alicante

Hello, alicante

Different civilisations have passed through these lands, leaving their mark which can be seen in all corners of this emblematic city. All of this adds to the appeal of this modern city with a primary focus on tourism, but also a special interest in industry and commerce. Alicante, situated on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, offers not only a great variety of services but also a wide range of cultural activities, with its museums, its festivals and its nature areas, in particular the Island of Tabarca; Mediterranean Marine Reserve.

Best things to do in alicante

Plenty of things to do and see

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Central Market

This building contains some modernist features and was built between 1911 and 1912 under the management of Juan Vidal Ramos over Balmes Square. With its rectangular shape, the Market mimics the layout of a basilica, with a circular appendix on the South-west side covered by a semispherical dome called 'La Rotonda', the roundabout. The building is split into two floors, one of which is a semi-basement due to the irregular surrounding streets. The front of the building was designed by Enrique Sánchez Sedeño and is presided by an impressive staircase surrounded by two emerging figures with decorative features. On 25th May 1938, the Mercado Central was hit during the worst bombing suffered by the city of Alicante during the Spanish Civil War, which resulted in 300 civilian victims. The Italian air force was responsible for that tragedy. All kinds of high-quality products can be bought at the Market, especially local fish and seafood, vegetables and fruit, as well as other typical local products. That is why the city’s top restaurants source their food from the Mercado Central.

Teatro Principal de Alicante

Alicante’s Main Theatre is a neoclassical building that first opened its doors in 1847. Its interior follows the Italian style, divided into three distinct sections: the vestibule, the horseshoe-shaped auditorium and the stage. The theatre has capacity for 1,072 seats. You can either join a guided tour free of charge or attend a play or concert. For details on tours and the programme, it’s best to check the official website. The theatre enjoys a central location, just a short walk from the popular Santa Creu neighbourhood.

Esplanada de Espanya

Explanada de España is one of the city’s emblems. It runs parallel to one of the port wharfs and is lined on both sides with rows of palm trees. The floor is decorated with approximately 6.6 million tricolour marble tiles forming a design with a characteristic wave effect mosaic. Visitors and locals alike can enjoy these areas at any time of the year, thanks to the pleasant climate. Throughout the year there are workshops, entertainment, children’s theatre, puppet shows, etc. predominantly aimed at children and families.

Basilica of Santa Maria of Alicante

The Basilica de Santa María, just a short 15-minute walk from the beach, is one of Alicante’s most significant landmarks. Due to its popularity with tourists, a small entrance fee is now required. Inside, the layout is designed for self-guided visits, with numbered stations and audio explanations available in three languages. Built in the Valencian Gothic style between the 14th and 16th centuries on the site of a former mosque, the basilica is the oldest active church in Alicante. Its striking Baroque façade, spacious nave, and six chapels make it a highlight for anyone exploring the city.