TWYS — The Best Travel Guides for Hidden Gems & Local Secrets
Alicante is a lively city located on Spain’s eastern coast, with a welcoming Mediterranean climate. Its old town boasts stunning historical architecture and a wide variety of tapas bars. Santa Barbara Castle offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, while the beaches provide a tranquil escape. Alicante also hosts lively festivals, with Las Hogueras de San Juan being one of the most famous, celebrating the arrival of summer.
Year
324 BC Ancient Roman era, known as Lucentum during Roman rule.
Airport
Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC)
Cost of Living (10)
6️⃣ Affordable living costs, with inexpensive food and transport options.
Minimal List TL;DR
TWYS curates the best places to SEE, EAT, DRINK, SHOP & MORE — uncover hidden gems, must-visit landmarks, top restaurants, unique bars, boutique shops, luxury stays, and networking spots.
SeeBeach
🏖️Platja de la Granadella
4.8A beach known for its amazing waters, surrounded by cliffs, making it an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing.
SeeHistorical Landmark
🏰Santa Bárbara Castle
4.7A historical fortification located in the center of Alicante, offering stunning views from Mount Benacantil.
SeeNature Spots
🌳Parque El Palmeral
4.6A serene park featuring palm trees, fountains, and walking paths, perfect for a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.
SeeAdventure Spots
🚴Sendero del Barranco de la Hoz
4.6A stunning hiking trail that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
SeeMuseum
🖼️Archaeological Museum of Alicante
4.6Features permanent and temporary exhibitions focusing on field, urban, and underwater archaeology with many local finds.
SeeSecluded Beach
🌊Cala del Moraig
4.6A picturesque beach surrounded by rocky cliffs, offering opportunities for snorkeling and clothing-optional areas.
SeeSpiritual Sites
⛪Basílica de Santa María
4.5A beautiful basilica known for its stunning architecture and rich history, offering a peaceful place for reflection and exploration.
SeeBeach
🏖️Playa del Pinet
4.5An uncrowded beach ideal for long walks and quiet baths, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle.
SeeCultural Experience
🎭Teatro Principal
4.4A historic theater offering performances, concerts, and cultural events, showcasing Alicante's artistic scene.
EatUnique Dining
🍜Restaurant Dársena
4.8An innovative restaurant offering a fusion of Mediterranean and Asian cuisine, known for its fresh ingredients and unique flavor combinations.
EatLocal Delicacies
🍽️Restaurante La Ereta
4.7A charming restaurant offering traditional Alicante cuisine with stunning views of the city and the sea.
EatHistoric Villa
🏯Villa Giacomina
4.7Surrounded by a large esplanade delimited by a crenellated wall, this venue has a neo-medieval character and serves as a viewpoint.
EatLocal Market
⛲Mercado Central de Alicante
4.5A popular, long-running market with vendors selling produce, seafood, meats, cheeses, and breads.
EatMountain Village
🥗El Castell de Guadalest
4.4A smaller but beautiful upcoming tourist destination worth visiting, featuring stunning views and rich culture.
DrinkBridge
🍾Els Pontets
4.6A scenic spot perfect for starting a walk and enjoying picturesque views all around.
DrinkRoman Ruins
🍻Lucentum
4.5One of the largest archaeological sites in the Comunitat Valenciana, providing a glimpse into ancient history.
DrinkCoastal Town
🍻El Campello
4.5A coastal town popular for family beach resorts, featuring golden sandy beaches and an attractive marina.
Places to See
Discover breathtaking landmarks, hidden gems, and offbeat sights that make every destination unforgettable.
03738, Alicante, Spain
4.8
Free
Open all day
Known for its breathtaking natural surroundings.
Tip:
Swimming, Sunbathing
A beach known for its amazing waters, surrounded by cliffs, making it an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Av. de El Palmeral, 03001 Alicante, Spain
4.6
Free
Open all day
Offers a serene escape in the city center.
Tip:
Nature Walks, Picnics
A serene park featuring palm trees, fountains, and walking paths, perfect for a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.
CV-850, 03578 Alcoy, Alicante, Spain
4.6
Free
Open all day
Offers breathtaking views and a peaceful retreat.
Tip:
Hiking, Nature Trails
A stunning hiking trail that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Placa Dr. Gómez Ulla, S/N, 03013 Alacant, Alicante, Spain
4.6
€5
10 AM - 7 PM
Highlights the region's archaeological significance.
Tip:
Exhibits, Guided Tours
Features permanent and temporary exhibitions focusing on field, urban, and underwater archaeology with many local finds.
Cala del Moraig, Alicante, Spain
4.6
Free
10 AM - 8 PM
Scenic views and a more private beach experience.
Get:
Bus: Cala del Moraig
A picturesque beach surrounded by rocky cliffs, offering opportunities for snorkeling and clothing-optional areas.
Carrer de la Puríssima, 1, 03002 Alicante, Spain
4.5
Free
10 AM - 1 PM, 4 PM - 8 PM
A serene space with beautiful architecture.
Tip:
Architecture, History
A beautiful basilica known for its stunning architecture and rich history, offering a peaceful place for reflection and exploration.
03130 Santa Pola, Alicante, Spain
4.5
Free
Open all day
A peaceful beach experience away from the crowds.
Tip:
Relaxation, Beach Walks
An uncrowded beach ideal for long walks and quiet baths, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle.
Carrer de Ramón y Cajal, 1, 03001 Alicante, Spain
4.4
€€€
Varies
A cultural hub for the performing arts.
Tip:
Cultural Events, Performances
A historic theater offering performances, concerts, and cultural events, showcasing Alicante's artistic scene.
Must Visit:
Santa Bárbara Castle, Explanada de España, Alicante Marina, Museo de Arte Contemporáneo, and San Nicolás Cathedral. Alicante offers a rich cultural experience with medieval architecture, art museums, and beautiful seafront promenades.
Alicante, located on Spain’s Costa Blanca, is known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. The city is rich in history, with landmarks like the Santa Bárbara Castle, offering panoramic views of the city and coastline. Alicante is also home to the famous Explanada de España, a beautiful palm-lined promenade. With a warm Mediterranean climate, the city is a great destination year-round, offering a mix of culture, history, and relaxation.
Places to Eat
Savor the best local flavors, street food gems, and must-try dining spots curated for true food lovers.
Carrer de la Dársena, 14, 03001 Alicante, Spain
4.8
€€€
1 PM - 11 PM
A popular choice for food enthusiasts.
Tip:
Fusion Cuisine, Seafood
An innovative restaurant offering a fusion of Mediterranean and Asian cuisine, known for its fresh ingredients and unique flavor combinations.
Ctra. de la Ereta, 12, 03013 Alicante, Spain
4.7
€€€
1 PM - 11 PM
Offers an exquisite dining experience with views.
Tip:
Local Cuisine, Scenic Views
A charming restaurant offering traditional Alicante cuisine with stunning views of the city and the sea.
https://www.restauranteslaereta.com03517 El Castell de Guadalest, Alicante, Spain
4.4
Free
Open all day
Rich in history with stunning landscapes.
Tip:
Scenic Views, History
A smaller but beautiful upcoming tourist destination worth visiting, featuring stunning views and rich culture.
Must Try:
🍚 Rice Dishes (Paella, Arroz a Banda, made with seafood or meats) 🍬 Turrón (Traditional nougat made with almonds and honey) 🍲 Gazpacho (Cold tomato-based soup with cucumbers and peppers) 🦑 Calamari (Deep-fried squid, often served as tapas) 🍋 Arroz con Leche (Rice pudding made with milk and cinnamon)
Places to Drink
Unwind at vibrant bars, cozy cafés, and craft breweries, handpicked for the best drinks and atmosphere.
Partida del Boch, 215A, 03339, Alicante, Spain
4.6
Free
Open all day
An ideal location for nature walks and sightseeing.
Tip:
Views, Walking Trails
A scenic spot perfect for starting a walk and enjoying picturesque views all around.
El Campello, Alicante, Spain
4.5
Free
Open all day
A coastal town popular for family beach resorts, featuring golden sandy beaches and an attractive marina.
Music & Dance:
💃 Flamenco (intense guitar, rhythmic claps, and soulful dancing) 🎸 Traditional Spanish Music (influenced by Andalusia and Castile) 🎶 Classical Guitar (flamenco guitar artists like Paco de Lucía) 🎤 The energy of the Alicante flamenco scene.
Places to Network
Connect with like-minded travelers, digital nomads, and entrepreneurs at the best networking spots.
We'll be updating more places soon!
Key Industries:
🌍 Trade (key Mediterranean port city for shipping), 🚢 Shipping (international trade center with a strategic location), 📺 Media (growing media and digital content production sector) - Alicante is central to Mediterranean trade and shipping and increasingly recognized for its tech-driven media sector. Networking opportunities in trade, shipping, and media are abundant, with the region evolving as a business hub for tech companies and creative industries.
Alicante
Alicante boasts a sun-kissed coastline and a rich tapestry of history; where medieval castles watch over vibrant beaches. The city's lively atmosphere and delicious culinary scene create a perfect escape, inviting you to explore its charm and beauty. A coastal gem where every sunset has a story, and every corner offers an unforgettable experience.
Places to Shop
Explore local markets, unique boutiques, and artisanal stores for one-of-a-kind finds.
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Luxury
Indulge in high-end experiences, exclusive stays, and premium services tailored for refined travelers.
For More Tips Read Further
Alicante Discoveries
Beaches, nightlife, historic architecture, Mediterranean charm, and delicious cuisine.
Alicante hosts the famous Las Hogueras de San Juan festival, a celebration of the arrival of summer with fireworks, bonfires, and elaborate street parades. The city is also known for its beautiful beaches, Mediterranean cuisine, and vibrant nightlife. Alicante is home to historic sites such as the Santa Bárbara Castle, which offers panoramic views of the city. The city’s mild climate, historic architecture, and lively festivals make it a popular destination for travelers seeking sun, culture, and local traditions.
Alicante, a sunny coastal city on Spain’s Mediterranean coast, is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich history. The city’s most famous landmark is the Santa Barbara Castle, which offers panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. Alicante's old town, with its narrow streets, charming squares, and colorful buildings, is a perfect place to explore on foot. The city is also known for its Mediterranean cuisine, including fresh seafood, rice dishes, and tapas. Alicante’s vibrant festivals, such as the Bonfires of Saint John, are a highlight for visitors. With its mix of history, culture, and modern relaxation, Alicante offers the perfect balance of sightseeing and leisure. The city’s Mediterranean climate ensures year-round sunshine, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers and cultural explorers alike.
Watch Out
Watch out for Crowded Areas
Skip
Avoid overrated tourist traps and discover alternative experiences worth your time.
Skip Super Touristic Places
Off the beaten path places in
Alicante
Transportation
🚇 Metro, buses, and ferries connect Alicante and nearby areas. 🚖 Taxis and ride-sharing services are available. 🚶♀️ The city center is very walkable, with attractions easily accessible by foot. 🛥️ Ferries to nearby islands like Tabarca are popular.
City Overview
Alicante: A Spanish Coastal Treasure
Alicante, nestled along Spain’s Mediterranean coast, is a city of stunning beaches, rich history, and lively culture. Its blue-flag beaches, such as Playa del Postiguet and San Juan Beach, are perfect for sunseekers and water sports enthusiasts. Dominating the city’s skyline is the Castillo de Santa Bárbara, a medieval fortress offering panoramic views of Alicante and beyond.
The city’s old town, El Barrio, is a labyrinth of narrow streets adorned with colorful houses, vibrant bars, and authentic tapas restaurants. Alicante’s Esplanada de España, a palm-lined promenade with mosaic pavements, is a favorite spot for leisurely strolls. For a taste of local culture, visit the bustling Mercado Central, where you can savor regional specialties and fresh produce.
Nature lovers will enjoy a trip to the Tabarca Island, a marine reserve with crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. Alicante’s blend of historic landmarks, lively nightlife, and coastal charm makes it an enchanting destination for travelers of all interests.
3 Day City Guide
🌅 Day 1: 🕘 9:00 AM: Visit Santa Bárbara Castle 🏰. 🕛 12:00 PM: Explore the Old Town (El Barrio) 🏘️. 🍴 2:00 PM: Dinner at a beachfront restaurant 🌊. 🌇 Day 2: 🕘 9:00 AM: Relax on Postiguet Beach 🏖️. 🕛 12:00 PM: Visit the Alicante Museum of Contemporary Art 🖼️. 🍴 2:00 PM: Enjoy tapas in the Old Town 🍷. 🌇 Day 3: 🕘 9:00 AM: Take a day trip to Tabarca Island 🏝️. 🕛 12:00 PM: Explore local vineyards 🍇. 🍴 2:00 PM: Attend a local fiesta or event 🎉.
Current Trends
🍤 Culinary trends: Increasing emphasis on local seafood and Mediterranean dishes, with a focus on healthy, fresh meals. 🎨 Arts and culture: Growing interest in local artists and cultural events, such as exhibitions and festivals. 🖥️ Digital experiences: Emerging interest in technology-enhanced cultural experiences, including VR and AR in museums. 🌱 Sustainability: A growing push for green initiatives, such as zero-waste restaurants and eco-friendly hotels. 🏖️ Beach tourism: A rise in luxury beachfront resorts and wellness retreats.
Local Events Guide
🔥 San Juan Bonfire Festival (June): Celebrating the summer solstice with bonfires, fireworks, and lively beach parties. 🎬 Alicante Film Festival (November): Showcasing independent films and encouraging new filmmakers, this festival is a must for cinephiles. 🎄 Christmas Market (December): Alicante’s Christmas markets are full of local crafts, holiday foods, and festive decorations. 🏖️ Hogueras de San Juan (June): A traditional festival with parades, fireworks, and burning of massive sculptures. 🎶 Alicante Music Festival (July): A series of concerts held in historical venues featuring classical and contemporary music.
Local Insider Tips
🏰 Santa Bárbara Castle: Visit this historic castle for panoramic views of the city and the sea. 🛍️ Local Markets: Wander through vibrant markets for fresh produce and seafood. 🌅 Explanada de España: Enjoy the lively nightlife along this iconic palm-lined promenade. 🍷 Vineyards: Explore the nearby wine region and taste Alicante's renowned wines. 🏖️ Postiguet Beach: Spend the day on the beautiful beach, ideal for sunbathing and water sports.
Sustainable Travel
🌞 Sustainable tourism: Alicante has implemented eco-friendly transport initiatives, including electric vehicle rentals and bike-sharing programs. 🏨 Eco-friendly accommodations: A growing number of hotels prioritize sustainability, offering eco-friendly services and initiatives. 🌊 Coastline protection: The city focuses on preserving its natural beauty through environmental campaigns. 🚲 Biking: Cycling is encouraged, with well-marked bike routes for visitors. 🍽️ Local cuisine: Increasingly, restaurants are embracing sustainable practices, offering locally sourced and seasonal dishes.
TWYS: Your Ultimate Guide to Unique Travel Experiences & Insider Tips
Explore the Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences:
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Our curated guide unveils top hidden gems, secret spots, and local favorites that you won’t find in typical travel guides.
Whether it’s a cozy café tucked away in a historic neighborhood, a scenic trail only known to insiders, or unique cultural sites, has so much more to offer beyond the tourist hotspots.
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Each spot in our City guide is handpicked to help you experience the city like a local, avoiding the crowds and discovering the best-kept secrets.
From charming local eateries and breathtaking viewpoints to tucked-away art galleries and vibrant local markets, this guide lets you explore beyond the surface.
Follow our recommendations for an unforgettable adventure and see why these places stand out as favorites among locals.
For more unique experiences like these, explore our full collection of off-the-beaten-path city guides and make every trip a journey of discovery.
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