Alicante is the capital of the Costa Blanca and one of Spain’s sunniest cities. The Santa Bárbara castle looks down on the Postiguet beach and the Explanada promenade.
Its airport is one of the busiest in Spain for flights to northern Europe, which is part of why so many British, Dutch, Belgian and Scandinavian residents live in the province.
Climate: Dry and sunny with mild winters; very little rain.
Visiting Alicante
How long: 2 days
Don’t miss
- Santa Bárbara castle
- Explanada de España
- Barrio de Santa Cruz
- San Juan beach
- Tabarca island
- Hogueras de San Juan in June
What to eat
- Arroz a banda
- Turrón from Jijona
- Coca amb tonyina
Tip: San Juan beach is longer and calmer than the central Postiguet beach; the tram goes there.
Plan a visit
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A perfect first day
- Morning: take the lift up to Santa Bárbara castle for views over the bay.
- Afternoon: lunch in the Barrio, then the Explanada promenade.
- Evening: Postiguet beach and tapas in the old town.
Easy day trips
Where to stay as a visitor
For walking to the sights.
For long sandy beaches.
More of Alicante
Fiestas
Living in Alicante
Best for: Sun-seekers, remote workers and retirees who want a real city.
Neighbourhoods and areas
Shops and services, walkable.
Beachfront flats, popular with families.
Rocky coast, villas.
Pros
- Sunny and dry
- Busy airport
- Many services in English
Cons
- Hot summers
- Fewer professional jobs than Valencia
Cost tiers compare places within Spain (€ = among the cheapest, €€€€ = among the most expensive). Rents change quickly: check current listings for the exact area before you decide.
Thinking of moving?
Get your personal paperwork list for visas, NIE, padrón and more.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Alicante?
2 days is enough for the main sights: santa bárbara castle, explanada de españa, barrio de santa cruz. San Juan beach is longer and calmer than the central Postiguet beach; the tram goes there.
Is Alicante expensive to live in?
On our scale it is moderate (€€). Costs are around or below the Spanish average.
How do I get to Alicante?
By air: Alicante-Elche (ALC), 20 to 30 minutes by bus. By rail: AVE to Madrid in about 2h20.
Have you been to Alicante?
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