Alicante
Sun, Sea and Centuries of History
Alicante is a city where golden beaches, medieval castles and palm-lined promenades meet the relaxed rhythm of the Mediterranean. With more than 2,000 years of history, it combines Moorish heritage, lively waterfront culture and colourful old streets beneath endless Spanish sunshine beside the sparkling waters of Spain's beautiful Costa Blanca coastline.
Parque de Canalejas
Parque de Canalejas is Alicante's oldest public park, famous for its enormous century-old ficus trees with twisting roots and towering branches. Running beside the marina, it offers shade, calm surroundings and a pleasant green escape from the busy waterfront.
Alicante Marina
Alicante Marina combines Mediterranean scenery, leisure and maritime history beside the city's historic harbour. Filled with yachts, cafés and waterfront restaurants, it is one of Alicante's liveliest areas and also hosts international sailing events including the famous Volvo Ocean Race.
Alicante is the Mediterranean at its most easy-going — castle on the hill, palms on the front, and lunch never very far away.
Explanada de España
The Explanada de España is Alicante's iconic palm-lined promenade, famous for its striking wave-pattern mosaic made from millions of marble tiles. Lined with cafés, market stalls and street performers, it captures the elegant and relaxed atmosphere of Mediterranean coastal life.
Playa del Postiguet
Playa del Postiguet is Alicante's best-known city beach, located directly beneath Santa Bárbara Castle. Its golden sand, calm Mediterranean waters and lively seafront promenade make it the perfect place to relax while enjoying dramatic views of the city skyline above.
Castillo de Santa Bárbara
Towering above Alicante on Mount Benacantil, Castillo de Santa Bárbara is one of Spain's largest medieval fortresses. Originally developed during Islamic rule, the castle offers fascinating historic remains alongside spectacular panoramic views across the city, harbour and Mediterranean coastline.
Barrio de Santa Cruz
Barrio de Santa Cruz is Alicante's picturesque old quarter, filled with narrow winding streets, colourful houses and flower-filled balconies. Built beneath Santa Bárbara Castle, the historic neighbourhood retains its traditional Mediterranean character and offers some of the city's most atmospheric views.
Basilica Santa Maria
The Basilica of Santa María is Alicante's oldest church and an outstanding example of Valencian Gothic architecture. Built on the site of a former mosque, it features an ornate Baroque façade, richly decorated chapels and an impressive eighteenth-century organ still used today.
St Nicolas Cathedral
St Nicolas Cathedral is one of Alicante's most important religious landmarks, built in a restrained Renaissance style during the seventeenth century. Inside, visitors discover elegant vaulted interiors, a magnificent blue-tiled dome and a richly decorated Baroque Communion Chapel.
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