Costa Blanca Central

Where to Stay in Alicante

The Mediterranean capital — Santa Bárbara castle, palm-lined Explanada and the buzzing El Barrio.

The Mediterranean capital — Santa Bárbara castle, palm-lined Explanada and the buzzing El Barrio.

Introduction

Alicante is one of the Costa Blanca's most-loved destinations — a balance of beach, history, food and Mediterranean lifestyle that draws visitors back year after year.

Atmosphere

Relaxed by day, lively in the evening — Alicante mixes Spanish family culture with a warm international community.

History

From Iberian and Roman roots through Moorish rule to today's tourism era, Alicante has layered history visible in its old town, churches and museums.

Beaches

Sandy bays, Blue Flag beaches and rocky coves — many within walking distance of the centre and most lifeguarded in summer.

Restaurants

From beachfront chiringuitos to inland menú-del-día institutions and modern tasting menus — Alicante eats well.

Nightlife

Evenings start with vermut, slide into long dinners and end at marina bars, beach clubs or open-air terraces.

Shopping

Independent boutiques, weekly markets, ceramic studios and the larger shopping centres of Benidorm, Alicante and Zenia Boulevard within easy reach.

Weather

300+ days of sunshine a year, mild winters (15–18°C), warm summers (28–32°C) and a sea that's swimmable from May to November.

Accessibility

Alicante airport (ALC) is under an hour; Valencia airport (VLC) under 1h30. The AP-7, N-332 and the TRAM tramway connect the coast.

Best for families

Safe beaches, family hotels, theme parks within reach (Terra Mítica, Aqualandia, Río Safari) and excellent international schools.

Best for retirees

Mild winters, affordable healthcare, walkable centres, expat clubs and direct flights to most European capitals.

Best for digital nomads

Fast fibre, coworking spaces, Digital Nomad Visa pathway and a 1-hour commute to Alicante's tech corridor.

Best for couples

Sunset bars, marina dining, boutique stays and spa days — perfect for short breaks and longer escapes.

Best time to visit

May–June and September–October combine warm sea, sun and lower crowds. Winter is peak for long-stay retirees and golfers.

Top stays in Alicante

Hospes Amérigo
€€€€

Hospes Amérigo

Alicante

Design hotel in a restored Dominican convent in Alicante's old town — rooftop pool, hammam and Bodyna spa.

PoolSpaRestaurantGymWiFi
Beach 500 m
Ideal: City breaks, couples
Meliá Alicante
€€€

Meliá Alicante

Alicante

Landmark sail-shaped hotel between Postiguet beach and the marina — pool deck, sea-view rooms and a 10-minute walk to the old town.

PoolRestaurantGymWiFi
Beach Beachfront
Ideal: City + beach combo
Hotel Spa Porta Maris
€€€

Hotel Spa Porta Maris

Alicante

Bay-front hotel on Postiguet beach with rooftop pool, Suite del Mar spa and direct old-town access.

PoolSpaRestaurantGymWiFi
Beach Beachfront
Ideal: City breaks, spa
Eurostars Mediterránea Plaza
€€

Eurostars Mediterránea Plaza

Alicante

Restored 1920s neoclassical building on Plaza del Ayuntamiento — central, characterful and walkable to everything in Alicante.

RestaurantGymWiFi
Beach 400 m
Ideal: City breaks, value

Frequently asked questions

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