Living in Alicante Spain means enjoying a lifestyle that many people only experience for a few weeks each year while on holiday. Sunshine, palm-lined promenades, fresh food markets and evenings spent outdoors are simply part of everyday life here.
These articles are written by Anabel Mateos, who moved to Alicante in 2021 after spending more than two decades living in the UK. Having experienced the move back to Spain herself, she enjoys sharing her perspective on everyday life in the city and why so many people are choosing to make Alicante their home.
But Alicante is much more than a beach destination.
It is a lively Mediterranean city with a rich history, vibrant plazas, excellent restaurants and a relaxed rhythm of life that encourages people to slow down and enjoy their surroundings. From the historic streets of the old town to the cafés and terraces scattered across the city centre, living in Alicante Spain offers a quality of life that attracts people from across Spain and the rest of Europe. One of the reasons the city has become increasingly popular with international residents is its accessibility, with Alicante–Elche Miguel Hernández Airport located just twenty minutes from the city centre.
One of the reasons the city works so well as a place to live is its balance. Alicante is large enough to offer culture, concerts, great restaurants and modern shopping, yet small enough to remain walkable and easy to navigate. Many residents rarely need a car, with beaches, markets, parks and historic neighbourhoods all within easy reach.
The Mediterranean climate also plays a big role in why people enjoy living in Alicante Spain. With over 300 days of sunshine each year and mild winters, daily life naturally happens outdoors. Plazas fill with families in the evenings, people stroll along the seafront after dinner and the city feels lively throughout the year.
For those curious about what everyday life here is really like, we’ve created a series of articles exploring the many reasons people choose living in Alicante Spain.
One of the joys of living in Alicante Spain is being able to walk almost everywhere.
5. Mercado Central
The historic Mercado Central de Alicante is the beating heart of the city’s food culture.
6. Alicante’s Food Scene
From tapas bars to seafood restaurants, Alicante is a wonderful city for anyone who loves good food.
7. Culture and Music
Concerts, theatre and exhibitions including performances at Auditorio de la Diputación de Alicante.
8. History and the Old Town
The city’s long history is visible everywhere, especially in the streets below Castillo de Santa Bárbara.
9. The Perfect Size City
Large enough to be interesting, small enough to feel comfortable.
10. Excellent Travel Connections
With Alicante–Elche Miguel Hernández Airport just 20 minutes from the city centre.
11. Coastal Towns Nearby
The TRAM makes it easy to explore beautiful towns along the Costa Blanca.
12. Outdoor Living
Walking, swimming, cycling and enjoying the sea are part of daily life.
13. Festivals and Traditions
Events such as the famous Hogueras bring the city alive.
14. An International Community
People from across Europe now call Alicante home.
A City That Is Easy to Love
For many people, living in Alicante Spain begins with a short visit and quickly turns into something more permanent.
Alicante is often described as one of Spain’s most liveable coastal cities, combining Mediterranean climate, excellent food culture and an easygoing lifestyle that many residents quickly fall in love with.
The combination of sunshine, sea, history, excellent food and a welcoming atmosphere makes Alicante one of the most enjoyable cities in Spain to call home. Whether you are considering relocating, spending part of the year here or simply curious about life on the Mediterranean coast, Alicante offers a lifestyle that is hard to match.
Start Exploring Life in Alicante
If you’re curious about what everyday life here is really like, start with our first article: Living in Alicante Spain: Discovering the Mediterranean Way of Life by Anabel Mateos
