Alicante, Spain

A coastal city known for its Mediterranean climate, historic sites and vibrant waterfront.

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24°C / 75°F

Sunny in Alicante

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Peak Season

High visitor demand

Alicante at a glance

Alicante sits on Spain’s southeastern Costa Blanca, offering a blend of sea views, historic landmarks and modern amenities. The city is dominated by Santa Bárbara Castle overlooking the harbor, while its promenade, the Explanada de España, showcases marble tiles and palm trees. With a bustling port, sandy beaches and a lively cultural scene, Alicante stands out as a dynamic Mediterranean destination.

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Alicante View
Alicante Landmark
Alicante Street

Things to Do in Alicante

Curated experiences led by local experts.

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3‑Day La Tomatina Festival Tour with 3‑Star Hotel in Valencia
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3‑Day La Tomatina Festival Tour with 3‑Star Hotel in Valencia

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3 Days • Experience

From USD339
Barcelona to Rome Quest (Standard, Summer ( Until Mar '27), Classic)
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Barcelona to Rome Quest (Standard, Summer ( Until Mar '27), Classic)

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9 Days • Experience
Spain & Portugal Panorama (Summer)
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Spain & Portugal Panorama (Summer)

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12 Days • Experience
7-Day Tour to Andalusia and Mediterranean Coast with Barcelona
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7-Day Tour to Andalusia and Mediterranean Coast with Barcelona

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7 Days • Experience

From EUR1,815

Map View

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Alicante

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38.345, -0.481

Why travel to Alicante?

Alicante suits a range of trips, from beach holidays and family getaways to cultural explorations and culinary tours. Its mild climate makes outdoor activities comfortable, while historic sites and museums provide depth for history enthusiasts. The city’s waterfront restaurants and markets cater to food lovers, and easy transport links support day trips to nearby coastal towns.

palette Culture & Art
restaurant_menu Culinary Heritage
Alicante View
Alicante Landmark
Alicante Street

Alicante travel blogs

Stories and guides connected to Alicante and the surrounding destination.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is the ideal time to visit Alicante?

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The most pleasant weather occurs in spring (April‑May) and early autumn (September‑October). During these months temperatures range from 18 °C to 25 °C, sunshine is abundant and the city is less crowded than the peak summer season, making sightseeing and beach activities comfortable.

What is the typical climate in Alicante throughout the year?

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Alicante enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures often reach 30 °C to 35 °C, while winter averages stay around 12 °C to 16 °C. Rainfall is modest, concentrated in the cooler months, and the city receives over 2,800 hours of sunshine annually.

How many people live in Alicante?

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Alicante’s urban area has roughly 330,000 residents, making it one of the larger cities on Spain’s southeastern coast. The broader metropolitan region, which includes surrounding municipalities, totals around 800,000 people. These figures provide a sense of the city’s size for travelers planning accommodations and activities.

Are there any travel restrictions or entry requirements for visitors to Alicante?

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Alicante follows Spain’s entry rules as part of the Schengen Area. Citizens of EU member states can enter with a national ID or passport, while visitors from non‑EU countries generally need a valid passport and may require a Schengen visa unless they are from visa‑exempt nations. No additional local restrictions are in place for typical tourism.

What are the main attractions in Alicante?

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Key attractions in Alicante include the Santa Bárbara Castle perched on Mount Benacantil, the Explanada de España promenade with its marble tiles, the bustling Port of Alicante, and the city’s main beach, Playa del Postiguet. Cultural sites such as the Archaeological Museum of Alicante (MARQ) and the Contemporary Art Museum (MACA) also draw visitors.

Which historic sites are popular in Alicante?

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Historic sites in Alicante feature the 9th‑century Santa Bárbara Castle, which offers panoramic views of the city and sea. The medieval quarter, known as the Old Town, contains narrow streets and the Concatedral de San Nicola. Additional heritage landmarks include the 16th‑century San Juan de Alicante Church and the 19th‑century Town Hall, reflecting the city’s layered past.

Where can I find the main beach in Alicante?

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The primary urban beach is Playa del Postiguet, located directly next to the city centre and the historic castle. It offers a wide stretch of sand, calm waters, and easy access to restaurants and promenades. For a larger shoreline, the nearby San Juan Beach extends several kilometres and provides additional facilities and a more spacious setting.

What cultural events are common in Alicante?

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Alicante hosts several cultural events throughout the year. The most prominent is the Bonfires of San Juan (Hogueras) in June, featuring large wooden sculptures and fireworks. The city also celebrates the Semana Santa (Holy Week) processions in spring and the Alicante Film Festival in October, which showcases international cinema. Seasonal music concerts and local festivals add to the cultural calendar.

What local dishes should I try in Alicante?

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Typical dishes to try in Alicante include arroz a banda, a rice dish cooked in fish stock and served with alioli; turrón, a nougat confection especially popular during holidays; and fresh seafood such as grilled sardines and caldero, a traditional fish stew. The region’s cuisine also features gazpacho, local wines, and the sweet pastry known as fartons, often enjoyed with café con leche.

Where can I find fresh seafood in Alicante?

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Seafood lovers can find fresh catches at the Port of Alicante’s fish market, Mercado Central, where vendors sell daily arrivals of fish, shellfish and squid. Numerous waterfront restaurants along the marina and the Explanada de España specialize in grilled fish, paella with seafood, and tapas featuring anchovies and mussels, providing authentic coastal flavors.