Things to Do in Alicante
Alicante mixes history, sunshine and seaside charm in one easy package. This Costa Blanca city sits between a hilltop castle and a golden beach. Meanwhile, its old town buzzes with tapas bars and colourful markets. So, whether you fancy culture, food or simply the sea, Alicante ticks every box. Below, you’ll find the best things to do in Alicante, chosen for character and variety. Let’s explore!
Climb Up to Santa Bárbara Castle
Start high above the city at Santa Bárbara Castle. This ancient fortress sits atop Mount Benacantil, watching over Alicante below. Built during Moorish rule, it later grew under Spanish military control. Best of all, general admission to the grounds is completely free. From the ramparts, you’ll see the whole coastline stretching out beautifully. A lift saves you the climb, running straight through a tunnel in the rock. Because queues form in summer, booking your lift ticket online is a smart move.
Relax on Postiguet Beach
Right below the castle lies Postiguet Beach, Alicante’s most central stretch of sand. Consequently, it’s perfect for a quick dip between sightseeing stops. The promenade behind it buzzes with cafes, bars and ice cream stands. Golden sand and calm, shallow water make it ideal for families too. Sunbeds and parasols are easy to hire if you fancy staying longer. In the evening, the castle above lights up beautifully against the darkening sky. It’s the easiest beach break in the entire city.
Stroll Along the Explanada de España
Next, walk the Explanada de España, Alicante’s famous seafront promenade. Nearly six million tiles create its wave-like mosaic pattern underfoot. Palm trees line the path, offering welcome shade on hot afternoons. Street performers, artists and musicians often gather here throughout the day. Because it runs along the marina, you’ll spot yachts bobbing gently nearby. Grab a coffee at one of the many terrace cafes lining the route. It’s the perfect spot for people-watching at any time of day.
Browse the Stalls at Central Market
For a real taste of local life, visit Alicante’s Central Market. This grand modernist building dates back to 1921 and still buzzes daily. Inside, stallholders sell fresh fish, cured meats, cheese and seasonal fruit. Consequently, it’s a brilliant spot to pick up picnic supplies or local treats. Many stalls also serve tapas, so you can eat as you browse. For more suggestions nearby, take a look at this guide on where to eat in Alicante. Don’t leave without trying some jamón or a handful of Marcona almonds.
Discover Ancient History at MARQ
History lovers should head straight to MARQ, Alicante’s award-winning archaeological museum. Housed in a renovated 1920s hospital, it covers 50,000 years of local history. Interactive displays bring prehistoric, Roman and medieval life vividly to life. Because MARQ won European Museum of the Year, expect genuinely engaging exhibits throughout. Temporary shows, like past terracotta warrior displays, often draw big crowds. Therefore, booking tickets ahead is wise during popular exhibitions. Allow at least two hours to see everything properly.
Wander the Santa Cruz Quarter
Afterwards, lose yourself in the Santa Cruz quarter’s narrow, colourful streets. Whitewashed houses here burst with flowers spilling from window boxes and balconies. Steep staircases wind upward, eventually revealing lovely views over the rooftops. Because it sits below the castle, combining both stops makes perfect sense. Small bars and family-run restaurants line nearly every corner you turn. Photographers particularly love this neighbourhood for its charm and vibrant colours. Simply wandering without a plan works brilliantly here.
Visit the BasÃlica de Santa MarÃa
Right in the old town stands the BasÃlica de Santa MarÃa, Alicante’s oldest church. Built on the site of a former mosque, it dates to the 14th century. Inside, a stunning Baroque altarpiece immediately catches the eye. Sunlight filters through stained glass, casting colourful patterns across the stone floor. Entry is free, making it an easy addition to your old town walk. Take a moment to sit quietly and admire the peaceful atmosphere. It’s a beautiful contrast to the busy streets outside.
Sample Arroz a Banda
No visit to Alicante feels complete without trying arroz a banda. This traditional rice dish cooks in a rich, smoky fish stock. Unlike paella, it’s served without visible seafood mixed through the rice. Instead, the seafood arrives separately, often followed by garlicky alioli on the side. Locals consider it one of the region’s proudest culinary traditions. Many old town restaurants serve generous portions perfect for sharing. Pair it with a glass of chilled local white wine for the full experience.
Take a Boat Trip to Tabarca Island
Finally, escape the mainland with a trip to Tabarca Island. Regular ferries depart from Alicante’s port, taking about an hour each way. Once there, you’ll find crystal-clear water perfect for swimming and snorkelling. The island’s tiny fishing village adds plenty of old-world charm too. Because it’s the only inhabited island in the region, it feels wonderfully unique. Glass-bottomed boats let you spot fish without even getting wet. Booking your ferry tickets online in advance is highly recommended during summer. For more ideas beyond the island, see these best day trips from Alicante.
Final Thoughts
Alicante proves that a single city break can offer almost everything. You can explore ancient castles in the morning, then relax on the beach by afternoon. Add in a buzzing market, a colourful old town and a fresh island escape. Best of all, everything sits close together, so getting around stays simple. If you’re staying a few days, this 3-day itinerary for Alicante helps you plan it all out, while this guide to where to stay in Alicante makes choosing a base much easier. Whichever spots you choose, Alicante promises sunshine, flavour and genuine charm. So pack comfortable shoes, bring your appetite, and enjoy every moment.