Alicante

Alicante (Valencian: Alacant) is a popular tourist city in the Valencian Community of Spain. It is the capital of Alicante province.

For other places with the same name, see Alicante (disambiguation).

Mount Benacantil in Alicante, view from the sea

Understand

The city is believed to have been founded by the Carthaginian general Hamilcar Barca, who established the fortified settlement of Akra Leuka (Greek: Ἄκρα Λευκή, meaning 'White Mountain' or 'White Point'), where Alicante stands today. It was later conquered by the Romans who renamed it Lucentum. In mediaeval times, Alicante became a major Mediterranean trading station, exporting rice, wine, olive oil, oranges and wool. The city has become a hub of tourism directed to the beaches of the Costa Blanca.

• 🌍 Tourist Info Alicante, Rambla Méndez Núñez, 41 (near Plaza de San Cristobal), ☎ [phone], fax: [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. M-F 10:00-18:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00. The primary tourist office is open year round, and has free maps and brochures. (updated May 2016)
  • 🌍 Tourist Info Alicante Ayuntamiento, Plaza del Ayuntamiento, 1 (in the city hall), ☎ [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. M-F 09:00-14:00 16:00-18:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00. (updated May 2016)
  • 🌍 Tourist info Alicante Platja del San Juan, Avda de Niza, s/n (Playa de San Juan / San Juan Beach), e-mail: [e-mail]. Jul-Aug: daily 10:30-14:30 17:30-20:30. (updated May 2016)
  • 🌍 Tourist Info Alicante Renfe, Avda de Salamanca, s/n (in the main train station), ☎ [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. M-F 09:30-14:00 16:30-19:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00. (updated May 2016)
  • Tourist info Alicante Aeropuerto, Aeropuerto El Altet, ☎ [phone]. Tu 09:00-19:00, W-F 09:30-15:00. (updated May 2016)

Get in

By plane

• 🌍 Aeropuerto de Alicante-Elche (ALC  ^IATA also known as L'Altet Airport) (11 km (6.8 mi) south of the city centre). One terminal is in service, known as Terminal N or the new terminal. Terminals T1 and T2 that were used before the construction of the new terminal are no longer in service.  

Bus C6 (tel. [phone], email: [e-mail]) connects the airport with the city, departing every 20 minutes from a bus stop at the departure level (level +2) of new terminal. Don't get confused between the departure level (level +2) and the bus level (level -2); the latter is used by charter buses. The city bus takes about 20 minutes to the city centre, where it follows a circular route. It stops near the Alicante bus station, at Plaza Puerta del Mar, near the Archaeological Museum, next to the central market, at Plaza Luceros, and on its way back to the airport near the train station. A one-way ride costs €3.85 (2016). The buses run from 6:00 until 23:00; a complete schedule is available here.

A taxi to the city will cost €20-25. Cabs can be caught at the arrival level (level 0) of the new terminal. A dozen car rental agencies including Avis, Budget, Hertz and Europcar are on the arrival floor of the new terminal.

By train

• 🌍 Estación de Tren de Alicante (Alicante Train Station), Avda de Salamanca, 1, ☎ [phone]. Renfe runs a number of trains per day from Madrid and Barcelona. A ride from Madrid by high-speed AVE trains should take between two and two and a half hours. From Valencia the trip takes just under two hours, and from Barcelona on conventional rail it takes up to five hours. Renfe regional train (cercanía) line C1 can get you from Elche to Alicante in half an hour, and from Murcia in under 1½ hours.
  Facilities at the station include a tourist information office, storage lockers, a café, bookshop, and car rental office, as well as bicycle rental. (updated May 2016)

By tram

• 🌍 Estación del TRAM (Tram Station), Plaza de los Luceros, s/n (main station), ☎ [phone]. Tram Alicante (el Trenet) operates a light rail train connecting all major settlements along the coast between Alicante and Dénia, with the exception of Xábia. Benidorm is a changeover point for destinations further north. For travelers with smartphones, there is a helpful official app (iPhone and Android) with a route planner and timetables. A single journey costs €1.35-7.15, depending on distance. Guide dogs and small pets in carriers are permitted.
  The tram service along the coast is enjoyable and reasonably priced. When going from Alicante to Benidorm, sit on the right side of the tram to get a sea view. The ticket price between Alicante and Benidorm is €3.75 (2013). In case you don't want to practise Spanish (why? You're in Spain!), get a ticket from automatic vending machines, which are equipped with an English-language interface. If you plan to return the same working day, get a round-trip ticket right away with small discount. As always, keep the ticket until the end of journey. On some stations (including all stations in Alicante) you will need the ticket to exit from the system. (updated Jun 2017)

By bus

Alicante Bus Station

• 🌍 Estació Autobusos Alacant (Estación de Autobuses de Alicante / Alicante Bus Station), Muelle de Poniente, s/n (by Avda de Loring), ☎ [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. ALSA has many lines, including to Valencia, Barcelona and Granada; a complete listing of all connections can be found here. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the bus station. Public city buses lines 6 and 24 both start and terminate at this location.
  Travellers should always be attentive, as this station is well-known for baggage thieves. (updated May 2016)

By boat

• 🌍 Port de Alacant (Puerto Alicante). Services the many cruise ships which stop here as well as ferries to Algeria. (updated May 2016)
  • 🌍 Compañía Romeu, C/ Jorge Juan, 6, ☎ [phone], fax: [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. The local agent for Algerie Ferrie, which operates bi-weekly ferries to/from Oran and Algiers. (updated Oct 2017)

By private transfers

Private transfers rates are regulated and most tourists find them affordable if they need discretion vehicles with quality service, security and legality.

• Transworldhotel.com, C/ Ramon Gaya, 3, ☎ [phone], [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. (updated May 2016)

Get around

If you stay in the old town, most areas of interest are within walking distance.

By tram and bus

Tram Alicante

Public transportation is provided by trams (described above) and buses. Visitors intending to use both systems may want to consider purchasing a rechargeable Bono Móbilis Multiviaje card, which costs €8.70 for 10 rides plus €2 for the plastic card (2016); discounted youth and senior Móbilis cards are also available.

The card can be purchased at the main 🌍 TAM Office (C/ Díaz Moreu 6, tel. [phone], M-F 09:00-19:00, Sa 10:00-13:00), at the central bus station (M-F 08:30-14:00, 17:00-19:00), and at a number of shops throughout the city.

Subus Alicante operates an expansive network of bus routes, with bus stops at key locations including the train station, airport, shopping centres, and major sights. On most routes, buses run from 06:30-22:30, with extended hours on weekends. There are also a number of night routes. A single ride costs €1.45 (2016), payable in cash directly to the driver on entry; drivers can give change for bills €20 or less. Maps and schedules for all routes can be downloaded here. For travelers with a smartphone, Alicante Bus is a helpful app (iOS and Android) with a route planner and schedules.

By taxi

Taxi rates are regulated and most tourists find them affordable. A number of taxi stands (sitios) are in various places, including by the bus station, the train station, and the Explanada de España.

• Euro Taxi Alicante, Portal de Elche, s/n, ☎ [phone], [phone] (mobile), e-mail: [e-mail]. Available 24 hours, charges set rates for certain destinations. (updated May 2016)
• RadioTeleTaxi, C/ Alcalde Lorenzo Carbonell, 35, ☎ [phone], [phone], [phone] (Whatsapp), fax: [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. Taxis can be reserved by phone, Whatsapp, or online. (updated May 2016)
• RadioTaxi, ☎ [phone]. (updated Jun 2016)
• Taxi Area, ☎ [phone]. (updated May 2016)

See

Esplanada de España

The old town of Alicante is roughly the triangular area enclosed by the Rambla de Méndez Núnez, the Explanada de Espanya, and Mount Benacantil. Largely tourist-friendly, the old, narrow streets make for an enjoyable wander provided you don't get yourself lost. Here you'll find the town hall, cathedral, an old covent, and several art museums.

Historic sites

Mount Benacantil and Santa Barbara Castle

Facade detail of the Basílica de Santa Maria

• 🌍 Castell de la Santa Bàrbara (Castillo de Santa Bárbara / Castle of Santa Barbara). Oct-Mar daily 10:00-20:00, Apr-Jun daily 10:00-22:00, Jul Aug daily 10:00-24:00, Sep daily 10:00-22:00. On top of Mount Benacantil at a height of 166 metres, there is one of the largest medieval fortresses in Spain, built in the ninth century by Muslims. An amazing view of town and harbour. If you feel fit, the walk from Plaza de Carmen is a sight in itself, through some narrow winding streets. The castle can also be reached by car, but parking slots are scarce. Free. (updated May 2016)
  • 🌍 Museu de la Ciutat d'Alacant (MUSA / Museo de la Ciudad / Museum of the City of Alicante), Calle Vázquez de Mella s/n (Castell de Santa Bárbara), ☎ [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. Daily 10:00-14:30, 16:00-20:00. Showcases archaeological finds from the city and the region. Free. (updated May 2016)
  • 🌍 Lift (near the main rd of Avda de Juan Bautista Lafora). Oct-Mar daily 10:00-20:00, last lift up 19:20; Apr-Jun daily 10:00-20:00, last lift up 19:20; Jul Aug daily 10:00-23:30, last lift up 19:20; Sep daily 10:00-20:00, last lift up 19:20. There is a lift in the core of Mount Benacantil itself, which runs from the ground level and stops at two levels in the castle. It may not be easy to spot the entrance! The easiest route is to follow Postiguet beach to the footbridge, then cross the road and pick your way West along the pavement until you see the sign for the castle and the tunnel entrance. The ticket machine for the lift is near the end of the tunnel. Insert your money, press the large green "A" button, then "Ticket", and your ticket will be printed. Maps are provided. Travelling between the two castle levels is free. €2.70 (round-trip), free (seniors); free access Jul Aug daily 19:45-23:30. (updated May 2016)
• 🌍 Basílica de Santa Maria (Basilica of Santa María). Begun during the 14th century on top of the remains of an old Moorish mosque, construction was completed in the 16th century, and incorporates Gothic and Baroque stylistic elements in its structure. The main entrance to the church is especially notable for its elaborate Baroque decorative elements; inside the Gothic choir and Rococo altar are noteworthy, along with the Baroque organ from 1653. The exterior still bears traces of bombardment by French forces in the 18th century. Free. (updated May 2016)
• 🌍 Lucentum Archaeological Site (El Tossal de Manises), C/ de Zeus, s/n (Albufereta), ☎ [phone]. Winter: Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00 16:00-18:00, Su 10:00-14:00; Summer: M-Sa 09:00-12:00 19:00-22:00, Su 09:00-12:00. This site, which covers over 7 acres, is the location of the original Roman city which later became Alicante. Although excavation is ongoing, it is open to visitors. Notable features are remains of the defensive walls, Roman baths, and forum, as well as part of the old Muslim cemetery. Free. (updated May 2016)
• 🌍 Castell de Sant Ferran (Castillo de San Fernando / Castle of San Fernando) (on Tossal hill, N of Alicante centre). Dawn to dusk. Built at the beginning of the 19th century, the fortress is now the centrepiece of a city park. Free. (updated May 2016)

Museums and galleries

Iberian artifacts on display at MARQ (Archaeological Museum of Alicante)

Museu de la Universitat d’Alacant

• 🌍 Museu Arqueològic Provincial d'Alacant (MARQ / Museo Arqueológico de Alicante / Archaeological Museum of Alicante), Plaza Dr Gómez Ulla, s/n, ☎ [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. Tu-F 10:00-19:00, Sa 10:00-20:30, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00. founded in 1932, has avant-garde design and uses modern audiovisual techniques, with more than 80,000 pieces found in local archaeological sites. Shows educational movies about the history of Alicante area from the Stone Age, through Iberian and Roman eras, to the medieval times. €3 (adults), €1.50 (concessions), free (disabled/teachers/journalists/children under 8).  
• 🌍 Museu de Belles Arts Gravina (MUBAG / Palau Gravina), C/ Gravina 13-15 (Old Town), ☎ [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. 1 Sep - 30 Jun: Tu-Sa 10:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00; 1 Jul - 31 Aug: Tu-Sa 11:00-21:00, Su and holidays 11:00-15:00. This local fine arts museum, housed in an 18th-century palace, has some excellent artworks by Spanish artists, displayed over 3 floors. Take time to watch the video presentation Black and White about historic Alicante. Free. (updated May 2016)
• 🌍 Museu d'Art Contemporani d'Alacant (Museo de La Asegurada / MACA), Plaza de Santa María, 3, ☎ [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. Tu-Sa 10:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00. On display there are a few works by world-famous artists of the 20th century: Pablo Picasso, Georges Braque, Julio González, Juan Gris, Joan Miró; as well as art collections by two local artists Eusebio Sempere and Juana Francés. Free. (updated Apr 2016)
• 🌍 Museu de la Universitat d’Alacant (Museo de la Universidad de Alicante / MUA), Carretera de San Vicente del Raspeig, s/n (Campus de la Universidad de Alicante), ☎ [phone], fax: [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. M-F 09:00-20:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00. Opened in 1999, this ultra-modern museum is devoted to contemporary art and hosts special exhibits as well as concerts and other events. Free. (updated May 2016)
• 🌍 Museu d’Aigües d’Alacant (Museo de Aguas de Alicante / Alicante Water Museum), Plaza Arquitecto Miguel López, s/n (Plaza del Puente, Casco Antiguo), ☎ [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. Sep-May: Tu-F 10:00-14:00 17:00-20:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00; Jun-Aug: Tu-F 10:00-14:00 18:00-21:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00. The museum is adjacent to the Pozos de Garrigós (Garrigós Wells), a collection of wells dating from the Moorish period to the 16th century, and in use until 1898. Exhibits in the three-floor modern museum illustrate the history of water resources and distribution in the city and the area. Free. (updated May 2016)

Do

Performing arts

Auditori de la Diputació d'Alacant

• 🌍 Teatre Principal (Teatro Principal), Plaça de Ruperto Chapí, s/n, ☎ [phone] (info), [phone] (box office), e-mail: [e-mail]. 12:00-14:00 17:00-21:00 (box office). Alicante's main theatre was built in the mid-19th century, and partially destroyed and rebuilt during the Spanish Civil War. Today it is the city's main venue for not only plays but also musicals, dance, and musical performances. (updated Oct 2017)
• 🌍 Auditori de la Diputació d'Alacant (Auditorio de la Diputación de Alicante), Paseo Campoamor, s/n (N of the bullring), ☎ [phone]. Box office: M-Th 08:00-18:00, F 11:00-14:00. A venue for classical music performances, by both Spanish and international musicians. The building was designed by Alicante-born architect Juan Antonio García Solera. (updated Nov 2017)

Festivals

One of the elaborate monuments that can be found throughout Alicante during Las Hogueras de San Juan

• Epifanía (Epiphany / Three Kings' Day). 6 January. As in the rest of Spain, in the Epiphany (January the 6th) there is a parade in remembrance of the Three Wise Men that adored Child Jesus, where every child participates (it is the equivalent to Santa Claus in the Spanish culture). (updated Dec 2017)
• Carnaval (Carnival). February to March, just before Lent. Features parades of people in disguises and open air concerts (yes, weather allows it!). (updated Dec 2017)
• Setmana Santa (Semana Santa / Holy Week). Week before Easter. Has parades of religious brotherhoods with their images of Jesus Christ and Holy Mary. (updated Dec 2017)
• Romiatge de Santa Faç (Romería de Santa Faz / Pilgrimage of Santa Faz). 2nd Thursday after Good Friday. A massive pilgrimage/walk to the 🌍 Monestir de la Santa Faç (Spanish: Monasterio de la Santa Faz), where a relic with and image of Jesus is on display. (updated Dec 2017)
• Fogueres de Sant Joan (Hogueras de San Juan / Bonfires of Saint John). 23 June. The most important festival in the city, with preparations beginning a week beforehand. Throughout Alicante, enormous monuments (up to and above 3 stories tall) are constructed and burned at the end of the festival during the night of 24th to 25th, after the shooting off of the very large "Palmera" firework from the top of the Castillo de Alicant. The explosion takes the shape of palm tree leaves (hence the name, Palmera). This is the symbol that begins the burning of the Hogueras monuments, which lasts into the later hours of the night. After that, a week of night fireworks continues in the beach. During the festival you won't have to go far to find music, drinks, and dancing, that all usually lasts until the early mornings. (updated Dec 2017)
• Moros i Cristians (Moros y Cristianos / Moors and Christians). One of the many Moorish and Christian festivals in the province, here the tradition began in the 20th century. Different neighbourhoods in the city celebrate at different times of year. In the Villafranqueza it is celebrated in March, in the Barrio de San Blas the second week of June, El Rebolledo in mid-July, in Altozano during the second week of August, and in the Barrio de Miguel Hernández the third week of August. (updated Dec 2017)

Cinemas

• 🌍 Kinépolis, Centro Comercial Plaza Mar 2, ☎ [phone]. A modern cineplex which shows the latest blockbusters, with both dubbed and original language versions (VOS: versión original subtitulada). (updated Oct 2017)
• 🌍 Yelmo Cines, Avinguda de Alcalde Lorenzo Carbonell, 66 (in the Centro Comercial Puerto de Alicante). Another cineplex which shows current films in both dubbed and original language versions. (updated Oct 2017)

Beaches

Platja del Postiguet

In the heart of the city there is 🌍 Platja del Postiguet (Playa de Postiguet). The sandy beach is popular during the day and fairly busy during the evening when it's illuminated by sodium street lights. These give the beach and breaking waves a surreal effect. Beach goers should take precautions however even during the day, as unattended bags and purses are popular targets for thieves.

With a bit of traveling by bus 22 or tram (L3, stop 'Costa Blanca'), you can reach the spacious 7 km long 🌍 Platja del San Juan (Playa de San Juan), which is considered to be one of the finest in Spain.

The less crowded 🌍 Platja del Saladar (Playa del Saladar/Urbanova, bus 27) is south of the port, along the road from Alicante to Cartagena. 🌍 Platja dels Arenals del Sol (Playa de los Arenales) is a bit further still, has sand dunes, and is even less crowded. This beach can be accessed by an hourly bus from the main bus station.

Learn

• 🌍 Don Quijote Alicante, Passeig Esplanada d'Espanya, 15, ☎ [phone]. A great Spanish school where you can take 4–6 hours of courses a day. All courses including beginner courses are taught entirely in Spanish. (updated Apr 2016)
• 🌍 Centro Superior de Idiomas, Cra de San Vicente-Alicante s/n, Edificio Germán Bernácer (Universidad de Alicante, San Vicente del Raspeig), ☎ [phone], fax: [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. Office: M-Th 08:00-14:00 16:00-18:00, F 08:00-14:00; Easter/summer/Christmas: M-F 09:00-14:00. Operated by the University of Alicante, it offers a variety of courses, including intensive Spanish classes for foreigners. (updated Oct 2017)
• Estudia España. Offers a selection of quality, affordable private Spanish language schools in Alicante. Courses for all levels and budgets all year round. (updated Oct 2017)

Buy

Indoor markets

Mercat Central

• 🌍 Mercat Central (Mercado Central / Central Market), Avda Alfonso X El Sábio, 10 (head down Rambla de Méndez Núnez then turn W), ☎ [phone]. M-Th 07:30-14:30, F 07:30-20:30, Sa 07:30-15:00. The two levels sell all the fresh meat, seafood, cheeses, fruit and vegetables anyone could need. If you exit the market through the back, you'll find the flower sellers in a small outdoor square. (updated Oct 2017)
• 🌍 Mercat Babel (Mercado Babel), Carrer Asil, s/n, ☎ [phone]. M-Th 07:30-14:00, F 07:30-20:30, Sa 07:30-14:00. A standard food market selling local produce and fish. On Th and Sa mornings there is also an outdoor market along the adjacent streets where you can pick up various other household goods, clothings, etc. (updated Oct 2017)
• 🌍 Mercat Benalúa (Mercado Benalúa), Carrer Pérez Medina, 2, ☎ [phone]. M W F 07:30-14:00, Th 07:30-14:30, Sa 07:30-15:00. A standard food market, with an nearby outdoor street market on Th and Sa mornings. (updated Oct 2017)
• 🌍 Mercat Carolinas (Mercado Carolinas), Carrer San Mateo, s/n, ☎ [phone]. M-Sa 07:30-14:00. A standard food market, with an nearby outdoor street market on Th and Sa mornings. (updated Oct 2017)

Street markets

Passeig Esplanada d'Espanya market

• 🌍 Passeig Esplanada d'Espanya market. M W-F 11:30-14:30 17:00-20:30, Sa Su and holidays 11:00-22:30. Market stalls along the promenade selling beads, clothes, flags etc. (updated Oct 2017)
• 🌍 Mercado de Filatelia y Numismática (philately and numismatics market), Plaça de Ajuntament, s/n, ☎ [phone]. Su and holidays 09:00-14:00. A weekly market for stamps and old coins. (updated Oct 2017)
• 🌍 Mercado el Rinconet (rastro / flea market), C/ Balsas Nuevas, 7 (Villafranqueza). Sa 06:00-22:00, Su and holidays 10:00-15:00. A large second-hand market where you can find all sorts of antiques, musical instruments, and other odds and ends. (updated Oct 2017)
• 🌍 Mercado Artesano, Plaza de la Santísima Faz, s/n (behind the ayuntamiento/city hall), ☎ [phone]. Summer: F-Su 07:00-24:00, winter: Su 10:00-14:00. A good place to find handmade jewelry, belts, handbags, and other crafts. (updated Oct 2017)

Eat

Arroz con costra (rice topped with sausages and eggs), a regional specialty

Arroz alicantino, a local variant of Valencian paella

As with the rest of Spain, breakfast is usually light, usually some sort of bread (e.g. toast) or piece of bakery. Traditionally, a hearty meal in the early afternoon is followed by a siesta as the heat builds. Many restaurants are then closed between 16:00-21:00. A light meal is taken once the sun goes down, often in the local tapería if you are a visitor. Many restaurants don't open before 21:00 for dinner, so bear this in mind when planning your dinner schedule.

As elsewhere in the region, seafood and rice dominates, with paella in the frontline. In almost every restaurant, you will find a menú del día ('menu of the day') or a similar special for €10, a three- or four-course meal with or without a drink. This is an excellent way to economise if you want to splash out later.

In tourist areas, you'll have no problem finding UK fare served at earlier times, if you find yourself intimidated by the local cuisine. Restaurants of all price ranges are clustered around Carrer Castaños (near the theatre), Calle San Francisco and Calle Mayor (near the cathedral).

Budget

Mid-range

• 🌍 Mesón de Labradores, C/ de los Labradores, 19 (Casco Antiguo / Old Town), ☎ [phone]. Daily 13:00-17:00 19:00-00:30. Founded in 1693, this taberna serves excellent regional dishes. The house specialty is the Chupi-Chupi, with a special secret sauce. €15 per person. (updated May 2016)
• 🌍 El Nou Cisne, C/ Bazán, 47 (near the Teatro Principal), ☎ [phone]. Serves tapas and raciones. Set menu €11.90. (updated May 2016)
• 🌍 Nou Manolin, C/ Villegas, 3 (near the theatre), ☎ [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. Daily 13:00-16:15 20:15-00:15. A very popular restaurant which focuses on regional specialties. On the ground floor is a great tapas bar, while formal dining is on the upper floors. Also has a great wine cellar. Mains €18-27. (updated May 2016)
• 🌍 Piripi, Avda Oscar Esplá, 30, ☎ [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. Daily 13:00-16:00 20:00-24:00. A popular restaurant best known for its tapas and rice dishes. Mains €12-25. (updated May 2016)
• 🌍 Restaurante El Mirador, Rambla Méndez Núnez, 3 (in the Hotel TRYP Gran Sol), ☎ [phone]. Daily 13:00-16:00 20:00-23:00. The hotel is one of the city's tallest buildings; the restaurant is situated on the 26th floor and offers excellent views of the sea and the city. Set menu €30. (updated May 2016)
• 🌍 La Taberna del Gourmet, C/ San Fernando, 10, ☎ [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. Daily 11:00-00:30. A well-known tapas bar and delicatessen, with fine wines. Tapas €7-19, tapas tasting menu €27.50, standard tasting menu €55. (updated May 2016)

Splurge

Michelin-starred Monastrell

• 🌍 Dársena, Muella de Levante, 6 (port area), ☎ [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. Tu-Sa 13:00-16:00 20:00-23:00. A long-established and respected restaurant, known especially for paella and other rice dishes, and for seafood. This place is very busy and reservations are recommended. Mains €16+, tasting menu €60. (updated May 2016)
• 🌍 Monastrell, Avda Julio Guillen Tato, 1 (port area), ☎ [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. Tu-Sa 13:00-16:00 19:30-23:00, Su 13:00-16:00. Michelin-starred chef María José San Román focuses on contemporary and avant-garde cuisine, relying on local products. The minimalist dining area is decorated with wood, aluminum, and granite. Reservations can be made online. Tasting menu €79. (updated May 2016)
• 🌍 One One, C/ de Valdés, 9, ☎ [phone]. Tu-Sa 12:00-17:00 21:00-24:00; closed mid-Aug through mid-Sept. A cozy restaurant that offers innovative and original cuisine. Has a good wine cellar. Mains €25. (updated May 2016)
• 🌍 Restaurante La Ereta, Parque de La Ereta, s/n (on the slope of Mt Benacantil), ☎ [phone]. Winter: Tu lunch, Th dinner, Sa lunch/dinner; summer: M-W dinner, Th-Sa lunch/dinner, holiday eves. Creative cuisine offered in two tasting menus, with great views of the sea and city. Tapas tasting menu €45, standard tasting menu €65. (updated May 2016)

Drink

A glass of wine at sunset

El botellón, literally, 'the large bottle', is a custom among young people in Spain, in which they buy 2-litre bottles of soft drinks and mix into them hard liquor, and then stand or sit around drinking in parking lots and other public places. This is to avoid the high cost of drinks in some bars and clubs. There are many organizations which organise and advertise the party scene of the Barrio, such as BarrioLife.

The Barrio (aka Casco Antiguo) is the centre of nightlife in Alicante, with bars like 🌍 John Mulligan's, 🌍 Carpe Diem, 🌍 La Antigua, and 🌍 ¡¡Ay, Carmela!!; there is never a dull night in this small Spanish city. Drinks are cheap, and shots are sometimes free.

Another focal point is the eastern rim of the marina, called Puerto, in and around the 🌍 Casino Mediterráneo, where things start and end later – a typical night can end at around 07:00 or 08:00. As this part of town has a bad reputation at night, most nightclubs here hire their own security who also act as bouncers. Especially at dawn party goers should take care, as theft is common.

Sleep

Budget

• 🌍 Hotel San Remo, C/ Navas, 30, ☎ [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. Check-in: 13:00, check-out: 12:00. Has nonsmoking rooms and free Wi-Fi. Doubles €40, breakfast €3. (updated Oct 2017)
• 🌍 X Hostel Alicante, Carrer del Tucuman, 28 (centrally located and less than 5 minute walk from the train station), ☎ [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 11:30. Amenities include, singles, doubles, and shared dormitories for short and long term stays, guest kitchen, free breakfast, roof top terrace, free internet and Wi-Fi, and large common room to meet other travelers. It's clean, safe, and is the only true backpackers hostel in the city. €17. (updated Apr 2016)

Mid-range

• 🌍 La Milagrosa Bed & Breakfast, C/ Villavieja 8 (by Iglesia de la Santa Maria, 2 blocks from the beach), ☎ [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. Check-in: 15:30, check-out: 11:30. Thoroughly refurbished, bright and clean with a large roof terrace. Kitchen and laundry facilities available, free Wi-Fi. Close to nightlife. Also has apartments that can house up to 6 people. €42+ (singles), €75+ (doubles). (updated May 2016)
• 🌍 Hotel Les Monges Palace (Hostal Les Monges Palace), C/ San Agustín, 4, ☎ [phone], fax: [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Has an onsite snack bar and free Wi-Fi, and is nonsmoking throughout the building. Public parking €13/day. Doubles €70, including breakfast. (updated Oct 2017)
• 🌍 Hotel NH Rambla de Alicante, C/ Tomás López Torregrosa, 11 (near the central market), ☎ [phone], fax: [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 12:00. Has a fitness centre and free Wi-Fi. Public parking €9.50/day. Doubles €63+, including breakfast. 
• 🌍 TRYP Alicante Gran Sol Hotel, Rambla Méndez Núñez, 3, ☎ [phone], fax: [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 12:00. Has nonsmoking rooms, onsite restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. Private parking €9.50/day. Doubles €96, including breakfast. (updated Oct 2017)

Splurge

• 🌍 Hotel Hospes Amérigo, Calle Rafael Altamira, 7, ☎ [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 12:00. The hotel is in a 16th-century former Dominican monastery, and has an on-site bar-restaurant, fitness centre, swimming pool, sauna, and free Wi-Fi. Pets permitted on request, private parking €26/day, electric car charger available. Doubles €150+, including breakfast. (updated Oct 2017)
• 🌍 Hotel NH Alicante, C/ México, 18 (corner of C/ Rosa Chacel), ☎ [phone], fax: [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 12:00. Facilities include an outdoor pool, fitness centre, sauna, onsite restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. Private parking €14/day. Doubles €155, including breakfast. 
• 🌍 Sercotel Spa Porta Maris, Plaza Puerta del Mar, 3 (port), ☎ [phone], fax: [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. Check-in: 16:00, check-out: 12:00. Facilities include an outdoor pool, fitness centre, spa, onsite restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. Public parking €20/day. Doubles €100+, including breakfast. 
• 🌍 Meliá Alicante, Plaza del Puerto, 3 (port), ☎ [phone], fax: [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. Check-in: 16:00, check-out: 12:00. Has a swimming pool, fitness centre, and onsite restaurant. Free Wi-Fi, public parking €20/day. Doubles €125+, including breakfast. 

Connect

The city provides free Wi-Fi to everyone in a number places across the city centre, including the 🌍 Plaça Ajuntament (Plaza del Ayuntamiento), 🌍 Plaça dels Estels (Plaza de los Luceros), 🌍 Plaça de la Muntanyeta (Plaza de la Montañeta), the Castell de la Santa Bàrbara (Santa Barbara Castle), and at Platja del Postiguet (Postiguet Beach).

Cope

Alicante is generally a safe city, but visitors should take precautions in the port area, which should be avoided at night and dawn.

• 🌍 British Consulate Alicante, Rambla Méndez Núñez, 28-32, 6ª planta, ☎ [phone], fax: [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. (updated Jan 2017)

Go next

Coves del Canelobre

• Tabarca – there are several companies near the port which offer boat trips, from 45-minute excursions on a catamaran to all-day trips to the island. Prices vary.
• 🌍 Coves del Canelobre (Cuevas de Canelobre / Canalobre Caves) (near Busot, 24 km N of Alicante), ☎ [phone]. 1 Sep - 30 Jun: Tu-F 10:30-16:50, Sa Su and holidays 10:30-17:50; 1 Jul - 31 Aug: daily 10:30-19:30; Easter Su 10:30-19:30; closed M after Easter, 25 Dec and 1 Jan. A large cave network with impressive stalacites and stalagmites. The inner aspect of the main cave, with one of the highest vaults of Spain, is very similar to the one of a cathedral. Visitors are able to admire the diverse and capricious forms that have been taking rocks: candelabra, animals and multitude of spectacular forms. Sometimes, their superb acoustic and environmental conditions take advantage of for spectacles in which music is privileged protagonist. Entrance requires you join in on a tour which is mainly in Spanish, although some information is provided in English. €7 (adults), €4.50 (seniors), €3.50 (children 5-14), free (children under 5). (updated Oct 2017)
• Costa Blanca
  • Benidorm - Aqualandia, Mundomar, Terra Mitica
  • Altea
  • Calpe (Calp)
  • Dénia
  • Jávea (Xàbia)
• Biar