Bordered by Cabo La Huerta in the north and Santa Pola in the south, the city of Alicante sits on a sheltered curve of the Costa Blanca, looking out over the calm Mediterranean Sea. An ancient harbour for both Roman and Arab civilisations, it’s no surprise that today this cosmopolitan city is so well equipped to deal with every kind of visitor. With slick transport links to a number of stunning local beaches (if the city's own immaculate Playa del Postiguet gets too busy) and a rich cultural heritage that you can taste as well as see, Alicante is prepared to satisfy almost every appetite. And if you needed further persuading, the party never stops on balmy summer nights and the annual average temperature never drops below 18C.
bestparty spot: Isla Marina Overlooking the clear blue waters lapping the Playa de San Juan, this stylish bar, club and restaurant is as good as it gets for a party-loving crowd. Attracting the brown and the beautiful to epic parties under the sun or the stars, this is the first place to head once you’ve perfected your own tan. Just remember to take you sunglasses, even if it’s raining.
Where >Isla Marina, Avda. Villajoisa, Alicante, Tel: +34 96 526 5728. view map Website > www.islamarina.com
bestsouvenir: turrón You can't leave this city without tasting turrón. Made from almonds, honey and egg whites, this sweet treat is a speciality of the region (more specifically, the nearby town of Jijona). Although traditionally given as a gift at Christmas, it’s a delicacy that most people find difficult to resist at any time of the year. The best place to pick up a box or three is Teclo, a family-run establishment founded in 1824, which has the best selection (and window display) in the city. Feel free to try before you buy. Where >Teclo, Calle Mayor, 23, Alicante, Tel: +34 96 520 1115. view map
bestnear-God experience: Món Café The cheery owner of the charming little terrace café Món Café is one good reason to stop by. The incredible view of the Iglesia de Santa Maria is another. Although the inside of this ancient church is undoubtedly a feast for the senses, it’s the ornately chiselled exterior looking out over a shady square that steals the show. Take in the ambience with a cortado and an empanada (a small coffee and a big bun) on one of the café’s wooden tables set out in front. But get there early, as there might be a wedding on. Where >Món Café, Calle de Jorge Juan (Plaça Santa Maria), Alicante. view map
bestfree show: people-watching at La Explanada Café La Explanada Café may not be the only heladeria (ice cream parlour) in the city, but this smart little joint is certainly the best placed. Overlooking the city’s palm-lined promenade, Explanada de España, this café’s outdoor terrace is perfectly positioned for some quality people-watching. Choose from a button-popping selection of delicious Italian-style ice creams, cakes or hot drinks, then sit back and watch the performance unfold. Open all year. Where >La Explanada Café, Explanada de España 18, Alicante, Tel: +34 96 514 4235. view map
bestmuseum: Alicante Provincial Museum of Archaeology After deservedly winning the European Museum of the Year Award in 2004, the Alicante Provincial Museum of Archeology (MARQ) hasn’t stopped to rest on its laurels. Attracting thousands of visitors each and every year since with its innovative hands-on exhibitions, the MARQ offers culture vultures of all ages an enthralling journey through the history of Alicante. Open 10am-2pm every day except Monday. Where >Alicante Provincial Museum of Archaeology, Plaça Dr. Gomez Ulla, Alicante, Tel: +34 96 514 9000. view map Website > www.marqalicante.com
bestday trip: Tabarca The only inhabited island in the Valencia Region, Tabarca was once overrun with Berber pirates. Today it provides a more tranquil escape for law-abiding tourists. Recently declared a Mediterranean Marine Reserve, the island offers seafaring day-trippers numerous hidden coves and beaches from which to enjoy the crystal clear waters. There are also a few good seafood restaurants to test its credentials, and a smattering of hotels if you want to stay the night. Where >Get to Tabarca with Kontiki: boats leave from Alicante’s port (opposite the Explanada de España) throughout the year. The trip takes 45 mins each way and costs €17 (return), Tel: +34 96 521 6396. view map Website > www.desembarcaentabarca.com
bestview: Ereta Park Found on the slopes of Mount Benacantil, Ereta Park – a spectacularly designed “urban park” – offers the best vantage point over the old town and unrivalled views across the entire city. Imaginatively crafted into the once-crumbling rock of Alicante’s iconic landmark, the park is a stunning combination of wood and concrete structures that need to be clambered over to be believed. Accessed by foot from the edge of the old town, the park also contains a café and restaurant (appropriately named La Ereta Restaurant), if the walk takes too much out of you. Where >La Ereta Restaurant, Castillo Santa Barbara, Parque Ereta, Alicante, Tel: +34 96 514 3250. view map Website > www.laereta.com
Compiled by Owain Thomas
besttrivia
The picturesque palm-lined Explanada de España is rumoured to be paved with around 6,600,000 marble tiles. Why not start counting at one end and see if the rumours are true?
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