Hire a car from Alicante Airport and you can tick off every single sight this popular tourist destination has to offer. And it's popular with good reason – excellent weather, a marvellous Mediterranean coastline and welcoming locals.
The city has a history that stretches back thousands of years, a fact that can be seen in its architecture and in the heritage its people are so proud of. Alicante is also your gateway to the Island of Tabarca, which is a dedicated Mediterranean Marine Reserve, so those with a love of nature are well catered for in this lively city.
Where to eat in Alicante
Food in Alicante is generally of a high standard and menus are built around an abundance of fresh seafood and fish, plus a generous helping of saffron-infused rice. Whether you want to spend the evening nibbling on tapas, or you’re looking for a more formal dining experience, you’ll find it here.
For many, Alicante is synonymous with long evenings spent dining or dancing. But, for a slightly more chilled evening out, head waterside to the city’s Muelle de Levante wharf, where you’ll also find an array of quality restaurants.
Local tip: Try Horchata, a slightly sweet milky drink made using ground almonds and tigernuts.
Alicante’s best beaches
The Costa Blanca has built an entire economy on the strength of sun, sand and sea. Your only challenge is deciding which of Alicante’s glorious Blue Flag beaches best suits you.
- Large, fine-sanded San Juan de Alicante beach is as popular with local families as it is visiting ones. This is the region's beach of choice.
- If you don’t want to stray too far from the city itself, make it Postiguet beach, which is right by the marina.
- For a quiet day, and to escape the crowds, La Almadraba beach is ideal, easily reached in your hire car, and the waves are as serene as the atmosphere on shore. For something a little different, check out the coves at Cabo de la Huerta.
What to do and see in Alicante
Alicante’s old town quarter is your first stop for a taste of Spain in days gone by. From 17th-century San Nicholas Cathedral to the wonderfully Gothic Santa Maria Basilica, complete with its Baroque and Rococo flourishes, there is much to please the eye.
However, when it comes to dramatic historical buildings in Alicante, it’s the Castillo de Santa Bárbara that really steals the show. With stunning panoramic views of the city, sea and surrounding countryside, this incredible 16th-century castle is perched majestically high on a hill but is well worth the climb.
If you’re lucky enough to visit Alicante in late June, be sure to attend the Hogueras de San Juan Festival, or the ‘night of burning’. On this evening a party spirit pervades as, across the city, people welcome summer solstice with the burning of papier-mâché statues.
Culture, cuisine and sun await in Alicante, so book car hire from Alicante Airport and make the most of every minute.
