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Alicante

Spain · Coast · EUR · 38.345200, -0.481500
Family friendly 7.4/10 · Rank 429 of 2 709
Best season: March-May, September-November

Best for

Alicante is an ideal place for a beach holiday with excellent infrastructure. It is recommended for families, couples and groups of friends. Suitable for water sports and nightlife lovers. Least suitable for those seeking solitude and quiet.

Best season

March-May, September-November

Daily budget
$119.00 (≈ 10 710 ₽ · ≈ 109 EUR)
For 7 days
$833.00 (≈ 74 970 ₽ · ≈ 766 EUR)
Alicante is a sunny port city on the Costa Blanca coast, where the Mediterranean Sea meets the scenic mountains. The city is famous for its Santa Bárbara Castle, towering over the city, and the bustling Explanada promenade with its palm trees and mosaic tiles. Alicante attracts tourists with its beaches, excellent cuisine, and mild climate, making it ideal for year-round holidays.
Summer
31.0°C
Winter
7.0°C
Sea
26.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

energetic

Pace of life

fast

Local character

Alicante residents are friendly and cheerful people. The city is known for its Fogueres de Sant Joan festival. The atmosphere is lively and friendly.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Beautiful golden sand beaches
  • Santa Bárbara Castle
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Affordable prices
  • Mild climate all year round
  • Proximity to the airport
  • Good restaurants

Cons

  • Many tourists in high season
  • Noisy
  • Beach overcrowded
  • Infrastructure is overloaded
  • High prices in the centre
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
25.6°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
31.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
31.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
10.9°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
17.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
7.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
26.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
26.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
October-March
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
golden
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
mild
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
clear
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
San Juan
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
No
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
No
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
Yes
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
None
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
None
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
low
Note

Alicante is a safe resort. Beaches are equipped with lifeguards. The main risks are jellyfish in summer.

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins of the species Paracentrotus lividus are found in the coastal waters of Alicante, especially near rocky beaches and the Cabo de la Nao marine reserve. They inhabit rocky bottoms and rock crevices.
  • It is recommended to wear protective footwear when entering the water on rocky beaches. Sea urchin punctures are very painful, and spine fragments can cause infection.

Corals and reefs — details

  • Coral reefs are virtually absent in the coastal waters of Alicante due to strong wave action and cold winter waters. However, isolated colonies of red corals and gorgonians are found near Tabarca Island and the Cabo de la Nao marine reserve.
  • Corals can be sharp, so caution should be exercised when swimming and snorkeling. It is forbidden to step on or touch corals with your hands.

Jellyfish — details

  • Jellyfish are occasionally found off the coast during the summer months.

Sharks — details

  • Shark attacks off the coast of Alicante are extremely rare. Small shark species such as the catshark and nurse shark inhabit the Mediterranean Sea and pose no danger to humans.
  • Over the past decades, not a single case of shark attack on swimmers has been recorded in the Alicante beach area. However, encounters with sharks are possible in the open sea, so swimming there is not recommended.
Attractions

Santa Bárbara Castle

A majestic fortress on Mount Benacantil with a panoramic view of the city and the sea. One of Alicante's main attractions.

Explanada de España Promenade

The famous promenade with marble mosaics and palm trees. The centre of city life.

San Juan Beach

A long beach with golden sand and developed infrastructure. A popular spot for swimming.

MARQ Archaeological Museum

One of the best archaeological museums in Spain with interactive exhibitions.

Old Town (El Barrio)

A labyrinth of narrow streets with a cathedral, tapas bars and an authentic atmosphere.

Tabarca Island

A small island with crystal clear water. A great spot for snorkelling.

Best areas

Historic Centre (Old Town)

The heart of Alicante with the castle, cathedral and tapas bars. The best area for tourists.

Beach Area (San Juan)

A coastal area with beaches, hotels and restaurants.

Must-try food

Paella

Rice with seafood, chicken and vegetables. The famous Spanish dish.

Alioli

A garlic and olive oil sauce. Served with meat and fish.

Arròs a banda

Rice cooked in fish broth with seafood. A local version.

Where to go next

Benidorm

A famous resort with skyscrapers and nightlife. 40 minutes away.

Calpe

A city with a limestone rock. 1 hour away.

Altea

A picturesque town with white houses. 45 minutes away.

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
high
Getting there
Nearest airports
Alicante–Elche Airport (ALC).
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Visa
Visa requirements
required (Schengen)
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
March-May, September-November
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$20.00
≈ 1 800 ₽ · ≈ 18 EUR
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$65.00
≈ 5 850 ₽ · ≈ 60 EUR
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$110.00
≈ 9 900 ₽ · ≈ 101 EUR
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$180.00
≈ 16 200 ₽ · ≈ 166 EUR
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$150.00
≈ 13 500 ₽ · ≈ 138 EUR
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$85.00
≈ 7 650 ₽ · ≈ 78 EUR
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$14.00
≈ 1 260 ₽ · ≈ 13 EUR
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$35.00
≈ 3 150 ₽ · ≈ 32 EUR
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$3.00
≈ 270 ₽ · ≈ 3 EUR
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$4.50
≈ 405 ₽ · ≈ 4 EUR
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$0.80
≈ 72 ₽ · ≈ 1 EUR
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$10.00
≈ 900 ₽ · ≈ 9 EUR
Burger
Average price for a burger
$8.00
≈ 720 ₽ · ≈ 7 EUR
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$5.00
≈ 450 ₽ · ≈ 5 EUR
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$8.00
≈ 720 ₽ · ≈ 7 EUR
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$25.00
≈ 2 250 ₽ · ≈ 23 EUR
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$2.00
≈ 180 ₽ · ≈ 2 EUR
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$8.00
≈ 720 ₽ · ≈ 7 EUR
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$45.00
≈ 4 050 ₽ · ≈ 41 EUR
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$12.00
≈ 1 080 ₽ · ≈ 11 EUR
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$25.00
≈ 2 250 ₽ · ≈ 23 EUR
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$50.00
≈ 4 500 ₽ · ≈ 46 EUR
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$65.00
≈ 5 850 ₽ · ≈ 60 EUR
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$65.00
≈ 5 850 ₽ · ≈ 60 EUR
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$16.00
≈ 1 440 ₽ · ≈ 15 EUR
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$15.00
≈ 1 350 ₽ · ≈ 14 EUR
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Frequently asked questions
Alicante: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is March-May, September-November. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Alicante: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +31.0°C, during the day — up to +31.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Alicante: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +7.0°C, during the day — up to +17.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Alicante: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +26.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Alicante: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on October-March. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Alicante: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "sand" surface, golden sand, clear water. The most popular beaches: San Juan. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Alicante: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry. Lifeguards are on duty on the beaches.
Alicante: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: jellyfish. Alicante is a safe resort. Beaches are equipped with lifeguards. The main risks are jellyfish in summer.. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Alicante: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $119.00 (≈ 10 710 ₽ · ≈ 109 EUR) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Alicante: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $20.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $65.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $110.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $180.00 per night, an apartment — $85.00 per night, a villa — $150.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Alicante: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $14.00, dinner at a restaurant — $35.00, a cup of cappuccino — $3.00, a 0.5L beer — $4.50, a 1.5L bottle of water — $0.80. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Alicante: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $25.00, a single public transport ticket — $2.00, a short taxi ride — $8.00, car rental — $45.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Alicante: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Santa Bárbara Castle — A majestic fortress on Mount Benacantil with a panoramic view of the city and the sea. One of Alicante's main attractions.; Explanada de España Promenade — The famous promenade with marble mosaics and palm trees. The centre of city life.; San Juan Beach — A long beach with golden sand and developed infrastructure. A popular spot for swimming.; MARQ Archaeological Museum — One of the best archaeological museums in Spain with interactive exhibitions.; Old Town (El Barrio) — A labyrinth of narrow streets with a cathedral, tapas bars and an authentic atmosphere.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Alicante: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Paella — Rice with seafood, chicken and vegetables. The famous Spanish dish.; Alioli — A garlic and olive oil sauce. Served with meat and fish.; Arròs a banda — Rice cooked in fish broth with seafood. A local version.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Alicante: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Historic Centre (Old Town) — The heart of Alicante with the castle, cathedral and tapas bars. The best area for tourists.; Beach Area (San Juan) — A coastal area with beaches, hotels and restaurants.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Alicante: is a visa required?
Visa: required (Schengen). Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Alicante: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Alicante–Elche Airport (code ALC). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $25.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Alicante: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — EUR. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $119.00 (≈ 10 710 ₽ · ≈ 109 EUR). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Alicante: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Alicante: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as high. There are plenty of bars, clubs and restaurants that stay open until morning.
Alicante: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Benidorm — A famous resort with skyscrapers and nightlife. 40 minutes away.; Calpe — A city with a limestone rock. 1 hour away.; Altea — A picturesque town with white houses. 45 minutes away.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

7.4/10
Overall rank: 429 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 297

Best season

March-May, September-November

Useful information

Currency: EUR
Coordinates: 38.345200, -0.481500