While most visitors flock to Alicante’s sun-soaked beaches, a world of narrow cobblestone streets, vibrant facades, and authentic Spanish charm awaits just steps away in the city’s captivating Old Town. This visual journey takes you through the hidden corners that most tourists never see, revealing a side of Alicante filled with character, history, and picture-perfect moments that will have you rethinking everything you thought you knew about this Mediterranean gem.
So, let’s talk about Alicante! I know what you’re thinking – cheap package holidays, stag and hen parties, masses of tourists… But let me stop you there.
Yes, you can find all this, if you go to some resorts. Just look a little deeper, and you will see that there’s so much more to this historic town than resorts.
Alright, it’s a busy tourist destination, and I’ve met plenty of travellers who proudly proclaim that they do not visit over-touristy destinations. But I personally believe that this is a ‘cut-your-nose-to-spite-your-face’ attitude.
Have they ever stopped to think about why are busy tourist destinations so popular? I can guarantee that the vast majority of the time, if not always, it is because they are beautiful places that offer something that cannot be found anywhere else.
That’s why it has attracted visitors in the first place. And this is the case with Alicante.
Yes, it has fantastic beaches, resorts and a buzzing nightlife – but we all know that already. I want to draw people’s attention to the beauty of the old town of Alicante. And what better way of doing this than to offer some photographic evidence of its charming historic quarter.
Table of Contents
Alicante Town Hall
An intricate Baroque building right in the centre of town, the Town Hall was built in the 18th century. It’s covered with delightful architectural details and you can also visit the interior and its famous Salón Azul (Blue Room).
Santa Barbara Castle
Built in the 9th century during the time of Muslim Spain, Santa Barbara Castle sits on top of an outcrop overlooking Alicante City. It is one of the largest medieval fortresses in Europe and it offers fantastic views and great photo opportunities.
Barrio de Santa Cruz
Located at the foot of Santa Barbara Castle, the Barrio de Santa Cruz is where the old Muslim Quarter once was. It has the cutest houses, all of them unique, and the best views over the city and the Mediterranean Sea.
Mirador de Santa Cruz
This viewpoint is the highest point of the Barrio de Santa Cruz, from which you have spectacular panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy the sunset.
Start Planning Your Trip
Where to stay in Alicante
Luxury Stay
Right in the centre of the Old Town, Palacio Salvetti Suites has one of the best-rated locations in Alicante. These apartments have kept the original palatial-style interior, and every unit has its own kitchen. They also offer a number of services you would find in a top rated hotel.
Set in a 19th-century Dominican Convent in Alicante’s old town, Hotel Hospes Amérigo is within 50 yards of the cathedral and Alicante Town Hall and 4 minutes walk from the beach. It offers beautiful views of Alicante Cathedral and Santa Bárbara Castle and it has a free rooftop spa with sauna, pool and gym.
Mid-Range Stay
Les Monges Palace Boutique This boutique hotel is located in a historical building from 1902. It retains original features, such as ornate tiled floors, wooden beams and oil paintings. Only a few minutes walk from the beach and the marina, it is next to Alicante Town Hall, the cathedral. It also has a rooftop with views over the Old Town and the castle.
Set in the historic city centre, next to Alicante Town Hall, Eurostars Mediterranea Plaza is 100 yards from Alicante’s Postiguet Beach. It has a roof terrace with city and sea views and it offers a free sauna and gym. The elegant Mediterranea Plaza offers modern, air-conditioned rooms with satellite TV and a minibar.
Budget Stay
Hostal Numero Trece is located half a mile from Postiguet Beach and very close to other Alicante popular attractions. It offers rooms with air conditioning and a shared bathroom. Other facilities include a shared kitchen and a shared lounge.
Rooms at the Hotel Maritimo are simple yet elegant and bright, with plenty of natural light. They all have an en suite bathroom and the hotel has a 24-hour reception. Located in the historic city centre, Postiguet Beach is 750 yards away. There is also good access to the bus and train stations.
Planning to explore further afield?
If you would like to get out of the city, driving yourself along the coastal road and visiting the villages nearby, can be a great option. But car hire is not cheap, so use Auto Europe to compare rates to get the best deal from a wide range of providers.
Visiting Spain? Check out my other Spain articles
- A 5-day Northern Spain Itinerary By Train – Cider, Bagpipes And A Surprising Gaudí
- 10 Modernist Buildings in Barcelona You Shouldn’t Miss
- Reasons to Visit Valencia This Year
- 19 Exciting Things to Do in Valencia, Spain – An Insider’s Guide
- Valencian Treats and Tastes: A Food Tour with Valencia Urban Adventures
- Learning the Secrets of Real Paella in Valencia
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Disclosure: A big thank you to the Spanish Tourist Office, Costa Blanca and IgersLondon, who hosted me during my time in Alicante. As always, all views are my own.