Weekend break in Alicante
Alicante, a city where the calm waters of the Mediterranean lap at its shores, receives thousands of tourists every year. Its excellent weather, which is for the most part sunny, delicious gastronomy, cultural identity and rich history, make the capital of the province of Alicante a must-visit.
If you’re looking for a destination with incredible beaches and crystal-clear water, lively streets where the people are open and while away the hours at bars and terraces, incredibly charming neighbourhoods and fascinating museums, Alicante should be your number one option for a weekend break.
Itinerary day 1
4 pm–5.30 pm
Castillo de Santa Bárbara
This Moorish fortress is one of the symbols of the city of Alicante. Its stands right in the centre at the top of Cara del Moro mountain where the views of the city, with the port right in the foreground, are spectacular.
6 pm–7 pm
Santa Cruz neighbourhood
This neighbourhood, situated at the foot of Santa Bárbara Castle, is one of the oldest and most traditional in the city. All its streets are awash with countless plants and flowers and you won’t find one house that isn’t decorated with flowerpots and images of the Virgin Mary.
7.30 pm–8.30 pm
Early evening drinks at the Market and surroundings
When the sun begins to set, the terraces and bars start to fill. We recommend a walk around the market, along Calle Castaños and through the area known as El Barrio to experience the city’s authentic early evening atmosphere.
9 pm–11.00 pm
Nou Manolín restaurant
This prestigious establishment, which has won numerous awards, is famous for its tapas bar serving produce from Spain’s eastern coast. Whether you go for tapas or the main dishes on its menu, this is a must-visit.
Itinerary day 2
9 am–10 am
Santa Faz Monastery
This famous place of pilgrimage, also known as Verónica monastery, houses one of the three cloths used to wipe Jesus Christ’s blood-stained face, which subsequently brought about several miracles.
10.30 am–11.30 am
San Juan Beach
This is the most popular beach in Alicante spanning a length of almost seven kilometres and a width of 100 kilometres. It boasts an endless array of services, in addition to great entertainment and eating options – the perfect beach to enjoy as a family.
12 pm–1 pm
Heading back to the centre along the coast
The coast of Alicante is replete with lovely beaches and coves where you can relax under the sun, have a refreshing dip, or simply stretch your legs. From the Cabo de las Huertas lighthouse to El Postiguet Beach, there’s a lot to discover.
1.30 pm–3 pm
El Gosto del Gourmet restaurant
This restaurant specialising in rice dishes serves typical Mediterranean fare made from top-quality ingredients. It is situated just a stone’s throw from El Postiguet Beach and, in addition to the generous portions, offers unbeatable value for money.
3.30 pm–5.30 pm
Archaeological Museum of Alicante
MARQ displays the historical and cultural riches of the Costa Blanca with an impressive collection spanning different eras and civilisations. What’s more, the museum is committed to audio-visual and interactive media, which it uses in its informative presentations.
6 pm–7.30 pm
Shopping in Alicante
The streets of the historic quarter are full of small shops where you can while away the hours. The area between Avenida Federico Soto and La Rambla is also a very popular shopping spot, especially on weekends.
8 pm–8.30 pm
Paseo de la Explanada
Running parallel to the Port of Alicante, this seaside promenade is another one of the city’s most emblematic places. It is lined with four rows of palm trees and boasts a patterned mosaic floor. What’s more, there are numerous craft and souvenir shops, cafeterias and ice cream parlours dotted along its length.
9 pm–11 pm
Monastrell restaurant
A holder of one Michelin Star and run by María José San Román, this avant-garde-style restaurant serving creative tapas is a safe bet for dining in Alicante. You can choose to eat at the bar or in the dining room.
Itinerary day 3
10 am–1.30 pm
Excursion to Tabarca Island
Just 22 kilometres from the capital and 50 minutes away by boat, this former pirate haven is one of the most romantic places in Alicante. With just 10 permanent residents throughout the whole year, it is a peaceful, beautiful place where you can go diving or snorkelling.
2 pm–3.30 pm
Restaurante Gloria
Specialising in rice dishes, seafood and fresh fish, this establishment just a short distance from the beach with views of the sea is a true delight for the senses.
4 pm–6 pm
El Palmeral
For fans of urban green spaces, this park boasting over 7,000 palm trees and sea views is the perfect place to spend an afternoon, especially if you’re travelling with children.
6.30 pm-8.30 pm
San Fernando Castle
Built during the Peninsular War in 1813, this castle was meant to be a prison and defensive stronghold for the city, however it was never used, as the French occupation of Alicante never came about.
9 pm–11 pm
Restaurante Open
This restaurant is one of the trendiest in the city due to its working philosophy: a completely open kitchen in full view of customers. Chefs move about the dining room where diners enjoy the spectacle as well as the delicious food in an inviting atmosphere.