Alicante is a charming port town along Spain’s Costa Blanca. It has a small-town feel and friendly atmosphere. Open-air cafes, terrace pubs, tiny bars and local restaurants give the city a lively street culture. After a few days in Alicante, you’ll be bowled over by lovely it is. Here are our top tips for escaping the stress of everyday life and having a perfect weekend in this seaside city.
What to See in Alicante
Castillo de Santa Barbara
Alicante’s historical past is ever-present as the city is built at the foot of the magnificent Santa Barbara Castle. Built around the 9th century, the castle has a history of warfare yet has been immaculately preserved over the years. It’s easily accessible but for the more adventurous among you, there is a winding path which will take you to the entrance. Check out the rooftop for amazing views and tour the preserved rooms which are full of information and artefacts. Don’t forget to stop by the market in the courtyard to pick up some trinkets and handmade souvenirs.
La Explanada de Espana
La Explanada de Espana really is the focal point of Alicante. This gorgeous walkway starts one end of the harbour and finishes at the other. Locals and tourists alike enjoy strolling along the promenade while soaking up the sun which comes streaming through the palm trees. It’s a stunning walk with lots of lovely cafés which have excellent outside seating. Peruse the market stalls which showcase handmade jewellery, bags, purses, rugs and much more. A stroll along the Explanada de Espana is a must when visiting Alicante!
Alicante Marina
With Alicante being a coastal city it does, of course, have a marina with some spectacular yachts. At night time, the city lights reflect on the water which makes for a beautiful and romantic stroll along the water’s edge. If it’s a night out you’re after, this is also where you can find bars & clubs, including the famous Kraken Bar. Not just to be enjoyed at night time, the marina also has Soho Bar, a little bar/café which serves delicious coffee and top-class cocktails all of which can help create the perfect setting for a lazy afternoon.
Parque el Palmeral
If you want to escape from all the hustle and bustle of the city then the Parque el Palmeral is the perfect place for you to unwind. Brimming with botanical wildlife, waterfalls and lots of palm trees, Parque el Palmeral is a little slice of paradise on the outskirts of the city centre. The park has toilets and a little kiosk to buy food and drink, but make sure to bring sunscreen.
Where to Stay in Alicante
4* Melia Alicante
Meliá Alicante, located between the Alicante marina and the Postiguet beach, has 545 rooms, all with private terrace and views of the leisure harbour or the sea. It offers the exclusive The Level service for adults only. The Level has a private reception, infinity pool with magnificent sea views, and access to The Level Lounge with free drinks and snacks.
4* Sercotel Hotel Spa Porta Maris
The Sercotel Hotel Spa Porta Maris sits between the Postiguet Beach and the Sports Harbour, only a stone’s throw from the old town and the centre of the city. Naturally, the hotel has amazing sea views. The hotel has a gym, Wellness Center with a Spa circuit and a wide variety of treatments. The spa has everything you need to relax such as a jacuzzi, indoor swimming pool, a thermal circuit, steam room and Scottish shower. There is also restaurant Marabierta, which offers views of the sea and Mediterranean cuisine.
So, what are you looking forward to most on your city break to Alicante?
