Alicante combines a historic city that’s easy to explore, urban beaches, Mediterranean cuisine, and a coast full of excursions. You can climb Santa Bárbara Castle in the morning, eat a rice dish by the sea, and end the day sailing or exploring the old town.
This selection brings together 25 ideas for a first visit and to discover more than just the city centre, with free, family-friendly, water-based activities, and getaways along the Costa Blanca.
Things to Do in Alicante: 25 Ideas
1. Climb Santa Bárbara Castle
Atop Mount Benacantil, the castle dominates the bay and offers views of the port, Postiguet, and the coast. Check current access and opening hours beforehand. You can explore its place in local history on a route through Alicante’s must-sees.
2. Stroll through the Santa Cruz Neighbourhood
Its steep streets, white houses, flowerpots, and small viewpoints form one of the city’s most characteristic corners.
3. Walk along the Explanada de España
The wavy mosaic promenade runs between palm trees and historic buildings next to the port and is especially pleasant at sunset.
4. Discover the Old Town
The Co-Cathedral of San Nicolás, the Basilica of Santa María, the City Hall, and the historic streets form a compact walking route.
5. Swim at Postiguet Beach
The best-known urban beach is next to the city centre and below the castle. In summer, it’s advisable to arrive early and avoid peak sun exposure hours.
6. Spend the Day at San Juan Beach
Its long sandy beach, promenade, and services work especially well for families and full beach days.
7. Explore the Coves of Cabo de la Huerta
These small coves and rocky areas offer an alternative to the large beaches. Wear appropriate footwear and check sea conditions.
8. Take an Excursion to Tabarca
The only inhabited island in the Valencian Community preserves a walled enclosure and is surrounded by a marine reserve. Check seasonal boat schedules.
9. Get to Know the Marina
The waterfront connects the Explanada with the port and is a good place to stroll, have a drink, or start a nautical activity.
10. Explore Alicante by Bike
The Alicante City & Beach route combines city and coast; the wine and tapas tour adds local gastronomy.
11. Visit the Central Market
It’s a good introduction to the fish, seafood, vegetables, cured meats, and products of the province. Visit in the morning and check holiday hours.
12. Try Alicante Rice Dishes
Arroz a banda, arroz del senyoret, and other local recipes combine seafood and garden produce. Some restaurants prepare them by order.
13. Go on a Tapas and Wine Route
The wine and tapas experience for foodies discovers establishments away from the most touristy areas.
14. Enjoy a Tasting with Views
A craft beer tasting in Santa Bárbara allows you to combine heritage and local products. Check date availability.
15. Visit the MARQ
The Archaeological Museum helps understand the historical evolution of the province and is a useful alternative on rainy days or during intense heat.
16. Get to Know the MACA and MUBAG
These two museums are located in the historic area and can be combined with Santa María, the City Hall, and Santa Cruz.
17. Watch the Sunset over the Mediterranean
You can also experience it on a boat from Altea or on a catamaran from Jávea.
18. Sail along the Costa Blanca
Options include a catamaran tour around Peñón de Ifach and sailing around Cabo de San Antonio.
19. Hire a Boat Without a Licence
Rentals in Villajoyosa allow you to explore the Marina Baixa. Check capacity, deposit, weather, and authorised area.
20. Kayak through Coves
Two prominent routes explore the coves of Villajoyosa and Cala Granadella.
21. Try Parasailing
It can be practiced in Alicante or from Torrevieja. Operations depend on wind and sea conditions.
22. Explore the Coast by Jet Ski
There are routes from Torrevieja and different tours through the coves, the island, and Benidorm bay.
23. Experience a Mountain Adventure
Choose between the Redován family via ferrata, the full section, and the Callosa family via ferrata.
24. Discover Villajoyosa, Altea, or Calpe
Villajoyosa stands out for its colourful houses; Altea, for its white old town; and Calpe, for the Peñón de Ifach. All three can be combined with a boat trip, kayaking, or gastronomy.
25. Dedicate a Day to Benidorm or Torrevieja
Benidorm concentrates beaches, family entertainment, and nautical activities. Torrevieja adds salt lagoons and numerous sea experiences.
What to Do Based on Trip Type
| Trip | Suggested activities |
|---|---|
| First Visit | Castle, Santa Cruz, Explanada, Old Town, and Postiguet |
| Families | San Juan, Tabarca, ferries, and easy kayaking |
| Couples | Sunset boat trip, Altea, tapas, and Santa Cruz |
| Adventure | Jet skiing, parasailing, kayaking, canyoning, and via ferratas |
| Gastronomy | Market, rice dishes, tapas, wines, and tastings |
How Many Days Are Needed
One day allows you to see the castle, city centre, Explanada, and Postiguet. With two or three days, you can add Tabarca, gastronomy, and a sea activity. A longer stay allows you to explore the Costa Blanca without constant travel.
Tips Before Booking
- Check availability and meeting point for the exact date.
- Sea conditions may alter an outing.
- Review minimum age, physical requirements, and included equipment.
- In summer, book in advance and avoid midday hours for walking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What shouldn’t I miss?
Prioritise Santa Bárbara, Santa Cruz, the Explanada, the old town, and a beach. With an additional day, add Tabarca or a coastal excursion.
Is it a good destination with children?
Yes. The urban beaches, promenades, and several maritime excursions are well-suited for families, always checking ages and conditions.
Can it be visited without a car?
The city centre and waterfront can be explored on foot. Public transport connects beaches and several coastal towns.
What is the best time of year?
Spring and autumn are comfortable for the city and outdoors. Summer offers a livelier atmosphere and maritime services; winter, fewer crowds.
For travel connections, see our guide to Alicante and the Costa Blanca without a car.
Consult all available experiences and excursions in Alicante and confirm updated conditions before booking.
