Things to do in 

Alicante

Alicante, where the sun meets the sea in a confluence of natural grandeur, is more than just a beachfront haven. The city offers a rich tapestry of experiences beyond the popular, from the hauntingly beautiful Castillo de Santa Bárbara to the vibrant Central Market. Among the things to do in Alicante, unexpected adventures lie in the heart of the local neighbourhoods. Seasonal highlights pop up throughout the year, churning the excitement in this city of year-round sunshine. At every turn, Alicante's untold stories await the curious traveller.

Explore Alicante off the beaten path

Slip away from the castle lines and busy beaches, and let a local lead you into Alicante’s quieter corners where daily life sets the pace.

Cultural experiences: Start at Mercado Central around 10 a.m., tasting salazones, coca amb tonyina, and a palm-sized wedge of turrón while stallholders chat about the catch. As the light softens, climb into Barrio de Santa Cruz and wander the painted steps at dusk, when neighbors pull out chairs and the city hums below.

Small museums and galleries: Duck into the Museo de Aguas and the cool Pozos de Garrigós cisterns to see how the city stored water under the rock. Pop by the Museo de Belenes to admire tiny nativity scenes made in workshops across the province. For contemporary work, check Galería Aural near the old town, where rotating shows spotlight Spanish and local artists.

Less crowded scenic viewpoints: Follow the path through Parque de la Ereta for quiet terraces that frame the sea and tiled roofs in late afternoon light. If you’re up for a short, steady climb, the Serra Grossa trail rewards you with broad harbor views toward sunset without the castle crowds.

Shop for local products & souvenirs: Fill a tote at Mercado Central with vacuum‑packed salazones, local almonds, and a bar of Jijona turrón to take home. Step into Turrones Sirvent on Avenida Alfonso X el Sabio for classic nougat and horchata to go. For a bottle of Alicante’s historic Fondillón, ask at El Secreto de Baco wine shop in the center; they’ll point you to a producer and pack it safely for travel.

Popular neighbourhoods

In Alicante, meandering through the city’s fascinating neighbourhoods unlocks a treasure trove of stories, culture, and experiences beyond the glossy brochures. If "things to do" is what you seek, there's no better way to understand this Spanish city than by exploring some of Alicante's key areas.

Albufereta: Experience the allure of Alicante's rich Roman history as you wander through this ancient district, known for its historical sites and lovely beach views.

Cabo de las Huertas: Unearth Alicante’s posh personality while leisurely navigating this affluent, peaceful neighbourhood adorned with luxe villas and fine-dine restaurants.

Centro: Step into the vibrant heart of Alicante where captivating cultural sights meet bustling shopping scenes and lively nightlife.

El Barrio: Experience the true essence of Spanish celebrations filled with music, dance, and festivity in this neighbourhood known for its pulsating nightlife and street parties.

Postiguet: Plunge into the deep blue waters of the city’s premier beach, flanked by palm-lined promenades and modern edifices.

Things to do in Alicante by season

Spring: Shake off winter with calm beach walks and café terraces filling in the sun. Wander the Explanada’s mosaic waves, climb Santa Bárbara Castle before midday heat, and, if timing lines up, watch the Santa Faz pilgrimage roll past in a sea of white veils.

Summer: Settle into a beach rhythm with early swims at Postiguet or San Juan, then drift out to Tabarca to snorkel over clear, fishy shallows. Linger over seafood by the marina, and stay up for late-June bonfires and beach fireworks when Hogueras lights up long, warm nights.

Fall: Enjoy quieter sands while the sea stays swimmable into October, then slip into the old town for tapas in shaded squares. Follow vineyard roads in the Vinalopó for harvest flavours, and catch Moors and Christians parades in nearby towns as evenings turn pleasantly cool.

Winter: Expect mild days made for castle views and slow strolls along the waterfront. Christmas in Alicante brings lights on the Esplanade, nativity scenes in Plaza del Ayuntamiento, and the lively Three Kings parade in early January, all easy to enjoy at an unhurried pace.

Annual highlights land across the calendar: the June Bonfires of San Juan with towering sculptures and fiery finales, the springtime Santa Faz pilgrimage, colourful Moors and Christians pageantry in city neighbourhoods and surrounding towns, Carnival in February, and festive Christmas markets and the Three Kings festivities from December into January.