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Mount Benacantil in Alicante, view from the sea Alicante (Valencian: Alacant) is a popular tourist city in the Valencian Community of Spain. It is the capital of Alicante province.

The city is believed to have been founded by the Carthaginian general Hamilcar Barca, who established the fortified settlement of Akra Leuka (Greek: Ἄκρα Λευκή, meaning 'White Mountain' or 'White Point'), where Alicante stands today. It was later conquered by the Romans who renamed it Lucentum. In mediaeval times, Alicante became a major Mediterranean trading station, exporting rice, wine, olive oil, oranges and wool. The city has become a hub of tourism directed to the beaches of the Costa Blanca.

Tourist Info Alicante, Rambla Méndez Núñez, 41 (near Plaza de San Cristobal, +34 965 200 000. M-F 10:00-18:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00. The primary tourist office is open year round, and has free maps and brochures.
- Tourist Info Alicante Ayuntamiento, Plaza del Ayuntamiento, 1 (in the city hall, +34 965 149 219. M-F 09:00-14:00 16:00-18:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00.
- Tourist info Alicante Platja del San Juan, Avda de Niza, s/n (Playa de San Juan / San Juan Beach. Jul-Aug: daily 10:30-14:30 17:30-20:30.
- Tourist Info Alicante Renfe, Avda de Salamanca, s/n (in the main train station, +34 965 125 633. M-F 09:30-14:00 16:30-19:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00.
- Tourist info Alicante Aeropuerto, Aeropuerto El Altet, +34 966 919 367. Tu 09:00-19:00, W-F 09:30-15:00.

Tourist Info Alicante, Rambla Méndez Núñez, 41 (near Plaza de San Cristobal, +34 965 200 000. M-F 10:00-18:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00. The primary tourist office is open year round, and has free maps and brochures.

Tourist Info Alicante Ayuntamiento, Plaza del Ayuntamiento, 1 (in the city hall, +34 965 149 219. M-F 09:00-14:00 16:00-18:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00.
Tourist info Alicante Platja del San Juan, Avda de Niza, s/n (Playa de San Juan / San Juan Beach. Jul-Aug: daily 10:30-14:30 17:30-20:30.
Tourist Info Alicante Renfe, Avda de Salamanca, s/n (in the main train station, +34 965 125 633. M-F 09:30-14:00 16:30-19:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00.
Tourist info Alicante Aeropuerto, Aeropuerto El Altet, +34 966 919 367. Tu 09:00-19:00, W-F 09:30-15:00.

Tourist Info Alicante Ayuntamiento, Plaza del Ayuntamiento, 1 (in the city hall, +34 965 149 219. M-F 09:00-14:00 16:00-18:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00.
Tourist info Alicante Platja del San Juan, Avda de Niza, s/n (Playa de San Juan / San Juan Beach. Jul-Aug: daily 10:30-14:30 17:30-20:30.
Tourist Info Alicante Renfe, Avda de Salamanca, s/n (in the main train station, +34 965 125 633. M-F 09:30-14:00 16:30-19:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00.
Tourist info Alicante Aeropuerto, Aeropuerto El Altet, +34 966 919 367. Tu 09:00-19:00, W-F 09:30-15:00.

Tourist Info Alicante Ayuntamiento, Plaza del Ayuntamiento, 1 (in the city hall, +34 965 149 219. M-F 09:00-14:00 16:00-18:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00.
Tourist info Alicante Platja del San Juan, Avda de Niza, s/n (Playa de San Juan / San Juan Beach. Jul-Aug: daily 10:30-14:30 17:30-20:30.
Tourist Info Alicante Renfe, Avda de Salamanca, s/n (in the main train station, +34 965 125 633. M-F 09:30-14:00 16:30-19:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00.
Tourist info Alicante Aeropuerto, Aeropuerto El Altet, +34 966 919 367. Tu 09:00-19:00, W-F 09:30-15:00.

Tourist Info Alicante Ayuntamiento, Plaza del Ayuntamiento, 1 (in the city hall, +34 965 149 219. M-F 09:00-14:00 16:00-18:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00.
Tourist info Alicante Platja del San Juan, Avda de Niza, s/n (Playa de San Juan / San Juan Beach. Jul-Aug: daily 10:30-14:30 17:30-20:30.
Tourist Info Alicante Renfe, Avda de Salamanca, s/n (in the main train station, +34 965 125 633. M-F 09:30-14:00 16:30-19:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00.
Tourist info Alicante Aeropuerto, Aeropuerto El Altet, +34 966 919 367. Tu 09:00-19:00, W-F 09:30-15:00.

Tourist Info Alicante Ayuntamiento, Plaza del Ayuntamiento, 1 (in the city hall, +34 965 149 219. M-F 09:00-14:00 16:00-18:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00.
Tourist info Alicante Platja del San Juan, Avda de Niza, s/n (Playa de San Juan / San Juan Beach. Jul-Aug: daily 10:30-14:30 17:30-20:30.
Tourist Info Alicante Renfe, Avda de Salamanca, s/n (in the main train station, +34 965 125 633. M-F 09:30-14:00 16:30-19:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00.
Tourist info Alicante Aeropuerto, Aeropuerto El Altet, +34 966 919 367. Tu 09:00-19:00, W-F 09:30-15:00.

Esplanada de España The old town of Alicante is roughly the triangular area enclosed by the Rambla de Méndez Núnez, the Explanada de Espanya, and Mount Benacantil. Largely tourist-friendly, the old, narrow streets make for an enjoyable wander provided you don't get yourself lost. Here you'll find the town hall, cathedral, an old covent, and several art museums.

Mount Benacantil and Santa Barbara Castle Facade detail of the Basílica de Santa Maria

Castell de la Santa Bàrbara. Oct-Mar daily 10:00-20:00, Apr-Jun daily 10:00-22:00, Jul Aug daily 10:00-24:00, Sep daily 10:00-22:00. On top of Mount Benacantil at a height of 166 metres, there is one of the largest medieval fortresses in Spain, built in the ninth century by Muslims. An amazing view of town and harbour. If you feel fit, the walk from Plaza de Carmen is a sight in itself, through some narrow winding streets. The castle can also be reached by car, but parking slots are scarce. Free.
- Museu de la Ciutat d'Alacant, Calle Vázquez de Mella s/n (Castell de Santa Bárbara, +34 965 152 969. Daily 10:00-14:30, 16:00-20:00. Showcases archaeological finds from the city and the region. Free.
- Lift. Oct-Mar daily 10:00-20:00, last lift up 19:20; Apr-Jun daily 10:00-20:00, last lift up 19:20; Jul Aug daily 10:00-23:30, last lift up 19:20; Sep daily 10:00-20:00, last lift up 19:20. There is a lift in the core of Mount Benacantil itself, which runs from the ground level and stops at two levels in the castle. It may not be easy to spot the entrance! The easiest route is to follow Postiguet beach to the footbridge, then cross the road and pick your way West along the pavement until you see the sign for the castle and the tunnel entrance. The ticket machine for the lift is near the end of the tunnel. Insert your money, press the large green "A" button, then "Ticket", and your ticket will be printed. Maps are provided. Travelling between the two castle levels is free. €2.70 (round-trip), free (seniors); free access Jul Aug daily 19:45-23:30.
Basílica de Santa Maria. Begun during the 14th century on top of the remains of an old Moorish mosque, construction was completed in the 16th century, and incorporates Gothic and Baroque stylistic elements in its structure. The main entrance to the church is especially notable for its elaborate Baroque decorative elements; inside the Gothic choir and Rococo altar are noteworthy, along with the Baroque organ from 1653. The exterior still bears traces of bombardment by French forces in the 18th century. Free.
Lucentum Archaeological Site, C/ de Zeus, s/n (Albufereta, +34 965 149 000. Winter: Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00 16:00-18:00, Su 10:00-14:00; Summer: M-Sa 09:00-12:00 19:00-22:00, Su 09:00-12:00. This site, which covers over 7 acres, is the location of the original Roman city which later became Alicante. Although excavation is ongoing, it is open to visitors. Notable features are remains of the defensive walls, Roman baths, and forum, as well as part of the old Muslim cemetery. Free.
Castell de Sant Ferran. Dawn to dusk. Built at the beginning of the 19th century, the fortress is now the centrepiece of a city park. Free.

Castell de la Santa Bàrbara. Oct-Mar daily 10:00-20:00, Apr-Jun daily 10:00-22:00, Jul Aug daily 10:00-24:00, Sep daily 10:00-22:00. On top of Mount Benacantil at a height of 166 metres, there is one of the largest medieval fortresses in Spain, built in the ninth century by Muslims. An amazing view of town and harbour. If you feel fit, the walk from Plaza de Carmen is a sight in itself, through some narrow winding streets. The castle can also be reached by car, but parking slots are scarce. Free.

Museu de la Ciutat d'Alacant, Calle Vázquez de Mella s/n (Castell de Santa Bárbara, +34 965 152 969. Daily 10:00-14:30, 16:00-20:00. Showcases archaeological finds from the city and the region. Free.
Lift. Oct-Mar daily 10:00-20:00, last lift up 19:20; Apr-Jun daily 10:00-20:00, last lift up 19:20; Jul Aug daily 10:00-23:30, last lift up 19:20; Sep daily 10:00-20:00, last lift up 19:20. There is a lift in the core of Mount Benacantil itself, which runs from the ground level and stops at two levels in the castle. It may not be easy to spot the entrance! The easiest route is to follow Postiguet beach to the footbridge, then cross the road and pick your way West along the pavement until you see the sign for the castle and the tunnel entrance. The ticket machine for the lift is near the end of the tunnel. Insert your money, press the large green "A" button, then "Ticket", and your ticket will be printed. Maps are provided. Travelling between the two castle levels is free. €2.70 (round-trip), free (seniors); free access Jul Aug daily 19:45-23:30.

Museu de la Ciutat d'Alacant, Calle Vázquez de Mella s/n (Castell de Santa Bárbara, +34 965 152 969. Daily 10:00-14:30, 16:00-20:00. Showcases archaeological finds from the city and the region. Free.
Lift. Oct-Mar daily 10:00-20:00, last lift up 19:20; Apr-Jun daily 10:00-20:00, last lift up 19:20; Jul Aug daily 10:00-23:30, last lift up 19:20; Sep daily 10:00-20:00, last lift up 19:20. There is a lift in the core of Mount Benacantil itself, which runs from the ground level and stops at two levels in the castle. It may not be easy to spot the entrance! The easiest route is to follow Postiguet beach to the footbridge, then cross the road and pick your way West along the pavement until you see the sign for the castle and the tunnel entrance. The ticket machine for the lift is near the end of the tunnel. Insert your money, press the large green "A" button, then "Ticket", and your ticket will be printed. Maps are provided. Travelling between the two castle levels is free. €2.70 (round-trip), free (seniors); free access Jul Aug daily 19:45-23:30.

Museu de la Ciutat d'Alacant, Calle Vázquez de Mella s/n (Castell de Santa Bárbara, +34 965 152 969. Daily 10:00-14:30, 16:00-20:00. Showcases archaeological finds from the city and the region. Free.
Lift. Oct-Mar daily 10:00-20:00, last lift up 19:20; Apr-Jun daily 10:00-20:00, last lift up 19:20; Jul Aug daily 10:00-23:30, last lift up 19:20; Sep daily 10:00-20:00, last lift up 19:20. There is a lift in the core of Mount Benacantil itself, which runs from the ground level and stops at two levels in the castle. It may not be easy to spot the entrance! The easiest route is to follow Postiguet beach to the footbridge, then cross the road and pick your way West along the pavement until you see the sign for the castle and the tunnel entrance. The ticket machine for the lift is near the end of the tunnel. Insert your money, press the large green "A" button, then "Ticket", and your ticket will be printed. Maps are provided. Travelling between the two castle levels is free. €2.70 (round-trip), free (seniors); free access Jul Aug daily 19:45-23:30.

Basílica de Santa Maria. Begun during the 14th century on top of the remains of an old Moorish mosque, construction was completed in the 16th century, and incorporates Gothic and Baroque stylistic elements in its structure. The main entrance to the church is especially notable for its elaborate Baroque decorative elements; inside the Gothic choir and Rococo altar are noteworthy, along with the Baroque organ from 1653. The exterior still bears traces of bombardment by French forces in the 18th century. Free.

Lucentum Archaeological Site, C/ de Zeus, s/n (Albufereta, +34 965 149 000. Winter: Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00 16:00-18:00, Su 10:00-14:00; Summer: M-Sa 09:00-12:00 19:00-22:00, Su 09:00-12:00. This site, which covers over 7 acres, is the location of the original Roman city which later became Alicante. Although excavation is ongoing, it is open to visitors. Notable features are remains of the defensive walls, Roman baths, and forum, as well as part of the old Muslim cemetery. Free.

Castell de Sant Ferran. Dawn to dusk. Built at the beginning of the 19th century, the fortress is now the centrepiece of a city park. Free.

Iberian artifacts on display at MARQ (Archaeological Museum of Alicante) Museu de la Universitat d’Alacant

Museu Arqueològic Provincial d'Alacant, Plaza Dr Gómez Ulla, s/n, +34 965 149 000. Tu-F 10:00-19:00, Sa 10:00-20:30, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00. Founded in 1932, it was originally located in the ground floor of the Diputación Palace, and in 2000 it moved to its current location, the former Provincial Hospital building. The museum has an avant-garde design and uses modern audiovisual techniques, with more than 80,000 pieces found in local archaeological sites. It also shows educational movies about the history of Alicante area from the Stone Age, through Iberian and Roman eras, to the Middle Ages. €3 (adults), €1.50 (concessions), free (disabled/teachers/journalists/children under 8).
Museu de Belles Arts Gravina, C/ Gravina 13-15 (Old Town, +34 965 14 67 80. 1 Sep - 30 Jun: Tu-Sa 10:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00; 1 Jul - 31 Aug: Tu-Sa 11:00-21:00, Su and holidays 11:00-15:00. This local fine arts museum, housed in an 18th-century palace, has some excellent artworks by Spanish artists, displayed over 3 floors. Take time to watch the video presentation Black and White about historic Alicante. Free.
Museu d'Art Contemporani d'Alacant, Plaza de Santa María, 3, +34 965 213 156. Tu-Sa 10:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00. On display there are a few works by world-famous artists of the 20th century: Pablo Picasso, Georges Braque, Julio González, Juan Gris, Joan Miró; as well as art collections by two local artists Eusebio Sempere and Juana Francés. Free.
Museu de la Universitat d’Alacant, Carretera de San Vicente del Raspeig, s/n (Campus de la Universidad de Alicante, +34 965 909 387. M-F 09:00-20:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00. Opened in 1999, this ultra-modern museum is devoted to contemporary art and hosts special exhibits as well as concerts and other events. Free.
Museu d’Aigües d’Alacant, Plaza Arquitecto Miguel López, s/n (Plaza del Puente, Casco Antiguo, +34 965 143 787. Sep-May: Tu-F 10:00-14:00 17:00-20:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00; Jun-Aug: Tu-F 10:00-14:00 18:00-21:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00. The museum is adjacent to the Pozos de Garrigós (Garrigós Wells), a collection of wells dating from the Moorish period to the 16th century, and in use until 1898. Exhibits in the three-floor modern museum illustrate the history of water resources and distribution in the city and the area. Free.

Museu Arqueològic Provincial d'Alacant, Plaza Dr Gómez Ulla, s/n, +34 965 149 000. Tu-F 10:00-19:00, Sa 10:00-20:30, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00. Founded in 1932, it was originally located in the ground floor of the Diputación Palace, and in 2000 it moved to its current location, the former Provincial Hospital building. The museum has an avant-garde design and uses modern audiovisual techniques, with more than 80,000 pieces found in local archaeological sites. It also shows educational movies about the history of Alicante area from the Stone Age, through Iberian and Roman eras, to the Middle Ages. €3 (adults), €1.50 (concessions), free (disabled/teachers/journalists/children under 8).

Museu de Belles Arts Gravina, C/ Gravina 13-15 (Old Town, +34 965 14 67 80. 1 Sep - 30 Jun: Tu-Sa 10:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00; 1 Jul - 31 Aug: Tu-Sa 11:00-21:00, Su and holidays 11:00-15:00. This local fine arts museum, housed in an 18th-century palace, has some excellent artworks by Spanish artists, displayed over 3 floors. Take time to watch the video presentation Black and White about historic Alicante. Free.

Museu d'Art Contemporani d'Alacant, Plaza de Santa María, 3, +34 965 213 156. Tu-Sa 10:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00. On display there are a few works by world-famous artists of the 20th century: Pablo Picasso, Georges Braque, Julio González, Juan Gris, Joan Miró; as well as art collections by two local artists Eusebio Sempere and Juana Francés. Free.

Museu de la Universitat d’Alacant, Carretera de San Vicente del Raspeig, s/n (Campus de la Universidad de Alicante, +34 965 909 387. M-F 09:00-20:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00. Opened in 1999, this ultra-modern museum is devoted to contemporary art and hosts special exhibits as well as concerts and other events. Free.

Museu d’Aigües d’Alacant, Plaza Arquitecto Miguel López, s/n (Plaza del Puente, Casco Antiguo, +34 965 143 787. Sep-May: Tu-F 10:00-14:00 17:00-20:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00; Jun-Aug: Tu-F 10:00-14:00 18:00-21:00, Sa Su 10:00-14:00. The museum is adjacent to the Pozos de Garrigós (Garrigós Wells), a collection of wells dating from the Moorish period to the 16th century, and in use until 1898. Exhibits in the three-floor modern museum illustrate the history of water resources and distribution in the city and the area. Free.

Auditori de la Diputació d'Alacant

Teatre Principal, Plaça de Ruperto Chapí, s/n, +34 965 203 100 (info), +34 965 202 380 (box office). 12:00-14:00 17:00-21:00 (box office). Alicante's main theatre was built in the mid-19th century, and partially destroyed and rebuilt during the Spanish Civil War. Today it is the city's main venue for not only plays but also musicals, dance, and musical performances.
Auditori de la Diputació d'Alacant, Paseo Campoamor, s/n (N of the bullring, +34 965 919 100. Box office: M-Th 08:00-18:00, F 11:00-14:00. A venue for classical music performances, by both Spanish and international musicians. The building was designed by Alicante-born architect Juan Antonio García Solera.

Teatre Principal, Plaça de Ruperto Chapí, s/n, +34 965 203 100 (info), +34 965 202 380 (box office). 12:00-14:00 17:00-21:00 (box office). Alicante's main theatre was built in the mid-19th century, and partially destroyed and rebuilt during the Spanish Civil War. Today it is the city's main venue for not only plays but also musicals, dance, and musical performances.

Auditori de la Diputació d'Alacant, Paseo Campoamor, s/n (N of the bullring, +34 965 919 100. Box office: M-Th 08:00-18:00, F 11:00-14:00. A venue for classical music performances, by both Spanish and international musicians. The building was designed by Alicante-born architect Juan Antonio García Solera.

One of the elaborate monuments that can be found throughout Alicante during Las Hogueras de San Juan

Epifanía. 6 January. As in the rest of Spain, in the Epiphany (January the 6th) there is a parade in remembrance of the Three Wise Men that adored Child Jesus, where every child participates (it is the equivalent to Santa Claus in the Spanish culture).
Carnaval. February to March, just before Lent. Features parades of people in disguises and open air concerts (yes, weather allows it!).
Setmana Santa. Week before Easter. Has parades of religious brotherhoods with their images of Jesus Christ and Holy Mary.
Romiatge de Santa Faç. 2nd Thursday after Good Friday. A massive pilgrimage/walk to the Monestir de la Santa Faç. (Spanish: Monasterio de la Santa Faz), where a relic with and image of Jesus is on display.
Fogueres de Sant Joan. 23 June. The most important festival in the city, with preparations beginning a week beforehand. Throughout Alicante, enormous monuments (up to and above 3 stories tall) are constructed and burned at the end of the festival during the night of 24th to 25th, after the shooting off of the very large "Palmera" firework from the top of the Castillo de Alicant. The explosion takes the shape of palm tree leaves (hence the name, Palmera). This is the symbol that begins the burning of the Hogueras monuments, which lasts into the later hours of the night. After that, a week of night fireworks continues in the beach. During the festival you won't have to go far to find music, drinks, and dancing, that all usually lasts until the early mornings.
Moros i Cristians. One of the many Moorish and Christian festivals in the province, here the tradition began in the 20th century. Different neighbourhoods in the city celebrate at different times of year. In the Villafranqueza it is celebrated in March, in the Barrio de San Blas the second week of June, El Rebolledo in mid-July, in Altozano during the second week of August, and in the Barrio de Miguel Hernández the third week of August.
Gay Pride. It is usually hold in July. During this week Alicante fills up with artistic and cultural activities. The last day a manifesto is read in Plaza Mayor del Ayuntamiento where afterwards music is played and people drink and dance.

Epifanía. 6 January. As in the rest of Spain, in the Epiphany (January the 6th) there is a parade in remembrance of the Three Wise Men that adored Child Jesus, where every child participates (it is the equivalent to Santa Claus in the Spanish culture).

Carnaval. February to March, just before Lent. Features parades of people in disguises and open air concerts (yes, weather allows it!).

Setmana Santa. Week before Easter. Has parades of religious brotherhoods with their images of Jesus Christ and Holy Mary.

Romiatge de Santa Faç. 2nd Thursday after Good Friday. A massive pilgrimage/walk to the Monestir de la Santa Faç. (Spanish: Monasterio de la Santa Faz), where a relic with and image of Jesus is on display.

Fogueres de Sant Joan. 23 June. The most important festival in the city, with preparations beginning a week beforehand. Throughout Alicante, enormous monuments (up to and above 3 stories tall) are constructed and burned at the end of the festival during the night of 24th to 25th, after the shooting off of the very large "Palmera" firework from the top of the Castillo de Alicant. The explosion takes the shape of palm tree leaves (hence the name, Palmera). This is the symbol that begins the burning of the Hogueras monuments, which lasts into the later hours of the night. After that, a week of night fireworks continues in the beach. During the festival you won't have to go far to find music, drinks, and dancing, that all usually lasts until the early mornings.

Moros i Cristians. One of the many Moorish and Christian festivals in the province, here the tradition began in the 20th century. Different neighbourhoods in the city celebrate at different times of year. In the Villafranqueza it is celebrated in March, in the Barrio de San Blas the second week of June, El Rebolledo in mid-July, in Altozano during the second week of August, and in the Barrio de Miguel Hernández the third week of August.

Gay Pride. It is usually hold in July. During this week Alicante fills up with artistic and cultural activities. The last day a manifesto is read in Plaza Mayor del Ayuntamiento where afterwards music is played and people drink and dance.

Kinépolis, Centro Comercial Plaza Mar 2, +34 965 220 192. A modern cineplex which shows the latest blockbusters, with both dubbed and original language versions (VOS: versión original subtitulada).
Yelmo Cines, Avinguda de Alcalde Lorenzo Carbonell, 66 (in the Centro Comercial Puerto de Alicante. Another cineplex which shows current films in both dubbed and original language versions.

Kinépolis, Centro Comercial Plaza Mar 2, +34 965 220 192. A modern cineplex which shows the latest blockbusters, with both dubbed and original language versions (VOS: versión original subtitulada).

Yelmo Cines, Avinguda de Alcalde Lorenzo Carbonell, 66 (in the Centro Comercial Puerto de Alicante. Another cineplex which shows current films in both dubbed and original language versions.

In the heart of the city there is Platja del Postiguet. (Playa de Postiguet). The sandy beach is popular during the day and fairly busy during the evening when it's illuminated by sodium street lights. These give the beach and breaking waves a surreal effect. Beach goers should take precautions however even during the day, as unattended bags and purses are popular targets for thieves.

With a bit of traveling by bus 22 or tram (L3, stop 'Costa Blanca'), you can reach the spacious 7 km long Platja del San Juan. (Playa de San Juan), which is considered to be one of the finest in Spain.

The less crowded Platja del Saladar. (Playa del Saladar/Urbanova, bus 27) is south of the port, along the road from Alicante to Cartagena. Platja dels Arenals del Sol. (Playa de los Arenales) is a bit further still, has sand dunes, and is even less crowded. This beach can be accessed by an hourly bus from the main bus station.

Mercat Central

Mercat Central, Avda Alfonso X El Sábio, 10 (head down Rambla de Méndez Núnez then turn W, +34 965 140 763. M-Th 07:30-14:30, F 07:30-20:30, Sa 07:30-15:00. The two levels sell all the fresh meat, seafood, cheeses, fruit and vegetables anyone could need. If you exit the market through the back, you'll find the flower sellers in a small outdoor square.
Mercat Babel, Carrer Asil, s/n, +34 965 103 452. M-Th 07:30-14:00, F 07:30-20:30, Sa 07:30-14:00. A standard food market selling local produce and fish. On Th and Sa mornings there is also an outdoor market along the adjacent streets where you can pick up various other household goods, clothings, etc.
Mercat Benalúa, Carrer Pérez Medina, 2, +34 965 130 225. M W F 07:30-14:00, Th 07:30-14:30, Sa 07:30-15:00. A standard food market, with an nearby outdoor street market on Th and Sa mornings.
Mercat Carolinas, Carrer San Mateo, s/n, +34 965 253 961. M-Sa 07:30-14:00. A standard food market, with an nearby outdoor street market on Th and Sa mornings.

Mercat Central, Avda Alfonso X El Sábio, 10 (head down Rambla de Méndez Núnez then turn W, +34 965 140 763. M-Th 07:30-14:30, F 07:30-20:30, Sa 07:30-15:00. The two levels sell all the fresh meat, seafood, cheeses, fruit and vegetables anyone could need. If you exit the market through the back, you'll find the flower sellers in a small outdoor square.

Mercat Babel, Carrer Asil, s/n, +34 965 103 452. M-Th 07:30-14:00, F 07:30-20:30, Sa 07:30-14:00. A standard food market selling local produce and fish. On Th and Sa mornings there is also an outdoor market along the adjacent streets where you can pick up various other household goods, clothings, etc.

Mercat Benalúa, Carrer Pérez Medina, 2, +34 965 130 225. M W F 07:30-14:00, Th 07:30-14:30, Sa 07:30-15:00. A standard food market, with an nearby outdoor street market on Th and Sa mornings.

Mercat Carolinas, Carrer San Mateo, s/n, +34 965 253 961. M-Sa 07:30-14:00. A standard food market, with an nearby outdoor street market on Th and Sa mornings.

Passeig Esplanada d'Espanya market

Passeig Esplanada d'Espanya market. M W-F 11:30-14:30 17:00-20:30, Sa Su and holidays 11:00-22:30. Market stalls along the promenade selling beads, clothes, flags etc.
Mercado de Filatelia y Numismática, Plaça de Ajuntament, s/n, +34 965 149 325. Su and holidays 09:00-14:00. A weekly market for stamps and old coins.
Mercado el Rinconet, C/ Balsas Nuevas, 7 (Villafranqueza. Sa 06:00-22:00, Su and holidays 10:00-15:00. A large second-hand market where you can find all sorts of antiques, musical instruments, and other odds and ends.
Mercado Artesano, Plaza de la Santísima Faz, s/n (behind the ayuntamiento/city hall, +34 965 149 325. Summer: F-Su 07:00-24:00, winter: Su 10:00-14:00. A good place to find handmade jewelry, belts, handbags, and other crafts.

Passeig Esplanada d'Espanya market. M W-F 11:30-14:30 17:00-20:30, Sa Su and holidays 11:00-22:30. Market stalls along the promenade selling beads, clothes, flags etc.

Mercado de Filatelia y Numismática, Plaça de Ajuntament, s/n, +34 965 149 325. Su and holidays 09:00-14:00. A weekly market for stamps and old coins.

Mercado el Rinconet, C/ Balsas Nuevas, 7 (Villafranqueza. Sa 06:00-22:00, Su and holidays 10:00-15:00. A large second-hand market where you can find all sorts of antiques, musical instruments, and other odds and ends.

Mercado Artesano, Plaza de la Santísima Faz, s/n (behind the ayuntamiento/city hall, +34 965 149 325. Summer: F-Su 07:00-24:00, winter: Su 10:00-14:00. A good place to find handmade jewelry, belts, handbags, and other crafts.

Arroz con costra (rice topped with sausages and eggs), a regional specialty Arroz alicantino, a local variant of Valencian paella As with the rest of Spain, breakfast is usually light, usually some sort of bread (e.g. toast) or piece of bakery. Traditionally, a hearty meal in the early afternoon is followed by a siesta as the heat builds. Many restaurants are then closed between 16:00-21:00. A light meal is taken once the sun goes down, often in the local tapería if you are a visitor. Many restaurants don't open before 21:00 for dinner, so bear this in mind when planning your dinner schedule.

As elsewhere in the region, seafood and rice dominates, with paella in the frontline. In almost every restaurant, you will find a menú del día ('menu of the day') or a similar special for €10, a three- or four-course meal with or without a drink. This is an excellent way to economise if you want to splash out later.

In tourist areas, you'll have no problem finding UK fare served at earlier times, if you find yourself intimidated by the local cuisine. Restaurants of all price ranges are clustered around Carrer Castaños (near the theatre), Calle San Francisco and Calle Mayor (near the cathedral).

Mesón de Labradores, C/ de los Labradores, 19 (Casco Antiguo / Old Town, +34 965 204 846. Daily 13:00-17:00 19:00-00:30. Founded in 1693, this taberna serves excellent regional dishes. The house specialty is the Chupi-Chupi, with a special secret sauce. €15 per person.
El Nou Cisne, C/ Bazán, 47 (near the Teatro Principal, +34 965 212 527. Serves tapas and raciones. Set menu €11.90.
Nou Manolin, C/ Villegas, 3 (near the theatre, +52 965 200 368. Daily 13:00-16:15 20:15-00:15. A very popular restaurant which focuses on regional specialties. On the ground floor is a great tapas bar, while formal dining is on the upper floors. Also has a great wine cellar. Mains €18-27.
Piripi, Avda Oscar Esplá, 30, +34 96 522 7940. Daily 13:00-16:00 20:00-24:00. A popular restaurant best known for its tapas and rice dishes. Mains €12-25.
Restaurante El Mirador, Rambla Méndez Núnez, 3 (in the Hotel TRYP Gran Sol, +34 965 146 618. Daily 13:00-16:00 20:00-23:00. The hotel is one of the city's tallest buildings; the restaurant is situated on the 26th floor and offers excellent views of the sea and the city. Set menu €30.
La Taberna del Gourmet, C/ San Fernando, 10, +34 965 204 233. Daily 11:00-00:30. A well-known tapas bar and delicatessen, with fine wines. Tapas €7-19, tapas tasting menu €27.50, standard tasting menu €55.

Mesón de Labradores, C/ de los Labradores, 19 (Casco Antiguo / Old Town, +34 965 204 846. Daily 13:00-17:00 19:00-00:30. Founded in 1693, this taberna serves excellent regional dishes. The house specialty is the Chupi-Chupi, with a special secret sauce. €15 per person.

El Nou Cisne, C/ Bazán, 47 (near the Teatro Principal, +34 965 212 527. Serves tapas and raciones. Set menu €11.90.

Nou Manolin, C/ Villegas, 3 (near the theatre, +52 965 200 368. Daily 13:00-16:15 20:15-00:15. A very popular restaurant which focuses on regional specialties. On the ground floor is a great tapas bar, while formal dining is on the upper floors. Also has a great wine cellar. Mains €18-27.

Piripi, Avda Oscar Esplá, 30, +34 96 522 7940. Daily 13:00-16:00 20:00-24:00. A popular restaurant best known for its tapas and rice dishes. Mains €12-25.

Restaurante El Mirador, Rambla Méndez Núnez, 3 (in the Hotel TRYP Gran Sol, +34 965 146 618. Daily 13:00-16:00 20:00-23:00. The hotel is one of the city's tallest buildings; the restaurant is situated on the 26th floor and offers excellent views of the sea and the city. Set menu €30.

La Taberna del Gourmet, C/ San Fernando, 10, +34 965 204 233. Daily 11:00-00:30. A well-known tapas bar and delicatessen, with fine wines. Tapas €7-19, tapas tasting menu €27.50, standard tasting menu €55.

Michelin-starred Monastrell

Dársena, Muella de Levante, 6 (port area, +52 965 207 598. Tu-Sa 13:00-16:00 20:00-23:00. A long-established and respected restaurant, known especially for paella and other rice dishes, and for seafood. This place is very busy and reservations are recommended. Mains €16+, tasting menu €60.
Monastrell, Avda Julio Guillen Tato, 1 (port area, +34 965 126 640. Tu-Sa 13:00-16:00 19:30-23:00, Su 13:00-16:00. Michelin-starred chef María José San Román focuses on contemporary and avant-garde cuisine, relying on local products. The minimalist dining area is decorated with wood, aluminum, and granite. Reservations can be made online. Tasting menu €79.
One One, C/ de Valdés, 9, +34 96 520 6399. Tu-Sa 12:00-17:00 21:00-24:00; closed mid-Aug through mid-Sept. A cozy restaurant that offers innovative and original cuisine. Has a good wine cellar. Mains €25.
Restaurante La Ereta, Parque de La Ereta, s/n (on the slope of Mt Benacantil, +34 965 143 250. Winter: Tu lunch, Th dinner, Sa lunch/dinner; summer: M-W dinner, Th-Sa lunch/dinner, holiday eves. Creative cuisine offered in two tasting menus, with great views of the sea and city. Tapas tasting menu €45, standard tasting menu €65.

Dársena, Muella de Levante, 6 (port area, +52 965 207 598. Tu-Sa 13:00-16:00 20:00-23:00. A long-established and respected restaurant, known especially for paella and other rice dishes, and for seafood. This place is very busy and reservations are recommended. Mains €16+, tasting menu €60.

Monastrell, Avda Julio Guillen Tato, 1 (port area, +34 965 126 640. Tu-Sa 13:00-16:00 19:30-23:00, Su 13:00-16:00. Michelin-starred chef María José San Román focuses on contemporary and avant-garde cuisine, relying on local products. The minimalist dining area is decorated with wood, aluminum, and granite. Reservations can be made online. Tasting menu €79.

One One, C/ de Valdés, 9, +34 96 520 6399. Tu-Sa 12:00-17:00 21:00-24:00; closed mid-Aug through mid-Sept. A cozy restaurant that offers innovative and original cuisine. Has a good wine cellar. Mains €25.

Restaurante La Ereta, Parque de La Ereta, s/n (on the slope of Mt Benacantil, +34 965 143 250. Winter: Tu lunch, Th dinner, Sa lunch/dinner; summer: M-W dinner, Th-Sa lunch/dinner, holiday eves. Creative cuisine offered in two tasting menus, with great views of the sea and city. Tapas tasting menu €45, standard tasting menu €65.

A glass of wine at sunset El botellón, literally, 'the large bottle', is a custom among young people in Spain, in which they buy 2-litre bottles of soft drinks and mix into them hard liquor, and then stand or sit around drinking in parking lots and other public places. This is to avoid the high cost of drinks in some bars and clubs. There are many organizations which organise and advertise the party scene of the Barrio, such as BarrioLife.

The Barrio (aka Casco Antiguo) is the centre of nightlife in Alicante, with bars like John Mulligan's., Carpe Diem., La Antigua., and ¡¡Ay, Carmela!!.; there is never a dull night in this small Spanish city. Drinks are cheap, and shots are sometimes free.

Another focal point is the eastern rim of the marina, called Puerto, in and around the Casino Mediterráneo., where things start and end later – a typical night can end at around 07:00 or 08:00. As this part of town has a bad reputation at night, most nightclubs here hire their own security who also act as bouncers. Especially at dawn party goers should take care, as theft is common.

The city provides free Wi-Fi to everyone in a number places across the city centre, including the Plaça Ajuntament. (Plaza del Ayuntamiento), Plaça dels Estels. (Plaza de los Luceros), Plaça de la Muntanyeta. (Plaza de la Montañeta), the Castell de la Santa Bàrbara (Santa Barbara Castle), and at Platja del Postiguet (Postiguet Beach).

Alicante is generally a safe city, but visitors should take precautions in the port area, which should be avoided at night and dawn.

United Kingdom British Consulate Alicante, Rambla Méndez Núñez, 28-32, 6ª planta, +34 965 216 022.

United Kingdom British Consulate Alicante, Rambla Méndez Núñez, 28-32, 6ª planta, +34 965 216 022.

Coves del Canelobre

Tabarca – there are several companies near the port which offer boat trips, from 45-minute excursions on a catamaran to all-day trips to the island. Prices vary.
Coves del Canelobre, +34 965 699 250. 1 Sep - 30 Jun: Tu-F 10:30-16:50, Sa Su and holidays 10:30-17:50; 1 Jul - 31 Aug: daily 10:30-19:30; Easter Su 10:30-19:30; closed M after Easter, 25 Dec and 1 Jan. A large cave network with impressive stalacites and stalagmites. The inner aspect of the main cave, with one of the highest vaults of Spain, is very similar to the one of a cathedral. Visitors are able to admire the diverse and capricious forms that have been taking rocks: candelabra, animals and multitude of spectacular forms. Sometimes, their superb acoustic and environmental conditions take advantage of for spectacles in which music is privileged protagonist. Entrance requires you join in on a tour which is mainly in Spanish, although some information is provided in English. €7 (adults), €4.50 (seniors), €3.50 (children 5-14), free (children under 5).
Costa Blanca
- Benidorm - Aqualandia, Mundomar, Terra Mitica
- Altea
- Calpe (Calp)
- Dénia
- Jávea (Xàbia)
Biar

[[Tabarca]] – there are several companies near the port which offer boat trips, from 45-minute excursions on a catamaran to all-day trips to the island. Prices vary.

Coves del Canelobre, +34 965 699 250. 1 Sep - 30 Jun: Tu-F 10:30-16:50, Sa Su and holidays 10:30-17:50; 1 Jul - 31 Aug: daily 10:30-19:30; Easter Su 10:30-19:30; closed M after Easter, 25 Dec and 1 Jan. A large cave network with impressive stalacites and stalagmites. The inner aspect of the main cave, with one of the highest vaults of Spain, is very similar to the one of a cathedral. Visitors are able to admire the diverse and capricious forms that have been taking rocks: candelabra, animals and multitude of spectacular forms. Sometimes, their superb acoustic and environmental conditions take advantage of for spectacles in which music is privileged protagonist. Entrance requires you join in on a tour which is mainly in Spanish, although some information is provided in English. €7 (adults), €4.50 (seniors), €3.50 (children 5-14), free (children under 5).