Unmissable Things to Do in Alicante: A Local’s Guide for 2025
- comedyinyoureye
- Oct 8
- 15 min read
Alicante is one of those places that just keeps surprising you. Whether you’re here for the beaches or the food, there’s always something new around the corner. I’ve lived here for a while now, and honestly, I still find things to do in Alicante that I never noticed before. From the old town’s winding streets to the buzz of the markets and the sea air on the promenade, this city never gets boring. If you’re planning a visit in 2025, here’s what I’d tell any friend: don’t just stick to the tourist spots. There’s a lot more to Alicante than you might think.
Key Takeaways
Wander through El Barrio and get lost in the colourful old town streets—there’s always something happening, day or night.
Santa Bárbara Castle is a must for the views alone, but don’t skip the Town Hall or the Basilica nearby—they’re full of stories.
Postiguet Beach is great for a quick dip, but if you’re feeling adventurous, take a boat to Tabarca Island or try sea kayaking.
Alicante’s festivals, like Las Hogueras de San Juan, are wild fun—join in if you’re around in June, and don’t miss a stroll on the Explanada de España.
The food scene is huge here: from Mercado Central’s busy stalls to seafront seafood spots and tapas tours, you’ll eat very well.
Explore the Historic Heart of Alicante
Walking through Alicante’s historic heart delivers a real sense of place, and you can feel time shifting beneath your feet. Each corner offers a story; you never quite know what you’ll find, whether it’s a tiny local bakery or a vibrant plaza buzzing with laughter.
Wander the Streets of El Barrio
El Barrio is the soul of old Alicante, where alleyways zigzag and plazas open up without warning.
The area is lively both day and night; families stroll, children play, artists sell their work from sun-bleached stalls.
Notice how the walls are covered with murals and tiles – some chipped, some brand new, but each one with a bit of the city’s personality.
El Barrio isn’t just about sightseeing. Stop by a tucked-away bakery for a snack or pause outside an old doorway draped in bougainvillaea. Just walking here, you might find yourself chatting with a local or getting a little lost—but that’s half the fun.
Don’t rush it. Take your time in El Barrio, especially in the early evening when the golden light softens and locals start to gather outside.
Admire the Colourful Old Town Houses
You’ll spot rows of houses in deep blues, yellows, and coral reds, each street brighter than the last.
Potted plants spill over balconies, with tiny flower boxes competing for the most sprouts.
Many houses date back centuries, yet look fresh thanks to their paintwork and clever restorations.
Here’s a quick table showing what to look for when exploring house fronts:
Feature | What to Notice |
|---|---|
Paint Colour | Bold, often contrasting, rarely two streets the same |
Balconies | Ironwork, draped plants, drying washing |
Tiles | Glazed, patterned, patchy – look at doorways |
If you peek down a side street and catch a dog snoozing in a mosaic doorway, congratulations, you’ve found Alicante at its sleepiest.
Experience Traditional Tapas Bars
The tapas scene in Alicante old town is a mix of tradition and local invention. You won’t just eat; you’ll snack, share, and relax. Most folks here prefer to order a few things at a time with cold drinks.
Here’s what to do for a classic tapas night:
Find a busy place with folks talking loudly—locals always know best.
Order two or three tapas to start (croquettes, anchovies, and calamari are always winners).
Stand at the bar if seated tables are full – you’ll get served just as quickly.
Wander on to another spot after the first round; bar-hopping is encouraged.
If you want more ideas for places to wander or a local’s perspective on top places in the old town, it’s always worth checking suggestions from people who live here. The truth is, half of Alicante’s charm comes from its old streets – and you only really feel it if you let yourself slow down, taste freely, and follow your curiosity.
Discover Iconic Landmarks and Panoramic Views
Alicante's skyline is full of stories, shaped by centuries-old buildings and sweeping views that you can't help but stare at. Whether it's ancient stone under your feet or the echo inside a church, these spots tie the city together in a way you'll remember long after.
Ascend Santa Bárbara Castle
You can't miss Santa Bárbara Castle—it's perched up on Mount Benacantil, watching over Alicante and the sea below. There are a couple ways to get up: you can wander the zig-zag paths on foot if you're up for a small adventure, or just hop in the lift near Postiguet Beach (it only costs a few euros and saves your legs).
Once you're up at the top, the city just opens up below you. There are clear views stretching out to the marina, beaches, and even the mountains in the distance if it's a clear day.
The castle is loaded with history: it started as an Islamic fortress, then turned into a royal stronghold, and parts of it are more than 1,000 years old.
There's usually a small exhibition inside with photos, models, and artefacts, especially in summer.
On a breezy day, sitting at the castle edge and letting your mind wander feels about as far from worrying as you can get in a city.
Visit the Basilica of Santa Maria
Santa Maria Basilica is the city's oldest church, and walking inside, you get a sense of how many generations have come and gone. There's an impressive 14th-century bell tower and a stone façade decorated with statues. If you're into peaceful places, step inside for the cool, dim light and look up at the ornate gold altarpiece at the back of the main nave.
The basilica is open most days, with Sundays reserved for mass.
There are occasional concerts here in the evenings—worth checking for events if you're around.
It’s free to walk in, but leaving a small donation helps with upkeep.
Marvel at Alicante Town Hall
Alicante Town Hall isn't just any old admin building—it's an 18th-century palace with grand staircases, carved ceilings, and ornate doors. Officially named 'Ayuntamiento de Alicante,' it also hides a small archaeological site in the basement, open some days to the public. You probably wouldn’t guess there’s Roman history just below the main square!
Here’s a quick look at what you can see:
Feature | Description |
|---|---|
Main Hall | Ornate columns, painted ceilings |
Blue Room | Ceremonial events, royal decor |
Zero Level | The official 'height above sea' marker |
Archaeological remains | Ancient walls and old city artefacts |
Free guided tours sometimes run during festivals or public holidays.
Take a moment to notice the square outside—there are plenty of cafés for a quick coffee break.
The building is especially photogenic lit up at night.
In all honesty, these three spots are at the heart of Alicante. Good views, quiet corners, and reminders everywhere that people have been living here for centuries. It’s worth slowing down in these places and just letting it all sink in.
Embrace the Sun and Sea on Alicante’s Beaches
Alicante shines when it comes to seaside days. Whether you’re more at home spread out on a towel with a novel or itching to paddle out for an adventure, the city’s stretches of sand and pristine coast have you sorted. There’s something almost magical about a day under Alicante’s Mediterranean sun—time slows right down and the only tricky decision is what to do first.
Relax on Postiguet Beach
It’s almost impossible not to run straight for Postiguet when you get to Alicante. Just a short stroll from the old town, this beach is the heart of summer life in the city, and it’s as lively as it is convenient. People-watching here is next level—families chatting, friends playing volleyball, couples on strolls, kids darting to and from the gentle waterline.
Postiguet Beach Facilities:
Facility | Available? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Lifeguards | Yes | Daily during high season |
Sunbed Rentals | Yes | Fee applies |
Beach Bars | Yes | ‘Chiringuitos’ with cold drinks |
Showers | Yes | Along the promenade |
Wheelchair Access | Yes | Ramps available |
The mornings here are especially peaceful, before the city really wakes up. If you like quiet, come early, grab a coffee at a local café, and watch Alicante drift into the day.
Take a Boat Trip to Tabarca Island
If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to escape to an island for the day, this is your chance. Tabarca sits just off the coast, reachable in under an hour by regular ferries. Crystal-clear waters, rocky coves, and the slow rhythm of an island that barely feels touched by time—Tabarca is refreshingly low-key and great for snorkelling or just drifting in the sea.
Here’s how to plan your island escape:
Book your ferry in advance, especially if it’s peak season.
Pack a picnic, as the island gets busy and local cafés fill up fast.
Bring snorkel gear—no need to rent, the waters are perfect for spotting fish.
Leave early in the day to make the most of it, since ferry schedules are sometimes erratic.
Try Watersports and Sea Kayaking
For something with a bit more adrenaline, watersports along Alicante’s coastline come highly recommended. Lots of places will sort you out with lessons or equipment if you need it. If you’re just starting out, sea kayaking along the urban beachfront is relaxing but still gives you that buzz. More seasoned adventurers go paddle-boarding, jet skiing, or even windsurfing on windier days.
Watersport highlights:
Kayaking tours from Postiguet Beach or Playa de San Juan
Stand-up paddle-boarding early in the morning—calmest waters, best light
Jet ski rentals from the marina (bring ID)
Each activity comes with a different view of the coastline. Out at sea, you really see how the city and mountains meet the water—there’s nothing else quite like it.
Here, the only rule is: don’t rush. Alternate an hour on the sand with a cooling swim, or take a lazy boat out to Tabarca if you want the full Mediterranean escape. Alicante’s beaches will do the rest.
Live Local Culture and Vibrant Festivals
Alicante is buzzing with local life—sometimes loud, sometimes almost hidden. If you want to really feel the heartbeat of the city, you’ve got to step right into its festivals, its street walks, and the surprise parties that locals just seem to know about. This isn’t just about watching—join in, and you’ll find Alicante is less of a backdrop and more of a main character in your trip.
Stroll the Explanada de España
The Explanada de España is Alicante’s living room. Locals and visitors wander up and down this wavy marble promenade all day. Here are a few things you’ll notice:
Lively weekend markets selling trinkets and textiles
Elderly couples watching the world go by from the benches
Musicians, sand artists, and the occasional dance troupe turning a stroll into a show
It’s not flashy, but walking the Explanada is about soaking up those easy, everyday moments. If you hang around after sunset, the palm trees light up and the city feels like it could keep chatting all night.
After a relaxed walk here, it’s funny how you start to feel like you actually live in Alicante—even if you’ve only just arrived that morning.
Celebrate Las Hogueras de San Juan
Now, if you’re in Alicante mid-June, you cannot miss Las Hogueras de San Juan. This isn’t just a festival; it’s a riot of colour, sound, and fire. Here’s what you’ll find if you brave the crowds:
Massive papier-mâché statues (ninots) taking over the squares
Non-stop fireworks from morning till night (no, seriously—don’t bother sleeping)
Beaches covered in bonfires and spontaneous BBQs once the sun goes down
Event | Dates (Typical) | Best For |
|---|---|---|
Ninot Parade | 20-23 June | Family fun |
Fireworks | 24 June | Night owls |
Bonfire Night | 24 June | Everyone |
The city becomes completely alive—restaurants spill into the streets, everyone’s out late, and you’ll probably lose count of how many times you bump into the same people.
Join an Entertaining Silent Party Tour
This one’s wild, in the best way. You pop on headphones, pick a music channel, and suddenly Alicante is your dancefloor. The silent party walking tour is honestly not something you expect to find in a historic place, but it works. Here’s why you should give it a try:
You get to dance through the old streets without bothering anyone (well, maybe a bit)
Choose your own soundtrack while a guide shares insider stories
It’s incredibly fun for groups and solo travellers alike
Dance past the basilica, wave at surprised café-goers, and remember—when you take the headphones off, the city sounds totally different.
Alicante has so many ways to let loose and just be part of the city. Try something unusual, and you might find yourself talking about it for years.
Savour Alicante’s Renowned Food Scene
Food in Alicante is much more than just a meal – it’s basically a way of life. From the early-morning buzz at the market stalls to the lively chatter echoing through seafront restaurants, every bite tells a bit of the city’s story. You can wander down any old side street and stumble across a bakery offering pastries you’ve never heard of or a tiny bar pouring glasses of local wine straight from the barrel. If you want to see what makes Alicante’s food really sing, here’s where to start.
Browse Mercado Central for Local Specialties
Walking into Mercado Central is a proper sensory overload. There’s always a mix of locals hunting out the freshest ingredients and chefs stocking up for the day. Rows of stalls almost burst with bright tomatoes, cured meats, melty cheeses and fresh-off-the-boat seafood.
The bustling atmosphere is its own kind of entertainment – I’ve lost hours just watching it all play out.
It’s open six days a week, packed tightest on weekends.
Try the salt-cured tuna, or grab a few olives and a sweet fig for a quick snack.
Don’t leave without a hunk of turrón (nougat), the local treat everyone, including grumpy uncles, adores.
Mercado Central Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
Opening hours (Mon–Fri) | 7:00 am – 2:30 pm |
Opening hours (Sat) | 8:00 am – 3:00 pm |
Stalls | 290+ |
Best days to visit | Friday & Saturday mornings |
It’s easy to fill your basket here, but even easier to just soak up the smells and the sound of sellers arguing over who’s got the best oranges.
Join a Tapas and Wine Walking Tour
If you really want to understand Alicante’s food, take a tapas tour with a local. The best ones skip the big chains and head straight to family-run spots, squeezing into busy bars and sampling plates you might never order yourself. Expect:
At least three different restaurants or tapas bars.
Wines that come from vineyards right around Alicante – whites are crisp, reds are surprisingly bold.
Tapas like arroz a banda (rice cooked in fish stock), boquerones (marinated anchovies), cheesy cocas, and of course, jamón.
It’s a fun way to meet people, ask as many questions as you want, and get tips on where the locals go for a late-night feast.
Enjoy Fresh Seafood at Seafront Restaurants
One thing Alicante does better than just about anywhere else: seafood. Just walk along the marina or down to Playa del Postiguet and you’ll find plates piled high with grilled fish, little bowls of clams, or giant pans of paella topped with prawns.
Order whatever looks fresh on the chalkboard menu.
Try calamares a la plancha (grilled squid) or gambas al ajillo (garlic prawns) for something simple and local.
These places often fill up fast for lunch, especially on Sundays, so showing up early is a good shout.
Whether you’re squeezing into a standing-room-only tapas joint or eating paella by the water, Alicante’s food scene is designed for sharing, chatting, and always leaving just a bit too full. There’s no need to overthink it – just show up hungry.
Connect With Nature and Outdoor Adventures
Spending time outdoors in Alicante feels like a proper escape from the city’s buzz. Whether you’re itching for a hike, keen to check out caves, or just fancy a bike ride by the sea, there’s an adventure waiting just outside your hotel door. Alicante’s landscape stretches from craggy hilltops to the sparkling Mediterranean, promising something for everyone who wants a little nature in their day.
Hike Mount Benacantil or Serra Grossa
You don’t have to go far from the city centre to find yourself surrounded by nature. Both Mount Benacantil and Serra Grossa are local favourites, each offering unbeatable views.
Mount Benacantil hosts the famous Santa Bárbara Castle, but if you take the walking path up from Postiguet Beach, you’ll find the panoramic spots most tourists miss.
Serra Grossa, on the other hand, is a quieter route with coastal tracks, perfect if you want to get away from crowds and watch the city fade into the backdrop.
Don’t forget your water bottle, especially in summer – these walks can get surprisingly warm.
Trail Comparison Table:
Trail Name | Approx. Duration | Difficulty | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|---|
Mount Benacantil | 1-2 hours | Moderate | Early Morning |
Serra Grossa | 1-3 hours | Easy-Moderate | Late Afternoon |
The quiet of the hiking trails lets you see Alicante in a new way, with the salty sea breeze and the sound of your footsteps for company.
Explore the Canelobre Caves
Tucked away up in the hills near Busot village, the Canelobre Caves feel like a totally different world. The chambers are huge, echoing with every sound, and weirdly enough, the stone columns look a bit like organ pipes.
If you’re not a big fan of dark, damp spaces – well, these might change your mind! The caves are well-lit, cool (especially welcome in July or August), and the guided tours explain all the odd shapes hanging from the ceiling. Great for both adults and kids, and a nice change of pace when you’re tired of sunshine.
Cycle Along the Costa Blanca Coastline
Cycling in Alicante is less about speed, more about soaking up what’s around you. Even if you’re not a cycling nut, the coastal path is mostly flat and runs along some really charming seaside spots. Here are three highlights:
Start at El Postiguet and pedal north towards Playa de San Juan, making easy stops for coffee (and a selfie or two).
Take a longer loop through the fishing village of El Campello for a more local feel.
If you’re feeling energetic, keep going towards Villajoyosa for colourful houses and sweet treats.
Renting a bike is easy from downtown – just remember sun cream and a hat. If you haven’t cycled in a while (like me – I almost forgot how to use the gears), don’t worry. The paths here are made for taking it slow and just enjoying the breeze.
Even if you only make it a few kilometres, the fresh salt air and endless views really do help you switch off from everyday stresses for a while.
Delve Into Art, History and Museums
Alicante isn’t just sunshine and seafronts — it's got its fair share of surprises inside, too. If you're curious, want to escape a hot afternoon, or just need a break from tapas, here's where you want to head for some proper culture.
Tour the MARQ Archaeological Museum
The MARQ isn’t your typical, stuffy museum.
You’ll unearth stories from prehistory to the Middle Ages: think ancient tools, Roman pottery and medieval knick-knacks from Alicante’s past.
Interactive displays make it much more alive, including touch screens and reconstructed historical scenes.
The museum changes its exhibitions regularly — one visit seriously never covers it all.
Best Bits to See | Why Go? |
|---|---|
Prehistoric tools | Earliest settlers’ stories |
Roman ceramics | Ancient daily life |
Medieval displays | Where three cultures mixed |
Give yourself at least an hour, but don’t be surprised if you end up losing track of time. It’s more gripping than you’d expect, and even the kids seem to enjoy it.
Visit the Contemporary Art Museum
You’ll find the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo (MACA) tucked just beside the Santa Maria Basilica. It's partly inside Alicante’s oldest secular building, which is pretty wild. The collection? Over 800 pieces, with names like Picasso, Dalí, Miró and Francis Bacon — but here's the thing, only a third is on show at once. So even if you’ve popped in before, the art has probably changed. I’ve often wandered in and been surprised by what’s new.
What makes MACA interesting:
Rotating exhibitions – something fresh every time
Easy to walk around (not overwhelming)
Historic setting meets modern works
If you’re even vaguely interested in 20th-century art, it’s worth the climb up the old-town slope.
Discover Modernist Architecture in Nearby Alcoy
Ever heard of Alcoy? It's just up the road from Alicante and is kind of an open-air collection of weird and wonderful buildings. Modernisme (that’s the local take on Art Nouveau) is everywhere here — wavy balconies, colourful facades, lots of tiles, the whole lot.
For an architectural stroll:
Start at the Casa del Pavo – those iron peacock gate details are bonkers.
Check out the old train station, dripping in decorative brickwork.
Walk the central avenue for a street-level parade of Alcoy’s history and style.
Most people miss out on Alcoy, but a half-day here gives you something genuinely different — and the coffee in the old café isn’t half bad, either.
Conclusion: Make Alicante Your Own
So, that’s my take on the best things to do in Alicante. Honestly, you could spend a week here and still find new corners to explore. Whether you’re wandering the old town, grabbing a coffee by the sea, or just people-watching on the Explanada, there’s always something going on. Alicante isn’t just about ticking off sights – it’s about soaking up the easy-going vibe and letting yourself get a bit lost. Try a local tapas bar, chat with someone at the market, or just watch the sunset from the castle. However you decide to spend your days, you’ll leave with a few good stories and probably a craving for more Spanish food. Safe travels, and enjoy every minute!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to visit Alicante?
The best time to visit Alicante is in the spring or early autumn. The weather is warm, but not too hot, and there are fewer tourists than in the summer months. June is also special if you want to see the big Las Hogueras de San Juan festival.
Do I need to speak Spanish to get around Alicante?
You don’t need to speak Spanish to enjoy Alicante, but it helps to know a few basic phrases. Many people in shops, hotels, and restaurants speak some English, especially in tourist areas.
How do I get from Alicante Airport to the city centre?
You can easily reach the city centre from Alicante Airport by bus, taxi, or tram. The C6 airport bus runs every 20 minutes and takes about 20 minutes to get to the city. Taxis are also available outside the terminal.
Is Alicante a good place for families?
Yes, Alicante is great for families. There are safe beaches, fun museums, parks, and plenty of outdoor spaces. Many restaurants have menus for children, and the city is easy to walk around.
Are there any free things to do in Alicante?
There are lots of free things to do in Alicante. You can walk around the Old Town, relax on the beaches, explore the Explanada de España, and visit some parks and viewpoints without paying anything.
What local foods should I try in Alicante?
You should try paella, fresh seafood, and local tapas like 'esgarrat' (roasted peppers and cod). Don’t miss the sweet nougat called 'turrón' and try some local wines if you can.