Top 10 places to visit in Alicante

Alicante

Alicante is a true paradise and an impressive tourist destination. The city attracts millions of tourists every year due to its enviable climate year-round, with sun and beach almost guaranteed. Beyond the most famous spots, Alicante also offers many hidden corners waiting to be discovered. Here are ten places you simply can’t miss in Alicante.

The must-see places: what to visit in Alicante

One day is more than enough to explore the city, but we recommend spending a few extra days discovering the surrounding areas, as there are many beautiful places to uncover. You could easily spend a week in the province and still not tire of visiting new spots.

While there are numerous places to visit in Alicante, let's begin by highlighting its stunning coves. Two of our favourites are Cala Granadella and Cala Barraca.

Granadella Cove

Awarded several times as one of the best beaches in Spain, and for good reason. Located in the heart of the Costa Blanca, south of Javea, Cala Granadella is perfect for sunbathing in the summer, spending a peaceful day in the winter, or practising water sports. This beach is characterised by its turquoise and emerald waters—a true postcard view.

Barraca Cove

Considered one of the most beautiful coves on the Costa Blanca, Barraca Cove is unique due to the island of El Portixol located just offshore, and the charming fishermen’s huts situated behind the beach. The pebble beach features crystal-clear waters, making it ideal for snorkelling and scuba diving. Without a doubt, this is one of the must-see spots in Alicante.

Tabarca Island

A few miles off the coast of Alicante lies the only inhabited island in the Valencian Community. Surrounded by a marine reserve, Tabarca Island is home to a quaint fishing village and a harbour full of boats. To reach the island, you can take a boat from either Santa Pola or Alicante.

Benitxell Cliffs Route

If you enjoy combining the beach with the mountains, you’ll love the Cliffs Route. This trail connects Cala Moraig and Selveig coves with a pleasant walk, offering incredible views along the way.

Calpe’s Peñon d’Ifach

Calpe is one of the must-visit towns on the Costa Blanca. Its main attraction is the Peñon d'Ifach, a towering 300-metre rock that rises from the sea off the coast of Calpe. Undoubtedly, one of the most iconic images in Calpe is the view from the top of the rock.

Alicante City

You can't visit Costa Blanca, without exploring its heart: Alicante City. The city boasts several tourist attractions, including the Santa Cruz quarter, a neighbourhood with colourful houses adorned with flowers and steep, narrow streets.

The main monument to see in Alicante is the Castle of Santa Barbara, offering the best views of the city and the coastline. Another popular spot is the promenade, a lovely place for a relaxing walk. Are you up for it? This is all you can see in Alicante in a day.

Villajoyosa

Villajoyosa is one of the most beautiful villages in Alicante, and it’s a place you definitely can’t miss. This peaceful fishing village is known for its colourful houses. One of the best things to do in Villajoyosa is take a stroll along the seafront while admiring the vibrant façades.

Palmeral of Elche

Considered the largest palm grove in Europe, the Palmeral of Elche is a unique green oasis in the province of Alicante. Wander among the centuries-old palm trees, explore the botanical gardens, and discover the history behind this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Sierra de Mariola

For nature lovers and hikers, the Sierra de Mariola offers spectacular scenery with its mountains, villages, and rich historical heritage. Explore its many hiking routes, visit old farmhouses, and enjoy the tranquillity of the natural surroundings.

Montgo Natural Park

This stunning natural park, located between the towns of Denia and Javea, is a paradise for hikers. Reaching the top of Montgo will reward you with breathtaking views of the coast and the interior of the province.

The best hidden places in Alicante

If the 10 must-see places in Alicante aren't enough for you, here are some of the province's hidden gems you have to include in your road trip.

Beyond its famous beaches and well-known towns, Alicante is home to incredible hidden spots that are waiting to be discovered. From breathtaking coves to inland villages surrounded by nature, all of these places are easily accessible with a rental car. We invite you to uncover the hidden side of this beautiful province:

Views from the Virgen del Mar Hermitage

Looking for one of the best views of Benidorm's coastline? Forget about the views offered by the city’s famous skyscrapers—one of the most stunning panoramic views can be found from the Virgen del Mar Hermitage.

The best part? This spot is usually not very crowded, making it the perfect place to enjoy the vistas in complete tranquillity. And the easiest way to get there is by car.

Tibi Reservoir

If you’re after some nature, Tibi Reservoir is the perfect place to visit. As one of the oldest reservoirs in Europe, it’s an impressive sight. What will catch your attention is the arch dam, standing at a height of 45 metres, surrounded by a beautiful environment ideal for hiking.

Cova Tallada

Cova Tallada is one of the most spectacular places in Denia that you absolutely must visit if you're in the area. Situated within the Montgo Natural Park, you can reach this cave either by kayak or on foot. It’s believed that the cave was once used as a quarry in Roman times and the Middle Ages, providing materials for constructing monuments and fortifications across the region.

Book a hire car with DoYouSpain and don't miss anything

Alicante is filled with incredible places to visit. That’s why hiring a car is essential—it’ll make your trips more convenient, allowing you to get around with total comfort. DoYouSpain, the best car hire comparison website on the market, offers a large fleet of vehicles at the guaranteed lowest prices.

With multiple collection points, you can pick up your car at Alicante Airport, the train station, or at various local offices across the city. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us at +34 964 830 995 or through our Customer Area. Book your rental car with DoYouSpain and don’t miss a thing during your Alicante adventure.