Alicante(Spain) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Alicante, recommend staying at Hotel El Cid, located near Playa de San Juan, offering family rooms, a kids' pool, and a children's club. The hotel is a short walk from the Santa Bárbara Castle, with parks and playgrounds nearby. Its Mediterranean-style architecture and guest-focused service make it ideal for families seeking comfort and convenience while enjoying coastal charm.

Alicante Centro is the prime choice for city-center stays, close to Plaza de la Virgen and the Catedral de Alicante, with easy access to shopping streets, restaurants, and cultural sites. This district offers excellent transport links, vibrant nightlife, and proximity to the historic Barrio de la Marina, perfect for travelers who enjoy urban energy and authentic local life.

Consider Casa del Pilar, a heritage home turned boutique guesthouse in the Old Town, preserving 18th-century stone walls and arched windows. Decorated with traditional Valencian ceramics and stained glass, the property is run by local artists who host art exhibitions and cooking workshops. Guests experience authentic Mediterranean living and the rich Andalusian–Valencian cultural blend firsthand.

Winter in Alicante brings mild weather, ideal for cultural and nature exploration. Visit the Museo Arqueológico de Alicante to discover Roman and Iberian civilizations, or stroll through the Parque Natural de La Mata - La Albufereta to observe migratory birds. Don’t miss the Mercado de Navidad in December, a festive market filled with handmade gifts and traditional sweets, capturing the spirit of seasonal warmth.

Hotel Las Dunas, nestled along a private beach near Elche, offers secluded sea-view suites with outdoor hot tubs. The hotel features candlelit dinners, sunset massages, and customized couple’s experiences, blending Mediterranean elegance with luxury service. Its tranquil setting and personalized touches create unforgettable moments for couples seeking intimacy and beauty.

Must-try in Alicante: Paella Valenciana, made with locally raised chicken, rabbit, and premium rice, seasoned with saffron. Also sample Turrón de Alicante, a festive nougat confection made with almonds and honey. Enjoy them fresh at the Mercado Central de Alicante, where you can savor authentic flavors amid bustling local markets and traditional aromas.

Yes, Alicante has an efficient public transit system. The Tranvía de Alicante connects downtown with seaside areas, while a comprehensive bus network covers all major sites including Santa Bárbara Castle, Marina Park, and the airport. Consider purchasing the Alicante Tourist Card for free rides on buses and trams, plus discounts at attractions—great for seamless travel.

Summer in Alicante is vibrant with events like the Fiestas de San Antonio in June, featuring street parades, fireworks, flamenco shows, and traditional fairs. Additionally, the Festival Internacional de Cine de Alicante in July attracts filmmakers and cinephiles worldwide, showcasing international films and fostering cultural exchange, highlighting the city’s dynamic arts scene.

Santa Bárbara Castle offers stunning panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the city skyline, especially during golden hour. The Puerto Antiguo docks feature colorful boats and net-covered sheds, creating a quintessential Southern European atmosphere. Meanwhile, Playa de San Juan’s tree-lined pathways and palm trees provide picturesque compositions, perfect for capturing the essence of Mediterranean light and coastline beauty.

The Ayuntamiento de Alicante operates multiple tourist offices offering multilingual assistance, free maps, brochures, and guided tour bookings. Some centers provide bike rentals, accessibility information, and emergency support. The main office at Plaza de la Virgen is centrally located, open long hours, and serves as the ideal starting point for planning your visit.