Look past the tourist resorts and discover the magic of Alicante’s Old Town through a collection of charming photos and recommendations on what this hidden gem in the city has to offer.
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.
JoAnnah
Wednesday 26th of July 2017
Oh so pretty! I love all the photos. Makes me want to spend my money and go! Thanks for sharing! :)
Teresa
Saturday 29th of July 2017
Hehe. I know the feeling! There are so many places to go and see, but Alicante should be on everyone's bucket list for sure! :)
Bruce Schinkel
Monday 24th of July 2017
You're absolutely right, this is such a beautiful place to visit! Thanks so much for showing this side of Alicante Old Town
Teresa
Monday 24th of July 2017
Thanks Bruce! Alicante deserves a lot more recognition (aside from sun and beaches) than it gets. I just love its Old Town! :)
One Tech Traveller
Sunday 23rd of July 2017
Wow I haven't been to Alicante before, but it looks like such a lovely place. Your imagery captures the heart of it and feels like I'm there. Thank you very much!
Teresa
Monday 24th of July 2017
It is really lovely. So full of character and beautiful architecture! The food is amazing too if you ever get the chance to visit. So glad you enjoyed the post :)
Kevin del Prado
Sunday 23rd of July 2017
Never heard of this town before until I read your post. Wow! Didn't know there is an old town in Spain that looks surreal. Amazing photography! I felt like I had been there already,
Teresa
Monday 24th of July 2017
Thanks Kevin! Spain is full of hidden little gems like this one. I'm so glad you enjoyed it :)
neha
Sunday 23rd of July 2017
It's indeed an old charming town. Good to see that there are accommodation options suiting every budget group. And glad that you put together this information. The ancient lanes and buildings look so beautiful.
Teresa
Monday 24th of July 2017
Thank you Neha! Alicante has so much to offer! And I just fell in love with the old town :)