Spain · ALC

Alicante

Costa Blanca sun, a marble esplanade, and a castle on the hill.

✈️ 2.5h from London🏨 Hotels from £95/night🗓 Best: May to June and September to October for warm sea and fewer crowds

Alicante is the gateway to the Costa Blanca and an easy, sunny city break in its own right - a palm-lined seafront, a golden city beach and the Santa Barbara castle looking down over it all.

Why UK travellers go

Reliable sun, a 15-minute hop from the airport, the launch point for the whole Costa Blanca (Benidorm, Calpe, Javea), and great-value seafood and rice dishes.

Best time to visit

May to June and September to October for warm sea and fewer crowds. July-August is peak; winters are mild and quiet.

🔍 Scout ReportLife, not lodging — our on-the-ground intel for Alicante
🌅 Morning Ritual

An early swim off Postiguet beach, then coffee under the palms on the Explanada de Espana.

🧘 Wellness

Beachfront yoga at Playa de San Juan and the climb up to Santa Barbara castle for a workout with a view.

🔒 Privacy

Tram a few stops north to El Campello for quieter beaches than the city centre.

Vetted for safety and authentic lifestyle integration · Refreshed monthly

Where to stay in Alicante

El Barrio (Santa Cruz)

The old town below the castle - whitewashed lanes, tapas bars and the city’s nightlife.

Playa de San Juan

The big sandy beach a tram-ride north - resort hotels and a long promenade, calmer than the centre.

Centro & Explanada

The marble-tiled seafront esplanade and marina - central hotels and easy access to the port beach.

Alicante travel FAQ

Do I need a visa for Alicante from the UK?+

No - UK visitors can stay visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period across the Schengen area.

How far is Alicante airport from the city?+

About 15 minutes by taxi, or 20 minutes on the frequent C6 airport bus into the centre.

Can I get to Benidorm from Alicante easily?+

Yes - the scenic TRAM light railway runs up the Costa Blanca coast to Benidorm in about an hour.

Ready to book Alicante?

Compare live prices across 15+ providers. No markups, no retargeting emails, no data sold.