Alicante is a historic Mediterranean port city in southeastern Spain. The city is known for its beautiful architecture, sunny weather, and sandy beaches. There are numerous things to do in Alicante, whether you’re looking to relax or explore. Let us give you a brief history of the area and some suggestions for things to do, food to eat, and hotels to stay while you make the most of your time in Alicante, Spain.
A Brief History of Alicante
Alicante has been inhabited for over 8,000 years and has been home to a number of civilizations, including the Romans and Moors.
The city’s strategic location on the Mediterranean Sea has made it an important trading hub throughout its history.
Today, Alicante is a bustling metropolis with a rich culture and history.
Things To Do In Alicante
There are plenty of things to keep you busy during your time in Alicante. If you’re looking to relax, you can enjoy the city’s many parks and beaches.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can go hiking or zip-lining in the nearby mountains. And no visit to Alicante would be complete without exploring the old city center, where you can find beautiful Spanish architecture and many shops and restaurants.
Visit the Castle of Santa Barbara
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Alicante is the Castle of Santa Barbara, which overlooks the city from its perch atop Mount Benacantil.
The castle dates back to the 9th century, making it one of the oldest castles in Spain. Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms and hallways, as well as enjoy stunning views of the city below.
Admire the Architecture of Plaza de Ayuntamiento
If you’re a fan of architecture, then you’ll definitely want to check out Plaza de Ayuntamiento, which is home to some of Alicante’s most beautiful buildings.
The plaza is located in the center of the city and is surrounded by several important buildings, including the Town Hall, the Cathedral of San Nicholas de Bari, and the Basilica of Santa Maria.
Be sure to take your time admiring these beautiful buildings before moving on to your next Alicante adventure!
What To Eat In Alicante
Alicante is known for its fresh seafood dishes. Make sure to try paella, a traditional Spanish rice dish that is typically made with seafood or chicken. If you’re not a fan of seafood, don’t worry – there are plenty of other options available as well. Tapas are also popular in Alicante, so be sure to order a few small plates to share with your friends or family.
And don’t forget about dessert! Alicante is renowned for its turron, a nougat-like candy made with almonds, honey, and egg whites. Yum!
Where To Stay In Alicante
There are many great places to stay in Alicante, depending on your budget and preferences. If you’re looking for a luxurious experience, we recommend the Gran Hotel Bali.
For something more modest but still comfortable, try the Hotel Sercotel Bonalba. And if you’re traveling on a tight budget, there are many affordable hostels located throughout the city center.
To help you decide for yourself, we have a map for you to look over:
How to Get Around the City
Alicante is a large city, so it’s best to either walk or take public transportation. The city center is very pedestrian-friendly, and there are plenty of buses and taxis available if you need them.
We recommend buying a Alicante Tourist Card, which gives you unlimited access to the city’s public transportation system, as well as discounts at many of the city’s attractions.
If you’re renting a car, be aware that parking can be difficult to find and expensive. We recommend taking advantage of the city’s public transportation system whenever possible.
And finally, we have a few tips to help you make the most of your time in Alicante, Spain:
- Try to avoid traveling during the summer, as Alicante can be quite hot and crowded during this time.
- If you’re interested in learning about the history and culture of Alicante, we recommend taking a guided tour.
- Make sure to try some of the local food – you won’t be disappointed!
- And last but not least, take some time to relax and enjoy the beautiful Mediterranean atmosphere. Alicante is a wonderful place to kick back and relax, so make sure to take advantage of it!
Tips for Women in Alicante
Alicante is a relatively safe city for women, but as with any place, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions when walking alone at night.
There are a number of police stations located throughout the city, so if you ever feel unsafe or need assistance, don’t hesitate to go to one of them.
A good way to stay safe and meet other women while traveling is to join a tour group. This way, you’ll always have someone to watch your back and help you navigate the city.
Tips for LGBTQ+ People in Alicante
Alicante is a very welcoming city for LGBTQ+ people. There are a number of bars, clubs, and events that cater to the LGBTQ+ community.
If you’re planning on going out clubbing or bar-hopping, be sure to dress conservatively – Spain is generally a very relaxed country when it comes to fashion, but Alicante is a bit more traditional.
Final Thoughts regarding Make the Most of Your Time in Alicante, Spain
Alicante is a historic and beautiful city with a lot to offer visitors. From stunning architecture to delicious food, there’s something for everyone in Alicante. So whether you’re cruising in or out of this Spanish port city, be sure to take some time to explore all that Alicante has to offer!