For the Costa Blanca in the southwest of Spain, it is the long sandy beaches. Even though the busy resorts are where many foreign travellers go to, this article will introduce you only past historical scenery of Alicante city, related site!

Getting There

Alicante has an advantageous position to visit from the UK. Only 2-3 hours by air from the United Kingdom, getting there is not too difficult for most Britons. What draws Europeans and Spaniards to Costa Blanca beaches by the millions every summer, however, makes Alicante Airport one of Spain’s most bustling of all. Of note, Alicante is the closest airport to famous beach cities such as Malaga, Marbella, and Benidorm. From the busy port at Alicante, connecting ferries operate to North Africa’s Algeria, and Ibiza (one of the Balearic Islands), a popular haunt. It has a reputation that earns it its nickname “Hollywood of the Mediterranean,” made plain to see as you walk along such spectacular shores as Alicante.

Sightseeing in Alicante

While Alicante beaches are only about five kilometers from the city itself, its attractions lie primarily in historical abundance rather than sandy shores. The climate in Alicante is warm in summer and mild winters make it a popular retirement destination for Europeans. As a result, there are now some hotels offering tempting extended holiday packages. A great number of retirees are indeed still investing in property to take advantage of the permanent residence status they enjoy along the Costa Blanca.

Alicante is just a short distance away from several theme parks, water parks and safari parks. The city’s heart, El Barrio Histórico, is rich in history with cultural and archaeological gems. Do not miss the imposing Castillo de Santa Bárbara high above a hill or La Iglesia de Santa María, which fascinates by combining elements said to have been drawn by Michelangelo, with Gothic architecture and over a former mosque.

Many of Alicante’s attractions can be seen on foot, leisurely walking the Esplanade, sitting in a local cafe\’for coffee or enjoying a spot of window shopping in the nearby malls.

Enjoying Alicante’s Seafood Heritage

Alicante is a real seafood paradise. You can enjoy a variety of freshly prepared dishes like squid, mussels or the world famous Paella de Mariscos there. Sweet pork dishes are a local speciality. For 18 year-olds and above, meals are often coupled with red wines; in Alicante’s lively nightlife clubs, pubs and discos you can down sangria as your drink of choice. If you like something more down-to-earth, there is also a variety of international fast food chains available.

One thing to note is that in Spain mealtimes are different from the rest of Europe. Lunch is usually taken between 2-4 pm, dinner from 9-11 pm. However with the viewing times of most popular television shows throughout Europe now being catered for by many restaurants in Spain (especially those aimed at international tourists), locals tend to have their evening meal later on in the day.

Truly, Alicante combines history, culture and beautiful sea panoramas in a way that makes it an essential visitor\’s stop on any tour through the Costa Blanca.