Alicante
Spain
Attractions & Events in Alicante
Discover the top attractions, events, and festivals in Alicante, Spain
Top Attractions
Alicante Museum of Contemporary Art (MACA)
Houses an extensive collection of 20th-century art, including works by Dalí, Miró, and Picasso.
Tips: Located in the historic Asegurada building; admission is free, making it accessible for all art enthusiasts.
Archaeological Museum of Alicante (MARQ)
An award-winning museum showcasing artifacts from prehistoric times to the modern era.
Tips: Allocate a few hours to explore the interactive exhibits; check for temporary exhibitions and workshops.
Barrio de la Santa Cruz
A charming neighborhood with narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and vibrant flower pots.
Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the hilly terrain; visit during local festivals for a lively atmosphere.
Basilica of Santa Maria
The oldest active church in Alicante, built in Valencian Gothic style over a former mosque.
Tips: Visit to appreciate its baroque facade and rich history; check for service times if interested in attending.
Calle de Las Setas (Mushroom Street)
A whimsical street adorned with large mushroom sculptures, creating a unique urban landscape.
Tips: Great for families and photo opportunities; visit in the evening to see the illuminated mushrooms.
Explanada de España
A vibrant promenade lined with palm trees and a colorful mosaic of over 6 million tiles, perfect for leisurely walks.
Tips: Ideal for evening strolls; enjoy local artisans' stalls and street performances along the way.
Guadalest Valley
A picturesque valley known for its turquoise lake, mountain views, and historic hilltop castle.
Tips: Ideal for a day trip; explore hiking trails and enjoy local cuisine at nearby restaurants.
Jardín de l'Albarda
A botanical garden in Pedreguer, Alicante, housing over 700 plant species in a beautifully landscaped setting.
Tips: Open daily; admission fees apply. Ideal for plant enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil environment.
Mercado Central de Alicante
A bustling market offering a wide array of fresh produce, meats, seafood, and local delicacies.
Tips: Great place to sample local flavors; consider joining a guided food tour for a comprehensive experience.
Mount Benacantil
The prominent hill on which Santa Bárbara Castle sits, offering hiking trails and scenic views.
Tips: For hiking enthusiasts, trails provide a more active route to the castle with rewarding vistas.
Palmeral of Elche
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring a vast system of date palm orchards.
Tips: Explore the various gardens and learn about the unique irrigation systems; guided tours are available.
Playa del Postiguet
A central beach known for its golden sands and clear waters, popular among both locals and tourists.
Tips: Easily accessible from the city center; arrive early during peak season to secure a good spot.
Santa Bárbara Castle
A historic fortress atop Mount Benacantil offering panoramic views of Alicante and the Mediterranean Sea.
Tips: Access the castle via a lift from the base of the mountain or enjoy a scenic hike up. Guided tours are available, and the castle often hosts cultural events.
Tabarca Island
A small island off the coast, known for its crystal-clear waters, marine reserve, and quaint village.
Tips: Accessible by ferry; ideal for snorkeling and enjoying fresh seafood at local restaurants.
Volvo Ocean Race Museum
A museum dedicated to the history of the world's most grueling sailing race, featuring interactive exhibits.
Tips: Admission is free; allocate at least an hour to fully engage with the exhibits and stories.
Events & Festivals
Santa Faz Pilgrimage
One of Spain's largest pilgrimages, where thousands walk 8 kilometers from Alicante to the Monastery of Santa Faz, combining devotion with a festive atmosphere.
When: April
Tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water. Along the route, you'll find local vendors offering traditional snacks and refreshments.
Els Enfarinats
A unique festival in the nearby town of Ibi, involving a mock battle using flour and eggs, as part of the Day of the Innocents celebrations.
When: December
Tips: Wear old clothes if you plan to participate, as things can get messy. It's a fun and unconventional event worth experiencing.
Medieval Market
A recreation of medieval life in Alicante's old quarter, featuring traditional crafts, food stalls, street entertainers, and medieval-themed performances.
When: Early December
Tips: Great for families. Explore the market for unique handmade items and enjoy the festive atmosphere with live performances.
Alicante Carnival
A vibrant pre-Lenten celebration with colorful costumes, parades, and street parties, culminating in the 'Sábado Ramblero' along the Rambla de Méndez Núñez.
When: February or March
Tips: Join the festivities by dressing up in costume. Be prepared for large crowds and lively street celebrations that continue into the early hours.
Alicante Jazz Festival
An annual summer event attracting renowned jazz musicians, offering a range of performances from traditional to contemporary jazz in various city venues.
When: July
Tips: Purchase tickets in advance for popular performances. Enjoy the warm summer evenings by attending outdoor concerts in scenic locations.
Hogueras de San Juan
Alicante's most iconic festival, featuring the creation and burning of large satirical monuments, accompanied by parades, fireworks, and traditional 'mascletàs'.
When: June
Tips: Book accommodations well in advance, as the city attracts many visitors during this period. Don't miss the 'Nit de la Cremà' on June 24th, when the monuments are set ablaze.
Semana Santa (Holy Week)
A week-long series of solemn processions featuring elaborate religious floats, music, and traditional attire, reflecting deep cultural and religious significance.
When: March or April
Tips: Check the local schedule for specific procession times and routes. Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, especially for major processions.
Alicante Film Festival
An international event showcasing a wide range of films, including short films, documentaries, and feature-length movies, with screenings and panel discussions.
When: May or June
Tips: Ideal for cinema enthusiasts. Check the festival's official website for schedules and ticket information.
Alicante Gastronómica
A culinary event bringing together chefs with a total of 130 Michelin stars and Repsol suns, featuring live competitions, tastings, and workshops.
When: October
Tips: Food enthusiasts should not miss this. Attend live cooking demonstrations and sample a variety of gourmet dishes.
Moors and Christians Festival
Historical reenactments commemorating the battles between Moors and Christians, featuring elaborate costumes, parades, and mock battles.
When: Various dates (April to October)
Tips: Each neighborhood celebrates at different times; check local schedules. The festival in nearby Alcoy in late April is particularly renowned.