Alicante is a great city for a weekend escape. The airport at Alicante-Elche offers convenient links and affordable flights, making it easy to plan a short break. Visitors can enjoy the city’s corners, beaches, and vibrant food scene. The region also offers a diverse landscape to explore. Here is a three day guide to Alicante.
Day 1: Explore the city center and the historic quarter
Arriving in Alicante, a stroll through the center is the best introduction to the city. The promenade offers over 500 meters of colorful mosaic patterns and views of Postiguet Beach, perfect for soaking in the atmosphere. In the heart of the old town, Santa Maria Cathedral stands along with the Basilica of Santa Maria, the oldest church in the city in Valencian Gothic style.
Near the Basilica, a narrow street called Calle Luzán provides ideal photo opportunities of the silhouette of Santa Bárbara Castle and the profile view of Mount Benacantil looking like a face.
Dreamy corners to visit this weekend in the province of Alicante
From there, make your way to the Holy Cross quarter for a shot that shines on social feeds. A small white house offers a perfect backdrop for memories of the getaway. Climb Barrio de la Santa Cruz, but wear comfortable shoes as the route includes many stairs and is best explored on foot. The nearby Hermitage of Ereta Park rewards visitors with stunning city views.
On the return to the city center, stop at Alicante Central Market, a 20th century modernist building that endured a bombing during the Spanish Civil War on May 25, 1938. Inside you can still see relics from that day, including a clock that stopped at 23:19.
Fairytale castles in Alicante province to visit this weekend
End the day with a stroll along the Esplanade market stalls or enjoy a drink on a terrace in the area.
—
Day 2: Sun, beaches, and nightlife
The climate around Alicante is mild and inviting for most of the year. Whether you have a car or use public transport, spend the first part of the day strolling or sunbathing on a sandy beach. Postiguet Beach, San Juan Beach, and El Campello are great options, and they offer beach bars and excellent places to eat nearby.
Gardens to visit in the province of Alicante
Benidorm stands out as a premier tourist city. You can reach it by TRAM L1 from Plaza de los Luceros. In Benidorm you will find one of the city’s most emblematic monuments, the Hogueras fireworks view and the skyline of modern towers.
In this city of high rises, there is always something to do. Enjoy live music, terraces, nightclubs, or simply stroll along the long beaches with a view of Benidorm Castle.
—
Day 3: Sights, recreation, and museums in the city of Alicante
The final day can begin with a climb up Santa Barbara Castle to marvel at the city view. Inside the castle there are rooms from different periods, including the era of the Torreta, the Felipe II Hall, the former Patio de Armas, the Queen’s Bastion, and the Ravelin of Bon Repós from the 18th century.
At the top you understand why Santa Bárbara Castle has served as a strategic fortress throughout history.
To wrap up the visit, consider a museum stop. The Archaeological Museum of Alicante offers a rich collection with permanent and traveling exhibits that illuminate the past in an engaging way.
Seven natural parks in Alicante to visit this fall
If art is more your thing, the Alicante Museum of Contemporary Art and the Gravina Museum of Fine Arts (MUBAG) should not be missed, each offering appealing works and compelling exhibitions.