Alicante Essentials · Vol. I – The icons that define the city
The essential sights you can’t miss
Alicante is a city best discovered on foot—looking up, wandering freely and letting the Mediterranean set the pace. In this first volume of Alicante Essentials we start with the essentials: the places that shape its identity and that, one way or another, everyone ends up visiting.
Whether it’s your first time in the city—or you’ve been here for years—this route will help you understand why Alicante is much more than just sun and beach.
Santa Bárbara Castle
Watching over the city from the top of Mount Benacantil, Santa Bárbara Castle is Alicante’s great icon. Its silhouette can be recognised from almost anywhere, and it offers some of the best views of the Mediterranean.
You can go up on foot, by car or by lift, but what’s truly essential is taking your time once you’re at the top: walk along the walls, explore its different areas and stop at the viewpoints. At sunset, the landscape takes on a special kind of magic.
Before you visit:
- Check the latest opening hours, as they vary throughout the year.
- See if there are events, guided tours or temporary exhibitions.
- If you’re going up by lift, it’s recommended to buy your ticket in advance.
- For official information and practical details, visit the Alicante tourism website dedicated to the castle.
La Ereta
Set on the slope of Mount Benacantil, La Ereta is one of Alicante’s most special viewpoints. From here you get panoramic views of the city, the harbour and the sea, in a calm setting that invites you to pause and take it all in.
It’s the perfect place to understand the relationship between the city and the castle, and one of those spaces that—without always making the “quick lists”—truly define Alicante’s image.
Before you go:
- A peaceful spot: perfect for a slow, respectful visit.
- Ideal at sunrise or sunset, when the light is softer.
- Wear comfortable shoes if you walk up from the city centre.
Explanada de España
Probably the city’s most recognisable promenade. With its wave-like mosaic pavement and palm trees, the Explanada de España is the perfect place for an unhurried walk.
Tourists and locals mix here with street musicians and café terraces. It’s a constant meeting point and one of those places that captures Alicante’s relaxed, open character.
Before you visit:
- It’s especially pleasant early in the morning or late afternoon.
- Perfect to combine with a visit to the harbour or the old town.
- In summer, look for shaded areas for a more comfortable stroll.
La Rambla
La Rambla is one of Alicante’s main arteries, a central axis that connects many of its key points. Always full of life, shops and terraces, it’s a street you walk along almost without noticing.
More than a single spot, it represents the city’s everyday pulse and its open, dynamic character.
Before you walk it:
- Ideal for strolling and observing local life.
- A great starting point to head towards the Central Market or the harbour.
- Keep in mind it can be very busy at peak hours.
Postiguet Beach
At the foot of the castle and right in the city centre, Postiguet Beach is one of Alicante’s most recognisable scenes. It’s not just a beach: it’s a symbol.
Even if it isn’t the quietest or the largest, its location makes it essential for understanding Alicante’s relationship with the sea.
Before you go:
- In high season it can get busy; if you’re after calm, go early in the day.
- It has basic services and easy access from the city centre.
- Perfect for a quick stop during a day of sightseeing.
Old Town: El Barrio
El Barrio—also known as the old town—is Alicante’s historic heart. Narrow streets, colourful facades, small squares and a rhythm that changes depending on the time of day.
During the day it invites you to wander without a plan; at night it becomes one of the city’s liveliest areas. A place that always has something to offer.
Before you visit:
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there are hills and cobbled streets.
- Visit both by day and by night to see its two sides.
- Please respect residents’ rest, especially late at night.
Central Market
The Central Market isn’t just a place to shop: it’s an experience. Set inside an iconic building, it brings together fresh produce, tradition and a lot of local life.
Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s worth stepping inside, taking in the atmosphere and discovering the flavours that define Alicante’s cuisine.
Before you visit:
- Check the opening hours, as it closes on Sundays and public holidays.
- Best to visit in the morning, when it’s at its liveliest.
- Carry some cash, in case a stall doesn’t accept cards.
Harbour and the Volvo Ocean Race promenade
Alicante’s harbour is one of those places you always feel like walking through. Boats, terraces, open sea views and a relaxed atmosphere.
The Volvo Ocean Race promenade connects perfectly with the city centre and is ideal for an evening walk—or simply sitting down to watch the sea.
Before you stroll the area:
- Especially enjoyable at sunset.
- Perfect to combine with a meal or a drink by the sea.
- Check whether there are any nautical events or special activities.
Town Hall Square
Surrounded by historic buildings, Town Hall Square is one of Alicante’s most representative spaces. The baroque Town Hall stands here, and the square becomes a key point during festivities and celebrations.
It’s a must-stop to understand the city’s institutional and monumental side.
Before you visit:
- Check whether the Town Hall can be visited that day.
- A great starting point for a walk through the old town.
- On special dates, there may be events or access restrictions.
Are you ready to discover Alicante at a relaxed pace and from the inside out? Staying in the city centre allows you to explore the city at your own rhythm and connect with its most authentic essence. At Manlia, every stay is designed to accompany you on that journey.
In the next volume, we will delve into the history of Alicante with Vol. II – A journey into the past through the city’s historic places, continuing to discover how this place has been shaped, step by step, into what it is today.
