Alicante, Spain Cruises

Situated on Spain's fantastic Costa Blanca, the historic port of Alicante is one of the Mediterranean's most popular cruise destinations. The city's superb coastline, bustling city centre and excellent nightlife attract visitors from across the world. The area is also home to a marvellous range of shops, restaurants and museums as well as a wide range of exciting activities aimed at tourists. Alicante's rich culture and heritage is also visible throughout the city, with a collection of castles, monasteries and other historic structures open to the public. Known as one of Spain's premier tourist hotspots, this city has something for everyone.

Sightseeing in Alicante

Alicante is littered with exhilarating activities for visitors to enjoy, from hiking through the Sierra de Aitana Mountains' stunning natural landscape to playing a relaxing game of golf on one of the city's fabulous courses. Thrill-seekers can also have a go at skydiving or a range of water sports along the city's coastline including scuba diving, jet skiing, windsurfing and canoeing. Alternatively, visitors may wish to relax on one of Alicante's pristine beaches, which are recognised as some of the best that Spain has to offer. The city is also home to a range of historic monuments and sight-seeing opportunities:

Castle of Santa Barbara

Standing on the top of Mount Benacantil, Alicante's Castle of Santa Barbara overlooks the city, offering spectacular views of the surrounding area. The castle was erected in the 9th century and is one of Spain's most impressive medieval fortresses.

San Nicolas Cathedral

The San Nicolas Cathedral was constructed during the 17th century and has a traditional renaissance and baroque architectural design. The cathedral is located within Alicante's old town and is well known locally for its gorgeous surrounding gardens and tremendous blue dome.

Island of Tabarca

This beautiful island lies of the coast of Alicante and is accessible by boat from the mainland. Sometimes referred to as the Flat Island, Tabarca has an intriguing history. Once used by pirates as a safe haven from which to attack the mainland, the island has a unique atmosphere as well as a collection of interesting historic monuments.

Shopping in Alicante

Authentic Spanish market stalls can be found along the Explanada d'Espanya selling a variety of clothes and jewellery. The city's main marketplace, however, is named Mercado Central de Alicante and is located in within a grand building with a wonderful facade in the centre of the city. Mercado Central de Alicante is particularly popular with locals and sells a variety of produce including cheeses, vegetables, fruit and meat as well as flowers and other souvenirs. For a more opulent shopping experience, visitors should head to the Alicante Marina where a range of high-end retailers are located.

Eating out in Alicante

The Alicante Marina is home to a selection of fine-dining and luxurious restaurants serving a variety of tempting cuisine. All over the city, a plethora of authentic Spanish and Mediterranean restaurants serving authentic local dishes can be found, alongside many other reputable eateries with international cuisine from tasty Indian and Mexican food to excellent steakhouses. Popular fast food establishments are also distributed throughout the city for visitors looking for something more familiar.