Alicante is a beautiful city located on the eastern coast of Spain, known for its sunny weather, sandy beaches, and rich history. If you’re planning to spend 3 days in Alicante, you’re in for a treat! In this guide, we’ll give you some travel tips, highlight the most important places you should visit, suggest some routes to explore the city, recommend where to eat and sleep, and even tell you about some free tours you can take. Let’s get started!
Travel Tips in Alicante
- Bring sunscreen and a hat, especially if you’re visiting in the summer.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as many of the city’s attractions are best explored on foot.
- Try to learn some basic Spanish phrases, as it will make your trip easier and more enjoyable.
- Bring a camera to capture the beautiful views and landmarks of Alicante.
- Check the weather forecast before your trip, as it can vary depending on the season.
- Use public transportation or rent a car to get around the city, as parking can be difficult in some areas.
- Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
What to See in Alicante
Alicante is full of historic landmarks, beautiful beaches, and cultural attractions. Here are some of the most important places you should visit:
- Santa Bárbara Castle: This medieval castle is perched on top of a hill and offers stunning views of the city and the sea. It’s a must-visit attraction in Alicante.
- The Explanada de España: This beautiful promenade is lined with palm trees and colorful mosaics. It’s a great place to take a stroll and enjoy the views.
- The Co-cathedral of Saint Nicholas of Bari: This 17th-century church is an impressive example of Baroque architecture. Its ornate façade and stunning interior make it one of the most important religious buildings in Alicante.
- The Archaeological Museum of Alicante: This museum houses a large collection of artifacts from the city’s ancient past, including objects from the Roman and Iberian periods.
- The Postiguet Beach: This sandy beach is located in the heart of Alicante and offers beautiful views of the sea and the city.
Routes in Alicante
If you want to explore Alicante in more depth, here are some suggested routes to follow:
- The Old Town Route: This route takes you through the historic center of Alicante, where you can see many of the city’s most important landmarks, including the Co-cathedral of Saint Nicholas of Bari, the Town Hall, and the Central Market.
- The Castle Route: This route takes you up to Santa Bárbara Castle, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city and the sea. Along the way, you’ll also pass by the Santa Maria Basilica and the San Fernando Castle.
- The Beach Route: This route takes you along the coast of Alicante, where you can enjoy some of the city’s most beautiful beaches, including Postiguet Beach, San Juan Beach, and Muchavista Beach.
- The Modernist Route: This route takes you through some of Alicante’s most beautiful modernist buildings, including the Central Market, the Casa Carbonell, and the Casa Consistorial.
Where to Sleep in Alicante
Alicante has a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some of our top recommendations:
- Hotel Hospes Amérigo: This luxury hotel is located in the heart of Alicante’s historic center and offers beautiful views of the city. It features a rooftop pool and terrace, as well as a spa and fitness center.
- Hotel Maya Alicante: This modern hotel is located near the beach and offers comfortable rooms and excellent facilities, including a swimming pool, restaurant, and bar.
- B&B Hotel Alicante: This budget-friendly hotel is located near the train station and offers clean and comfortable rooms. It’s a great option for travelers on a budget.
- Apartamentos Tito San Nicolás: These self-catering apartments are located in the heart of Alicante’s historic center and offer a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the city.
Where to Eat in Alicante
Alicante is known for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine, which includes fresh seafood, rice dishes, and a variety of tapas. Here are some of our top recommendations for where to eat in Alicante:
- La Taberna del Gourmet: This cozy restaurant is known for its excellent seafood dishes and innovative cuisine. It’s a bit pricey, but well worth it for a special occasion.
- La Ereta: This restaurant offers stunning views of the city and serves up delicious Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist. It’s a great option for lunch or dinner.
- Bodega La Sénia: This traditional tapas bar is located in the heart of Alicante’s historic center and offers a variety of delicious small plates to share. It’s a great option for a casual meal or a night out with friends.
- El Portal: This restaurant is known for its delicious rice dishes, including the famous paella. It’s a great option for a traditional Spanish meal.
Free Tours in Alicante
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to explore Alicante, consider taking a free walking tour. These tours are led by local guides who can show you the best sights and share interesting stories and facts about the city. Here are some of the top free tours in Alicante:
- Free Walking Tour Alicante: This tour takes you through the historic center of Alicante and covers many of the city’s most important landmarks.
- Free Tapas Tour Alicante: This tour takes you to some of the best tapas bars in Alicante, where you can sample delicious local cuisine.
- Free Castle Tour Alicante: This tour takes you up to Santa Bárbara Castle, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city and the sea.
These tours are free, but it’s customary to tip your guide at the end if you enjoyed the experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What’s the best time of year to visit Alicante?
- Alicante is a great destination year-round, but the best time to visit is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds.
- Is it safe to travel to Alicante?
- Alicante is a safe destination for travelers, but it’s always important to take basic safety precautions like being aware of your surroundings and keeping your valuables secure.
- Do I need a car to explore Alicante?
- No, you don’t need a car to explore Alicante. The city is compact and easy to navigate on foot, and there are also public transportation options like buses and trams.
- Can I visit the Santa Bárbara Castle?
- Yes, the Santa Bárbara Castle is open to visitors and is a popular tourist attraction in Alicante.
- What are some of the best beaches in Alicante?
- Alicante has many beautiful beaches, but some of the best include Postiguet Beach, San Juan Beach, and Muchavista Beach.
For more information about Alicante, including up-to-date information about events and attractions, be sure to visit the official tourism website of the city of Alicante: https://www.alicanteturismo.com.
