Alicante City Break: Sun, Sea and Surprises
Last Updated: November 14, 2025
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HOW TO GET HERE | WHERE TO STAY | THINGS TO DO | WHERE TO EAT | WHERE TO PARTY | STAYING SAFE
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Come and Relax or Explore, Alicante Has it All...
With sunny blue skies, glorious beaches that run to the horizon, warm Mediterranean seas and tapas on tap, I could forgive you for spending your Alicante city break doing nothing but relaxing.
Yet, if you like to get up and explore on your city breaks, Alicante has that too: boat trips around the coast, Islands to discover, a 9th-century castle to uncover and museums and markets await your visit.
I've been lucky enough to visit Alicante numerous times. Hence, I've relaxed, eaten, drunk and scoured the city, and I'm sure I will return soon.
In this blog, I will guide you through the narrow streets of Alicante, showing you everything from where to stay, where to eat, where to drink and what to do on your Alicante city break.
What's Alicante, Spain Like?
Alicante is a small city with busy, narrow streets and high-rise buildings, and, on the whole, it feels like a bit of a concrete jungle. Tables and chairs line the humming streets, making it difficult to weave your way from place to place. At first, it's tricky getting your bearings, and every street looks the same.
Because of this, unless you can see the imposing Santa Barbara Castle, which overlooks the city and its coastline, it's easy to get lost in the maze of crisscrossing pathways, roads and small plazas. All you have to do is think, beach downhill, city uphill.
Likewise, it is vibey, colourful and edgy, but in a way that isn't dangerous, more... loved. You feel a sense of pride from the locals when on an Alicante city break, and you cannot help but feel happy.
Yet, when you reach the Mediterranean on the southern tip of the city, it opens up, and the enclosed streets become a wide tree-lined esplanade, boats dock in the vast open waters, and the sparkling beach runs off into the distance.
How to Get To Alicante
Unless you're already in Spain, I expect you'll be arriving at Alicante–Elche Miguel Hernández Airport. Yeah, it's a bit of a mouthful. Hence, it's known as Alicante Airport.
Alicante Airport is near the coastal neighbourhood of Urbanova, about twenty-five minutes south of Alicante.
Ultimately, the best way to get from Alicante Airport to Alicante is on the C6 bus. It leaves every twenty minutes between 5am and midnight, stopping at numerous locations across the city, including but not limited to the bus station, the seafront, the Central Market, and the train station. Check all stops here. The bus will take around twenty-five to thirty minutes and costs €3.85 each way per person.
If you're already in Spain and travelling on a budget or from a nearby location, such as Valencia, you should look at the bus or coach.
If you do, you will arrive at the Estació d'autobuses d'Alacant (bus station). It's located south of the city on the coast, a ten-minute walk from the harbour, twenty minutes to the beach and Plaça Porta del Mar and fifteen minutes walk south of the train station.
Of course, outside the station, you can catch a local bus that will ping you around the city in minutes.
Finally, if you're coming from further afield, such as Madrid or simply don't like the thought of taking a bus, you can arrive by train. If you arrive in Alicante by train, you will find yourself in the Alipark district to the west of the old town and beach. Expect to spend around twenty minutes walking to the beach or the harbour and twenty-five to thirty minutes to the castle.
Timing your Trip
How Long Should You Spend Exploring Alicante?
If you had three full days in Alicante, you could see most of the city without rushing. This would include a day on the magical island of Tabarca, a morning in the castle, an afternoon on the beach and a day for walking around the city trying the cakes, tapas and local beers.
The Best Time Of The Year For An Alicante City Break
Having been to Alicante in the winter and the summer, I would say you should avoid both and aim for the shoulder seasons.
Overall, the rains tend to stay fairly consistent, at about two days a month, other than July and August, where you won't see a drop.
However, during the summer (July to September), the weather gets extremely hot and humid, and you will sweat profusely, which sucks. Plus, the crowds descend on the city, which ruins it a bit for me. Yet, the winter (November to February) can get cold at night.
Therefore, I advise you to head to Alicante between March and June or in October.
Where to Stay During Your Alicante City Break
As with any Spanish coastal city, you'll be tripping over accommodation. This truly is a case of there's enough to go around. Similarly, accommodation comes in all styles, standards and, of course, prices. Only you know your style and budget, but I know you'll find something to suit.
That said, the one thing to consider when searching for that 'perfect' Alicante city break is where to stay within the city.
I suggest staying within the Old Town, which, generally, means the large area on the south/southwest slopes of the castle. As a rule, this means the zone between the beach and port, up to Avenue Alfonso El Sabio and the Central Market. Likewise, I wouldn't look any further west than Avenue de Federico Soto. When you see a map, you'll see it's somewhat obvious.
The further afield you look from that area, the more walking you'll have to do.
However, my first and only suggestion, having stayed there a few times, is a stone's throw from that zone. So let's check it out.
ole Backpackers Hostel
- What: Cheap and cheerful hostel with a funky bar.
- Where: Fifteen minutes walk from Playa del Postiguet and near Mercat Central d'Alacant. (map)
- Why: In effect, it's cheap and close enough to everything without being in the heart of the action.
- Why Not: The toilets and showers could do with a touch-up, and it's not right on the beach.
Whilst slightly out of my preferred zone, the surrounding area has an arty and fun vibe, and there's loads going on with great restaurants, bars and cafes. Furthermore, it's a fantastic location for starting your ascent of Santa Bárbara Castle or a cheeky look around the Central Market. Similarly, the airport bus stops a short hop, skip and jump away too.
Once inside, it is small, and the rooms are a little bit dark and drab and could do with a sprinkle from a decorator. Sadly, the bathrooms and showers also need to be brought into the 21st century. Overall, it just needs a bit of TLC.
So, why here?
Well, it's still good value for money. There's a lovely bar below the reception and a gorgeous breakfast cafe next door, where you get a discount. Plus, it has everything you need and has wicked staff who are willing to do anything to improve your time in Alicante.
I've gone back more than once, so it can't be too bad, hey?
In September 2023, I paid €118.50 (£103) for two people for three nights.
Further Accommodation
As always, if Olé Backpackers Hostel doesn't float your boat, fear not. I have the trusty trio of Hostel World, Airbnb and Booking.com below for you.
Best Things to do in Alicante, Spain
An Alicante city break isn't going to be a busy affair as there isn't loads to do. Hence why I say you only need three whole days in the city. Therefore, it's more about relaxing, watching the world go by and enjoying a few local tipples in the glistening sunshine.
Most of the 'best things to do in Alicante' are reasonably central and revolve around the old town and beach. However, if you do have more than three days, there are options open to you, such as a sensational trip up the coast to Valencia, which I highly recommend.
Luckily, there are fantastic links from Alicante, either via train or bus, should you want to get out of the city to explore Spain further.
You may look at my list and think I'm missing a few things, for example, the central market and the museums. But sadly, I have left them out for a reason. I don't think they're all that. The market is nothing compared to the central markets of Madrid, Barcelona or Valencia. Plus, they feel more like a 'locals' market rather than somewhere to explore and enjoy as a tourist.
So, having visited the city on more than a couple of occasions, here are my top picks for your Alicante city break.
Alicante City Break: The Highlights
Climb and Explore Santa Barbara Castle
- Why: Simply because it's the most imposing building in Alicante, and you can't miss it.
- Where: Look up. Next to the Old Town and Playa del Postiguet, but the best access is from the Central Market. (map)
- How long: Give yourself anywhere from a couple to three and a half hours to climb and explore.
- How much: Of course it's free.
Aloft the one-hundred-and-sixty-six-meter-tall Mount Benacantil, the castle of Santa Bàrbara has stood over Alicante and all who frolic about in the sun below since the 9th century.
Climbing during the summer, especially from the beach, is a torturous, sweaty climb, and I can't say this any clearer. From the coast or the south of the castle, make your way through the old town and start your ascent from next to Parc de l'Estudiantina. Life is hard enough - give yourself a day off. Yet, if climbing any distance isn't your thing, there is a small shuttle bus up and down.
Once at the top, expect to find a beautifully preserved fortified castle complete with a gift shop, cafes and stunning views as far as the eye can see.
After you've recovered and grabbed an ice lolly, you'll discover a world of artefacts, tapestry, and ancient dress and learn about what life was like for those within.
For me, this is the best thing to do in Alicante.
Take a Day Trip to the Isles of Tabarca
- Why: Who doesn't fancy a day trip by boat to a beautiful island? If not, why not? I don't trust you.
- Where: An hour and five minutes boat south, just off the coastal town of Santa Pola. (map)
- How long: Give yourself five to six hours to explore the islands. (including the return boat trips)
- How much: Depending on the company you go with, a round trip will cost around €22 (£19.20) per person.
If Santa Bàrbara is the best thing to do in Alicante, this is, by far, the best thing to do from Alicante.
Grab a boat ride and glide across the clear, dark blue waters to the magical island of Trabarca. Upon arrival, make your way down to the end of the jetty, where you have three options.
Firstly, head left and pick up a trail through the cactus and heather-filled reserve, where you'll discover all sorts of birds and bugs, as well as a few other inmates. Likewise, you'll find quiet coves and old buildings, all of which had many purposes over the years.
Secondly, grab a bite to eat and a cold drink in one of the restaurants or take up prime position on the island's largest beach directly in front of you or...
Thirdly, head right, under the walled gates, to the beautiful little blue and white-washed town of Trabarca. Hidden within the walls are cafes, shops and a small community of islanders waiting to see you. Walk the walls, visit the church or take a dip from the rocky bays beyond.
Chill on the Beach
- Why: It's probably hot, and it's why you're here, so take some time to chill and cool off in the Med.
- Where: Well, it's on the coast just north of the port. (map)
- How long: Take as long as you want.
- How much: I think you know. It's free.
Ok, it's a beach, we all know them, right?
A narrow strip of ground, usually found between the sea and the land, often covered by sand, pebbles or rock.
Good, we're talking about the same thing.
So here, you know what you're getting.
A belt of crip sands with the cooling crashing Mediterranean sea lapping up against it. Only here, in Alicante, there are a few of them, and they're pretty busy, especially during the summer months. Generally, you'll find them filled with bunt Birts, thinking they don't need suncream.
Sunbeds can be hired across many parts of the beach, and there are numerous cafes, restaurants and other dining options available around the beachfront. Perfect.
Stroll Along the Esplanada
- Why: You're going to the beach, so why not make it a colourful walk?
- Where: It runs the length of the seafront between the Monumento a Canalejas and Plaça Porta del Mar. (map)
- How long: It depends on how many stops you make, but straight-through, it will take just under 10 minutes.
- How much: Again, it's free.
Well, I'll be honest and say I felt like I needed to pad out the blog a bit, and this was one way of doing it. Simply, there aren't reems and reems of things to do in Alicante. It's about the beach and the ever-loveable ball of fire in the bright blue sky.
Whilst I say that, I think it is a pretty street to walk down with lots of lovely restaurants and little huts selling lots of items, all accompanied by beautiful palm trees we all love.
If you give it a go, let me know what you think at the bottom of the blog.
Where to Eat on Your Alicante City Break
Overall, Alicante is not the place to come if you want authentic and traditional tastes of Spain.
Yes, there is good Spanish food here. However, in my opinion, it can't be described as some of the best food in the country, even when the surrounding areas up to Valencia are awash with rice fields that supply the world-famous paella.
Hence, if you travel through your stomach like I do, don't make this your first stop in Spain.
Likewise, if you're eating in Alicante and want the best food, stay off of that oh-so-wonderful esplanade I've mentioned above. The restaurants are geared towards tourists and, whilst delicious, don't keep to the traditional and better-tasting Spanish cooking.
Nevertheless, I will throw you a couple of suggestions that I enjoyed for an evening meal, a cheeky treat location and a delicious breakfast haunt, starting with my favourite.
La Cocina
- What: Small family-run tapas restaurant.
- Where: Just around the corner from Plaza 25 de Mayo and the Central Market. (map)
- How much: Prices vary depending on what you order, but €55 (£47) filled us two fat piggy's up. (menu)
Run by an adorable older couple who make the otherwise, plain interior a magical place to be. They pour every ounce of love into each dish and care about their customers' needs, wants and allergies.
They do everything they can to accommodate you.
Whilst the interior is a little lifeless, the food is the opposite. The two of us tried about six different dishes, and each one was to die for. Some of the best dishes were the croquettes, grilled pancakes, patatas bravas, mini burgers, and the big juicy bowl of stroganoff drizzled over fries.
Come and taste inspirational home cooking but for the price of a cheap takeaway.
Las Brasas de San Miguel
- What: Spanish BBQ meat house.
- Where: Next to Cocatedral de Sant Nicolau de Bari d'Alacant. (map)
- How much: Tapas dishes average around €15 whilst a main meal starts at €15.50 and rises quickly. (menu)
Meat-eaters rejoice. This is your calling to paradise.
Dine on the finest t-bone stakes, juicy burgers, melt-in-the-mouth pork belly or lamb chops fresh from the grill. Throw in the taste of Spain with chorizo and Iberian hams, and you have yourself the most beautiful meat sweats in Alicante.
Whilst food is the essential element of Las Brasas, the decor has been chosen to match perfectly. Natural materials line the restaurant, throwing out American Texan vibes everywhere. It's a pleasure to be there and heavenly to taste.
This truly is the perfect combo of the wild Mid-West and Spain in one place, somewhere you must experience on your Alicante city break.
Yeehaw...
Santagloria Coffee & Bakery
- What: Instagramable cafe selling sugary cakes and small bites
- Where: On the beautiful, green Plaza Portal de Elche. (map)
- How much: A delicious hot choccie and a cake with a panini cost around €15 (13.25). (menu)
Yes, it is a chain restaurant, and I usually try to avoid chains. However, this beautiful, vibrant and busy cafe serves up some of the tastiest treats in Alicante. Plus, it looks great and is hidden within a fresh, leafy plaza, which adds to the vibe.
The staff are friendly, the service is outstanding, and inside, the smells of the incredible sugary world are insane.
Take a seat, kick back and grab a snack of your choosing. You won't regret it.
Maldita Gloria
- What: Pretty little cafe serving up affordable but delicious breakfasts and brunch.
- Where: Nextdoor to Hostel Olé, about five minutes from the Central Market. (map)
- How much: If you stay at the hostel you can get a hot drink, juice and breakfast for €5. (menu)
Whilst Maldita Gloria is a pretty place, the star of the show is the insane taste they manage to get from simple ingredients. Likewise, no flavour overpowers another, and the freshness shines through with every mouthful.
Another plus point to Maldita Gloria is that, as you can see above, they don't skimp on the portions. You get your money's worth.
Served with a smile, I came here countless times and was blown away by the whole place. If you want to start the day right, start it here.
Where to Party in Alicante
Nightlife in Alicante is a blended mix of Benidorm spill-over, live music and chilled cocktail bars, and all can be found across the city. Below, I'll give you some of my favourite places. They are on the more relaxing side of life because, in my view, if you want to get fall-down drunk, have manic nights out, and drink until you're sick, you should head an hour up the coast to Benidorm.
That said, if you want a bit more during your Alicante city break, it is here too.
Furthermore, Alicante is a safe city to go out at night, so as long as you keep your wits about you, you should have a perfectly safe night out.
With that said, let's dive into our first bar.
Soho Parc
- What: Chilled beach-shack-styled cocktail bar shrouded under the canopy of some old trees.
- Where: Hidden within Plaza Portal de Elche. (map)
Maybe better places on the edge of a Thai beachfront or a train station platform, depending on how you see it, this small and unique bar leads the way in Alicante for style, class and cocktails and all amid the large majestic Ficus macrophylla trees.
These trees almost appear to walk, with their roots cascading down around the pentagon-shaped bar which stands out around the boardwalk. Classic wicker chairs surround the tables, and umbrellas protect you from falling twigs rather than the sun.
Frankly, the cocktails add to the feeling of being somewhere special as the flavour tingles around your body with each passing sip.
Overall, there's nothing not to like and a lot to love here. If you don't like it, you need to take a look at yourself.
Haka Bar Lounge
- What: A dark Tiki-styled bar, come mini-club, with everything you need on a night out.
- Where: Down the road from Teatre Principal d'Alacant on the lively Carrer Castaños. (map)
Potentially the most lively of all the bars on my list, with vast sways of people spilling out of the darkness onto the streets.
Inside, dark walls, high ceilings and mirrors provide a feeling that the bar is larger than it is.
Nevertheless, its well-stocked bar delivers enough alcohol to stop a raging rhino, and there's room to throw a couple of shapes, just not the cha-cha slide. Obviously, you don't have to dance. After all, the Haka Bar is about being who you want to be. Sit back, chill, and watch the chaos or be the chaos. You choose.
No matter what, you will, like everyone else, have a smile on your face, and that's what any good bar should provide.
Descorche Bar
- What: Chilled, stylish bar come restaurant.
- Where: Again, it's next to the Teatre Principal d'Alacant but on C. del Médico Pascual Pérez. (map)
Quite and unassuming are two words to describe this place. Yet, step inside, and you'll fall in love with this little bar. Friendly staff, charming interior, awesome drinks and small bites are just some of the things that make this bar worth visiting.
You won't need your dancing shoes for this one, but you will leave feeling relaxed and rid of all your problems.
Ultimately it's a classic little bar in a busy part of town.
La Mala Buena
- What: Fun and friendly hostel bar.
- Where: Underneath Olé Backpackers Hostel. (map)
Being located under a hostel, it may be obvious to state it feels very 'backpacky', and that's a great thing. It means affordable drinks, whacky and fun decor and friendly staff who want you to enjoy your night. It also means the night's outcome isn't decided, and anything can happen.
Whilst small, it grabs your attention with outstanding ales, lagers and quality food to boot. Also, they occasionally have live music and events which draw in crowds from other towns, making the bar one of the liveliest in town.
You don't have to be staying at the hostel to enjoy this bar, but it helps the crawl home.
Is an Alicante City Break Safe?
Despite visiting the city on a handful of occasions, I've never heard of any incidents that I would describe as worrying or concerning regarding my safety.
Likewise, I've never heard anyone mentioning seeing or being a victim of crime within Alicante.
Nonetheless, it is a touristy city in Europe. Typically, that means there is petty crime, such as pickpockets and theft. However, if you keep your wits about you, you should have a carefree Alicante city break.
If anything, the only two concerns you could have about visiting Alicante are the evergrowing extreme heat during the summer and being in the sea.
Moreso, in recent years, the weather in Alicante has been on the increase, and during the summer, it could easily reach the mid-thirties with ridiculously high humidity levels. Make sure you always carry water, as you will sweat profusely. Stay hydrated.
As with any seaside vacation, you'll want a dip in the sea, and you should. But remember, regardless of how competent you are at swimming, the sea is more powerful than you and can turn deadly in the blink of an eye. Keep to your limits and make sure you're safe at all times. Don't swim at night when no one else is there to help, and no matter what, never go in the sea whilst drunk. It won't end like the movies.
Leave a comment
If you've been thinking about an Alicante city break, I hope I've managed to sway you one way or another. Admittedly, it's never been my favourite place to visit. Yet, I keep going back. So what do I know?
If I could push you one way or another, I'd get the bus north for two hours and visit Valencia instead. However, if you want a relaxing time simply sitting on the beach under blue skies and the sun, why not stay here? After all, it's cheaper and easier to get around.
So, all that's left for me to do is say thanks for reading my blog, and please let me know what you think in the comments below. Likewise, I'd love to hear your thoughts on the city and if you think I've balls up the blog somewhere.
Enjoy your trip.
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