Alicante Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
General Travel Advice & Planning
1. Q: Is Alicante worth visiting? * A: Generally, yes, especially if you’re looking for a sunny, beach-oriented city with a good mix of culture, history, and food. Some travelers suggest it’s not as “big” as other Spanish cities, but it offers plenty for a few days to a week.
2. Q: How many days are ideal for an Alicante trip? * A: Most travelers suggest 3-7 days. Three days are good for seeing the main city sights, while a week allows for day trips and more relaxed beach time.
3. Q: What’s the best time of year to visit Alicante? * A: Spring (April-May) and early Autumn (September-October) are highly recommended for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer (July-August) is very hot, humid, and crowded, with higher prices.
4. Q: What kind of weather can I expect in Alicante? * A: Expect hot days, especially in summer (28-30°C/82-86°F). Evenings are humid, around 22°C (72°F). Sea temperatures are warm in summer (around 25°C/77°F). UV index is high (around 7) in peak season, so sunscreen is essential.
5. Q: Is Alicante expensive? * A: Costs rise in peak season. Hotels can range from €100-€200/night, and meals €20-€50 per person. However, local markets can help keep food costs down.
6. Q: Is Alicante good for a solo traveler? * A: Yes, travelers haven’t reported major issues for solo travelers, and there are many activities to enjoy alone.
7. Q: Is Alicante good for families? * A: Yes, with its beaches, parks (like El Palmeral), and day trip options, Alicante can be very family-friendly. Playa San Juan is often recommended as a family-friendly beach.
8. Q: Are siestas still common in Alicante? * A: Yes, many businesses, especially smaller ones, might close for a few hours in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Plan accordingly.
9. Q: Is petty crime an issue in Alicante? * A: As with any tourist destination, petty crime can rise during peak season. Travelers advise guarding valuables, especially in crowded areas.
Things to Do & See (Main Attractions)
10. Q: What are the absolute must-sees in Alicante? * A: Santa Bárbara Castle, Explanada de España, Postiguet Beach, and the Barrio Santa Cruz are consistently top recommendations.
11. Q: How do I get to Santa Bárbara Castle? * A: You can walk up (it’s a bit of a hike but offers great views), or take the lift from Postiguet Beach.
12. Q: What is the Barrio Santa Cruz like? * A: It’s the old town, characterized by colorful, narrow streets, tapas bars, and a lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings.
13. Q: What is the Explanada de España? * A: A iconic palm-lined promenade along the marina, popular for strolling, people-watching, and street performers.
14. Q: Is the Central Market worth visiting? * A: Yes, it’s highly recommended for its vibrant atmosphere, fresh produce, and great lunch options. Note it’s closed on Sundays and Mondays are quiet.
15. Q: Are there any museums worth visiting? * A: * Archaeological Museum of Alicante (MARQ): Excellent and often recommended. * MACA (Contemporary Art Museum of Alicante): Good for art enthusiasts. * Museu de les Fogueres: Dedicated to the history of Alicante’s “Hogueras” fiesta. * Centro de Interpretación sobre los Refugios Antiaéreos: A Civil War museum and tour of underground bomb shelters. * Ocean Race Museum: About the around-the-world boat race that starts in Alicante. * Museo de Belenes: A unique museum dedicated to nativity scenes.
16. Q: What is “Mushroom Street” (Calle San Francisco)? * A: A quirky street known for its mushroom-themed decorations, often mentioned as a fun, unique spot.
17. Q: What is El Palmeral? * A: A large palm tree park on the outskirts of the city, with a nice cafe. Good for a relaxing stroll.
18. Q: Are there Roman ruins in Alicante? * A: Yes, Lucentum is a Roman ruin site located in Albufereta, a short tram ride from the city center.
19. Q: Can I find good photo spots? * A: Cabo de las Huertas and Santa Bárbara Castle are highly recommended for panoramic views and photography.
Beaches
20. Q: What are the main beaches in Alicante? * A: * Playa del Postiguet: The city beach, very busy and central. * Playa San Juan: A very long beach, less crowded, accessible by tram/bus. Popular for families. * Playa Albufereta: Smaller, family-friendly beach, walkable or accessible by tram. * La Calita Playa: Small, rocky beach, good for snorkeling and paddle boarding. * Calas de Alicante: Small coves with tiny beaches, some are rocky.
21. Q: Can I rent sunbeds and umbrellas on the beach? * A: Yes, on popular beaches like Postiguet and San Juan. Prices for sunbeds can be around €5-€10/day, or €21+ for two beds and an umbrella. You can also bring your own towel or chairs for free.
22. Q: Are there quieter beaches or coves? * A: Yes, try Urbanova or the Cabo de las Huertas coves for less crowded spots. The “calas” near Cabo de la Huerta are also mentioned as stone-shaped shores good for snorkeling, but remember to bring your own water and food.
23. Q: Is there good snorkeling in Alicante? * A: La Calita Playa and the small coves around Cabo de la Huerta are good for snorkeling.
Day Trips from Alicante
24. Q: What are some popular day trips from Alicante? * A: Guadalest, Altea, Villajoyosa, Elche, Canelobre Caves, Tabarca Island, and Benidorm are frequently mentioned.
25. Q: Is Guadalest worth visiting? * A: Yes, for its beautiful mountain views and unique village. However, some travelers note it can feel like a “tourist theme park” and recommend only spending 1-2 hours there. It can be combined with Altea or Calpe.
26. Q: How do I get to Tabarca Island? * A: Ferries depart from Alicante’s port. It’s a marine reserve known for clear waters and fresh seafood (try “caldero”).
27. Q: What’s special about Villajoyosa? * A: Known for its brightly painted houses, beautiful beach, and chocolate factories (some offer tours).
28. Q: What can I see in Altea? * A: A picturesque old town, beaches, and a unique Russian Orthodox church made of wood and stone.
29. Q: Are the Canelobre Caves worth a visit? * A: Yes, they are a recommended “hidden gem” with impressive rock formations. There’s also a world music museum nearby.
30. Q: What’s there to do in Elche? * A: Famous for its palm groves (El Palmeral, a UNESCO site, and El Huerto del Cura), basilica, and historical museum. Try “Arròs al forn” (oven-cooked rice) there.
31. Q: Should I visit Benidorm? * A: Travelers have mixed opinions. Some suggest skipping it, while others recommend the old town and Aqualandia water park if you like that kind of thing. It’s known for its busy beaches.
32. Q: What about other day trip options? * A: * Santa Pola: Lighthouse, salt lakes (good for flamingos), and gateway to Tabarca Island. Try “Caldero” here. * Calpe: Known for the Ifach mountain (a large rock), lake, and old town. * Murcia City: About 50 mins drive, with a beautiful cathedral, Segura river area, and good tapas. * Bocairent: A mountain village with “Covetes Dels Moros” (caves with 50 rooms). Get there early as they close in the afternoon. * Safari Aitana: A drive-through wildlife park high in the mountains (requires a car). * Las Salinas (Torrevieja): Pink salt lakes where you can float (some suggest sneaking in). * Carabassi Beach dunes and Clot de Galvany lakes: Good for nature lovers. * Mountain villages and castles: Biar, Castalla, Villena. In Castalla, try “Gazpacho” at Viscayo restaurant. * Novelda: Modernist church.
33. Q: How accessible are day trips by public transport? * A: Elche, Villajoyosa, Benidorm, Altea, and Calpe are generally easy to reach by tram/train. Carabassi beach is accessible by bus. For places like Guadalest or Canelobre Caves, a car is often recommended, or look into organized tourist excursions as public transport can be limited and confusing.
Food & Drink
34. Q: What are some recommended restaurants in Alicante? * A: * Tapas: Restobar Alicante Gema Penalva (innovative), Nou Manolín (classic high quality, sit at the bar for lunch), La Taberna del Gourmet (classic high quality), D’Tablas (great tapas). * Rice/Paella: Govana (old school space), Santi Restaurant (harbour views), Casa Domingo / Casa Julio (Playa San Juan, best for rice). Alicante is known for various rice dishes (arroz negro, arroz a banda, arroz del senyoret, arroz con costra, arroz al horno). * General/Other: Open (Michelin-rated), Terre (tapas on the esplanade), Mesón Marinero (fantastic in unusual neighborhood), Demordisco (modern Italian), Garage Bar (nachos, croquetas, gourmet burgers), Unik Asiatico Restaurante (good value set menu), Cerveceria Sento (highly praised for octopus).
35. Q: Are there good vegetarian options? * A: One traveler specifically asked for vegetarian options, suggesting it’s worth checking menus or asking locally.
36. Q: Where can I find good coffee? * A: “Swallow” was mentioned for good coffee.
37. Q: Any general dining tips? * A: Avoid restaurants with picture menus, as they often indicate poorer quality food.
Nightlife
38. Q: Where is the main nightlife area in Alicante? * A: Calle Castaños is a popular street with many bars and restaurants.
39. Q: What are some recommended bars/clubs? * A: * Younger crowd/cheaper: Parabarab. * Popular, mostly younger: Copity, Marmarella. * Reggaeton: Calle 365. * Slightly older crowd (30+): Texaco, Copity, Balmis (new, popular, not cheap), Punta Piedra (older crowd, strict dress code). * Other mentions: Havana (can be overcrowded).
Accommodation
40. Q: What are some recommended hotels in Alicante? * A: * Higher budget/prime location: Meliá Hotel (fantastic, expensive, great location). * Excellent central location: Eurostars (highly recommended, everything nearby, good restaurant “Saona” next to it). * Good central location/budget-friendly: LA city, Alfonxo x el sabio (cheap, new, gorgeous, next to Mercado Central). * Good for beach access: Maya (recommended, though slightly further from city center). * Positive experience: AC Hotel (good design, excellent breakfast, rooftop pool, accessible by public transport). * Old town: La Milagrosa (most central if you want to be in the Barrio).
41. Q: Which area is best to stay in for shopping? * A: Near Avenida Maisonnave and the city center.
Transportation
42. Q: How reliable is public transport in Alicante? * A: Generally good within the city and for coastal towns via tram. However, some travelers have reported issues with bus schedules and Google Maps accuracy for less common routes (e.g., to Guadalest). Renting a car is often suggested for exploring more remote areas.
43. Q: How does the tram system work? * A: Alicante has an excellent tram service that runs along the coast, connecting to places like San Juan, El Campello, Villajoyosa, Benidorm, and Altea.
44. Q: Where can I buy a Mobilis card for public transport? * A: You can get them at “Estanco” (where cigarettes are sold), which are common throughout the city.
45. Q: How to get to San Juan beach from Alicante city center? * A: Take the tram or bus. Tram 4 to the “Loundres” stop is specifically mentioned.
46. Q: Is there a direct public bus from Albir to Guadalest/Fonts d’Algar? * A: No direct bus. You’d typically need to take a local bus (e.g., Line 10) to Benidorm, then another bus (e.g., Line 16) from Benidorm. This can be a 2-hour trip. Tourist excursion buses are an alternative.
47. Q: How easy is it to get from Alicante airport to the city? * A: The C6 bus connects the airport to the city center.
Local Experiences & Hidden Gems
48. Q: How can I find local experiences in Alicante? * A: Explore the Central Market for local vibes, wander through the Barrio Santa Cruz, or attend local fiestas if your visit aligns (e.g., post-Hogueras events in July).
49. Q: Are there any “hidden gems” or less touristy spots? * A: * Tabarca Island: Often considered a hidden gem for its marine reserve and unique atmosphere. * Canelobre Caves: A bit out of the city but highly recommended. * Bocairent & Covetes Dels Moros: A unique mountain village with historical caves. * Las Salinas (Torrevieja): The pink salt lakes. * Walk around Cap de l’Horta to San Juan beach: A scenic 2-hour walk. * Museo de Belenes: A unique museum dedicated to nativity scenes, not a typical tourist stop. * Carmen del Campillo (Crevillente): A Moorish Tea house and Fondo lake. * Off-the-beaten-path swimming areas: Google “snorkeling near Alicante” for less crowded coves. * Sierra Grossa: A walk up for stunning views.
50. Q: Where can I find local arts and crafts? * A: Altea is mentioned as a place where you can find lots of arts and crafts.
51. Q: Any recommendations for shopping beyond the main street? * A: Beyond Avenida Maisonnave, there are local shops in the center selling handbags and shoes, as footwear is a big industry. Some shops are in industrial estates, requiring a car or bus.