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Europe

Alicante, Spain

Sun-drenched Mediterranean vibes meet centuries of Moorish history on a coastline made for slow mornings and long lunches.

Quick Facts

Weather Range

18-32C (64-90F) (18-32C (64-90F))

Currency

EUR

Language

Spanish

Time Zone

CET (UTC+1)

Overview

Alicante is the kind of city that makes you rethink your life choices—in the best way. Perched on Spain's Costa Blanca, it delivers golden beaches, a dramatic hilltop castle, and a palm-lined promenade built for people-watching. The Explanada de España might be one of the most beautiful waterfront walks in all of Europe, with its wavy mosaic tiles catching the light. Head up to Castillo de Santa Bárbara for sweeping views that stretch across the Mediterranean, then wind through the old quarter's narrow streets for tapas and local wine. Between the harbor buzz and the old-town calm, Alicante strikes a balance that bigger Spanish cities can only dream of.

Top Sights

  • Castillo de Santa Bárbara
Medieval fortress perched on Mount Benacantil with panoramic views stretching across the city, harbor, and Mediterranean coastline.
  • Explanada de España
Iconic palm-lined waterfront promenade featuring 6.5 million marble mosaic tiles in a stunning wave pattern. The heartbeat of the city.
  • Barrio de Santa Cruz
The old quarter tucked beneath the castle walls. Narrow streets painted in pastels, hidden plazas, and some of the best tapas bars in town.
  • Mercado Central
Modernist market hall bursting with fresh seafood, local produce, cured meats, and the energy of daily Alicante life.
  • Playa del Postiguet
Golden city beach right below the castle. Crystal-clear water, soft sand, and beach bars serving cold cañas all afternoon.

Neighborhoods

Barrio de Santa Cruz

Winding streets, whitewashed houses, and tapas bars tucked beneath the castle walls.

El Centro

Shopping, dining, and nightlife along the main boulevards and pedestrian streets.

El Puerto

Waterfront district with marina restaurants, bars, and views of the harbor.

Shore Things Excursions

Make the most of your time in port. These popular excursions are just a sampling of what's available—whether you're after thrills, culture, or pure relaxation.

San Juan Beach & Kayak Day

210 Hours

VERY ACTIVE

Enjoy a guided bus ride, kayak along San Juan Beach, relax, swim, and return to the Cruise Terminal—all in one scenic adventure.
View Details
From

$120 USD

Torrevieja Salt Flats Tasting Tour

300 Hours

EASY

Explore Torrevieja’s salt flats with a guided tour, salt mountain visit, blue fish tasting, and local wine and olive oil sampling.
View Details
From

$195 USD

Puntapiedra: An Exclusive Beach Experience

225 Hours

EASY

Relax in luxury at Puntapiedra, Alicante—an exclusive Mediterranean beach escape with sun-beds, sea views, and premium service.
View Details
From

$155 USD

Rainbow Shores Tour & Traditional Tapas Tasting

270 Hours

EASY

Explore the colorful streets of Villajoyosa before enjoying beachfront tapas, unlimited included drinks & soaking up the sun.
View Details
From

$140 USD

Explore all Alicante Shore Things
© Shore Things photos courtesy of Virgin Voyages®

Shore Excursions

Make the most of your time in port. These popular excursions are just a sampling of what's available—whether you're after thrills, culture, or pure relaxation.
Worry-free excursions powered by Viator

San Juan Beach & Kayak Day

210 Hours

VERY ACTIVE

Enjoy a guided bus ride, kayak along San Juan Beach, relax, swim, and return to the Cruise Terminal—all in one scenic adventure.
View Details
From

$120 USD

Torrevieja Salt Flats Tasting Tour

300 Hours

EASY

Explore Torrevieja’s salt flats with a guided tour, salt mountain visit, blue fish tasting, and local wine and olive oil sampling.
View Details
From

$195 USD

Puntapiedra: An Exclusive Beach Experience

225 Hours

EASY

Relax in luxury at Puntapiedra, Alicante—an exclusive Mediterranean beach escape with sun-beds, sea views, and premium service.
View Details
From

$155 USD

Rainbow Shores Tour & Traditional Tapas Tasting

270 Hours

EASY

Explore the colorful streets of Villajoyosa before enjoying beachfront tapas, unlimited included drinks & soaking up the sun.
View Details
From

$140 USD

Explore all Alicante Shore Things
© Shore Things photos courtesy of Virgin Voyages®

Map

Quick Facts

Weather Range

18-32C (64-90F) (18-32C (64-90F))

Currency

EUR

Language

Spanish

Time Zone

CET (UTC+1)

Ready to explore Alicante?

Discover voyages that visit this amazing destination.
Explore voyages to Alicante

Upcoming voyages that visit Alicante

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