Popular Attractions of Alicante: What is Worth Seeing Here!

The city of Alicante is one of the most popular destinations among tourists wishing to visit Spain. The favorable climate and excellent service will make your stay as comfortable as possible. Here, you can not only relax on the gorgeous beaches of the Mediterranean Sea but also get acquainted with the rich culture of one of the oldest cities in Spain.

To start your journey with ease, booking an Alicante airport transfer with Kiwitaxi is the best choice. A private transfer ensures a smooth and hassle-free ride from the airport directly to your hotel or any desired location. Unlike public transport, which can be crowded and time-consuming, a transfer offers door-to-door service, allowing you to save time and travel in comfort.

With professional drivers, fixed pricing, and a variety of vehicle options, including luxury cars, minivans, and shuttle services, an Alicante airport transfer guarantees a stress-free start to your vacation. No need to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads or waiting for taxis—your pre-booked transfer will be ready for you upon arrival, ensuring a seamless travel experience in this beautiful Spanish city.

Description Alicante

Alicante is located on the Mediterranean coast. The city’s area is 201.3 km², and its population is 329,988. About 12% of the population are foreigners. These are predominantly Moroccans, Algerians and Romanians.

Alicante was originally a fishing harbor settlement founded by Hamilcar Barca in 230 BC. e. In the 19th century, a railway was built in Spain that connected Alicante with the central part of the country.

From that moment on, Alicante turned into a large port city in which industry began to develop. And today it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Spain and one of the most developing cities in the country.

Popular Attractions in Alicante

Alicante is one of the most popular Spanish resorts. It is located on the Costa Blanca, considered the pearl of the Mediterranean. In summer there are a lot of foreign tourists and Spaniards on the beaches of Alicante.

Once here, you can stay in comfortable hotels and relax on gorgeous beaches. However, Alicante is famous not only for its beach holidays. The city is one of the oldest in Spain, which means that there are a large number of interesting attractions that can be visited by every tourist who wants to enrich themselves culturally and become more familiar with the history of Alicante.

1. Guadalest Valley

Guadalest is located in one of the valleys of Alicante. Despite its small area (16 km²) and population (250 people), Guadalest is the most popular tourist destination in all of Spain, right after the famous Prado Museum in Madrid.

The settlement was formed in the 11th century during the Muslim invasion. And today Guadalest has a large number of attractions, which tourists from all over the world come to see. In addition to museums, of which there are as many as 10, there are ancient fortresses, castles and a stunningly beautiful artificial lake.

2. Guadalest Castle

This is the most popular attraction in the valley. The fortress was built by the Moors in the 11th century. There, they stored the looted treasures. But already in the 13th century, the fortress was recaptured by Aragonese troops.

Over the next few centuries, bloody battles between the Moors and the Spaniards took place here, until at the end of the 15th century, the Spaniards finally put an end to the Muslim invasion of the Iberian Peninsula. Due to wars and earthquakes, the castle was destroyed, but today, it has been partially restored. Now, it is one of the most unique examples of medieval architecture.

The castle consists of two fortresses: Alcaçaiba and the King’s Castle. If you go up to the observation deck of the Alcaciba fortress, you will have a stunning view of the entire Guadalest Valley.

The Alcaciba fortress has a high tower with an observation deck offering breathtaking views of the Guadalest Valley

The history of fierce battles between the Moors and the Spaniards formed the basis of the historical holiday “Moors and Christians”. It takes place at different times depending on the region. This is a very popular holiday among residents.

They dress up in costumes and act out the capture of the city by Muslims and its liberation by Christians. During the celebration, the city turns into a battlefield. A large number of tourists come here to watch the colorful parade and festive concert.

3. House Orduña

Through this museum you can get inside the Guadalest Castle. The famous house was built by the Orduña family after the great earthquake of 1644, which destroyed all the buildings in the region. During the War of the Spanish Succession in 1708, the house was looted and burned.

Today it is a city museum, which has several exhibition halls. They feature canvases from the 18th and 19th centuries. and a very interesting collection of ceramics. The museum is open from 10:00 to 20:00 (from October to March from 10:00 to 18:00). An adult ticket costs 4 euros, and a child ticket costs 2 euros.

4. Guadalest Reservoir

This is a stunningly beautiful artificial lake created in the 70s of the twentieth century. You can admire it from observation decks or take a cruise on it (from April to September). On the shore you can visit a cafe and buy souvenirs in numerous shops.

An unforgettable experience from this excursion. Be sure to stop by the Orduña House. From there, from the fortress, an unforgettable view of the valley and lake opens. There are very interesting museums in the valley.

5. Fortress Santa Barbara

The Santa Barbara fortress was built in the 9th century during the Muslim invasion. This is the calling card of Alicante. It is located on the top of Mount Benacantil, inside which there is an elevator that takes tourists up to the fortress. It consists of three levels, which were built in different historical periods. The top is the oldest part of the fortress, which dates back to the Middle Ages. The buildings on the middle level date from 1562–80, and on the lower level from the 18th century.

Getting to this historic site is easy with Kiwitaxi. This reliable transfer service provides a hassle-free and comfortable journey directly to the base of Mount Benacantil, allowing you to start your exploration without worrying about public transport or parking. With professional drivers, fixed rates, and a variety of vehicle options, Kiwitaxi ensures a smooth and stress-free experience. Whether you’re traveling alone, with family, or in a group, you can book your transfer in advance and enjoy a direct, comfortable ride to one of Alicante’s most iconic landmarks.

The Santa Barbara fortress was destroyed due to numerous wars. For a long time it was considered abandoned, until it was reopened in 1963 after restoration. The fortress is very popular among tourists. In summer, theater performances, entertainment events and fairs are organized here. Various exhibitions are held in the exhibition halls throughout the year. There are also many cafes in Santa Barbara.

From October to March the fortress is open from 10:00 to 20:00, and from April to September from 10:00 to 22:00. Admission is free, but exhibition fees may apply.

The fortress is located at Av de Juan Bautista Lafora, 6.

6. Luceros Square

This is the most beautiful square in Alicante, in the center of which there is a luxurious fountain. It was built in 1930 and consists of sculptures of a horse, women and children. You will probably see this square when traveling from Alicante Airport into the city.

Almost all tourist buses depart from this place. Here you can visit numerous cafes, restaurants and shops. This is also a great place for a walk because next to Luceros Square is Federico Avenue. In its center, there is a walking boulevard with beautiful palm trees and flower beds.

The square is located at Plaza de los Luceros, 7, near the train station.

Luceros Square with its famous fountain is as much a calling card of Alicante as the Santa Barbara Fortress. This is where the trams begin, and here in the evenings locals and tourists gather at cafe tables, and the illuminated fountain looks especially impressive.

7. Archaeological Museum of Alicante

The museum was opened in 1932. In 2000, he moved to another building, where a new concept for its development began to be implemented. It turned out to be extremely successful because after 4 years, this museum was recognized as the best in the world.

Today, visiting the museum, you can see 81 thousand exhibits. The exhibition halls of the museum are arranged in chronological order. Thus, in the hall of prehistory, mainly the tools of the ancient people who lived in Alicante are collected. The exhibitions in the next room relate to the Iberian tribes that inhabited this region before the arrival of the Romans.

This is followed by the Roman hall, the hall of the “dark Middle Ages”, the hall of modern culture and the hall of underwater archeology. One of the most popular halls is the one that represents a cave with rock paintings.

Here you can find out interesting details of archaeological excavations. Near the exit of the museum there is a small shop that sells replicas of famous exhibits on display in the museum.

Practical information:

1. The museum is located at Plza. Dr. Gómez Ulla, s/n 03013 Alicante;
2. From June 16 to September 15, the museum is open from 10:00 to 22:00 (Tuesday to Saturday). On Sundays and public holidays, the museum is open from 10:00 to 14:00.
3. From September 16 to June 15, the museum is open from 10:00 to 19:00 (Tuesday to Friday). On Saturdays from 10:00 to 20:30.

A ticket to the museum will cost you 3 euros. For children under 8 years old, teachers, journalists, the unemployed, the disabled and tourist guides, admission is free.

The Archaeological Museum is unique and technically equipped. Light, music, holographic effects are amazing. The exhibition in the halls is arranged in such a way that both small and large objects are available for viewing. Logistics are well organized and each room is equipped with electronic information desks. It’s easy to navigate and explore the museum on your own. Interesting educational and gaming stands for children from young children to high school students are impressive. I recommend visiting this museum!

8. Basilica of Santa Maria

The Basilica of Santa Maria is one of Alicante’s most majestic landmarks. The church was built at the end of the 14th century on the site of a mosque destroyed by fire and commemorated the victory over the conquerors. Today it is the oldest church in Alicante. Once here, you can not only admire the ancient buildings in the Gothic and Baroque style, but also get into the richly decorated rooms located inside.

On the facade of the building, you can see the image of the Virgin Mary. Inside, you will be amazed by the 16th-century organ and the gilded altar, which was created in the 18th century in the Rococo style. You can also see the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary, the Chapel of the Baptism and the Gothic statues of Saints Mary and John. The temple also has an amazing collection of artistic paintings that have been kept here since the 15th century. The basilica makes the greatest impression in the evening hours, when it is illuminated by spotlights. You can also visit several cafes located next to the church.

The basilica is located in the very center of the city at Plaza de Santa María. The church is open from 10:30 to 13:00 and from 17:00 to 21:00 from Monday to Saturday. Sunday is a day off. Entry for tourists is free.

Very beautiful old architecture. We were walking along the old streets of Alicante and came to this attraction. The cathedral itself is not very big, but very beautiful. Definitely worth a visit!

9. San Fernando Castle

Construction of the castle began in 1809 to protect it from Napoleon’s troops. Three years after the start of construction, the castle was erected, but Napoleon’s army changed its direction and never reached Alicante. The castle was abandoned for a long period. Then, the locals decided to put it in order. Reconstruction continues to this day.

Here, you can not only see the fortress from the times of Napoleon, but also relax in a picturesque park equipped with children’s and sports grounds. There’s even a football field here.

Residents love to come here with their whole families. Also in the park you can meet many athletes who come here for a run. The San Fernando Fortress offers magnificent views of the city, the sea and the mountain with the Santa Barbara Castle.

You can visit the castle at any time of the day, completely free of charge, at Castell de Sant Ferran Calle Ronda del Castillo, 14.

10. Alicante Museum of Contemporary Art

The museum is located in a historical building from the 17th century. In 1978, the famous artist Eusebio Sempere donated a collection of his paintings to the museum, which became the basis of the entire exhibition of the museum.

Here, you can get acquainted with the works of famous artists of the 20th century. Among them: Picasso, Dali, Kandinsky, Chagall, etc. A separate floor of the museum is reserved for the works of Eusebio Sempere himself, who lived in Alicante. His works especially attract lovers of modernism and abstract art.

The museum is open from 10:00 to 20:00 from Tuesday to Saturday and from 10:00 to 14:00 on Sundays. Visiting the museum is free for everyone.

The address of the museum is Plaza Sta. Maria, 3. It is located next to the Basilica of Santa Maria.

11. Museum of Fine Arts at the Gravina Palace

The palace was built in the 13th century and belonged to Count Lumiares. At the end of the 20th century, restoration work began in it, and since 2001, this building has housed a museum containing unique collections of paintings and sculpture.

Today, the museum contains up to 500 works of art from the 16th to 20th centuries. Their authors, in most cases, come from Alicante and its environs.

The museum also has works by such great artists as V. Portana, A. Hisbert, H. Agrosot, L. Casanova, F. Cabrera, etc. In addition to paintings and sculptures, the museum has antique furniture and household items. Various seminars are also held here, and educational programs are implemented.

The museum is located at C/ Gravina, 13 – 15. You can visit the museum from 10:00 to 20:00 (from September 1 to June 30) and from 11:00 to 21:00 (from July 1 to August 31). The museum is closed on Mondays. Admission is free.

12. Alicante Central Market

This is one of the most interesting places in the city. The building was built in 1921. There are a lot of tourists here. They are attracted not only by the interesting architecture of the building, but also by the opportunity to purchase delicious products. So, there is always the freshest meat, fish and seafood here. There are also a lot of different sweets, cheeses, sausages, meat delicacies and semi-finished products. Vegetables and fruits are brought for sale from rural areas. That’s why they are tasty and natural.

It is in the central market that you can feel the Spanish flavor. Traders and buyers are always laughing, arguing, and bargaining. You will always be served politely and allowed to try the products. There are always discounts for regular customers. And if you arrive before closing, food prices can be reduced by at least 50%.

The market is located in the city center at Avenida de Alfonso X El Sabio, 10. The market is open from Monday to Saturday. It is better to arrive in the morning, as most of the sellers leave by 14:00.

What to See in 1 Day

Most of Alicante’s popular attractions are located in the city center and are within walking distance of each other. Therefore, in one day you can see:

• Fortress of Santa Barbara;
• Luceros Square;
• Basilica of Santa Maria;
• Alicante central market;
• Esplanade;
• Postiguet beach;
• Cathedral of St. Nicholas.

Tips for Tourists

Tourists traveling to Alicante are advised to use the following tips:

• When going to cathedrals, wear a long skirt and trousers, as some churches do not allow open clothing;
• do not smoke in public places;
• leave a tip to the waiters in the amount of 10–15% of the bill. If a tip is already included in the bill, leave a small reward anyway;
• To save money, use public transport. For 12 euros, you can purchase a card for 10 trips on the C-6 route (includes the airport and main attractions);
• To more confidently navigate the streets of Alicante, take a tourist map with you.

Alicante, being one of the most popular resorts in Spain, will leave a lasting impression on you. After relaxing on the gorgeous beaches and visiting interesting cultural and historical attractions, you will want to come back here again.