Welcome to the Alicante cruise port guide. Alicante, a city on Spain’s Costa Blanca, is renowned for its friendly locals, charming old town, stunning beaches and its beautiful palm trees lining the famous Explanada de España. Known as the “City of Light” since its founding by the Romans, Alicante (Spains 10th largest city) offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxation.

With over 2700 hours of glorious sunshine every year, Alicante is officially the sunniest city in Europe. This guide aims to help cruise visitors make the most of their stop with essential Alicante cruise stop tips.

1. Introduction

Alicante, located in southern Spain, is a top beach resort and a sophisticated Mediterranean city. Its natural harbour, historical landmarks, and beautiful beaches make it an ideal destination for cruise passengers. When considering things to do there are many options available and this post is intended to provide your top Alicante cruise stop tips to ensure you have an unforgettable visit.

2. Arriving to Alicante

Port Information

Alicante’s cruise ships dock at the modern Cruise Maritime Terminal on the outer sea wall. The terminal (which is open 24 hours) is approximately 1.5 km from the city centre, with facilities including information desks, shops, and cafes. A shuttle bus is provided to transport passengers to the city centre or the port exit, making it easy to start your adventure. The bus drops off really close to the Ocean Race museum for anyone who is interested in Maritme history. The short distance from the ship to the city also makes it entirely possible to walk to the city centre if you prefer to stretch your legs. The walk will take about 15 minutes.

The proximity of the terminal to the city makes Alicante particularly attractive as a stopover on Mediterranean routes or even as a base port. Following these Alicante cruise stop tips will help you navigate with ease. Cruise passengers also have an on-board option to pre-book excursions. We think this isn’t the best idea as you will then jump on a bus and bypass the wonderful city centre and miss out on everything it has to offer.

For some people. Alicante is the departure point for their cruise. For those passengers there is an option to use the Long term parking belonging to the terminal and housed closed by. Alicante airport is also just a 20 minute bus ride from the Alicante marina and the train station 5-10 minutes in a taxi.

Navigating to find the City

The walk from the docking area to the harbour exit, next to the Marina, takes about eight minutes. From there, it’s another 5-10 minute walk to the start of the old town. Taxis are usually available at the cruise dock or shuttle bus drop-off locations, and there’s also a hop-on-hop-off bus that stops at the port. For the latest travel restrictions and port updates, visit Alicante Port’s official website.

Alicante is an easily walkable city and with a map its super easy to navigate your way around. You can also use this opportunity to practise a few spanish phrases to ask for directions. When you actually communicate with someone in a foreign language for the first you feel so connected and proud, we heartily recommend it. ALthough you will also find that there is a fair amont of English spoken in Alicante as it is comprised of about 25% Expats from all over the world (Read: Why do Expats choose to live in Alicante)

For those preferring a taxi, the ranks at Puerta Del Mar fountain (at the end of the esplanade) and Rambla de Mendez Nunes (at Plaza Portal de Elche) are the closest to the old town. Taxis are metered, and while the distances are short, it’s always good to have an estimate in mind. In case you get stuck and need to call a taxi, here are some local taxi services:

• Radio Taxi: 965 910123
• Tele Taxi: 965 101611
• Area Taxi: 965 910591

Most hotel receptions in the city will also gladly call a taxi for you. These Alicante cruise stop tips will ensure you can get around the city without hassle.

3. Top Attractions to Explore

Santa Bárbara Castle

Santa Bárbara Castle, one of the best-preserved medieval fortresses in Spain, sits atop Benacantil Hill. The castle offers genuinely spectacular views across the city and the Mediterranean Sea. Visitors can explore dungeons, lookout towers, and museums within the castle and there are three different well stocked cafes within the casstle grounds. To reach the castle, you can take a lift from Postiguet Beach, which is a flat and easy walk from the docking area. Note that the castle itself has cobbled paths, inclines, and many staircases, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues but it is possible to navigate from the lift to the cafe and views without traversing different levels. If you prefer to walk up to the castle, take the scenic route through the old town. Just remember to take some water as it is a strenuous climb.

The castle’s history is as fascinating as its architecture, dating back to the 9th century. It has witnessed numerous battles and sieges, reflecting the rich history of Alicante. A visit here not only provides breathtaking views but also a deep dive into the past. Make sure to include a visit to Santa Bárbara Castle in your list of Alicante cruise stop tips.

El Barrio (Old Town)

El Barrio, Alicante’s old town, is a delightful maze of narrow streets, vibrant plazas, and historic buildings. Highlights include the beautiful Plaza de Santa Faz, the Co-cathedral of St. Nicholas, and the atmospheric streets filled with tapas bars and cafes. The old town is on a slight incline, becoming steeper as you approach the Santa Cruz barrio below the castle. Spend some time wandering through this charming area to soak up the local culture and architecture. It’s nice to sit and have lunch here if you dont feel liek you have the energy to alk all the way up to the castle. The old town is pretty quiet during the day which means that it is not overrun with tourists. At nightime, and especially at the weekend it is full of bars and revellers until the early hours.

Each corner of El Barrio holds a new treasure, from ancient buildings to lively squares where locals gather. The area is known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars and clubs that come alive after dark. Even during the day, the streets are bustling with activity, making it a perfect place to immerse yourself in the local way of life. Among the Alicante cruise stop tips, exploring El Barrio is a must.

Explanada de España

The Explanada de España is one of Alicante’s most iconic spots. This stunning 500 metre promenade, lined with palm trees and adorned with a wavy pattern of six and a half million marble tiles, is perfect for a relaxing stroll. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, with plenty of cafes and shops along the way.

The promenade stretches from the port to Canalejas Park (where you will find some amazing and crazy looking Australian Fig Trees) and is a favourite among both locals and tourists. Street performers, artists, and vendors add to the lively ambience, making it a great place to people-watch and soak in the Mediterranean vibes. Including a visit to Explanada de España in your Alicante cruise stop tips is essential for a full experience. AT the other endof the Explanada is the beautiful Casa Carbonell, built in the 1920’s.

4. Best Beaches to Visit

Playa del Postiguet

Playa del Postiguet, a white-sand beach with Blue Flag status, is conveniently located near the city centre and the old town. It’s an ideal spot to relax and soak up the sun, with amenities such as beach bars, loungers, and umbrellas. and it’s so easy to get to from where the shuttle bus drops off.

The beach’s central location makes it popular among locals and tourists alike. Its gentle waters make it perfect for families with children. It is also a very lively beach, so in the middle of summer you can sometimes struggle to find a space. Additionally, the beach is lined with numerous bars and restaurants, offering a variety of refreshments and local dishes. For the best Alicante cruise stop tips, be sure to spend some time at Playa del Postiguet.

Playa de San Juan

Playa de San Juan is a 7km long stretch of sandy beach known for its clear waters and wide array of water sports. It’s easily accessible by tram or bus from the city centre and offers a more spacious and tranquil beach experience. The tram ride is about 25-30 minutes. If you don’t liek the buzzy, busy Postiguet beach and are craving a beach with space then this is for you.

San Juan is considered one of the best beaches in Spain, thanks to its cleanliness and extensive facilities. Whether you want to relax under an umbrella, engage in water sports, or enjoy a meal at one of the beach front restaurants, Playa de San Juan has something for everyone. Don’t forget to include Playa de San Juan in your Alicante cruise stop tips.

5. Savouring Alicante’s Cuisine

Local Dishes to Try

Alicante’s cuisine is a delightful mix of Mediterranean flavours. Be sure to try local specialities such as paella (which is not an Alicante dish by the way), arroz a banda (this dish of rice cooked in fish stock is an Alicnate classic), and turrón (a traditional nougat confection made form Almonds).

Rice of any kind is a must-try in Alicante. Each restaurant may have its own variation, often featuring seafood or chicken. Salazones are also a must try, often with fresh tomatoes. Other dishes that are really good in ALicante are, Grilled vergetables, Gambas a la plancha and Gambas ajillo (prawns with garlic). Of course, any fish or seafood dish is going to be as fresh as it can be in Alicante where we have one of the biggest fish markets in Spain.

In Alicante it’s possible to find some of the finst wines in the country. The wines from this region are hihly thought of and enjoyed all over the world.

Popular Dining Spots

• Tapas Bars: El Portal Taberna & Wines, Cervecería Sento Barrio, D’tablas. and if you want really cheap then try 100 Montaditos.
• Seafood Restaurants: Restaurante Dársena, La Taberna del Gourmet.
• Mercado Central: For an authentic food market experience, visit the Mercado Central to sample fresh produce, local cheeses, and cured meats. The market, which is one of the largest indoor food markets in Spain, closes at 2pm during the week and at 3pm on Saturdays (closed on Sunday). There are a growing number of tapas bars inside the market, making it a true gourmet destination.

Dining in Alicante is a sensory delight. The Mercado Central, housed in a beautiful historic Valencian building, offers a feast for the senses with its vibrant displays of fresh produce, meats, and seafood. With nearly 300 stalls, it’s a great place to grab a quick bite or buy ingredients for a picnic on the beach. These Alicante cruise stop tips ensure you taste the best local flavours.

6. Shopping and Souvenirs

Shopping Areas

Alicante offers a variety of shopping experiences, from high-street brands to local boutiques. Avenida Maisonnave is the main shopping street, home to Spanish brands like El Corte Inglés, Pull&Bear, Berska and Zara. For a more unique shopping experience, explore the independent shops in the barrio known as El Centro

Avenida Maisonnave is the city’s commercial hub, with a range of shops catering to all tastes and budgets. For those looking for unique souvenirs, the local markets and boutiques offer handmade crafts, jewellery, and traditional Spanish goods.

Unique Souvenirs

Consider buying items such as turrón, local wines, and handmade crafts. These make perfect gifts and keepsakes to remember your visit to Alicante.

Turrón, a traditional nougat made with almonds and honey, is a sweet reminder of Alicante. Local wines, particularly those from the nearby regions of Jumilla and Yecla, make excellent gifts for wine enthusiasts. These Alicante cruise stop tips will help you find the perfect souvenirs.

7. Practical Tips for Cruise Visitors

Health and Safety

It’s always good to know where the nearest medical facilities are. The Alicante Council website provides information on hospital addresses and bus timetables, ensuring you’re prepared for any situation.

Alicante is generally a safe city, but it’s always wise to take standard precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and being aware of your surroundings. In case of any health emergencies, local hospitals and clinics provide excellent care. These Alicante cruise stop tips will help you stay safe and healthy.

Packing Essentials

For a day in Alicante, pack essentials like sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. The Mediterranean sun can be intense, so it’s important to be prepared.

A small daypack can be handy for carrying your essentials, including any souvenirs you pick up along the way. Comfortable clothing and shoes are a must, especially if you plan on exploring the old town or hiking up to Santa Bárbara Castle. Follow these Alicante cruise stop tips to ensure a comfortable visit.

Language and Currency

While many locals speak English, learning a few basic Spanish phrases can enhance your experience. The local currency is the Euro, and it’s useful to have some cash on hand for small purchases.

Spanish is the official language, but Alicante is a tourist-friendly city, and many people working in the service industry speak English. Having some Euros on hand is useful, especially for smaller establishments that may not accept credit cards. These Alicante cruise stop tips will help you navigate local customs and transactions.

8. Audio Tours: A Modern Way to Explore

An increasingly popular idea among cruise passengers is to download an audio tour of the city. These tours automatically follow you around, playing the right audio for the right location without any effort on your part. This way, you can explore Alicante at your own pace, stopping along the way to have drinks, enjoy lunch, or simply dwell and admire sights for as long as you wish. This flexibility is a significant advantage over standard tours, where you need to stay with the group. Whether you’re wandering through El Barrio, strolling along Explanada de España, or visiting Santa Bárbara Castle, an audio tour can enhance your experience by providing informative commentary tailored to each location. Including an audio tour in your Alicante cruise stop tips can greatly enrich your visit.

9. Sample Itinerary for a Day in Alicante

To help you make the most of your stop, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Morning:

• El Barrio: Wander through the old town, visit the Co-cathedral of St. Nicholas, and enjoy a coffee at a local café and if you are feeling full of energy then carry on walking up towards the castle. If not, then head down into the city.
• Santa Bárbara Castle: Start your day with a visit to the castle for stunning views and a dose of history.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Head to a tapas bar like El Portal Taberna & Wines for a delicious and authentic meal but if you want a fun budget option then head to D’tablas where tapas are served on wooden blocks. The blocks are counted at the end to ascertain your bill. For more info, read our blog post of the best tapas bars in Alicante.
• Playa del Postiguet: Spend the afternoon relaxing on Alicantes own lively city beach beach, enjoying the sun and sea.

Evening (if you’re still around in the evening):

• Explanada de España: Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, enjoy a delicious ice cream and explore the shopping kioks and stall as you take in the warm evening air
• Try some cocktails. Read our blog post; 5 great Cocktails bars in Alicante
• Dinner: Finish your day with a seafood feast at any of the really good restaurants downtown.

For those with more time or energy, consider a short trip to the nearby village of Guadalest and the Algar waterfalls, where you can swim in the fresh water, reputed to be the most visited village in Spain. Its stunning mountain vistas, turquoise reservoir, and charming village atmosphere make it a worthwhile excursion. These Alicante cruise stop tips will help you plan a perfect day.

10. Conclusion

Alicante is a relaxed city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a perfect stop for cruise visitors. From the impressive Santa Bárbara Castle to the charming streets of El Barrio and the relaxing beaches, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you’re drawn by the excellent cuisine, the rich history, the sun-drenched beaches, or the mouthwatering cuisine, Alicante promises a delightful experience for every traveller. Enjoy your time in this enchanting city and make the most of your cruise stop with these essential Alicante cruise stop tips.