A Weekend Itinerary for First-Time Visitors to Alicante

Nestled along Spain’s picturesque Costa Blanca, Alicante offers a blend of historical landmarks, Mediterranean beaches, and lively city charm that will captivate any traveler. If you’re visiting this coastal paradise for the first time and have just a weekend to soak it all in, don’t worry—we’ve crafted the perfect itinerary to help you experience Alicante’s highlights without feeling rushed. Let’s dive into two days of sun, sights, and Spanish culture.

Day 1: Exploring Alicante’s Cultural Gems and Stunning Views

Morning: Begin with a Stroll Through the Old Town (El Barrio)

Kick off your weekend with a visit to Alicante’s charming Old Town, known as El Barrio. This historic area is filled with narrow streets, colorful facades, and hidden plazas, offering a warm Mediterranean welcome. Grab breakfast at a traditional café, and enjoy local pastries like ensaimadas or churros con chocolate.

Start your exploration at Plaza del Ayuntamiento, the heart of El Barrio. The square is home to Alicante’s Town Hall (Ayuntamiento de Alicante), an 18th-century baroque building with impressive architectural features. From here, wander through cobbled streets toward Calle Mayor, which is lined with local boutiques, cafes, and artisan shops.

Mid-Morning: Climb Santa Bárbara Castle

A trip to Alicante wouldn’t be complete without visiting Castillo de Santa Bárbara, one of the largest medieval fortresses in Europe. Situated atop Mount Benacantil, this iconic landmark provides a panoramic view of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.

You can either hike to the top (a 20-30 minute scenic climb) or take the elevator from Postiguet Beach. Once there, explore the castle’s ancient walls, towers, and dungeons. The fortress dates back to the 9th century and is steeped in history, having witnessed battles and changes in control over the centuries.

Don’t miss the Mirador de Santa Bárbara, a viewpoint offering postcard-worthy views of Alicante’s coastline. Snap some photos and take a moment to appreciate the serenity of the surrounding landscape.

Afternoon: Beachfront Lunch and Relaxation at Postiguet Beach

After descending from the castle, head to Playa del Postiguet, Alicante’s main city beach. This golden-sand beach is ideal for unwinding after the morning’s exploration. Find a beachfront restaurant and indulge in some local cuisine—paella alicantina is a must-try, featuring saffron-infused rice, seafood, and local spices.

If you’re a fan of seafood, consider trying caldero, a flavorful rice dish served with fish stock. Pair your meal with a glass of local wine, such as Fondillón, a specialty of the Alicante region.

Late Afternoon: Explore the Esplanade of Spain (Explanada de España)

Following your beachside relaxation, take a leisurely walk along the Explanada de España, a palm-tree-lined promenade that stretches along the harbor. The promenade’s iconic mosaic tiles form a wave pattern in red, black, and cream, creating a visually striking backdrop. Street performers and vendors add vibrancy to the atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for people-watching and enjoying an afternoon gelato.

Evening: Experience Alicante’s Nightlife in El Barrio

As the sun sets, return to El Barrio for a taste of Alicante’s nightlife. The neighborhood comes alive with lively tapas bars, traditional Spanish taverns, and modern cocktail lounges. Visit a local tapería to sample traditional tapas like patatas bravas, jamón ibérico, and tortilla española.

Day 2: Coastal Adventures and Cultural Immersion

Morning: Discover the Mercado Central

Start your second day by visiting Mercado Central de Alicante, the city’s bustling central market. Located on Avenida Alfonso X El Sabio, the market is a paradise for foodies, offering a wide array of fresh produce, seafood, meats, cheeses, and baked goods.

Sample some local delicacies like turrón de Jijona (a soft almond nougat), freshly baked empanadas, and marinated olives. Pick up some treats for a mid-morning snack, and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of local life.

Mid-Morning: Visit the Archaeological Museum of Alicante (MARQ)

Continue your journey by exploring Alicante’s cultural side at the Museo Arqueológico de Alicante (MARQ), one of Spain’s most acclaimed archaeological museums. The museum houses impressive exhibits, including artifacts from the Iberian, Roman, and medieval eras. Interactive displays and audiovisual presentations provide a deep dive into Alicante’s ancient history.

Afternoon: Island Escape to Tabarca

For a memorable afternoon adventure, take a short boat ride to Tabarca Island, Spain’s smallest inhabited island. Ferries depart from Alicante’s port, and the journey takes around 30-40 minutes. Tabarca is known for its crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring marine life.

Stroll through the quaint village, lined with whitewashed houses and narrow streets, and visit the Iglesia de San Pedro y San Pablo, a small church dating back to the 18th century. Don’t miss the island’s traditional seafood dishes—caldero tabarquino is a local specialty.

Late Afternoon: Return and Relax at San Juan Beach

After returning to Alicante, head to Playa de San Juan, a stunning stretch of sand located just outside the city center. This expansive beach is perfect for soaking up the sun or enjoying water sports. Rent a beach chair and relax with a view of the Mediterranean, or take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline.

Evening: Sunset Dining at the Marina

Wrap up your weekend with a sunset dinner at Alicante Marina. The harbor is lined with upscale restaurants and trendy eateries offering breathtaking views of the sea. Seafood lovers will appreciate dishes like grilled octopus, red prawns, and fried squid. For dessert, try helado de turrón, a nougat-flavored ice cream that’s popular in Alicante.

As you savor your final meal in this coastal gem, toast to an unforgettable weekend in Alicante.

Bonus Tips for First-Time Visitors

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
• Transportation: Alicante’s city center is walkable, but taxis and public buses are available for longer distances.
• Packing Essentials: Don’t forget sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and a swimsuit.

With this itinerary, you’ll leave Alicante with cherished memories of its beaches, history, and culinary delights. Whether you’re lounging by the Mediterranean or exploring ancient castles, this Spanish coastal city will have you longing to return.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)