Why Visit Alicante? 10 things that Make this Spanish City Unforgettable
If you are planning a trip to Spain and only thinking about Madrid or Barcelona, you are missing the mark. Alicante is the Spanish coastal city travelers can’t stop raving about, and once you go, you will get why. It’s authentic, vibrant, and ridiculously easy to fall in love with.
Here are 10 good reasons to visit Alicante (and why it should be your next destination).
1. Spain’s Culinary Capital for 2025
Foodies, this is your city. Alicante has officially been crowned Spain’s Culinary Capital for 2025. From high-end gastronomy to humble plates of arroz de banda (a local rice dish you need to try), this is where Spanish food culture is thriving.
2. Mercado Central: A Feast for the Senses
If you only do one foodie activity, make it the Mercado Central. It’s one of the largest indoor food markets in Europe. It is bursting with fresh seafood, jamón, cheese, fruit, and loud, fast-talking vendors. It’s chaotic in the best way possible.
3. A Castle Straight Out of a Movie
Towering above the city, Castillo de Santa Bárbara looks like it belongs in Game of Thrones. The best part? You can walk up in about 10-15 minutes (give or take a few minutes)., or take the lift for €2.70 (fre ee for those over 65 or under 5). The panoramic views of Alicante, the Mediterranean Sea, and the sunsets are unforgettable. To actually understand what you’re looking at, a guided walking tour is worth it, it brings the castle’s history to life. You can check availability and book here.
4. Beaches That Buzz with Life
Postiguet Beach isn’t just a stretch of sand, it’s the beating heart of Alicante. Swim in the turquoise water, grab a vermut at a beach bar, or just people-watch. There is always music, movement, and that Mediterranean enerty.
5. Alicante is Made for Walking
Forget taxis and buses. Alicante is one of Spain’s most walkable cities. The historic old town, the marina, the port, and the castle are withing strolling distance. Wear comfy shoes and you are good to go.
6. A Nightlife That Fits Your Style
Want to sip your vino on a quiet terrace? Or dance until sunrise? Alicante’s nightlife adjusts to your mood. Dinner at 10pm is normal, and bars don’t blink if you’re still out at 4am.
7. 300+ Days of Sunshine
Playa del Postiguet (Postiguet Beach)
Traveling to Spain for the weather? You’ve hit the jackpot. Alicante enjoys over 300 days of sunshine a year. Light layers are all you will, even in the winter.
8. Sunrises Worth Setting an Alarm For
Not a morning person? Alicante might change that. Walk to the marina just once at dawn, and watch the sky set on fire with color. It’s one of those travel moments you will never forget.
9. Bars and Restaurants for Every Taste
Whether you are into tapas joints , rooftop gin bars, vegan street food, or craft beer dives, Alicante’s dining scene covers it all. And it won’t break the bank, you’ll find options for every budget.
10. The Real Spain, Without the Overcrowding
Unlike some over-touristed cities, Alicante still feels authentically Spanish. Locals live, shop, argue, and sip coffee in the plazas. You’re not walking through a theme park, you’re experiencing real Spain.
Final Thoughts: Why Alicante Belongs on Your Bucket List
With it’s award-winning food, walkable streets, buzzing nightlife, and endless sunshine, Alicante is the kind of place that delivers everything you love about Spain, without the cliches.
Whether you’re a foodie, beach lover, culture seeker, or night owl, Alicante will exceed your expections.
So don’t just pin it to your “someday” board on Pinterest. Book Alicante. Live it. Love it. And yes-you’ll come back!
This post contains affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products and services I trust and believe will add value.