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Alicante sights

Alicante is a popular Spanish resort located on the Costa Blanca. It is beloved by locals as well as many tourists from around the world. But here you can not just bask on the many beaches. This city has its own unique appearance. What sights can I see on my own in Alicante? This site page will answer that question.

Top 7 Sights of Alicante

Alicante has a lot of architectural and natural attractions. The main ones are even hard to choose. What do the guidebooks say?

St. Barbara’s Castle

Santa Barbara Castle - the main attraction of Alicante

The hallmark of this city is the Santa Barbara Castle. It is close to the main beaches and rises 166 meters above sea level on Mount Benacantil. From the city center to the castle can be reached in 10-15 minutes. Want to pass the time? Use the high-speed elevator to get to the top of the mountain.

Alicante - Santa Barbara Castle

You can see the amazing structures of this castle for free. There is a museum inside. With which the complicated history of these places is described.

Santa Cruz neighborhood

The Santa Cruz neighborhood is a landmark of Alicante (Spain)

The main attraction, which is located in the city of Alicante, is the Santa Cruz neighborhood. This ancient neighborhood, consisting of several narrow streets, is located at the foot of Benacantil. Santa Cruz is the real Spain. Not the one that appears in the pictures in tourist guidebooks or pictures from the Internet.

Santa Cruz neighborhood in Alicante

It is in such places, where houses for a long time not repaired, and run out of salt neighbors pass through the window without leaving their apartment, and lives a large part of the Spaniards. Would you like to see how they live? Go to the old town. But be vigilant. It is not uncommon to encounter members of the underworld, who are eager to get rich at the expense of tourists.

St. Mary’s Basilica

Santa Maria Church in Alicante

The Church of Santa Maria was built in the 14th century on the site of a former mosque. Gothic architecture “superimposed” on a Muslim religious edifice looks atypical of Spain. Over time, new halls were added to the main building. Inside are sculptures of St. Mary and St. John. The gilded altar, in the Rococo style, is also worth noting.

St. Nicholas Cathedral

St. Nicholas Cathedral - Alicante

Like the basilica described above, St. Nicholas Cathedral was erected on the site of the ruins of a Muslim mosque. St. Nicholas is considered the patron saint of Alicante. But this saint is also the patron saint of travelers. So if you find yourself in this temple, you can ask Nicholas for something. It is believed that all the prayers uttered in this church are sure to come true.

St. Nicholas Cathedral - Alicante (Spain)

Construction of this complex began in 1616 and was completed in 1662. Later it was repeatedly restored and rebuilt. Experts note the unusual architectural style of the building. In this shrine, the relics of Saints Francis Xavier and Felicita are preserved.

Fortress of St. Fernando

The Fortress of St. Fernando - a landmark on the outskirts of Alicante

An overview of the sights of this city cannot be imagined without mentioning the fortress of St. Fernando. This castle, which is located right in the center of Alicante, was built as a defensive structure against Napoleon’s regiments. But the French never came here.

Fortress of St. Fernando - Alicante

This structure consists of two interconnected bastions and several half-bastions. A deep ditch was dug in front of the fortress. Today this place is much loved by the locals. It is equipped with recreation areas, a soccer field and playgrounds for children.

Natural Monuments

El Palmeral Park in Alicante - a natural landmark

In a review of the most interesting places in Alicante, it is impossible not to mention the monuments of nature. The most interesting of these is El Palmeral. There are many recreational areas, bike paths and a lake for boating. Most of the square is planted with picturesque palm trees. During the holidays, various events are held in this park.

Alicante (Spain) - Canalejas Park

Not far from the Esplanade promenade is Canalehas Park. It is inferior to El Palmeral, but famous for its trees. Many of which are more than 100 years old. In addition to them in this park grows amazing ficuses, installed decorative fountains and sculptures. And the main highlight of this park is a huge map of Spain.

Architectural Monuments

Santa Faz Monastery in Alicante

In addition to the above attractions, visitors to this city should visit the Monastery of Santa Faz. They are known for keeping the cloth with which St. Veronica wiped the bloodstained face of Christ. Then his countenance appeared on it. The monastery is in the Renaissance style and is located 5 kilometers from the city center.

San Nicolas de Bari Cathedral - Sightseeing Photos of Alicante

The Cathedral of San Nicolás de Bari is also a significant architectural monument. It was erected on the ruins of the Church of St. Anatolius, destroyed by the Moors. The cathedral was built in the Baroque style with elements of classicism.

Cafes and restaurants in Alicante

Nou Manolin is a restaurant in Alicante

Alicante is one of the tourist meccas of Spain. Thanks to this, there are many different cafes and restaurants in the city. One of the most popular of these is Nou Manolin. It serves traditional Andalusian cuisine. This restaurant is famous not only for its menu, but also for its beautiful view.

Restaurant El Monastrell - Alicante

El Monastrell deserves no less interest. It’s an expensive restaurant. But this is where the real paella or gazpacho is made.

La Ereta - cafes and restaurants in Alicante

At the foot of St. Barbara’s Fortress is La Ereta restaurant. As in the case of Nou Manolin, this place offers its visitors not only delicious food, but also a stunning view. The menu of the restaurant combines haute cuisine and local snacks.

What to see in and around Alicante in 1 day

Alicante in 1 Day - What to See

The capital of the province of Alicante was founded in 230 BC by the father of the famous military leader of the ancient world – Hannibal. In its history, the port city has survived Roman and Arab rule, the Reconquista, and the Civil War. All this is reflected in its architectural appearance. This city is considered one of the richest in attractions in Spain. According to this indicator it “loses” only to Barcelona and Madrid.

Historic Center of Alicante

To see even some of the interesting places of the city in one day you will not be able to. If you like historical monuments, go to the center. It is located west of Mount Benatankil. This is where most of the architectural sights are concentrated. A mix of eras and styles harmoniously combined in a small area. But it can take a whole day to look at them in detail.

Holidays and festivals in Alicante (Spain)

Do you like something out of the ordinary? Visit a bullfight or take part in one of the many carnivals. The most famous of these is St. John’s Bonfires. It is held from June 20 to 24. On the day of the summer solstice.

What to see with children in Alicante

Entertainment for children in Alicante - Terra Mitica

In this Spanish city there are many theme parks and entertainment centers for families. Visit Terra Mitica with your children. This park has a lot of carousels and other rides that are sure to please your kids. There are playgrounds for children of all ages.

Park Pola - Alicante

For fans of extreme rides we recommend to visit the park Pola. It has an impressive territory, the entrance to which is completely free.

Alicante - Rio Safari Elche Safari Park

Rio Safari Elche Safari Park will be a great place for an interesting vacation for the whole family. This park brings a piece of Africa to the European continent. And if your kids love the pirate theme, go to Tabarka Island. It is located near the city and is sure to please all the boys.

The Chocolate Factory in Alicante - an attraction for children and adults

Take your kids to an old chocolate factory. It has a museum. And the obligatory procedure of tasting candy will delight not only children but also adults. Also near Alicante is the Valley of Toys. Her museum has a huge collection. Some items are more than 200 years old.

Video overview of the sights of Alicante

Alicante is a very beautiful place, where rest of the body (on the beach) alternates with rest of the soul (visiting various interesting places). Going on a trip with children, you can not worry about the leisure of young travelers. There are many interesting places in and around this city that your children will surely enjoy.

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