization as Alicante expanded. The introduction of modern amenities and infrastructure transformed the neighborhood, while still preserving its historical essence. This period saw the establishment of public spaces and the renovation of many historic sites, integrating the old with the new.

Casco Antiguo Essentials

Casco Antiguo is centrally located in Alicante and can be easily accessed from other neighborhoods. If you are coming from the Alicante Airport, the best option is to take a taxi or a shuttle bus to the city center, which typically takes about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can use the L1 tram line from the airport to the city. If you are in other neighborhoods like San Juan or El Pla, you can take a bus (lines 21 or C6) directly to the city center, from where you can walk to Casco Antiguo.
Casco Antiguo is a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood, making it ideal for exploration on foot. The narrow streets are best navigated by walking, allowing you to soak in the historical architecture and atmosphere. For longer distances, the local tram service (TRAM Metropolitano) connects you to other parts of the city, while local buses can be used for destinations further away. Bicycle rentals are also available, and many paths are suitable for cycling.
Casco Antiguo is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Areas near the beach and less populated streets can be quieter at night, so it's advised to stay alert, especially after dark. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur, particularly in crowded areas. Always keep an eye on your belongings, and avoid displaying valuables openly in busy places.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Local hospitals and clinics are available in the city. Familiarize yourself with the nearest police station and hospital in the area. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are plentiful, and many offer a range of over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets, and dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Don't wear beachwear outside of the beach area. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially in churches; cover your shoulders and knees. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding trams and buses. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a friendly 'Hola' and a smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local tapas and share dishes. Don't rush your meals; dining is a social experience.
To experience Casco Antiguo like a local, visit the Mercado Central for fresh produce and local delicacies. Participate in the evening paseo (stroll) along the waterfront for an authentic cultural experience. Engage with local shop owners and artisans, as they often share fascinating stories about the area. Don't miss the chance to visit the Santa Bárbara Castle for panoramic views of the city. Try to learn a few basic Spanish phrases, as locals appreciate the effort.
Alicante residents value politeness and friendliness. When interacting with locals, do make eye contact and offer a smile. It is customary to greet with 'Buenos días' (Good Morning) or 'Buenas tardes' (Good Afternoon). In restaurants, it is appreciated to say 'por favor' (please) and 'gracias' (thank you). During social gatherings, wait for the host to invite you to start eating.

Exploring the Timeless Charm of Casco Antiguo, Alicante

Local tips in Casco Antiguo