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How To Spend 24 Hours In Alicante
TLDR: Embark on a vibrant journey through Alicante, a city where the charm of the Mediterranean meets a lively urban spirit. Perfect for solo travelers, Alicante offers a unique blend of historic sights, beachside relaxation, and dynamic nightlife.
Highlight
- Stroll along the Explanada de España, a marble-tiled promenade lined with palm trees, reflecting Alicante’s coastal elegance.
- Explore the imposing Castillo de Santa Bárbara, perched high above the city, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Alicante’s past.
- Indulge in fresh seafood and local delicacies at the bustling Mercado Central, a hub of culinary activity.
- Experience Alicante’s legendary nightlife at the vibrant bars and clubs along the marina and in the Barrio.
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About Alicante
Alicante, a gem on Spain’s Costa Blanca, seamlessly blends its rich history with a modern, lively atmosphere. Its pleasant Mediterranean climate and beautiful beaches make it an alluring destination throughout the year. The city’s compact size and friendly vibe are ideal for solo travelers eager to explore its cultural landmarks and enjoy its laid-back lifestyle.
Where to Sleep In Alicante
Choose from a variety of hostels in Alicante’s city center, like the vibrant X Hostel Alicante, known for its social atmosphere and rooftop gatherings. For a quieter stay, La Milagrosa Bed & Breakfast offers a cozy experience near the beach and old town.
Getting to and From Alicante
Alicante-Elche Airport, with easy connections to the city center via bus and tram, is the main gateway. The city’s public transport system is efficient, making it simple and affordable to explore.
Travel Tip
Embrace Alicante’s relaxed pace by exploring its beachfront and historic neighborhoods on foot. The city’s tram system is also a great way to visit nearby coastal towns and scenic spots.
Budgeting for 24 hours in Alicante
Alicante’s Mediterranean charm can be enjoyed without overspending. Here’s a practical guide to experiencing this vibrant city on a budget:
- Accommodation: Hostels in central Alicante offer beds ranging from €20 to €40, providing a budget-friendly and sociable lodging option.
- Transportation: A day pass for Alicante’s public transport costs about €4, covering buses and trams for convenient city exploration.
- Food and Drink: Start your day with a budget-friendly breakfast at a local café for around €3 to €6. For lunch and dinner, enjoy Alicante’s tapas and seafood at places like Mercado Central, with meals ranging from €10 to €20.
- Attractions / Entertainment: Visit cultural landmarks like the Castillo de Santa Bárbara, with many offering free or low-cost entry. Relax at the city’s beaches or enjoy the vibrant street life and local bars in the evening, with entertainment options typically costing €10 to €30.
- Miscellaneous: Allocate around €10 to €20 for additional expenses like souvenirs or beachside snacks.
Total Estimated Budget
Expect to spend between €60 and €120 for a day in Alicante, balancing cultural exploration with leisurely beachside enjoyment.
1 Day In Alicante Itinerary
You’ve landed in Alicante and while the beach may be calling, here’s a more structured way you can spend your day. This is our guide on what you might want to do with 24 hours in Alicante, written with solo travellers in mind.
Morning
Alicante, with its blend of Spanish charm and Mediterranean flair, offers a refreshing start to the day. The city’s coastal location means mornings are often bright and sunny, ideal for exploring.
- Begin at the Explanada de España, a beautiful, tree-lined promenade by the sea, perfect for a leisurely morning walk.
- Visit the Castle of Santa Bárbara, perched on Mount Benacantil. The climb (or elevator ride) up offers stunning views of the city and the sea, a great way to orient yourself in Alicante.
- Stroll through the old town, Barrio de la Santa Cruz, where quaint, colorful houses and narrow streets provide a glimpse into Alicante’s history and culture.
- For breakfast, try a local café in the old town, where you can enjoy a ‘tostada con tomate’ and freshly squeezed orange juice, a typical start to the day in Alicante.
Lunch
As midday approaches, Alicante’s culinary scene comes alive. The city’s love for fresh seafood and rice dishes is evident in its numerous eateries.
- Head to the Central Market, where locals shop for fresh produce. It’s also a great place to sample local specialties like ‘esgarrat’ (roasted pepper and cod salad).
- Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the many tapas bars around the market, where you can savor dishes like ‘gambas al ajillo’ (garlic prawns) – a testament to the city’s coastal location and its emphasis on fresh, simple ingredients.
- Post-lunch, a walk along the marina offers a relaxed setting to enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere and watch the boats.
Afternoon
The afternoon in Alicante is a great time to delve into the city’s cultural offerings. The city’s compact size makes it easy to explore various attractions on foot or by tram.
- Visit the Alicante Museum of Contemporary Art (MACA), housed in a Baroque building. The museum’s collection includes works by Spanish artists like Dalí and Miró, reflecting Alicante’s commitment to preserving and showcasing Spanish art.
- Take a stroll through El Barrio, the historic center, where you can see the Co-cathedral of St. Nicholas with its impressive blue dome.
- Relax at the Postiguet Beach, right near the city center, a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the sea, reflecting Alicante’s blend of urban and beach lifestyles.
Evening
Evenings in Alicante are typically Mediterranean – relaxed yet lively. The city’s cafes and restaurants begin to fill up as locals and visitors alike head out to enjoy the cool evening air.
- Dine in one of the restaurants in the El Barrio area, where you can try Alicante’s famous rice dishes, like ‘arroz a banda’, in a lively yet laid-back setting.
- A walk along the Explanada de España in the evening is a pleasant experience, with the street lights casting a warm glow on the marble tiles.
- Explore the area around the Central Market, which becomes a social hub in the evenings, offering a chance to experience Alicante’s friendly and welcoming local vibe.
Night
Nightlife in Alicante is diverse, catering to different tastes. It’s not as intense as in larger cities, but there’s plenty of fun to be had.
- The Barrio area is known for its variety of bars and pubs, offering everything from traditional Spanish music to modern beats, suitable for a more relaxed night out.
- For those looking to experience Alicante’s club scene, the port area has several clubs where you can dance the night away, reflecting the city’s blend of traditional charm and contemporary nightlife.
Departure Morning
On your departure morning, Alicante’s laid-back atmosphere makes for a gentle farewell.
- Enjoy a final breakfast at a seafront café, taking in the views and the calm morning ambiance.
- A stroll along the beach or a visit to one of the city’s parks offers a peaceful end to your trip, allowing you to soak in the last moments of Alicante’s relaxing Mediterranean vibe.
Where Next?
If you’ve enjoyed the relaxed pace and sunny disposition of Alicante, consider heading to Valencia next. Known for its arts, science complex, and vibrant culinary scene, it’s another Spanish city that beautifully balances tradition and modernity. Check out our ’24-hour guides’ on the Hostelworld app for more solo travel adventures.
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