What to see in Alicante in 3 days

Alicante

Three days are enough to explore the province of Alicante. Although you won’t be able to see everything, you’ll get a good idea of what this province has to offer—from its most famous beaches to its most beautiful villages. Let’s get to the point: what should you see in Alicante in three days? In this article, we’ve brought together the best places to visit in Alicante and its surrounding areas. Three days filled with sunshine, stunning beaches, breathtaking mountains, incredible gastronomy, and a fascinating culture.

Day 1: Discover the historic centre and the Castle of Santa Bárbara

Your first stop in the province is its capital, Alicante. Here, you can stroll through the Barrio de Santa Cruz, one of the city's most famous neighbourhoods. The most characteristic feature of this area is its white houses adorned with colourful flowers. After exploring the neighbourhood, head to the Explanada de España, one of Alicante's most iconic promenades. With its distinctive mosaic floor resembling sea waves and its palm tree-lined path, it's the perfect place to sit on a terrace, enjoy a homemade ice cream, or simply watch the city go by.

In the afternoon, visit the Castle of Santa Barbara, one of the largest fortresses in Spain and an icon of Alicante. Perched atop Mount Benacantil, this historic castle offers a fascinating insight into the region's history and some of the best views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.

You can reach it by car, which will help you save energy and make the visit more enjoyable. If you hire a car with DoYouSpain, you'll have easy access to the nearby car park.

Day 2: Beach and nature around Alicante

The second day in Alicante is dedicated to discovering the nature around Alicante. Start the morning at Playa de San Juan, a long stretch of golden sand with all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day. Here, in summer, you can rent sun loungers, practice water sports or simply relax in the sun.

Just a few minutes' drive away, you'll find Cabo de la Huerta, a perfect spot for snorkelling. Its small coves with crystal-clear waters offer an ideal setting to explore marine wildlife and enjoy a more intimate environment.

If you enjoy hiking, consider a trip to Montgo Natural Park, located about a 45-minute drive from Alicante. This natural site offers routes for all levels and stunning views of the coast and inland areas of the province.

In the evening, return to Alicante and enjoy dinner at the port, where seafood is the most typical choice.

Day 3: Nearby excursions by car

Once you have explored Alicante in depth, we recommend taking a break from the city to visit some of the most beautiful villages in the province. To do this, rent a car with DoYouSpain and travel freely, visiting the places you like the most.

Elche and Its Palm Grove

Start the day with a visit to Elche, located about 20 minutes from Alicante. The Palmeral de Elche, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a unique oasis in Europe. Stroll among thousands of palm trees and discover the Huerto del Cura, a botanical garden that will surprise you.

Guadalest

From Elche, head to Guadalest, a picturesque mountain village with spectacular views. Its castle, miniature museum, and local craft shops are must-sees.

Altea

In the afternoon, continue to Altea, a charming coastal town known for its steep, cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and iconic blue-domed church. The old town is perfect for a leisurely stroll and photography, while the restaurants offer excellent local cuisine.

What do you need to know to get around Alicante in 3 days?

To make the most of your getaway, here are some practical tips and everything you need to know to enjoy this wonderful Mediterranean city.

Organise your itinerary

Plan your days in advance. Alicante offers the perfect combination of beaches, culture, gastronomy, and nightlife. Make time to visit its most emblematic spots, such as Santa Barbara Castle, the Esplanade of Spain, and Postiguet Beach. Don’t forget to include a stroll through the old town, known as the Barrio de Santa Cruz, as well as excursions to nearby destinations.

Transport: Car hire

Getting around Alicante and its surroundings is much more convenient and flexible if you hire a car. This will allow you to explore nearby destinations such as Guadalest or Altea without relying on public transport timetables. Additionally, DoYouSpain helps you find the best rental deals to suit your budget.

Best time of year to visit

Although Alicante enjoys a privileged climate year-round, spring and autumn are ideal for avoiding the crowds and extreme heat of summer. If you are travelling during high season, be sure to book your accommodation and car in advance.

Local gastronomy

Make sure to leave time to enjoy the typical flavors of Alicante. Try its famous arroz a banda, tapas, and sweets such as turrones.

The best deals on car hire in Alicante with DoYouSpain

Having a hire car in Alicante is essential if you want to explore the area. This way, you can discover every corner without relying on timetables or public transport, and create a route tailored to your needs. At DoYouSpain, we specialise in offering you the best deals to make your experience comfortable, economical, and hassle-free.

One of the biggest advantages of booking a car hire in Alicante with DoYouSpain is the variety of pick-up points. You can pick up your car at Alicante Airport, the train station, or at several other locations across the province.

Additionally, if you have any questions, simply contact us through our online customer service or call us at +34 964 830 995, and we will be happy to assist you.