free tour ALICANTE
Why visit Alicante?
“My city is permeated by the Mediterranean. Where the sea cannot be seen, it is divined in the triumph of the light…” These beautiful words by the Alicante-born writer Gabriel Miró capture the essence of this Mediterranean city par excellence. Alicante owes everything to the sea, and its existence could not be understood without this omnipresent element that explains its origin, its growth and its prosperity.
Alicante is a city that turns towards the sea, its lively port and its extensive beaches, dominated by the Castle of Santa Bárbara, one of the largest medieval fortresses in Spain. This emblematic monument is located at the summit of Mount Benacantil, next to the city centre and the coast, offering spectacular views of the Bay of Alicante from its heights. The sight of the castle crowning the mountain can be admired from various points around the city, with a particularly remarkable perspective from the famous Playa del Postiguet beach and the celebrated “Cara del Moro“: whimsical rock formations that resemble a face in profile and have inspired countless legends of distant passions and tragedies.
This strategic location of Alicante has helped protect the city throughout its history, but has also made it a highly coveted enclave, serving as the setting for numerous conflicts that have shaped its character. Various peoples and cultures have settled here and left their mark. The scars of this turbulent past can be read on the walls of some monuments in the old town, built with that characteristic stone quarried in the area that takes on golden tones when the afternoon light falls upon it. We are referring, for example, to the Basilica of Santa María, the Town Hall Palace and the Co-Cathedral of San Nicolás, imposing buildings that never fail to astonish visitors and which we explore on our guided tour of Alicante.
The old town deserves a curious and leisurely stroll not only for its heritage, but also for its picturesque scenes and delightful details. As we make our way up to the foot of Mount Benacantil along its steep streets, the Santa Cruz neighbourhood welcomes us, where the authentic atmosphere of the historic city can be savoured. Among narrow alleyways and clusters of flowers, we reach the viewpoints that look out over the city, rewarding us with magnificent views.
Alicante is the capital of the Costa Blanca and boasts long beaches of golden sand and blue waters such as the excellent Playa de San Juan, as well as a large, accessible port in the city centre with leisure venues and spaces to relax. Next to the port stretches the Explanada, a palm-lined pedestrian promenade composed of an immense coloured mosaic that imitates the waves of the sea and is one of the most charming seafront promenades in Spain… but this city still has much more to offer.
Alicante is also synonymous with gastronomy, vitality and celebration: there are countless markets and restaurants where you can taste local products such as fish and seafood, famous sweets such as turrón and drinks such as wines and liqueurs; terraces and bars abound where people gather at any hour, making it the epicentre of the tardeo culture; not to mention the Bonfires of San Juan, the city’s great festival, which fills the streets with art, music and fireworks to welcome the summer.
The people of Alicante have a popular expression that goes: «Alacant és la millor terreta del món» (Alicante is the best little patch of land in the world), the city’s very own motto written on the pavement of the Plaza del Ayuntamiento itself, the meeting point for our free tours in Alicante. And indeed, we are talking about a fascinating tourist destination that captivates with the richness of its history and culture, including an exquisite gastronomy, impressive beaches in an enviable climate, and a lively nightlife, offering a complete and memorable experience to those who choose to explore it. We cannot wait to show you Alicante on our guided tours of the city!
The must-see places in Alicante
If you are planning to visit Alicante, there are certain places and experiences you simply cannot miss. Below, we run through the essentials that will give you a complete picture of this charming Mediterranean city.
The ancient Castle of Santa Bárbara is an imposing medieval fortress that rises majestically above Mount Benacantil and is a symbol of Alicante, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area. You can climb up on foot, by car (parking a few metres from the entrance to the complex) or take the lift from the base of the mountain to explore its ancient walls, towers and exhibitions that will transport you to other times through the history of the city.
The old town of Alicante, also known as El Barrio, is full of interesting buildings, picturesque streets and surprising corners. From Calle Mayor and Calle Labradores to the neighbourhoods of San Roque and Santa Cruz, we find a quieter and more peaceful side of the city, free from traffic, where there is space to listen to the echoes of the past, the singing of birds or walls that recite poetry. Special attention deserves the Santa Cruz neighbourhood, which has earned its place as one of the city’s emblems in its own right. Perched at the foot of Mount Benacantil and beneath the castle, the Arab legacy can be appreciated in its urban layout of steep and narrow streets, in its whitewashed façades with blue and yellow tones and in the countless flower pots that decorate the balconies and doorways of the houses. If we pay attention to the details, we will find multiple references to Holy Week, a celebration held here with great tradition whose processions navigate the challenge of winding through its intricate route. The neighbourhood is welcoming and invites you to explore and get lost among its streets as you ascend, until you reach the modest hermitage at the highest point, alongside various viewpoints from which you can enjoy wonderful views of Alicante. Join our free tour and we will show you everything!
The Explanada de España is one of the most iconic pedestrian promenades in the country, serving as a leisure space for both locals and visitors. Running parallel to one of the port’s quays, it is captivating to stroll beneath the rows of palm trees that form a green canopy and provide shade, as we walk across an undulating mosaic made up of millions of three-coloured marble tesserae, imitating the waves of the sea. It is a special place full of bustle and life where you can take a stroll, enjoy an ice cream or simply sit on one of the benches and watch the human spectacle of people coming and going. This dynamic urban space also hosts markets and various stalls at different times of the year, there is an open-air auditorium where live performances take place, and we can also find some singular buildings such as the Casa Carbonell.
The Port of Alicante is a lively place both by day and by night where you can stroll, enjoy the views of the yachts and boats, and choose from a wide variety of restaurants, bars and clubs to relax and enjoy a meal or a drink by the sea. Furthermore, if you are a sailing and water sports enthusiast, the The Ocean Race Museum is an absolute must for you. Located on the Muelle de Levante, it allows you to discover the history and challenges of one of the most thrilling regattas, which has been setting off from Alicante for over a decade to complete the most famous round-the-world sailing race. Through interactive exhibitions, you can experience the excitement of this competition and learn about life on the high seas.
To immerse ourselves in culinary pleasures, the Central Market of Alicante is the paradise of local gastronomy. Explore the flavours and aromas of this vibrant place, where you will find fresh and traditional products, from fruit and vegetables to meat, fish, seafood and typical sweets. You can also satisfy your appetite by trying a snack at one of the tapas bars and restaurants surrounding the market or at the stalls inside. On the other hand, the lively atmosphere of this gastronomic temple should not make us forget that, sadly, it was the scene of a tragic bombing during the Spanish Civil War. Inside the market, some objects are preserved as a reminder of this massacre, which we see on our Alicante free tour, as well as a memorial at the entrance from Plaza 25 de Mayo, the date of the fatal event.
If you are interested in history and archaeology, the Provincial Archaeological Museum (MARQ) is a must-visit. This internationally renowned museum houses an impressive collection of artefacts and findings spanning from Prehistory to the Middle Ages, including Roman remains and objects from the Iberian period. Through interactive and multimedia exhibitions, you can learn about the evolution of the region and discover valuable archaeological treasures.
When it comes to festivals and traditions, the Museo de Fogueres of Alicante is a major cultural attraction that offers the opportunity to discover and understand the essence of the Bonfires of San Juan at any time of the year. This celebration, so deeply rooted in Alicante’s identity, welcomes the summer with fireworks, parades and widespread euphoria, and is the city’s greatest festival. During these festivities, the streets are filled with impressive bonfires, ephemeral artistic monuments that capture the imagination of onlookers. But what happens to these masterpieces when the flames die out? As well as showcasing all the facets that make up this traditional celebration, the museum houses a collection of ninots as a tribute to the talent and creativity of local artists, which are selected by popular vote and saved from the flames during the thrilling “cremà”. From historical scenes to clever social commentary, along with humorous and satirical figures that show the most entertaining side of the Fogueres de Sant Joan, each bonfire tells its own story and reflects the passion and effort invested in its creation. This museum is therefore an ideal place to delve into the cultural legacy and festive spirit of Alicante.
Finally, we cannot forget that, with more than 320 days of sunshine a year, Alicante is famous for its magnificent beaches. Playa del Postiguet is located right in the city centre and its fine sand, crystal-clear waters and wide range of facilities make it a popular destination among tourists. The people of Alicante, however, tend to prefer the nearby Playa de San Juan, one of the longest in the region and considered one of the finest on the Mediterranean coast. With its golden sand, a lively promenade lined with numerous terraces and bars and water activities on offer for all tastes, it is ideal for enjoying a beautiful day by the sea. We also highlight Playa de la Albufereta, halfway between the previous two, and the coves of Cabo de la Huerta, where nudism and diving are commonly practised. Don’t forget to bring your towel, apply sunscreen and stay well hydrated!
These are just some of the essentials that Alicante has to offer. As you can see, this city provides a complete experience with a great diversity of options. Come to our free tours and get ready to enjoy everything you will find in Alicante!
Some tips about Alicante
If you are planning to visit Alicante, here are some useful tips that will help you make the most of your stay in this lively coastal city.
How and where to get around: Alicante is a city that lends itself to exploring on foot, especially the old town and the seafront promenade. Make sure to wear comfortable footwear so you can walk without difficulty during the free tour, as the areas of the centre closest to Mount Benacantil or Mount Tossal feature significant changes in level and steep streets. Alicante also has a good public transport system that includes buses, trams and trains, which also help promote sustainable mobility. We recommend the tram (TRAM) for reaching the beaches and other towns along the Costa Blanca to the north of the city (from San Juan to Denia, passing through La Vila Joiosa, Benidorm, Altea and Calpe), while for getting around within the urban area the most practical option is the bus. If you want to visit the fascinating neighbouring city of Elche, nearby towns such as Orihuela and Villena, or nearby capitals such as Valencia and Murcia, we recommend travelling by local or regional train. You can also hire a car if you wish to explore more of the province with greater freedom, which includes natural enclaves and villages with beautiful landscapes well worth a visit, such as Guadalest, the Sierra de Mariola or various routes in the Marina Alta.
Take a trip to Tabarca Island: This small island located some 11 kilometres off the coast of Alicante and accessible from the city by regular boat services is a natural paradise and a treasure to be discovered in the Mediterranean Sea. What makes Tabarca so special is its small size (it has only 50 registered inhabitants) and its unique combination of natural and cultural elements, being the only inhabited place in the Valencian Community that cannot be reached by car, as motorised vehicles have been banned on the island since 2014. Its crystal-clear waters and protected marine reserve are home to an impressive biodiversity, which is why we recommend diving into its depths by practising activities such as snorkelling and scuba diving to discover a fascinating underwater world. Tabarca also has fine beaches and beautiful coves, but the island is not limited to its natural beauty alone. The lighthouse, the narrow streets of the historic village and the ancient walls that surround it are silent witnesses to the stories and legends that envelop the island. The essence of Tabarca, a traditional fishing village, can also be savoured in its cuisine, as demonstrated by the local restaurants and Mediterranean dishes such as the famous caldero marinero, a true feast for the palate. In short, strolling through Tabarca is stepping into a world apart, far from the hustle and hurry, where the slow pace of life and the relaxed atmosphere invite you to get lost in its alleyways and corners and to immerse yourself in its waters and history.
Experience the culture of Alicante and visit some museums: Getting to know the figures and artists who have inhabited a place is a wonderful way to approach the essence of that location and its own culture. Alicante is the birthplace of Dr Balmis and scientist Jorge Juan, but also of writers such as Miguel Hernández and Azorín, musicians such as Óscar Esplá and Ruperto Chapí, and painters such as Emilio Varela and Eusebio Sempere, and this cultural richness is reflected in interesting museums in the old town such as the Museum of Contemporary Art (MACA) and the Gravina Museum of Fine Arts (MUBAG), where you can appreciate works and collections by Alicante artists. We also recommend visiting the Pozos de Garrigós, part of the Water Museum: enormous cisterns carved into the rock of the mountain that provide a cool atmosphere even on the hottest days; or the permanent urban archaeology exhibition La ciudad descubierta, next to the Town Hall, which helps to understand the evolution of Alicante through the centuries. For archaeology enthusiasts, we recommend visiting Lucentum, an archaeological complex of a 1st-century Roman city in the Albufereta neighbourhood, considered the origin of Alicante. But history extends to the present day and we can learn lessons from the recent past to prevent it from repeating itself, by visiting the harsh reality of war in some of the many air-raid shelters that were scattered throughout the city. Alicante played a very prominent role in the most difficult conflict the country experienced in the 20th century, the Spanish Civil War. Furthermore, the Teatro Principal and the Auditorium of the Provincial Council (ADDA) offer a wide programme of theatre, music and dance for all tastes, while centres such as Las Cigarreras and the Lonja del Pescado host varied cultural exhibitions.
Savour the local gastronomy: Alicante offers a wide variety of gastronomic options. Try typical dishes such as arroz a banda, arroz con costra, caldero or fresh fish and seafood, accompanied by a good wine from the region, as Alicante is known for its high-quality wine production. Taking a wine route through the local vineyards is an increasingly sought-after wine tourism experience, where you can discover the different flavours and varieties of wine, learn about the production process and enjoy guided tastings at local wineries. Also famous are the artisan turrones (a sweet with great tradition in Jijona and Alicante), the chocolate from Villajoyosa, the table grapes of the Vinalopó, the artichoke of the Vega Baja and the cherry of the Alicante Mountains, among others. In short, the city’s restaurants and bars, as well as various shops and markets, offer you a wide selection of authentic local flavours and culinary experiences that will satisfy all your gastronomic desires.
Enjoy the tardeo and the nightlife: The “tardeo” is a very popular activity that combines leisure, gastronomy and fun. It describes a social trend that has taken strong root in Alicante in recent years and consists of going out earlier in order to enjoy the afternoon and evening with friends, generally at weekends. The city has a wide range of bars, terraces and venues where people gather to make the most of the afternoon in a relaxed and festive way. The tardeo in Alicante usually begins around midday or early afternoon and extends late into the night. Many bars and cafés offer special promotions during these hours, such as drinks deals, free tapas or cocktail discounts. The most popular spots for the tardeo in Alicante are in the city centre, especially in the old town (El Barrio) and around the axes formed by Calle Castaños and Calle San Francisco, the latter known as the Calle de las Setas (Mushroom Street) after the famous large mushroom sculptures installed to liven up this pedestrian street. Meanwhile, Alicante’s nightlife offers a lively scene that attracts both locals and tourists alike, especially during the summer months. We recommend exploring the Port area and the old town, where you will find a wide selection of bars, pubs and nightclubs to enjoy the music and nocturnal atmosphere on a night full of fun and dancing.
Explore hiking routes: We have mentioned that Alicante is a city that combines the strong presence of the sea and its excellent beaches with the hills and mountains found within the urban fabric itself and in the surrounding area. This privileged situation allows for pleasant walks through nature without leaving the city. Among all the options, we recommend exploring Mount Benacantil from the Parque de la Ereta, a beautiful garden situated on the slopes of the Castle of Santa Bárbara that offers spectacular views of Alicante, the port and the sea. The park features an extensive green area with winding paths that wind between trees and Mediterranean vegetation, an ideal place for relaxing walks, enjoying nature and escaping the urban bustle. It also houses a restaurant with a panoramic terrace, from which the entire city can be admired while enjoying a meal or a drink, and which is particularly famous for its sunsets. Other recommended routes explore Mount Tossal (where the Castle of San Fernando is located), the Torres de la Huerta (more than 20 watchtowers built between the 16th and 17th centuries to protect the Alicante farmlands from Barbary pirate raids), the Sierra Grossa or Sierra de San Julián, the Cabo de la Huerta and Monte Orgegia.
Climate and best time to visit: Alicante enjoys a Mediterranean climate, which means that summers are hot and dry, while winters are mild. Spring and autumn are generally the best times to join us on our free tours, as temperatures are pleasant and there are fewer tourists. However, if you want to enjoy the beaches, summer is the ideal season. If you visit us in the summer months, make sure to wear light and comfortable clothing for the guided tour, as temperatures can be high and the sun intense. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen regularly, wear a cap or hat and drink enough water to stay hydrated. In winter, the climate is quite mild and a light jacket will be sufficient to keep you warm, especially when night falls and temperatures drop.
With these tips, you will be ready to enjoy Alicante to the fullest and make the most of all the experiences this wonderful city has to offer. Enjoy your visit!
