ATTRACTIONS
Explanada d'Espanya
This district is very popular with the locals as well as
tourists for its great view and range of activities. The
Explanada d'Espanya extends around part of the yacht harbor
which includes a great promenade of mosaic sidewalks under
the palms. There are unlimited shopping options along the
well-managed boulevards.
Ayuntamiento
Alicante's 43 meters-high town hall is a Baroque-style
building dating from the 18th century. The Blue Room
constitutes a major interest as it was used as a Royal
Chamber by Isabel II in 1858 and there is also a wonderful
side chapel presided by a representation of the Virgin
produced by Lucas Espinós.
Iglesia de Santa
Maria
The Iglesia de Santa Maria is the oldest church in the
city that was built on the former site of a mosque sometime
between the 14th and 16th century. The church houses
several important works of art and the exterior boasts a
wonderful Baroque stonework.
Catedral de San
Nicolas
This 17th century cathedral stands over 45 meters tall
and is an important landmark of the city as it's the
cathedral of Alicante's patron saint. The Communion Chapel
of the cathedral is regarded as one of the most exquisite
examples of Spanish Baroque.
Museo
Arqueológico
Alicante's archaeology museum was constructed in 1932 to
house an extensive collection of artifacts belonging to the
history of the region. It is considered to be one of the
best in Spain with the most advanced facility and
cutting-edge multimedia presentations.
Castillo de Sana
Barbara
Squatting on a disproportionately large area of the
Benacantil mountain, the Castillo de Santa Barbara is one of
the largest medieval fortresses in Europe. The castle has
three enclosures of differing dates with a unique feature
pertaining to each period. From up here, the fortress
commands a clear lookout over the coastline and the
surrounding countryside.
San Fernando
Castle
The San Fernando Castle was built on Mount Tossal in the
early 19th century principally as a fortress against
Napoleon's encroaching invasion. Its main interest today
however lies in the sightseeing and leisure activities in
its thematic park.
Beaches
Visitors to Alicante will find no shortage of beaches as
they are aplenty in the region. Playa de San Juan is
often praised as one of the finest beaches in Spain. The
small, sandy Almadraba beach and the well hidden
Albufereta beach are ideal for watersports in safe
surroundings. Further south is the Playa del Coco,
next to the regional railway station. This beach connects
to Playa del Postiguet, located close to the city
center, with an attractive promenade flanked by palm trees.
The last of the city's beaches is Saladar, broad,
sandy and open. The pedestrian walkway here gives panoramic
views of the bay of Alicante.