Alicante Travel Guide: Hotels, Flights, and Coastal Attractions

Alicante is a beautiful city on the south-east coast of Spain. With a population of almost 350,000 and a rich history as a Mediterranean port, it is a city of great importance.

Alicante is Spain's standout city thanks to its stunning coastline, sun-drenched beaches and vibrant atmosphere.

It was the first Spanish city that my partner Izi and I explored together. It's undoubtedly one of the most romantic places we've ever visited, with some of the most breathtaking sunsets.

In this article, I'll show you the city's best sights, the local cuisine, how to get around and more. I'll show you the magic of Alicante in this digital tour.

When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay in Alicante, I always divide options into three categories: luxury, mid-range, and budget. 

I have visited the city myself, so I can assure you that this approach gives a better overview for every type of traveler, whether you're looking for something indulgent or affordable. It also saves you time when planning your trip:

• Luxury hotels: Hotel Hospes Amérigo is the place to go. It's right in the heart of the city, just steps away from key attractions like the Explanada de España. This 5-star hotel offers unparalleled views, a rooftop pool, and the finest amenities. Prices typically range from €200 to €300 per night.

• Mid-range hotel: Eurostars Lucentum is the perfect mid-range option, offering the best of comfort and convenience. Its central location near the Mercado Central makes it the perfect base for exploring Alicante's historic sites. Prices usually hover around €80-120 per night.

• Budget-friendly option: Hostal La Lonja is the ideal choice. It offers simple but clean accommodation close to the city center, making it an excellent base for exploring. You can expect rates around €30-50 per night, offering great value without sacrificing proximity to main attractions.

When booking a flight to Alicante, you'll find plenty of options from major international hubs, especially the USA, UK, Germany and France.

From the US, flights usually depart from cities such as New York or Miami, with one or two stopovers. Expect a journey time of around 10-14 hours and prices typically range from €450-700, depending on the season and airline.

From the UK, direct flights from London take around 2.5 hours, with prices ranging from €50-150 for a round trip, making it one of the most affordable options for European travellers.

From Germany, major cities such as Berlin or Frankfurt offer direct flights of around 2-3 hours. Prices tend to be between €80-200, depending on how early you book.

From France, direct flights from Paris take just under 2 hours. Prices typically start at around €70 and can go up to €200 during peak seasons.

With so many options, finding the best deal depends on how flexible you are with dates and times - so start looking early to secure the best fare!

Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport (ALC) is the closest airport for visitors to Alicante, located just 9 km (5.5 miles) from the city centre, about a 15-20 minute drive.

Once you've landed, there are a number of ways to get to Alicante:

• Taxis: Taxis are available just outside the terminal. A trip to the city centre costs between €20-25 and takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.

• Bus: The C6 bus line connects the airport directly to the centre of Alicante. The journey takes around 20-25 minutes and costs around €3-4, making it a budget-friendly option.

• Shuttles: Both private and shared shuttles are available to book in advance. Shared shuttles generally cost around €10-15 per person and can take you directly to your accommodation.
  
  
• Car Hire: For those wishing to explore more of the Costa Blanca region, hiring a car is easy and convenient, with many options available at the airport.

☝️Handy Tip: If you're travelling with a family or have a lot of luggage, taxis or shuttles may be more convenient than public transport.

When visiting Alicante, it's important to keep track of the local time zone to make the most of your trip!

• In winter, Alicante follows Central European Time (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of UTC. So if it's noon in London, it's 1pm in Alicante.
  
• In summer, Alicante switches to Central European Summer Time (CEST), which is 2 hours ahead of UTC. From the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October, you'll be able to enjoy those long, beautiful evenings as the city stays light longer!
  

If you're coming from a different time zone, be sure to adjust your clocks, especially during the changeover to daylight saving time. 

Whether you're wandering through the old streets or soaking up the coastal sunsets, keeping track of the local time will help you get the most out of your Alicante adventure!

Alicante is a vibrant coastal city that offers a delightful blend of delicious cuisine, picturesque beaches and rich culture.

Start your adventure by exploring the historic old town (El Barrio), where charming streets lead you to authentic tapas bars such as Cervecería Sento, or enjoy fine dining at La Ereta, which boasts spectacular views of the city. 

Don't miss the Explanada de España, a beautiful promenade perfect for an afternoon stroll.

For beach lovers, Playa del Postiguet is the city's main beach, ideal for sunbathing and swimming. If you're looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, head to Playa de San Juan, a quieter spot just a short drive from the city centre.

Alicante's nightlife is equally enticing, with popular spots such as El Coscorrón for live music or Texaco for a more relaxed evening. 

For a more energetic night out, head to Isla Marina, a beachside club known for its lively atmosphere.

Whether you're indulging in the local cuisine, soaking up the sun on Alicante's beaches or enjoying the nightlife, this city has something special for every traveller!

Alicante's culinary scene is as rich as its history, offering everything from fine dining to relaxed seaside eateries, making it a fantastic destination for food lovers.

For a top-class dining experience, head to La Ereta, a restaurant perched on a hill with panoramic views of the city and the sea. Here you can enjoy creative Mediterranean cuisine using local ingredients such as fresh seafood and seasonal vegetables.

Seafood lovers should not miss El Portal Taberna & Wines, known for its stylish atmosphere and delicious seafood platters, including the freshest oysters and octopus, just minutes from the Explanada de España.

For a more casual option on the beach, La Taberna del Gourmet offers traditional tapas with a modern twist, or head to Dársena, a waterfront restaurant famous for its authentic Alicante-style rice dishes.

Whether you're in the mood for fine dining or a relaxed meal by the sea, Alicante's diverse restaurants promise an unforgettable culinary journey.

Alicante is much more than a sun-drenched beach city - it offers a variety of activities for every type of traveller.

Start by exploring the historic Castle of Santa Bárbara, perched atop Mount Benacantil, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. The castle's rich history and stunning location make it a must-see.

For a more relaxed experience, take a stroll along the Explanada de España, Alicante's iconic palm-lined promenade, perfect for a lazy afternoon with a sea breeze.

Nature lovers should visit El Palmeral Park, a lush green oasis of palm trees, lakes and picnic areas. It's an ideal spot for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
If you're feeling adventurous, take a day trip to Tabarca Island, a small island just off the coast where you can swim, snorkel and explore the charming village.

For family fun, Museo The Ocean Race offers an interactive experience that's both educational and entertaining, focusing on the world of sailing.

Whether you're looking for history, nature or family-friendly activities, Alicante has something for every traveller.

As well as its historic monuments and beaches, Alicante offers a wide range of exciting activities for all types of traveller.

For those who love the sea, a catamaran cruise is a fantastic way to explore the Mediterranean coast. You can relax on deck, swim in the crystal clear waters or even try snorkelling to discover the vibrant marine life.

If you're a wine lover, take a wine tasting tour in the nearby Vinalopó Valley. You'll visit local vineyards, learn about Alicante's rich winemaking tradition and taste some of the region's finest wines.

For something more active, consider hiking to the Cova del Canelobre, an impressive cave system located about 24km from Alicante. With stunning rock formations and guided tours, this activity is perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

If relaxation is your aim, spend the day at Alicante Golf, a picturesque 18-hole course designed by Seve Ballesteros, where you can enjoy a leisurely game with beautiful views of the surrounding hills.

Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation or a taste of the local culture, Alicante's wide range of activities promises something for every traveller.

With its Mediterranean charm, it welcomed us with open arms for our two-night stay and left us with countless fond memories. 

The stunning coastline, the historic Santa Bárbara Castle and the iconic Explanada de España made for unforgettable sightseeing. 

The weather was as sunny as promised, with endless opportunities to enjoy the beach, whether it was Playa del Postiguet or the quieter Playa de San Juan.

Our culinary journey was equally varied, from fine dining at La Ereta with its spectacular views, to seafood delights at El Portal Taberna & Wines. For those who like to get active, Alicante didn't disappoint - from catamaran cruises to snorkelling off the coast and hiking to the incredible Cova del Canelobre. 

If you prefer something a little more relaxed, a visit to Alicante Golf or a peaceful stroll through El Palmeral Park will provide the perfect dose of relaxation.

Whether you're visiting for the history, the beaches, the food or simply to experience the warmth of the local people, Alicante has something for every traveller. 

Our time there was made even more special by the friendly locals who added to the vibrant yet welcoming atmosphere of the city. 

From the first sunset we watched together to our final stroll along the palm-lined promenade, Alicante left a lasting impression that we'll treasure for years to come.