What can be visited in spain near alicante. Cities near Alicante. What to see near Alicante? What and where to try

Today we will talk about the city of Alicante, Spain. The sights of this resort town are hardly known to a wide range of travel lovers, but in vain - there is something to see here! Alicante is the capital of the Costa Blanca resort region, located in eastern Spain. Its name comes from the endless stretch of white sandy beaches that this part of the country is so famous for.

The city has everything you need for recreation and entertainment on the sea coast, while there are also a number of historical attractions, including a medieval fortress and a classic Mediterranean Old city with whitewashed houses and cobbled streets. In the morning you will visit museums and churches, and in the afternoon you can swim in the crystal clear water or take a nap under an umbrella on the beach. The modern tram network of Alicante allows you to easily get from one end of the city to the other.

Fort Santa Barbara. | Photo: wikimedia.

Arriving in Alicante, it is simply impossible not to pay attention to its rich historical past, because the city was built at the base of the magnificent castle of Santa Barbara of the 9th century. This fortification was involved in the hostilities more than once, while it was impeccably preserved.

You can take a high-speed elevator here that will take you straight to the top of the mountain, and for the adventurous, there is a winding path leading to the entrance. It is better to allocate the whole day for exploring Santa Barbara, as there are a lot of interesting things here.

Climb up to the rooftop observation deck for breathtaking views of the city and see the castle's ancient rooms that house curious artefacts. There is a market in the courtyard where they sell trinkets and handmade souvenirs. You can take a break from antiquity in one of the many cafes.

Address: Castell de la Santa Barbara, 03002 Alacant, Spain.

Esplanade boulevard. | Photo: wikimedia.

The marble promenade of Alicante is very convenient to navigate, as it starts in the old town and stretches along the beach area and the port. In most Spanish cities, family walks along the coast are an integral part of life, so be sure to take a walk along the Esplanade to get into the values ​​​​of the Spanish way of life.

The boardwalk offers stunning views of the coast, and after dark in the summer, this brightly lit driveway offers a life-saving fresh sea breeze.

Address: Explanada de España, Alicante, Spain.

El Palmeral Park. | Photo: Roger Toledo. / Flickr.

El Palmeral Park, with its lush vegetation, waterfalls and many palm trees, is a small piece of Eden, located very close to the city center. Once here, you will immediately stumble upon a small waterfall, a nice well-groomed garden or a bridge next to the waterfall.

The park has restrooms and a small kiosk where you can buy food and drinks, however we advise you to bring your own picnic food as it is expensive here. In this cozy park you can take a break from the bustle of the city and enjoy getting to know the local flora.

Address: Parque el Palmeral, Avinguda d'Elx, 109, 03008 Alacant, Spain.

Modern Art Museum

Modern Art Museum.

Housed in the 17th century Casa de la Asegurada, this superb museum displays an excellent collection of 20th century Spanish art, including works by Dalí, Miró, Chillida, Sempere, Tàpies and Picasso.

The exposition is constantly changing, because the entire collection is too impressive. It was based on works donated to the city by the famous abstract artist Eusebio Sempere (a native of Alicante), whose work is dedicated to a separate section here.

Address: Museu d'Art Contemporani Maca, Plaza Sta. María, 3, 03002 Alicante (Alacant), Alicante, Spain.

Archaeological Museum of Alicante

Archaeological Museum of Alicante. | Photo: wikimedia.

This museum houses an impressive collection of pottery and artifacts from ancient Iberian art. Everything here is decorated in a very modern style, for the convenience of visitors there are interactive screens. There are also regular temporary exhibitions.

Address: Museu Arqueològic d'Alacant MARQ, Placa Dr. Gomez Ulla, S/N, 03013 Alacant, Spain.

In the very center of the city, not far from the town hall, there is the Cathedral of St. Nicholas of the 17th century, built and named after the patron saint of Alicante - St. Nicholas. And although the exterior of the cathedral looks quite simple, its imposing interior will definitely make a strong impression on you.

The luxurious gilded altar and the magnificent chapel of the Holy Communion deserve special attention. This unique historical monument is an example of the Herrera style, the Spanish architectural school of the 16th-17th centuries. Herrera buildings are distinguished by strict facades and clear geometric lines.

Address: Concatedral d'Alacant Sant Nicolau de Bari, Plaza del Abad Penalva, Alicante, Spain.

This old part of Alicante, a bit like a village, is located near the city center. Casco Antiguo stretches along the hillside below the castle, and in order to get around it completely, you will have to climb its steep streets and stairs, hidden between high whitewashed walls.

Locals are proud of their homes, decorating balconies and doorsteps with fresh flowers and painting door shutters blue and green. If you need a breather, you can always stop at one of the many cafes and restaurants, of which there are a lot in this part of the city.

Address: Barri Vell - Santa Creu, Alicante, Spain.

Alicante boasts a picturesque and spacious harbor with huge breakwaters. It is always full of yachts and private boats, and the local yacht club is full of life day and night. Tourists are very fond of visiting the harbor, so there are many various cafes and restaurants near it, where you can safely drink coffee while admiring the sea horizon.

The promenade is an ideal place for daytime walks under the bright sun. At night this place becomes even busier. We advise you to go here for a romantic dinner in one of the restaurants on the waterfront, which offer a gorgeous view of the marina.

Address: Marina Deportiva del Puerto, Muelle 8 Zona de Levante, s/n, 03001 Alicante, Spain.

Price calendar for tours in Alicante:

Church of St. Mary

Church of St. Mary. | Photo: wikimedia.

The Basilica of Saint Mary, located in the historic quarter of Santa Cruz, is the oldest church in Alicante. It was built by the Catholic Monarchs in the 13th century on the site of a former mosque. Initially, it had a Gothic appearance, but then in the 18th century the church was rebuilt in the Baroque style.

On the main facade of the exterior, there is a sculpture of the Virgin Mary, on which Juan Bautista Borja worked. Inside the church, note the rococo high altar and ornate chapels.

Address: Esglesia de Santa Maria d'Alacant, Plaza Santa María, Alicante, Spain.

Archaeological Museum Lucentum. | Photo: wikimedia.

The ruins of the Roman city of Lucentum, which is considered the predecessor of Alicante, are located about 3 km east of the city center in the town of Tossal de Manises. During the excavations, archaeologists discovered many samples of pottery.

Arriving here, you can see the outlines of the ancient streets, as well as see the ruins of the baths, the forum, a large house with a columned courtyard and other dwellings of the ancient Romans.

Address: Lucentum Ruinas Romanas, 03016 Alacant, Spain.

City hall. | Photo: wikimedia.

The City Hall is located just behind the Explanada de Espana park near Plaza Puerta del Mar. This grandiose Baroque building features a beautiful Churrigueresque façade and two imposing towers 35 meters high.

At the stairs leading to the building, you can find a topographical sign - a zero mark, used in Spain to measure the height above sea level. Once inside, be sure to go to the incredibly beautiful "blue room" (Salón Azul). It also houses a number of curious paintings by the legendary Dali.

Address: Ajuntament d'Alacant, Plaça de l'Ajuntament, 1, 03002 Alacant, Spain.

Postiguet beach. | Photo: wikimedia.

Postiguet Beach, which is rightfully considered one of the most beautiful beaches Alicante. It is truly huge and stretches along the entire city up to neighboring San Juan. Just a few hours spent on stunning white sand lapped by clear blue waters will let you forget about the hustle and bustle of the bustling city.

At the height of the summer season, Alicante attracts thousands of tourists, and many fly here precisely because of the Postiguet beach, so it is always crowded here. However, do not despair, because you can go sunbathing in less popular and well-known areas where there are no crowds of people.

Walk along the promenade away from the city center towards the opposite end of the beach to enjoy more relaxing holiday. There are beach bars where you can enjoy a magnificent view of the sea. At sunset, it makes sense to take a walk along the promenade and drop into one of the many beach restaurants to taste the local food.

Address: Platja del Postiguet, Carrer de Jovellanos, Alicante, Spain.

This charming and romantic park with giant green trees symbolizes the locals' tribute to the famous writer Gabriel Miro. The center of the square is decorated with a magnificent fountain with classical statues, and a bust of Gabriel Miro himself can be found at one end of the square.

Along the edges of the square are magnificent buildings in the Art Nouveau style and other monumental buildings. You can go for a walk here to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city (fortunately, the square is located very close to the center). Visitors can relax on the terrace or take a leisurely walk through the ancient trees dotted with ancient trees in the park.

Address: Plaza Gabriel Miró, 03001 Alicante, Spain.

Volvo Ocean Race Museum. | Photo: Jose Luis RDS / Flickr.

This museum is dedicated to the rich history of the famous Volvo Ocean Race around the world. It shows visitors photos and videos of races from previous years, and offers the opportunity to ride a 3D simulator to experience the incredible spirit of the competition. Here you can look at one of the yachts participating in the competition: how about jumping on board and spending 10 months here on the high seas?

Address: Museo Volvo Ocean Race, Muelle Levante, 10, 03001 Alicante, Spain.

Central market. | Photo: wikimedia.

If you like to cook for yourself, then there is no reason not to visit this large indoor market on Alfonso el Sabio Avenue. Spain's central markets are more like temples of food, and Alicante is no exception. Here you will find many fish and meat stalls and at the same time find true culinary inspiration!

Seafood stands are a special pride of the market: their counters are almost always bursting with fresh crabs, lobsters, squids and other delicious seafood. Fresh fruits and vegetables are also plentiful, while you can find local delicacies like turrona and try Mistela, a sweet dessert wine.

Address: Mercat Central d'Alacant, Avenida Alfonso El Sabio, Alicante, Spain.

Island New Tabarka. | Photo: santapolero / Flickr.

Not far from the coast of Alicante is the amazing island of Tabarca. Here is a picturesque little town with white houses and an old church. Getting to the island is not difficult, since boats depart from the port of Alicante daily.

The boat trip itself will give you a lot of positive experiences, as the waters around Tabarka are considered a Mediterranean marine reserve for their outstanding beauty, amazing flora and fauna. There is a restaurant and a shop on the island, but we recommend that you take everything you need for a picnic with you, as prices can be “biting” in the summer season.

There is a beach and a small coastal path that you can walk along looking for the perfect picnic spot under the bright Spanish sun. Be sure to bring sunscreen with you, because there will be nowhere to hide from its rays!

Address: Nova Tabarca, Spain.

Elche palm forest. | Photo: wikimedia.

About 20 minutes west of Alicante is the city of Elche, where you will find the largest palm forest in Europe, which was planted by the first Muslims who settled here in the early Middle Ages. More than 200,000 trees grow here, most of which belong to the species phoenix dactylifera (the pollen date).

Interestingly, these trees have never been in Spain - they appeared here only with the arrival of the Moors. The forest is an object world heritage UNESCO, and the best way to get to know it is by walking along the Ruta del Palmeral, a circular hiking trail that starts and ends at San Placido Gardens.

Address: El Palmeral, Passeig de l'Estació, s/n, 03202 Elx, Alacant, Spain.

Alicante or Alakán (in Catalan) is a Spanish city, the capital of the province of Valencia. In the world, it is famous as the friendliest resort in Spain, which significantly increases its popularity among, including Russian-speaking tourists. Alicante is located on the Mediterranean coast and is considered a famous tourist center. Here, visitors will be able to perfectly combine passive and active types of recreation thanks to a line of beaches and an amazing cluster of attractions in Alicante. The architecture of the city embodied the features of the Gothic, Greek, Moorish and Romanesque styles, seasoning them with Baroque and Art Nouveau.

In addition to a really warm welcome, the city is able to provide guests with many entertainments at any time of the year. The mild Mediterranean climate is conducive not only to beach relaxation or long walks. Local gastronomy deserves special attention, which impresses with a variety of unique dishes: Spanish paella, seafood, sweet turrona, horchata - all this is presented in local restaurants and cafes.

Attractions of Alicante, which are worth seeing in the first place

The sights of Alicante are scattered throughout the city, and in order to cover them all, it is important to first read the information on the Internet. This will allow you to competently plan your vacation, soak up the maximum of emotions and bring home a lot of vivid photos. If there is no time on your trip to get to know all the interesting locations, then you should find time to look at least at the best sights of Alicante. These are really top places, imbued with a special Spanish spirit and capable of taking a tourist through several historical eras at once.

Top 10 main attractions of Alicante

Excursions to the sights of Alicante

Vacationers always strive to see more interesting places in a new city. And this applies not only to famous tourist locations. Sometimes the most unusual is hidden outside of public information, but known to local residents. For example, people who moved from Russia to live in Alicante.
The online service allows you to find a Russian-speaking guide who will conduct the most complete and informative tour not only of traditional places, but also of the most striking and memorable places. The advantage of the service is the ability to see the sights of Alicante as part of a group or individual tourist walk, the site displays detailed information about the guide, time, conditions and cost of visiting.

Attractions of Alicante and surroundings with photos and descriptions

As mentioned earlier, the city is full of many interesting and impressive places that differ in form and content. Architecture aficionados will find an abundance of styles and designs, history buffs will enjoy the atmosphere, and cultural enthusiasts will be able to visit the many exhibitions. The main sights of Alicante are a must-see for visitors to the city, so it's worth planning your itinerary in as much detail as possible to familiarize yourself with each of them.

Top 30 attractions in Alicante

1. Fort Santa Barbara

The fortification is a hallmark of the Spanish city. The observation decks of the legendary castle provide visitors with unique panoramic views of the sea and the port. The medieval fortress is located on Mount Benacantil and consists of three levels, which gradually lined up at different times. There is also a museum of the history of Alicante, as well as a space with a demonstration of ancient wall and siege weapons.
Entrance for everyone is free. Sometimes paid exhibitions are held on the territory. The building is open daily: in summer from 10-00 to 22-00, in winter until 20-00.

2. Esplanade of Spain Boulevard

One of the symbols of Alicante, the Explanada Boulevard is the busiest place in the city. The pavement is decorated with ornate patterns, which required more than 6 million different stones. The boulevard is perfect for leisurely walks in the shade of palm trees with a glass of local ice cream. The Esplanade is 500 meters long.
On the way, strolling visitors and locals will meet many entertainment and catering establishments, banks and shops, as well as a handicraft market. Shows and concerts are often held on the boulevard in a special pavilion.

3. Port of Alicante

The seaport can be considered one of the main symbols. The port of Alicante has united the transport, entertainment, trade, and commercial sectors. For the latter, there is even a separate area: restaurants, park areas, casinos, gaming complexes, gardens, jogging and cycling paths.
The convenient location in the south-western part made it possible to combine the center of passenger traffic with commercial activities. You can walk from the city center, but if you want to get there by transport, you can use a bus or taxi at a price of 2 to 17 euros.

4. Santa Cruz quarter

The oldest quarter is located at the foot of the Santa Barbara fortification and is a labyrinth of narrow streets. The area was created by the Moors in the 13th century, so there is an oriental flavor that is not inherent in the city.
The central figure of the quarter is the Basilica of Santa Maria, which appeared at the end of the 14th century and marked the victory over the Moors. The lanes themselves will also please with a variety of colors. Callejón del Agua Street is considered especially memorable. For a walk, it is better to put on comfortable sports shoes, as there are many stairs and narrow passages along the way.

5. Tabarka Island

The largest island of the autonomous region of Valencia is located an hour from the city (19 km). The most convenient way to get to it is by boat. Once upon a time, the shores were under the reliable protection of Barbary pirates, and according to legend, countless treasures are hidden in the azure waters.
At the moment, Tabarca remains the only inhabited island in Valencia (officially about 135 people live here), and here travelers will be met by a village of fishermen with their own central square and colorful houses. There are also uninhabited parts with a lighthouse and picturesque vegetation.

6. Archaeological Museum

The Museum of Archeology (also known as MARQ) opened in 1932 on the site of the Palace of Deputies, but already in 2000 it moved in full force to the former San Juan Hospital. Today it is one of the largest archaeological museums in Spain. About 81 thousand exhibits are permanently located here. QR codes are provided in the halls so that visitors can listen to the audio guide.
The average duration of a visit is about 1-2 hours. The museum is open from 10:00 to 19:00. The entrance ticket is 3 euros.

7. Volvo Ocean Race Museum

This art space has no analogues in the world today. The building of the former maritime station within the port of Alicante has become an information area for people who are interested in the round the world sailing race of the same name. In the museum, visitors will be able to touch the yachts that have already participated in the most famous regattas, as well as see unique footage from the events.
Entry is free for everyone. The museum is open in winter from 10:00 to 14:00 on Tuesdays-Thursdays and Sundays, from 16:00 to 20:00 on Fridays and Saturdays. In the summer, from Tuesday to Saturday, the doors are open from 10-00-14-00, on Sunday visitors are expected from 10-00 to 14-00.

8. Museum of Modern Art

The Museum of Modern Art has collected many works of art by contemporary artists. The art space remains one of the most beloved and famous cultural projects in the city. It is located in an old baroque building in the old part of the city. 4000 square meters and 4 floors - this is how much space is occupied by expositions from the world of graphics, sculpture and painting. More than 170 works by famous artists are constantly presented here.
Entrance for everyone is free. The day off is Monday. The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 to 21:00 (break from 14:00 to 17:00), on Sunday and holidays from 10:30 to 14:30.

9. Church of St. Mary

St. Mary's Church is an active church. This is the oldest cathedral in Alicante, built in the 14th-16th century. The Gothic basilica with elements of the Spanish Baroque is located in the old part of the city. Throughout its existence, the church was repeatedly completed and restored. Above the main entrance is amazing beauty sculpture of the Virgin Mary.
You can visit the building for free. Times vary according to the activities. But the standard work schedule is Monday-Saturday from 10-30 to 21-00 with a break from 13-00 to 17-30.

10. Central Market

The central market is a space full of life, open in any weather. The market building is one of the most popular sights of Alicante due to the fact that it is covered with ancient stone bas-reliefs, stucco and mosaics with animal and plant motifs.
The square, located near the market, is a stop for almost all urban transport. Mercado is open from 7:00 to 14:30 from Monday to Friday, on Saturday it opens from 7:00 to 15:00. Sunday is a day off. Closer to closing, many sellers make good discounts on products.

11. Guadalest Valley

The valley is a place that is located somewhat away from the main tourist points. Several striking monuments of culture and history have accumulated here at once, including the castles of Castillo de San Jose and Valle de Bravo, an observation deck against the backdrop of the lake, a dozen museums, souvenir shops and even a botanical garden with "live" dinosaurs.

12. Alicante Light Rail System

The Spanish city's metro system is something between a light rail and a light rail system, consisting of 5 lines and 69 stations. Underground areas are located in the city center. It is assumed that the subway will consist of 9 lines, which are being actively completed at the moment.
The price of the trip can be around 1.45 euros. When buying a magnetic card, the cost of the trip will be 0.8 euros (if charged immediately for 10 or 30). They are sold at tobacconists and subway ticket offices.

13. San Juan Beach

San Juan Beach is an excellent space for a passive summer holiday. The sand strip stretches for more than 3 km. The sea beauty is also complemented by a palm line. The wide beach allows you to comfortably accommodate a large number of people.
Tram stop 4 is nearby. A sunbed can be rented for 4 euros, together with an umbrella it will cost tourists 8 euros. You can bring your own.

14. Luceros Square

The square has a round shape, which is surrounded on all sides by avenues. One of the most beautiful city fountains, built in 1930, is located in the center. Piazza Luceros is the area where many tourist buses depart from.
This is a great place for a relaxing walk and outdoor recreation. Here you can also take some original photographs.

15. Gabriel Miro Square

Gabriel Miro Square in the historical part is considered the greenest square in the city, as a cozy park is located here. Around the square you can find a wide variety of small restaurants and cafes.
The main attractions here are the centuries-old trees that give the impression of a tropical park. Here you can spend time sitting on the benches and listening to the singing of various birds.

16. St. Nicholas Cathedral

The Cathedral of St. Nicholas in the heart of the city was built on the ruins of a destroyed mosque in the period 1600-1662. The civil war of 1936-1939 significantly damaged the building. After a large-scale reconstruction, it was possible to return the amazingly beautiful appearance of the building.
The cathedral can be visited free of charge daily from 7-30 to 12-30 and from 17-30 to 19-30. Schedule may vary depending on events.

17. Gravin Museum of Fine Arts

The expositions occupied the 18th century palace of Count Luminares, which is also commonly known as the Gravin Palace. Today, amazing collections of sculpture and painting are presented here for a wide audience. The museum opened in 2001 and already has about 500 paintings by prominent artists.
There is also modern multimedia equipment that allows you to broadcast audiovisual presentations.

18. San Fernando Castle

The fortification of San Fernando was built to resist Napoleon, and the castle appeared on the hill of San Francisco in three years. But the great French commander changed his route, so the Catalan soldiers never managed to visit the castle.
For a long time, the building simply collapsed, until local residents and authorities took up the reconstruction, which is still ongoing. Today there is a beautiful park and a viewing platform.

19. House of Carbonel

The building was built between 1921-1925 and is currently located right in the tourist area. The superb architecture has received many French Neo-Baroque elements and the façade is neoclassical.
You can find the building within walking distance of the city port. This is a residential building, so tourists can only externally appreciate the scale and beauty.

20. Ship "Holy Trinity"

The first class Spanish ship of the line is a replica of the Escorial of the Seas built in 1769. For its era, "Escorial" had unusual luxury and splendor: noble wood and incredible size.
The ship was a participant in many historical battles, but in the Battle of Trafalgar she received serious damage and two hundred dead and wounded on board. Not far from Cadiz, while being towed in 1805, the ship sank.

21. Postiguet Beach

The kilometer sand line is located near Mount Benacantil in the central part of the city. Esplanda de España stretches along the coast, surrounded by palm trees on both sides. The highlight of the promenade was a special laying of tiles with a three-dimensional effect.
The entrance to the beach is closed from 3-00 to 8-30. You can rent a sunbed or umbrella for 6 euros, and a chair for 2 euros.

22. Canalejas Park

Canalejas Park was founded in 1886 and remains the oldest park with a ficus forest. The vegetation present in this area can be over a hundred years old.
For athletes and outdoor enthusiasts, there are fitness equipment, and for young visitors to the park there are several playgrounds.

23. Eret Park

Eret Park is a space from where each of the visitors can take a fresh look at nature. There are family recreation areas, cultural objects, museum and other interesting things.
The green zone is a multiple planting of various flowers, shrubs and trees. There is also a beautiful fountain here.

24. El Palmeral Park

Another great place for both secluded and family vacations. There are benches near the lake and in the shade of palm trees. Tourists and locals can rent a boat at the boat station and take a boat trip on the lake.
On holidays, the park hosts a variety of events and performances.

25. Building of the Municipality of Alicante

The building was built in the old part near the beach in the 18th century and is an example of the Spanish Renaissance and Baroque. 3 floors are framed at the edges by towers 35 meters high. There are numerous religious elements in the design.
Behind the massive iron gates, visitors are greeted by a Dali sculpture. The interior space is open to the public.

26. Quijano Pantheon

The Pantheon appeared in the center of Santa Teresa Park. The stone mausoleum was opened in honor of Trino Gonzalez de Quijano, who was the governor of the Spanish city. So the monument became a symbol of tragedy and fortitude, which was inherent in this man. Quijano stayed in Alicante when the cholera epidemic raged. It was this disease that mowed him down in 1854. There is a legend that the remains of Trino are in the mausoleum.

27. Museum and Bullfighting Arena

The museum is located almost on the territory of the arena itself. Here are various elements of bullfighting: photos of matadors, paraphernalia and costumes, posters and much more.
You can go to the Arena and take some amazing pictures, as well as feel the amazing atmosphere of past human victories. Visitors will enjoy free entry.

28. Water Museum

It is here that visitors can get acquainted in detail with the history of hydraulic structures, in particular, the famous Harrison wells. An interesting fact is that at the time of its appearance it was a time-ahead device that was designed to collect rainwater.
Multiple expositions dedicated to water are presented on all three floors of the building. There are also photographs, various equipment and literature.

29. Monastery of the Holy Face

The building was erected in 1766 from hewn stone and in the design received a mixture of Baroque and Renaissance architectural styles. The monastery received the form of a Latin cross with four chapels.
It is here that the famous canvas with the Holy Face of Jesus Christ is preserved. Every year, a procession is held here, called "Romeria".

30. Fernando de Loases Library

The library center appeared in 1547, and during its existence a unique and large-scale library and archival fund has gathered here. There are many halls, including exhibition, children's and historical.
The main hall received a valuable collection of portraits from the 16th-18th centuries. The library remains a very important part of the city due to its vast information heritage.

Attractions of Alicante and surroundings on the map

A map of Alicante with sights in Russian will be a great opportunity for you to plan routes for each day in advance in order to cover all the beauties of the city as much as possible.
Check out all the sights of Alicante on the city map in advance to understand what really interests you in the first place, and what can be postponed until your next visit to Spain.

Tourist.Ru

This article provides a rating of the main attractions of Alicante and the surrounding area in 2020 with a photo and description. The best sights of Alicante are shown on the map. You will also learn what to see and where to go in Alicante, first of all on your own and with children, as well as get acquainted with the sights of the province of Alicante in the cities of Benidorm, Elche, Torrevieja and others. Informative and interesting excursions in Alicante are available as part of the project.

Alicante is a picturesque area between Murcia and Valencia, which is rich in historical, natural, religious and architectural attractions. The Costa Blanca attracts millions of tourists every year from all over the world, because it is here that you can catch more than 300 sunny days a year. You can diversify your beach holiday with walks and sightseeing.

Arriving in the city of Alicante, it is impossible not to notice the main attraction - the fortress of Santa Barbara on Mount Benacantil. The fortress of St. Barbara has been towering over the city since the 9th century, but earlier household items dating back to the Bronze Age were found in its place.

At the foot of the mountain lies the ancient district of Santa Cruz, walking along which will allow you to plunge into the atmosphere of Alicante and feel the national flavor.

The jewel of the city is the port of Alicante, which is used for both commercial and passenger traffic. The ship "Holy Trinity", now serving as a museum, is moored in the port for eternal rest. You can also visit the sailing museum in the port.

Very popular walking places are the Alicante promenade and the Puerta del Mar square with the Carbonel house. The house has a very interesting history and superb pompous architecture, making it one of the most photographed in Alicante.

From Puerta del Mar begins the famous Esplanade Boulevard, which attracts tourists with a palm alley with mosaics. In the evening, the boulevard is filled with street performers and musicians.

A relatively new, but beloved tourist attraction is Mushroom Street or San Francisco Street. The once dangerous and criminal street in 2013, by decree of the mayor, was decorated with huge mushrooms, which served to attract tourists and open legal businesses on it.

The sights of Alicante are not limited to the territory of the city. In the province, it is worth visiting the Aitana Safari Park - a unique habitat for wild and rare animals, which is worth spending a whole day to visit. In Elche there is a large zoo "Rio Safari", and in Benidorm the zoo "Terra Natura" deserves attention.

As part of the tour, travelers often visit the island of Tabarka, which is famous for its authentic fishing village and picturesque landscapes.

Undoubtedly, the number of surviving castles and fortresses in the province of Alicante is amazing, which is quite a difficult task to go around in one trip. The most visited are Santa Pola Fortress, San Fernando Fortress, Biar Castle, Saks Castle and many others.

If a limited amount of time is allocated for sightseeing in cities, then it is worth starting the voyage by visiting the main iconic places.

Alicante is not only the fortress of Santa Barbara, the Basilica of Santa Maria and the Esplanade Boulevard. A personal route to the best sights can be built taking into account interests and time. It would be an unfortunate omission not to include the museums of Alicante in your list, especially since most of them do not charge an entrance fee.

History buffs will appreciate the MARQ archaeological museum and the excavations of the Roman city of Lucentum. The Fogueres Museum or the Fire Museum will tell the history and development of a major holiday - San Juan, the main characters of which are bonfires and fireworks. The Belem Museum will appeal not only to adults, but also to children. Here is a unique collection of handmade Christmas miniatures.

The cultural program can be diversified by visiting the theater. The main theater of Alicante "Teatro Principal" has been open since 1847. Its facade is made in neoclassical style, and the interior ideas are taken from the Italians.

Palmeral Park is a favorite place for walks of tourists and locals. Palm Park is located on the coast a few kilometers from the city center. Much closer is Ereta Park - at the foot of Mount Benacantil. It is from the park that an excellent panorama of the city opens. Quiet and cozy square Gabriel Miro is famous for centuries-old ficuses.

The architectural appearance of the city is complemented by the Central Market of Alicante. Erected at the beginning of the last century, the market building perfectly reflects the eclectic style.

If you have time, you can go sightseeing in the area. The Monastery of the Holy Face or Santa Faz is located 5 km from the center of Alicante. This monastery is popular among travelers because it is here that a piece of canvas is kept, with which Saint Veronica touched the face of Christ during the procession.

Canelobre Cave is located 23 km from Alicante. The entrance to the karst cave is located at 700 m above sea level. Canelobre is a popular destination for lovers of active tourism and natural beauties due to its unusual shape, illuminated stalactites and tunnels.

The sights of Benidorm are not inferior in importance and beauty to the iconic places of the city of Alicante. The most visited place can be called the "Mediterranean Balcony" - an observation deck on a rock, offering excellent views of the sea, beaches and the island of Benidorm. The highest public observation deck is located at the Gran Hotel Bali. No less popular is the Cross of Benidorm, from where the city can be seen at a glance.

One of the best places to admire the city from is Tossal de la Cala. On a picturesque mountain, in addition to viewing platforms, it is worth visiting the ruins of an ancient Iberian settlement and the Ermita Virgen del Mar chapel.

Not inferior in popularity to the port of Benidorm and the Old Town. Walking through the Old Town, you will certainly see the Church of St. Joachim and St. Anne, built in the 18th century. Not far from the Old Town is Elche Park - the central park of the city. You can get to know the local nature in the best possible way in the Sierra Helada National Park.

A few kilometers from Benidorm is the fabulous castle of Count Alfaz, where demonstration medieval knightly tournaments are held.

25 km from Benidorm is one of the most important areas of the entire province of Alicante - the municipality of Guadalest. San José Castle and the Emerald Lake are the main attractions and symbols of the scenic area. Guadalest holds the record for the number of museums. By the way, all of them are unusual: the museum of microminiatures and microgiants, salt and pepper shakers, retro cars, the medieval torture museum, the ethnological museum of Guadalest and many others.

The small town of Elche is primarily famous for its palm forest, which many tourists rush to visit. Under the protection of UNESCO is the small Basilica of Santa Maria in Elche. Also in the ranking of the best attractions is the 15th century Altamira Palace, the 14th century Arab baths, the La Calahorra tower and the paleontological museum.

The sights of Torrevieja are not limited to the standard set of fortresses and cathedrals. The main tourist attraction is the pink lake of Torrevieja. The lake has a unique color due to the high content of salt and special bacteria. We can safely say that there are only a few such lakes in the world. Also in the city it is interesting to visit the Museum of the Sea and Salt, the museum of the submarine "S61 - Dolphin" and see the Torre del Moro tower.

In the province of Alicante, a huge number of castles from different eras have been preserved. The main attractions of the municipality of Orihuela are the castle and the cathedral of the same name. In Villena, you can visit Atalaya Castle, and in the small town of Novelda, the castle de la Mola is very popular next to the beautiful church of St. Mary Magdalene. The city of Alcoy attracts travelers with the historic Barcel Castle and incredible bridges erected in past centuries.

Whichever town in the province of Alicante you visit, you will be able to feel the national spirit everywhere, admire the beauty of nature and enjoy the splendor of ancient cathedrals and fortresses. To fully cover the main attractions of Alicante, it is better to rent a car.

Alicante for children

Holidays with children in Alicante will be unforgettable if you diversify it with a visit to the largest amusement parks.

In the city of Alicante, there is an amusement park "The World of Children" for children. School-age children may be interested in visiting the Water Museum, where they will tell in detail about the process of water supply. In Elche, there is the Rio Safari zoo, where you can not only watch animals, but also participate in the feeding process. For young intellectuals, a visit to the Elche Paleontological Museum is suitable.

In the coastal town of Santa Pola, the local oceanarium and Pola Park amusement park deserve attention. In Rojales, not far from Santa Pola, it is worth taking the baby to the Ciudad Quesada water park.

Benidorm presents a much wider range of children's entertainment. First of all, it is worth visiting the large zoo "Terra Natura" and the adjacent water park "Aqua Natura". Nearby is the amusement park and attractions "Terra Mitica". Closer to the coast is the Mundomar theme park and, next to the latter, the Aqualandia water amusement park.

10 km from Benidorm, in the municipality of Villajoyosa, there is the Valor Chocolate Museum, where you can learn about the history and production of the famous Spanish chocolate, as well as buy everyone's favorite treat. In the municipality of Gijón, there is another "delicious" museum. The Turron Museum is a kind of the only exposition that tells about the production of local delicacies. Naturally, turron can be tasted and purchased as a gift to relatives and friends.

Torrevieja attracts travelers with children with good opportunities for outdoor activities. The city has two water parks - "Aquapolis" and "Flamingo", as well as a large amusement park and attractions "Recinto Ferial".

The province of Alicante in Valencia is considered the most popular tourist region in this part of Spain. It is known for its cities of Torrevieja, Denia, Benidorm and, of course, the famous resort area of ​​Costa Blanca, whose numerous beaches are Blue Flag holders. The entire coast of the province is equipped with comfortable hotels.

Benidorm

This city is often called the Spanish Rio de Janeiro. It is worth noting that many English people live here.

Guests of Benidorm should definitely visit the famous Terra Mitica park. It was created in the form of a huge complex with attractions. Here you can get acquainted with real historical figures and countries that existed in different time in the Mediterranean.

Denia

The city is surrounded on two sides by Alicante and Valencia. It is located next to Mount Montgo. With Menorca, Mallorca and Ibiza, Denia is connected by ferry.
Tourists should visit the local castle, which is considered the main attraction of the city. It was built by the Moors. Now the premises of the castle are given to the Archaeological Museum. Next to this grandiose building are the old quarters of Denia with 2-3-story multi-colored buildings.

The noisiest area of ​​the city is the El Port quarter. There is an embankment next to it.

A rather original holiday “Bous a la Mar” takes place here, which means “Bulls in the Water” in Russian. It doesn't look like the famous Spanish blood bullfight at all. Animals are treated with respect here. During the festival, people bathe with them in the water. "Bous a la Mar" takes place in Dénia at the end of the summer.

Javea

Near Javea, you can explore the grandiose windmills. Medieval architecture is well preserved in the Old Town - the monastery of Nuestra Secora de Los Angeles and the temples of Santa Maria de Loreto and San Bartolomu. Fishing boats still moor to the local port.

The city is located next to Denia. Its main resort area is the beach area of ​​Playa de Arenal. Javea's seafront promenade is lined with numerous cafes and bars.

An hour and a half walk south separates Playa de Arenal from the Cabo de la Nao cliff that juts out into the sea. From its top you can admire picturesque views of the city and its surroundings.

Orihuela

Orihuela is one of the oldest cities in Valencia. It was founded by the ancient Romans. The coast of the resort is washed not only by the Mediterranean Sea, but also by the Segura River, which flows through Orihuela.

There are quite a lot of historical monuments in the city. Here you can visit the ruins of the castle. Some researchers claim that the Moors built it, while others say that the castle was built much earlier. The city has numerous religious buildings. First of all, we are talking about the strict Bishop's Palace, the majestic Cathedral of Salvador and Santa Maria and small charming churches. These structures are located on the territory of the city historical reserve.

The famous Spanish poet Miguel Hernandez was born in Orihuella. The city has many attractions associated with this outstanding personality. Tourists should visit the house-museum of the poet on the Hernanes Tract. A center has been opened in Orihuella where they study his heritage. Local students study at a branch of the university named after the poet.

The beach areas of the resort are covered with golden sand. Their total length is sixteen kilometers. True, they are not located in the city itself, but twenty kilometers from Orihuella. Lovers of yachting and water skiing come here.

Alcoy

Alcoy is located in the northern part of the province and is famous for its Moors and Christians festival, which takes place here in the second half of April. This is a magnificent reconstruction of the battle in which the Moors and Spaniards took part a thousand years ago.

The city is surrounded by mountain ranges, next to which you can visit the national parks of La Font Roye, Serret, Sierra els Planse and Sierra Mariole. All the highlands surrounding Alcoy have the common name Comtat. Outdoor enthusiasts come here to engage in mountaineering, mountain biking, trekking and ecotourism.

The city is also known for its bridges. The most grandiose of them is El Puente de Maria Cristina. It is located in the central part of Alcoy. It was built in the 19th century. Another grandiose bridge in the city is the recent creation of the architect Calatrava, which bears his name. This construction originates in the northern part of Alcoy, and ends in the area with the 50-meter Canalejas Viaduct, which is one of the main attractions of the city.
Alcoy is full of religious buildings. Tourists should visit the Casa de la Bolle chapel, the monastery of Santo Sepulcro, the churches of St. George of the 20th century and St. Mary of the 18th century.

The central city squares are Plaza Mayor and Plaza de Espana. Numerous holidays are held here, including the festival "Moors and Christians", which even has its own museum of Sant Jordi on the street. San Miguel, where the costumes and equipment of the participants of the event are presented, tells about its history and the present.

Agrotourism flourishes in the vicinity of the city. In one of the small villages of Ibi, Cochentaine or Benilloba, you can rent an excellent villa, which was built at the beginning of the last or even the century before last.

Guardamar del Segura

Tourists come here to relax on the well-maintained beaches, admire the picturesque sunsets and magical dunes. Once upon a time, the ancient Greeks and Iberians lived in this place. Excavations are still going on in the vicinity of Guardamar. From Alicante Airport, the resort is only an hour away by car or bus.

The city is located on the coast of Segura. Its population is approximately 12 thousand people. Guardamar is famous for its magnificent beaches with a total length of about 15 km. The length of the central city beach Playa Centro is one and a half kilometers. To the north of it is the beach of Playa de Babilonia, and to the south - La Roqueta. On the territory of the first, small covered gazebos are equipped. Near the city marina, you can relax on the nudist beach of Los Tusales, which is one and a half kilometers long.

Marina Guardamara is called de las Dunas. On its territory are engaged in all kinds of water activities. Numerous divers come here. Beginning windsurfers attend special courses. Here you can rent air skis, boats and yachts. The sports center of the resort occupies part of the Sant Jaume Palace. In addition, in Guardamar there is a Les Raboses sports complex.

Tourists should visit the main city attraction - a castle with an observation deck, from where picturesque sea views open. At the mouth of the Segura, the Phoenician port of La Fonteta was previously located, from which only ruins have survived to this day. Near the city in antiquity was the Iberian settlement of Cabezo Luquero. Now here you can visit its ruins. Also, the surroundings of Guardamar are the location of the foundation of the Muslim monastery of the X century.

Santa Pola

Semi-wild and well-maintained bays and yarns of Santa Pola stretch along the coast for 10 km. In the western part of the resort is its most popular beach, Gran Playa, and in the eastern part, Levante. Lovers of water sports, especially windsurfing, come here.

The resort is perfect for spending time with the whole family. Take your kids to the city aquarium or visit the Pola amusement park. You can get to the Rio Safari Park from the city in ten minutes. This place is inhabited by wild animals - crocodiles, lions and others. Also here you can get to the circus performance with trained residents of the park.

From Santa Pola arrange boat trips to the island of Tabarka. They cost ten euros. You can also visit the fish auction here.

History buffs should take a walk along the 16th century citadel, which protected the city from pirates. Here you can take a look at the Chapel of the Virgin of Loretta, expositions of museums of fishing and the sea.

The area around Santa Pola is also famous for the salt lakes of Las Salnias. Now they are part of the reserve - the habitat of huge colonies of flamingos.

Alicante is a popular Spanish resort located on the Costa Blanca. It was chosen by both locals and numerous tourists from all over the world. But here you can not only soak up the numerous beaches. This city has its own unique character. What to see in Alicante on your own? On this page of the site we will answer this question.

The main attraction of Alicante is the castle of St. Barbara

The hallmark of this city is Santa Barbara Castle. It is close to the main beaches and rises 166 meters above sea level on Mount Benacantil. From the city center to the castle can be reached in 10-15 minutes. Want to pass the time? Use the high-speed elevator to get to the top of the mountain.

You can see the amazing buildings of this castle for free. There is a museum inside it. With the help of which the difficult history of these places is described.

The main attraction, which is located in the city of Alicante, is the quarter of Santa Cruz. This ancient area, consisting of several narrow streets, is located at the foot of Benacantil. Santa Cruz is the real Spain. Not the one that appears in photographs in travel guides or pictures from the Internet.

It is in such places where the houses have not been repaired for a long time, and the neighbors pass the finished salt through the window without leaving their apartment, and most of the Spaniards live. Do you want to see their life? Head to the old city. But be careful. It is not uncommon to meet with representatives of the underworld who are eager to profit at the expense of tourists.

Basilica of St. Mary - a symbol of victory over the Moors

The Church of Santa Maria was built in the 14th century on the site of a former mosque. Gothic architecture, which "superimposed" on a Muslim religious building, looks atypical for Spain. Over time, new halls were added to the main building. Inside are sculptures of St. Mary and St. John. It is worth noting the gilded altar, made in the Rococo style.

Like the basilica described above, the Cathedral of St. Nicholas was erected on the site of the ruins of a Muslim mosque. Saint Nicholas is considered the patron saint of Alicante. But this saint is also the patron saint of travelers. Therefore, if you find yourself in this temple, you can ask Nikolai for something. It is believed that all the prayers uttered in this church will surely come true.

The construction of this complex began in 1616 and was completed in 1662. Later, it was repeatedly restored and completed. Experts note the unusual architectural style of this building. The relics of Saints Francis Javier and Felicita are kept in this temple.

An overview of the sights of this city cannot be imagined without mentioning the fortress of St. Fernando. This castle, which is located right in the center of Alicante, was built as a defensive structure against Napoleon's regiments. But the French did not come here.

This building consists of two interconnected bastions and several semi-bastions. A deep ditch was dug in front of the fortress. Today this place is very much loved by the locals. It is equipped with recreation areas, a football field and playgrounds.

Natural monuments of Alicante

In the review of the most interesting places in Alicante, natural monuments cannot be ignored. The most interesting of them is El Palmeral. There are many recreation areas, bike paths and a lake for boat trips. Most of the area is planted with picturesque palm trees. During the holidays, various events are held in this park.

Not far from the Esplanade promenade is Canalejas Park. It is inferior in territory to El Palmeral, but is famous for its trees. Many of which are over 100 years old. In addition to them, amazing ficuses grow in this park, decorative fountains and sculptures are installed. And the main highlight of this park is a huge map of Spain.