day trips alicante

13 Wonderful Day Trips from Alicante

By: Author Hannah Cooper

Posted on Last updated: January 12, 2024

Day trips from Alicante take you to see castles, caves, islands, and beautiful valleys. Not forgetting you can hop on the bus and cruise other Costa Blanca beach towns.

The Valencian Province of Alicante is a year-round destination. It’s one of the warmest places in Spain in winter and is best enjoyed as a relaxing beach vacation with a dose of outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, and excellent seafood. And that’s where these Alicante day tours come into the picture.

Here is a taster of some of the best places to see near Alicante on a day trip.

12 Best Day Trips from Alicante

Alicante is not a particularly large city and as such it’s easy to tick off the principal things to do in Alicante over a day or two. If your itinerary allows, Alicante day trips help get more of a sense of the wider Costa Blanca region as well as the hinterland of the province.

The following day trips are accessible via public transport, rental car, and/or guided tour. Before getting behind the wheel, cast an eye over our tips for driving in Spain .

1. Guadalest Valley

Of all the days out near Alicante, Guadalest takes the biscuit. Officially “El Castell de Guadalest” this is a mountain town in a green valley north of the city on the way to Valencia. It’s interesting to visit for a change of scenery – in place of the Alicante beaches , you’ll see an emerald lake and cascading waterfalls.

Driving from Alicante to Guadalest takes one hour. This is a great option if you’re hiring a car in Spain and are comfortable driving on mountain roads.

Otherwise, you can join a tour – which is much more comfortable. This Alicante to Guadalest Valley and Algar Waterfalls tour is capped at eight participants.

It starts with some free time in El Castell de Guadalest. It’s up to you whether you swing by a museum or two (at an additional cost) or simply wander the streets. Admission to the Moorish fortress and San Jose Castle is included and you’ll visit these with the group.

The trip continues at Las Fuentes del Algar (Algar Waterfalls) where swimming is permitted during the summer season.

Alicante has lots of great things to do, like climbing to the top of Santa Barbara Castle, but there is so much to explore nearby, too.

2. Costa Blanca

Unwinding on the local beaches is one of the unmissable things to do near Alicante – we all know the importance of vitamin D!

Alicante is technically a Costa Blanca (White Coast) resort city itself. However, it’s worth visiting neighboring resorts for a chance of pace and a different vibe. The vacation region applies to 150 miles of coast from Dénia in the north to Pilar de la Horadada in the south.

If you have a rental vehicle, touring a couple of Costa Blanca beaches is one of the coolest day trips from Alicante by car. It’ll take just under an hour to drive south to Torre La Mata and Torrevieja a little over an hour on the bus. Moraira is an hour by car to the north although it’s too complicated with public transport.

Whether you head north or south, plot out a route that involves stopping at a couple of places along the way. The Costa Blanca is lovely to explore independently.

We’ll take a closer look at some of the most interesting Costa Blanca towns.

3. Villajoyosa

The lovely seaside town of Villajoyosa (Vila Joiosa in the Valenciano dialect) is one of the most popular Alicante day trips on the Costa Blanca.

It comprises a colorful Old Town awash with buildings known as “las casas de colores” or “las casas pintadas”.

Villajoyosa has enough chocolate ateliers to rival those of Brussels plus a museum about the history of chocolate-making in the region. Naturally, catching a ray or two is part and parcel of a day out in Villajoyosa .

The Alicante Metro Tram takes around one hour to reach La Vila Joiosa or Creueta in Villajoyosa. Buses operated by ALSA are also available. It’s one of the easiest day trips from Alicante by public transport.

Otherwise, you could rent a car and stop off at other Costa Blanca towns along the way.

On the other hand, you can visit as part of a tour. This Alicante Charming Villages tour includes a trip to Villajoyosa and then Altea. It’s devised to give you free time in each town although the guide will share insider tips on what to see and where to eat lunch.

Day trips from Alicante take you to stunning beaches and islands nearby.

Altea is another joyful seaside town on the other side of Benidorm. It’s often referred to as the Santorini of Spain due to its white-washed Old Town and cobalt-domed church.

The seafront area is quite spread out and it’s best explored by rental bicycle or perhaps kayak. If your day trip allows, you can also consider joining a guided kayak excursion . This takes you past the cliffs of Morro de Toix and into the Cueva dels Coloms. However, you’d need to drive yourself there and leave Alicante early in the morning.

ALSA buses take 1.5 hours whereas drive time is around 50 minutes.

Altea offers an entirely different experience from Villajoyosa, which is why the Alicante Charming Villages tour is worth considering.

5. Tabarca Island

Floating off the coast, Tabarca Island is one of the best boat trips from Alicante.

Also known as Isla Plana, Nova Tabarca, and Illa Plana in Valencian dialects, Tabarca became Spain’s first Marine Reserve in 1986. Its Posidonia Oceanica provides a safe habitat to seahorses, turtles, groupers, red mullets, octopuses, sea bass, and more. The island is edged by small beaches, natural coves, and cave systems.

A day on Tabarca may be spent enjoying the water and taking in views from on land.

Ferries operate all year but services are increased over summer. A return ticket costs €22 ($24 USD) and the crossing takes one or two hours, subject to sea conditions. Tickets and schedules are available on the Civitatis website .

Otherwise, you can sign up for a catamaran cruise to Tabarca . It’s a full day out with free time on the Mediterranean island plus snorkeling and swimming off the sailboat. A paella lunch and one alcoholic drink are included in the cost.

Tabarca Island is a fun and easy day trip from Alicante.

Heading inland, Murcia is a beautiful city 50 miles (81 km) southwest of Alicante. It’s located on the banks of the Segura River and comprises grand architecture and green spaces.

The Cathedral de Murcia and its climbable bell tower mark the center of Murcia. Close by, the casino is awash with sculptures, frescoes, and ornate walkways. It costs €5 ($5.50 USD) to go inside and have a look around.

Plaza de las Flores is another spot to spend some time on your day out. It’s named for the florists and is a lovely choice for sitting out with a coffee or glass of wine.

It only takes an hour to drive to Murcia but this is one of the best day trips from Alicante by train. That way you can indulge in a cold beer or two in a sunny plaza. Direct trains take one hour: check times and fares on Omio or directly on the Renfe trains website .

7. Cartagena

Cartagena is one of the more ambitious day trips from Alicante by train. Journey time is 2.5 hours and trains are not hugely frequent but it’s doable.

The main reason to visit Cartagena is to see the Roman Amphitheater next to the port. This is one of the most interesting historic places to see near Alicante. With the capacity for 7,000 spectators, it’s one of the largest Roman arenas in Spain and construction was overseen by Emperor Augustus.

This Ancient Roman walking tour includes admission to the amphitheater and the attached museum. Artifacts excavated from the arena and surrounding area shed light on the cultural and political influence Rome had on Cartagena. Which many historians refer to as Little Rome.

In addition, you can visit the House of Fortune (Casa de la Fortuna) for a glimpse into the domestic life of the Romans in Cartagena. Right next to the train station, you’ll find an archaeological site around the ancient walls.

Villajoyosa is one of the best day trips from Alicante and a colorful place to explore.

8. Canelobre Caves

The Canelobre Caves (Cova dels Canelobres) are one of the best day tours from Alicante on a sweltering summer’s day.

This complex is one of the highest-altitude cave systems in Spain. The natural exhibition displays stalagmites, stalactites, and other prehistoric formations. It’s a fun option with kids but has just as much appeal to adults who can’t resist a peek at what’s going on belowground.

It takes 30 minutes to drive to the Canelobre Caves from Alicante. Admission to the caves is €8 ($8.76 USD).

If you’re not planning on driving in Spain then you can book this Canelobre Caves tour with transport . The guides are super knowledgeable and bring the experience to life through commentary on the region’s natural and cultural history. It includes a stop at the town of Busot, too.

9. Hanging Bridges of Chulilla

Chulilla is a medieval town surrounded by a spectacular limestone gorge within the Los Calderones Municipal Natural Park. It overlooks the Turia River and is one of the most popular Alicante day trips for rock climbers.

Non-climbers can explore the gorge via a sequence of hanging bridges known as Ruta de los Calderones or Senda de los Pantaneros. The trails are suitable for all ages and abilities although it’s a moderate degree of walking. You’ll need decent footwear and hiking clothes.

Chulilla is one of the best day trips from Valencia . However, it’s also accessible from Alicante via a scenic 2.5-hour drive. Given the distance and terrain, it’s more comfortable to join a tour.

This Chulilla and the Hanging Bridges tour offers pick-up from Alicante, Valencia, or Benidorm.

The colorful boardwalk in Alicante is a nice place to return to in the evenings for sunset.

10. Castles of Vinalopó

Following the Route of the Castles of Vinalopó is one of the best things to do near Alicante for history enthusiasts.

The fort-studded Valley of Vinalopó harks back to the Middle Ages when the Kingdom of Valencia and the Kingdom of Castile reigned over the region. Castles and other defensive monuments are scattered across a 46-mile (75 km) route.

This private tour of the Vinalopó Castles allows for personalization. It covers a selection of the most interesting castles where your guide will provide a commentary.

Typically, these include Castillo de la Mola and the attached Santa Magdalena Sanctuary, Castillo de Castalla, and Castillo de Sax. The tour also includes a wine tasting at Bodega Casa Sicilia.

11. Wineries of Alicante

Alicante isn’t the most famous wine-making region in Spain but that’s not to say it doesn’t exist! The Alicante wine region has a prestigious history where production is shaped by the Mediterranean Sea and the mountain ranges.

This is one of the day tours from Alicante where a tour is essential. It’s pretty pricey but this Alicante wineries full-day private tour does offer great value to groups. The price accommodates up to six guests.

After being picked up from your hotel in Alicante, your bilingual sommelier guide will walk you through wine production at two estates.

These typically include Bodegas Francisco Gomez and Bodegas Monovar. The former is a modern estate committed to sustainable and organic wine production. The latter is a historic bodega focused on Fondillón.

Elche is a beautiful town full of swaying palm trees.

Elche is a beautiful inland city and one of the best day trips from Alicante that you can take.

You can easily get here by bus in about an hour or you can drive from Alicante in around 45 minutes.

The main reason to come to Elche is the palm forest known as El Palmeral. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this palm forest was once home to over 100,000 date palms. These days it is still a strong 45,000 palms inside 67 different orchards.

You can stroll through the palm forest which spreads across the city. There are small buildings throughout some of the parks that have some nice Mudejar architecture.

In addition to the palm forest, I highly recommend checking out the Elche Museum of Archeology and History.

Housed inside the Palace of Altamira , a stunning historical building that dates back to the 11th century. It was used by Jaime II of Aragon, Ramón Berenguer, Pedro IV, and the Catholic Monarchs.

The museum has history that goes back 2,000 years and the rooftop of the castle offers some stunning views back over the rest of the historical center of Elche.

The beaches along the coastline in the Autonomous Community of Valencia are truly splendid.

13. Valencia

Valencia is one of the worst day trips from Alicante. That’s only because you need to stay for at least a night to scratch the surface of one of the best vacation destinations in Spain !

However, if you’re spending more than a day in Alicante then it’s worth venturing north of the Costa Blanca – provided you can handle an early start.

Some fun things to do in Valencia include wandering around the Old Town (Ciutat Vella) and the contemporary City of Arts and Sciences. On a limited timeframe, prioritize seeing the street art of El Carmen over the galleries. You’ll not have time to see the wonderful beaches in Valencia but you could always pop across to the port and grab a drink near the water.

This is one of the best day trips from Alicante by train as it’s too long to spend driving. Trains take two hours and tickets may be purchased via Omio .

10 Best Day Trips From Alicante in 2024

In 2018 I made my first trip to Alicante and it made me fall in love with the Costa Blanca instantly. So pretty much every year I have been back and I will travel to Alicante again in 2024.

In my complete  Alicante travel guide I wrote about the best places to visit and the best things to do and already mentioned some day trips. But to give you even more options for your Alicante holidays I will show you the best day trips from Alicante in 2024.

In total my trip to Alicante lasted almost a week. At first I explored the city and loved hanging out in Alicante Old Town, hiking up to the Santa Barbara Castle and strolling along the Explanda de Espana and the marina. After 3 days I wanted to see more of the places near Alicante so I decided to rent a car. Initially I just rented the car for 1 day, but ended up bringing it back after 3 days only.

There are so many cool day trips from Alicante and I checked them out for you one by one. From little coastal villages, to a Santorini look-a-like town and from exploring caves to hiking up to viewpoints.

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How to do day trips from Alicante

Doing day trips from Alicante is the easiest if you rent a car. There is a toll road that gets you from A to B fast and there are no traffic jams. Some of the places to visit in Alicante can only be reached by car, like Guadalest and the Canelobre caves as they are completely off the beaten path.

I rented a car for less than €20 per day through the  Do You Spain website . They compare all the companies and give you the best fares. They also have all risk insurance for a couple dollars extra per day.

If you only want to see some other big cities on your Alicante holidays then you can also go around by bus/train. Murcia and Benidorm can easily be reached from the Alicante train/bus station in the city center.

From Alicante to Benidorm

The drive from Alicante to Benidorm is about 46 kilometers and takes 40 minutes. Keep in mind that you will have to pay about €4 toll one way, but there is also a toll free road. I would recommend you to take that one as you pass by some lovely villages on your way. And who does not like a little road trip while on your Alicante holidays.

There is a direct bus from Alicante to Benidorm that runs every hour and takes only 55 minutes. Price for the bus is around €5. Click here to buy your bus tickets online or view all the time tables.

There is a tram that connects Benidorm and Alicante, a kind of slow train. There are 19 stops on this route, but some of them I actually named as great day trips from Alicante. Villajoyosa is a great stop, so if you are looking for places near Alicante to visit then taking the tram is a great way to go sightseeing. The trip takes 1 hour and 20 minutes but has way better scenic views than a car or bus. A return ticket from Alicante to Benidorm is €6,40.

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10 Amazing places near Alicante

This is one of my favorite things to do in Alicante. Altea is one of the most beautiful towns I have seen in a long time. It is located on the coast 58 kilometers northeast of Alicante.On the toll road it only takes 40 minutes to get to Altea.

The village lies just off the main coastal road a little elevated on a hill. The old town is painted white and on top of the hill there is the main square with many terraces.

Trendy boutique shops can be found in the narrow streets. After seeing these photos there is no need to say that this is one of the best day trips from Alicante. Make sure you don’t miss visting Altea on your trip to the Costa Blanca.

2. Benidorm

Probably one of the most popular Alicante day trips. The long golden sand Benidorm Beach is one of the most iconic places to visit in the Costa Blanca, which actually means white sand translate from Spanish.

Multiple skyscrapers lined up on a long boulevard make this place the Manhattan of Spain.

The boulevard is the perfect place for long beach strolls where bars and restaurants are lined up and people watching is one of the best things to do. Head to Benidorm Palace for an amazing dinner show or in summer a visit to the Aqualandia water park is a popular thing to do on holidays in Alicante.

3. Guadalest

When it is not all about beaches on your holidays in Alicante then you have to check out Guadalest. This iconic mountain village is a popular tourist spot in Alicante because of its city walls and castle on top of a hill.

This quaint little town is an Alicante off the beaten path tourist attraction and is surrounded by high mountain tops. There is also a water reservoir below.

There are several hiking trails around but sipping a coffee enjoying the amazing views also is a great thing to do. For €4 you can climb up to the castle. From Alicante to Guadalest is about 60 kilometers, 1 hour drive. From Benidorm you turn inland all the uphill to Guadalest. The drive is very scenic.

Some more Alicante travel ideas you will find in Calpe. To be honest the city itself didn’t really appeal to me, but that could also be because I didn’t have time to climb to the top of the Calpe Rock: Peñon de Ifach. This impressive rock formation on the coast sticks out of the ocean like I have never seen before. It somehow reminded me a little of Gibraltar . There is a possibility to climb to the top of the Calpe Rock, but it takes about two hours. Definitely one of the most adventurous things to do in Alicante. Next time I will surely give it a try! From Alicante to Calpe is 60 kilometers and takes about 50 minutes.

Although picture perfect, just a little sleepy town on top of a hill. To me not worth taking a day trip from Alicante just for Polop, but when you are visiting Guadalest you will pass it by anyway. Good place to go for a drink and wander around in the narrow streets.

6. Villajoyosa

A little overlooked by tourist that travel to Alicante and Benidorm! Villajoyosa (Villa Joiosa) is a cute little coastal town 30 kilometers North of Alicante and 14 kilometers South of Benidorm that should not be missed on your Alicante holidays. With a little fantasy you could name it the Cinque Terre of Spain. Villajoyosa also has a lot of small colorful houses.

Tall waving palm trees and the beach in front make this one of the best places to visit in Alicante. The houses are painted in red, green, yellow and blue so that the fisherman could recognize their village back in the days. There is a lovely boulevard for a little stroll and a bunch of coffee places with good views. You can easily get to Villajoyosa by tram from Alicante and Benidorm. 

7. Canelobre Caves

Just 25 kilometer north of Alicante you find the Canelobre Caves. It only takes 30 minutes to get there, but you will need a car as it is inland and uphill. The caves are open for the public on guided tours that leave every 30 minutes and cost €7. As it is close to the city I think it is a great Alicante day trip and you can perfectly combine it with hiking around the mountain range. There are several hiking trails leaving from the parking lot. The trails are displayed on big information signs.

On your way to or from the Canelobre Caves make a stop at Busot, another sleepy mountain village. If you are looking for places near Alicante a photo of the town square and the narrow colorful streets will surely pop up somewhere.

Sit in the shade on of the terraces and have a lunch after your hike in and around the caves.

From Alicante Old Town to Murcia is about 80 kilometers drive, a little less than an hour. The city of Murcia is one of those medieval Spanish cities you always see in pictures. A colorful old town with a big square and a huge cathedral. Murcia also has flamingos, mud baths and thermal spa’s. This is a city that is not overrun by mass tourism and for a slice of authentic Spain city life Murcia is another day trip that should be named in every Alicante travel guide.

10. Cartagena

No, we are not talking about the famous Cartagena in Colombia now, Spain has a little less popular city with the same name. Nevertheless one of those great places near Alicante. The coastal village of Cartagena is famous for its spectacular Roman Amphitheater, which dates back more than 2000 years ago. It is nestled in the middle of the old town and well worth going on a day trip from Alicante. From Alicante to Cartagena is about 1,5 hours. 

Alicante boat trips

If all the above Alicante day trips were not enough you can always add a boat trip to your itinerary. Two popular destinations for Alicante boat trips are Benidorm Island and Tabarca Island. The last one is a declared Marine Reserve since 1986 and snorkeling is one of the best things to do in summer.

If you have any specific questions about any of these places near Alicante leave me a comment and I will do my utmost best to help you make the most of your holidays in Alicante. But I invite you to also have a look at my complete Alicante Travel Guide for 2024 . Click on the link and find everything about things to do and places to visit in Alicante.

If this blog about Alicante day trips was helpful please consider helping me by sharing this article link somewhere on the internet. Any forum or social media would be very helpful. Pin, tweet or share it on Facebook and I will be forever thankful!

Enjoy your trip to the Costa Blanca!

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12 Best day trips from Alicante

by Sabine | Jan 22, 2024 | Costa Blanca

Are you visiting Alicante and looking for ideas about beautiful places to visit near Alicante and throughout the Costa Blanca region? This guide covers the best day trips from Alicante, including charming towns, natural sightings and adventurous experiences.

With an average of 320 days of sunshine per year, mild winters and its own microclimate, the Costa Blanca is the perfect year-round destination to visit with its white sandy beaches, stunning mountain ranges and picturesque villages. The city of Alicante is located in the heart of the Costa Blanca.

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While there is no shortage of things to do in Alicante , its central location and proximity to an international airport makes Alicante a perfect base from which to explore the rest of the Costa Blanca region. There are a bunch of amazing day trips you can take within a short drive from the city.

You can easily visit Alicante in 1 or 2 days and spend the remainder of your time exploring the rest of the stunning Costa Blanca region. Each destination can be visited by car. There is also a tram that runs from Alicante to Denia in the north of the Costa Blanca passing through some of the must-visit charming villages.

But if you want to explore with no worries and with a local guide, we highly recommend going with an organised tour. That will give you the opportunity to discover beyond the surface and to support the local economy even more,

Top 4 Alicante Day Trips:

• Guadalest and Algar Waterfalls
• Charming villages tour to Altea and Villajoyosa

Canelobre Caves

• Europe’s largest palm grove in Elche

Table of Contents

Absolute best Alicante day trips

With its vibrant atmosphere, stunning beaches, spectacular activities and great entertainment options, Benidorm is by far the most popular seaside resort on the Costa Blanca.

Benidorm has a modern New York city like skyline, but looks can be deceiving. There are still quite some charming old world places to discover, like the Benidorm old town and the famous ‘Balcón del Mediterraneo’ with amazing views over the city and beaches.

Benidorm attracts almost everyone, from the young and old, to Spanish locals from the rest of the country and foreign tourists alike, to adventure seekers as well as those who are just looking to relax. All in all, it’s a city that caters for just about everyone.

A day trip from Alicante to Benidorm is worthwhile, not only for the city, but also for the attraction and theme parks in the surrounding area, like Aqualandia , Mundomar and Terra Mítica .

Tip: Benidorm is only a 45 minute drive north from Alicante and can easily be visited by car. Just keep in mind that finding parking close to the city center can be a challenge. Another option is to visit Benidorm with the tram Alacant .

Located also just a 45 minute drive north of Alicante, Altea is one of the most picturesque seaside towns on the Costa Blanca. Its white-washed houses, narrow cobbled streets, stunning beachfront and vibrant artistic atmosphere makes Altea a great day trip from Alicante.

Altea is a hidden gem with 2 main areas. The beachfront has a beautiful promenade with lots of restaurants and bars with outside terraces overlooking the white pebbled beaches and the turquoise blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

Then perched on a hill with a maze of narrow streets climbing up the hillside boasting quaint shops, great restaurants and stunning panoramic views there’s the charming Altea old town. A walk to the top will take you to the Plaza de la Iglesia, a vibrant and lively square filled with restaurants and bars, next to the church of Our Lady of Consolation with its distinctive blue and white tiled dome. This church is the most iconic sight of Altea which can be seen from afar.

Tip: Visit Altea from Alicante either by car, as there is plenty of parking available, or by tram . For your convenience I would recommend this charming villages tour which takes you to visit Altea as well as the colourful neighbouring Villajoyosa.

With the iconic limestone rock ‘Peñon de Ifach’ towering above the city, its pristine sandy beaches and beautiful historical old town, Calpe is a popular place to visit and makes yet another great day trip from Alicante.

You can easily spend a full day discovering the city by going on a tapas tour along the beach promenade or in the old town, by hiking the Peñon de Ifach or by just chilling and relaxing on the 2 main beaches while also spotting flamingoes at the Salinas. There are also some beautiful walks in and around Calpe, like the Paseo Ecologico trail. Use this Calpe attractions guide to plan your trip.

Tip: Calpe is easy reachable by car and parking isn’t hard to find. Do keep in mind the colours of the street parking and where you have to pay and which parking is free of charge. Cape can also be travelled to from Alicante by tram .

A visit to the hilltop village of Guadalest is highly recommended and easily one of the most popular day trips from Alicante.

Guadalest is a charming and picturesque village, beautifully integrated into the rocks with a medieval castle perched high on top of the hill. The village is situated around the castle, or what’s left of it, and has some lovely quaint little shops, as well as a number of small museums and cozy bars.

From the village you’ll have stunning views over the Guadalest Valley as well as the Guadalest Reservoir, which is also worth a stop.

It’s a 1 hour scenic drive inland and north from Alicante to Guadalest with some of the most spectacular views of the Guadalest Valley as the village is situated at an altitude of 586 metres (or 1922 feet) above sea level.

Tip: When visiting Guadalest during peak season (in Summer, public holidays or long weekends), we recommend taking a tour as parking can be a problem unless you arrive very early. It’s a small village and car parking spaces are limited. Do make the most of a full day, this specific tour not only takes you to Guadalest but also makes a stop at the wonderful and scenic Algar Waterfalls or Fuentes de Algar for a refreshing swim.

Elche is home to one of the largest palm groves in the world. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is the highlight to visit in Elche. This ancient palm grove dates back to Roman times where the Moors laid out the current landscape and the different orchards in which the palm trees are divided.

Apart from the palm trees, the city of Elche itself is also well worth a visit. It is where you can explore the Mudejar architecture, but don’t neglect to also visit the replica of ‘la Dama de Elche’ (the lady of Elche), a bust of a woman with an elaborated headdress dating back to the 4th century BC.

Useful info: Elche is about 30 minutes drive inland and south from Alicante.

Tip: If you don’t have your own transport or don’t feel like driving, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Join this wonderful day trip from Alicante to explore the palmgroves in Elche as well as the El Hondo natural park.

Tabarca Island

Tabarca Island is a small island off the coast of Santa Pola, just south of Alicante. It’s the smallest permanently inhabited islet in Spain and the largest island in the Valencian community.

You can walk around the island and visit the little town with white washed houses, as well as explore the historical church, lighthouse and port. The sandy beaches invite to relax and as the crystal clear waters around the island are declared a marine reserve they are great for snorkelling.

How to get to Tabarca Island?

As Tabarca is an island, you can only get there by boat. You can buy return tickets for the ferry boat and spend the day enjoying the island or you can go with an organised tour, where snorkelling is often included.

Book your return ticket for the ferry from Alicante today!

If you prefer the luxury of a private boat, have a look at this awesome full-day private sailing trip to Tabarca with skipper. Or hop on this 6 hour round trip catamaran cruise to make the most of your Tabarca Island day trip, including a paella meal and snorkelling in the marine reserve.

Villajoyosa

Locally known as ‘La Vila Joiosa’, meaning the joyful city, Villajoyosa is a colourful town located 32 km north of Alicante.

Famous for its multicoloured painted houses in the old town, its long sandy beaches and the production of chocolate, Villajoyosa is definitely worth a day trip from Alicante.

Don’t miss out on a visit to the famous Valor chocolate factory and museum where you’ll learn all about their journey and history. You can also sample their various chocolate products in the shop. Check their opening hours here so you can plan it in with the rest of your visit to Villajoyosa. Do take your time to stroll through the narrow streets of the old town while admiring the colourful houses and walking the beautiful beachfront promenade all the way to the marina and back.

Tip: Villajoyosa is easily reachable by car or by tram Alacant . Or have a look at this charming villages tour where you can go with a local guide, including a visit to Altea .

Amadorio Dam

When driving north towards Benidorm, Villajoyosa or Calpe, have a stop at the ‘Embalse de Amadorio’ or the Amadorio Dam. Located inland from Villajoyosa, the dam was constructed over the Amadorio river to serve as a water storage reservoir.

The dam is situated in a picturesque setting with amazing scenery. You’re allowed to walk over the dam wall from where you can see the Mediterranean sea and the town of Villajoyosa in the distance.

There is a large parking lot close to the dam wall with benches to sit on and relax or to have a picnic. From there, it is just a small walk to the dam itself.

Tip: If you’ve seen the movie The Covenant by director Guy Ritchie, you may recognise some of the scenes that were filmed here, more specifically the final scenes with the Taliban fight.

Just half an hour drive from Alicante, the Canelobre Caves are one of the main natural tourist attractions in the Alicante province and one of the top sites to visit from Alicante. The entrance of the caves are near the village of Busot at an altitude of 700 metres (or 2300 feet). The caves are renowned for their impressive limestone formations and with a height of 70 meters (230 feet) houses one of the highest vaults in Spain.

The caves are illuminated with various hues of light, accentuating the shapes and textures of the stalactites, stalagmites as well as the various rock formations giving it all a mysterious atmosphere.

Useful info: Flash photography and/or tripods/selfie sticks are not allowed inside the caves.

Tip: The easiest way to get to the caves is by car (parking is free). If you don’t have your own transport available you can book a tour to the Canelobre Caves here or here including a local guide and pre-booked entrance tickets.

Attraction Parks

The area of Alicante and more specifically Benidorm is home to various water, theme and animal parks.

Here are some of the most popular parks to visit on a day tour from Alicante:

• Aqualandia: A very popular and also one of the largest water parks in Europe, Aqualandia is located in Benidorm, a 45 minute drive from Alicante. It’s great if you enjoy a day of extreme water fun with lots of slides, wave pools, tube rides, children’s areas, shows and more. At a height of 33meters (108 feet), Aqualandia is also home to the highest capsule slide in the world. The park is open from end of May until mid September. Prebook your ticket to guarantee entry here or skip the line here .

• Mundomar: Located next to Aqualandia, but open nearly all-year-round, Mundomar is a marine and exotic animal park. You can experience dolphin and sea lion shows, see primates, tropical birds and visit the aquarium. You can pre-book your ticket here or skip the line here .

• Terra Natura: An animal park just outside Benidorm where you can watch animals roam wild in their natural habitat. The park is divided into the different continents and is home to over 200 different species of animals. Pre-book your ticket here or skip the line here .
• Aqua Natura: A waterpark within the Terra Natura park. It is smaller than Aqualandia but also still lots of fun. It can be combined with a visit to Terra Natura and you can either buy individual tickets or purchase a Terra Natura combiticket .
• Terra Mitica: A theme park located just outside of Benidorm. The park has various rides and attractions, theme-styled areas, roller coasters, shows and interactive experiences. Pre-book your ticket here or skip the line here .

Pink Salt Lakes in Torrevieja

Torrevieja, located an hours drive south of Alicante, is home to two salt lakes; Laguna Salada de Torrevieja and the Laguna de la Mata, together forming the Las Salinas de Torrevieja nature reserve. These salt lakes are not only historically important for their role in salt production but also for the ecological and environmental significance of the area.

The Laguna Salada de Torrevieja is the largest of the two and is famous for its distinctive pink colour. It’s the algae and bacteria in the water giving the lakes its beautiful pink hue. At times you can also see flamingoes in the lake, which come to eat the shrimps feeding on these algae in the lake. As it is a still working place, it is not allowed to visit inside the lakes by yourself. You need to take a guided tour. There is a tourist train that starts from the Paseo de la Libertad in Torrevieja (by the large fountain) and tickets can be bought on the train itself.

The nearby Laguna de la Mata is slightly smaller and is connected to the Laguna Salada forming the ‘Parque Natural de las Lagunas de La Mata y Torrevieja’ and is an important stopover for migratory birds. The main difference is that this is not a pink lake and at this lake there are various walking and hiking trails one can follow for free. Visit Komoot for more info about walking trails in the area.

Useful info: The bright pink hue is not always directly visible from the road. It will also depend on the weather and if it has rained a lot, after which the pink colour becomes rather brown instead.

Tip: The natural park can also be discovered by bike via the many bicycle routes. Enjoy the tranquility of the park, visit the lakes and spot the water birds with an e-bike. You can find more information about a bicycle tour here . What about admiring the beauty of the natural park and the lakes with a guide while enjoying a glass of organic wine or with a gourmet tasting .

Santa Pola is a coastal town just 30 minutes drive south of Alicante. This former fishing village is home to wide golden sandy beaches making it a popular beach destination for tourists and locals alike. It has a vibrant fishing port with lots of great restaurants, a historical castle as well as its own salt lakes, known as the ‘Salinas de Santa Pola’.

Tip: Make sure to also visit Playa d’el Pinet, south of the Salt Flats featuring white dunes and a long beach. During peak season it will get crowded but outside of peak season it is one of the nicer beaches to visit on the Costa Blanca.

Useful info: As Tabarca Island is closely located to Santa Pola, the return taxi boat to the island leaves from here. Make sure to reserve your taxi ticket in time here .

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Continue planning your Costa Blanca trip

• Best Costa Blanca beaches to visit
• Things to do in Calpe
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• What to do in Benidorm
• Best things to do in Alicante
• Best Spanish foods to try in Spain

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We're Sean & Sabine, self-confessed Spanish travel addicts. Join us, as we take you on a journey of discovery through our favourite country in the world! Yes, we've actually been to all the places we write about.

11 BEST DAY TRIPS from Alicante [Hidden Gems!]

Attracting more than 3 million tourists every year, Alicante is one of the most popular destinations on the Costa Blanca. If not, the whole of Spain! Its main economy is tourism and it’s not hard to see why. An attractive old quarter, a hilltop castle, an incredible food scene, and plenty of resorts within a stone’s throw.

After a few days in Alicante, you might be ready for a change of scenery. And you’ll be happy to know that there are a number of places nearby to suit a range of travel styles, budgets, and tastes.

The only tricky thing is choosing where to go. Well, we’ve decided to give you a hand! Our team of expert travel writers have put together a list of the best day trips from Alicante. Get ready for pretty seaside villages, gorgeous beaches, and astounding natural attractions. And that’s just the start!

So, let’s dive in and check out the best day trips from Alicante!

Quick Answer: Best Day Trips from Alicante

• Best Day Trip from Alicante – Altea
• Best Day Trip from Alicante by Train – Valencia
• Best Romantic Day Trip from Alicante for Couples – Murcia
• Best Day Trip from Alicante with Kids – Río Safari Park
• Best Cheap Day Trip from Alicante – Castillo de Santa Bárbara

Best Places to Stay in Alicante

In a big city like Alicante, it can be hard picking the best place to stay. We’ve scoured the coolest neighbourhoods in town and come up with three options. They’re suitable for different budgets and tastes, so let’s check out 3 of the best places to stay in Alicante!

• Best Hostel in Alicante •

X hostel alicante.

• Social hostel close to all of the nightlife

If you’re on a budget but you want to have unforgettable experiences, then hostels are a great place to start. And it just so happens that this is the best hostel in Alicante! The city gets over 300 days of sunshine a year, and there’s nowhere better to enjoy that with new friends than the roof terrace. There are regular social events and a cool room complete with ping pong table and board games!

• Best Budget Hotel in Alicante •

Mendez nuñez alicante.

Travelling on a budget can be tricky, and hostels aren’t for everyone. However, hotels like Mendez Nuñez Alicante make this a whole lot easier! This clean, crisp, and modern hotel will offer you a comfortable stay for one of the best prices in town. It’s close to the main attractions and the room is packed with facilities like aircon, a flat screen TV, and complimentary towels.

Enjoy your stay in Alicante! Check out our guide for what to do in Alicante  while you’re there!

• Best Luxury Hotel in Alicante •

Hospes amérigo.

• Set in a historic convent right in the centre of Alicante

So, a bit of a warning about this place. If you stay here, you’re probably going to have to miss out on a few day trips from our list. That’s no bad thing though – as you’ll be enjoying sublime views of Santa Barbara Castle and Alicante Cathedral from the rooftop spa. Rooms are super comfortable and decadent. Think high ceilings, huge windows, and even silk paintings. The ultimate in five star luxury!

MUST READ! We’ve organized the best places to stay in Bilbao  for all types of trips!

#1 – Altea

Best day trip from alicante.

• A beautiful and traditional whitewashed Spanish town
• One of the best day trips from Alicante by car
• Just 58 kilometres northeast up the Costa Blanca

When you think of the Mediterranean Coast, Altea is one of the first picture-perfect destinations that will come to mind. This whitewashed seaside town is full of narrow cobblestoned streets, back street tapas bars, and charming squares where you can enjoy a coffee or a glass of wine.

For an authentic Spanish experience, this is absolutely the best day trip from Alicante. The pretty town has long been a muse for artists and photographers. They come to be inspired by the historic buildings and the sweeping views from the hilltop town.

One of the places you certainly can’t miss in Altea is the Plaza de la Iglesia. It’s a lovely place to sit and take in the town’s atmosphere, and the church is the highest point in the village. History enthusiasts will be intrigued by the marks left on the building by the Spanish Civil War.

Let’s simplify this! Here are our favorite areas to stay in Alicante.

#2 – Valencia

Best day trip from alicante by train.

• Visit the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias – one of the 12 treasures of Spain
• Explore the pretty historic centre
• Get there in under 2 hours by train

Under two hours away by rail, Valencia is the best day trip from Alicante by train. Only Barcelona and Madrid are larger cities, and this is the ideal place to enjoy Spanish culture, lifestyle, and food.

It’s an incredible blend of historic and modern too. The old quarter is packed with character and you can’t miss sites like the UNESCO listed La Lonja de la Seda, the 13 th century Cathedral, and the foodie heaven of the central market.

Walk from the old quarter through one of the largest urban parks in Spain, Turia Gardens. That will bring you to the incredible Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias. The ultra-modern architecture has earned it on a list of the 12 treasures of Spain. Inside you’ll find Europe’s largest aquarium, as well as a host of other cultural attractions.

We are obsessed with backpacks – we’ve tried them all! And our favourite carry on backpack in the WORLD is the Nomatic Travel Backpack.  This backpack has revolutionized the backpack industry and will change the way you travel forever :) Check it out here!

#3 – Canelobre Caves

• Head to the nearby small town of Busot
• Admire the stalactites and stalagmites of the deepest caves in Spain
• Explore a natural 70 metre cathedral-like cavern

This is one of the easiest day trips from Alicante, and it ticks a number of boxes. It’s nearby, it’s exciting and interesting, kids will love it, and you can get there in half an hour. What’s not to love?!

Head towards the small village of Busot, where the Canelobre Caves are hidden. They’re the deepest in Spain, and an astonishing 70 metres! Regular guided tours will show you around the subterranean wonderland, with the highlights being the cathedral-like vault and “Holy Family” rock formation.

The only downside of the caves is that they’re a bit tricky to get to. They’re one of the best day trips from Alicante by car, but if you don’t have your own transport you could always check out the tour below!

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#4 – Guadalest Valley and the Algar Waterfalls

• Explore the hilltop castle in this mountain village
• One of the more off the beaten track day trips from Alicante
• Take advantage of the hiking trails that wind through the mountains

Often travellers come to Alicante for sun, sea, and sand. And who could blame them, the beaches are incredible?! However, the Guadalest shows another side to the surrounding region, and you certainly won’t want to miss that experience.

Visiting Guadalest is a great way to get off the beaten tourist track and admire a Spanish hilltop village. Hiking trails crisscross the hills so if you’re looking for a bit of adventure when you travel to Alicante, here’s the perfect opportunity!

After admiring everything in Guadalest (like its castle), head to the nearby Algar Waterfalls. The crystal clear waters are perfect for taking a refreshing dip!

Spain is amazing! And the best hostels in Seville  will blow you away!

#5 – Benidorm

• Also known as the Manhattan of Spain
• One of the most popular tourist destinations in the entire country
• Sample a full English breakfast or a Sunday lunch… in Spain!

Whatever your pre-conceptions of Benidorm, put them aside for one moment. This former fishing village has grown into an admittedly gaudy resort town, but it’s one of the most fun places you could hope to visit on the Costa Blanca!

It’s one of the best day trips for kids and families thanks to a number of water parks, theme parks, and other kid-friendly activities. If you’re looking for something a little more sophisticated, you could always head up to the Old Town, where the views of the sunset between two beaches are truly stunning.

Any Brits who have been in Alicante for a long time and are looking for a taste of home, you won’t have any trouble getting a fry up or a pint of Carling in Benidorm either. It’s a place that caters to all tastes!

Staying Safe in Alicante

#6 – murcia, best romantic day trip from alicante for couples.

• Enjoy a slice of authentic life just one hour south of Alicante
• Check out the iconic façade of the city’s cathedral
• A great city for a romantic dinner – so many restaurants and great tapas!

Head an hour south from Alicante by either bus, train, or car, and you’ll find yourself in the beautiful region of Murcia . Although the surrounding region is synonymous with timeshares and golf courses, the city itself retains a traditional Spanish character.

One of the finest ways of experiencing this is through eating out. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the regional paella – the key ingredients are snail and rabbit! If not, there are plenty of tapas dishes that will fill you up over a candlelit dinner. It really is one of the best romantic day trips for couples!

After filling up on tasty food, take a stroll through the cobbled streets which will bring you out to the stunning cathedral. The façade is one of the most beautiful in Spain, and the views from the bell tower make for some great photos.

Recommended Article: Looking for the best hostels in Madrid? Check out our EPIC Guide!

#7 – Calpe

• A great day out for the adventurous traveller
• Take the two hour climb to the top of Calpe Rock for incredible views of the ocean
• Less than an hour away – one of the best day trips from Alicante by car

Travel north along the Costa Blanca, and you’ll come to the town of Calpe. Although the town is pretty and there are some lovely restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy sea views, but the highlight is something altogether different.

You’ve heard of the Rock of Gibraltar, and Calpe’s Peñon de Ifache is reminiscent of that. Although, you won’t find any barbary apes! It’s a two hour climb to the top of the rock, so if you’re looking for an outdoor challenge, this is the day trip for you.

Calpe is just over an hour from Alicante by road, and you can easily combine a day trip here with Altea, Villajoyosa, and Benidorm.

Haven’t Booked for Valencia? Read up on our favorite hostels in Valencia  (for any budget)!

#8 – Río Safari Park, Elche

Best day trip from alicante with kids.

• Come face to face with tigers, giraffes, and lemurs
• Swim with sea lions for a really memorable experience
• A fun-filled day out for the entire family

One of the best day trips for families from Alicante is the nearby Río Safari Park in Elche . There are almost 800 animals on-site, more than enough to keep kids and parents entertained for the day.

You can expect to see antelopes, zebras, llamas, giraffes, and many others. Don’t miss the sea lion show or the opportunity to swim with these magical creatures. That’s a bucket list experience to tick off!

If you have time after visiting the safari park, Elche is a lovely little town to visit. It’s best known for its old town, the Vila Murada, and the Palm Groves. It’s also where the Lady of Elche was found – a limestone bust that has been displayed in the Louvre!

If you are traveling you should ALWAYS have emergency cash hidden on you! Security belts are great because they are affordable and can fit a ton of stuff in them (great for peace of mind!). Check out our favorite travel belt!

#9 – Cartagena

• Visit the spectacular Roman amphitheatre, which is over 2,000 years old
• Admire the art-nouveau architecture of the town centre
• 5 hours from Alicante – a great day trip by car

Named after the Carthaginians who established the city before the time of Christ, Cartagena is an unmissable destination if you’re interested in history. As well as the Carthaginians, Romans have left their mark here, as has a mining boom in the 19 th century.

If you can only visit one place on your day trip, make it the Roman amphitheatre. It has more than 2,000 years of history and it has been incredibly preserved. Of course, if you have more time – just make it your first stop!

One of the more unusual stops is the Marine Archaeological Museum, fitting since Cartagena is one of the oldest harbours in Europe. For more recent history, check out the architecture of the centre. The art-nouveau style was made possible by a mining boom in the area.

Looking for the Party? We’ve got you covered with our guide to the best party hostels in Ibiza !

#10 – Castillo de Santa Bárbara

Best cheap day trip from alicante.

• Explore the original 9 th century Islamic Alcazar which stands above the city
• Get stunning views of Alicante and the surrounding coastline
• Take a guided tour to learn more about the building’s history

So, the Castillo de Santa Bárbara isn’t really a day trip out of Alicante. But the good point of that is you need to spend no expense on transport to get there. That’s just one of the things that makes this the best cheap day trip from Alicante.

The castle sits across Mount Benacantil and is one of the most important historic monuments in the city. It offers sublime views of the Mediterranean and the whole city from the top. The 9th century castle was captured from Moorish invaders by King Philip of Spain. Nowadays, the grand halls and ramparts are the most impressive parts for visitors.

If you want to enjoy a guided tour of the castle with a push from an electric bike to help you up that hill, then check out the cool tour below!

Editor’s Note: You can have a great time in Barcelona staying at one of the top party hostels !

#11 – Villajoyosa

• Sometimes known as the Cinque Terre of Spain
• Lots of colourful houses make for a very picturesque setting
• Enjoy a coffee with a sublime view of the Mediterranean

Unfortunately, and for no reason that we can see, Villajoyosa is often overlooked by tourists from both Alicante and Benidorm, often preferring Altea. However, those tourists’ loss is your gain, as you may even be lucky enough to have this charming little town all to yourself.

Just 30km north of Alicante, it’s sometimes compared to the stunning Cinque Terre in Spain. You can certainly see why. Blue, red, yellow, and green houses used to help the fisherman find their way home when they were out at sea. Now they just make for very pretty photo opportunities! A few hours here is easily enough to see everything that’s on offer. Make sure to stop for some time in a square and enjoy a coffee or a beer!

As Villajoyosa is so close to Altea, the two are often combined in a day trip from Alicante.

Not finding the right hostel? Madrid  has a selection of party hostels too!

Bonus Trip! – Dénia

• Take your pick of four unspoiled beaches
• Explore Dénia castle and its archaeological museum
• Another of the most romantic day trips for couples from Alicante

There are some great beaches in and around Alicante, and we haven’t really focused on them too much. However, we have to because the Costa Blanca is sunny for more than 300 days of the year, so why wouldn’t you take some time to top up your tan!

So, it’s a good job there’s a pretty town like Dénia. While in Alicante and Benidorm you might be struggling to find a spot to lay down your towel, here you certainly won’t be phased by that problem. There are 4, yes 4, unspoiled beaches close to town! Las Marines, Les Bovetes, Punta Raset and Molins all have untameable and wild atmospheres. There’s plenty of marine life in the azure waters of this protected area.

Editor’s Note: Get to know the city from these great hostels near Barcelona Airport !

Conclusion to the Best Day Trips from Bilbao

Well, we think that now you’ve got plenty of places to choose from in the best day trips from Alicante. Whichever way you head from this wonderful city, you’re sure to find something that will suit your taste, budget, and interests.

Whether you want jaw-dropping natural attractions, quaint towns where you can sip a coffee in wide-open squares, or even just a town to go for some home comforts, it’s all within easy reach of Alicante.

It doesn’t matter who you’re travelling with, if it’s your other half, your family, or even solo, you’ll find the perfect day trip from Alicante.

If you feel like we’ve missed out any vital day trips from Alicante, please let us know in the comments below!

***Disclaimer*** Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you book your accommodation through the site, One Weird Globe will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you . Your support helps me keep the site going :)

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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Alicante

Day trips from alicante.

• Alicante to Valencia
• Alicante to Elche
• Alicante to Bocairente
• Alicante to Guadalest
• Alicante to Altea
• Alicante to Villajoyosa
• Alicante to Novelda
• Alicante to Cullera
• Alicante to Salinas
• Alicante to Chulilla
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Charming villages: Villajoyosa & Altea

2. Private Tour of Vinalopó Castles and Wine Tasting

3. Half Day Private Tour in Elche and Santa Pola

4. Guadalest and Algar Springs Guided Tour from Alicante

5. The suspension bridges of Chulilla from Alicante

6. Villena and Winery Private Shore Excursion from Alicante

7. Bocairent Full Day Tour and Islamic Labyrinth from Alicante

8. Private Full-Day Tour to Alicante from Valencia with Hotel Pick Up

9. One Day Tour in Valencia from Alicante

10. Full Day Tour to Anna and Xátiva from Alicante

11. Half Day Guided Tour to Altea and visit to Chocolate Factory

12. One Day Tour in Cullera and Albufera Valenciana from Alicante

13. Experience the World Heritage City of Elche private tour

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Costa Blanca Guided Walk

A day at sea from Dénia or Jávea with Barbecue aboard the Catamaran

Full Day Classic Car Self Drive Tour on the Costa Blanca

Full Day Tour to Anna and Xátiva from Benidorm

Full Day Tour to Chulilla and Hanging Bridges from Benidorm

Full Day Tour Bocairent and Islamic Labyrinth from Benidorm

Mountain Bike Tour Font de la Mata

Culinary Demonstration and Gourmet Tasting Visit in Laguna Rosa

Tour of the old town of Xátiva from Valencia

5 Hours Guadalest and Altea Private Tour

Murcia Full Day Private Tour from Cartegena

What travellers are saying.

• Costa Blanca Full-day Off Road Tour
• Half Day Private Tour in Elche and Santa Pola
• Private Wine Tour to the Costa Blanca Wineries
• Guadalest and Algar Springs Guided Tour from Alicante
• Private Tour of Vinalopó Castles and Wine Tasting
• Withinexperience
• Alicante by Bike
• Alicante Charter Experience
• Hiking Alicante
• Alicante Tours 4 You
• Alicante Catamaran Aventurero

15+ Best Day Trips From Alicante, Spain

Hot dry summers, mild sunny winters, many leisure activities and cultural attractions, vivid nightlife, charming old town, as well as cheap flights from many places in Europe, attract thousands of travelers to Alicante all year round. No wonder it became one of the most popular Spain travel destinations! But Alicante isn’t only a perfect spot for weekend trips or a few days’ stay. This city might also be a great base for discovering more amazing places on Costa Blanca and Costa Calida . Sounds interesting? Stay with us, and discover the best day trips from Alicante, Spain. 

We’ve been living in the area for almost 2 months and got a chance to know it pretty well. So here are our recommendations for great day trips from Alicante to many places on Costa Blanca and also Costa Calida. All max 1h15min away from Alicante if you’ll be traveling by car. Vamos, let’s discover breathtaking landscapes and small charming towns. 

Created by Sonia & Wojtek

One day, we packed our lives and slowly rushed into the unknown with smiles on our faces. We’re full-time digital nomads traveling in Europe who inspire to live, travel, and discover differently. Sunny coastal destinations are what we love most. We share travel guides, tips, and know-how to make planning your next trip a piece of cake. Real human experience and verified facts only!

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Best trips from Alicante, Spain – Villages, towns & cities

Calpe is located about 60km from Alicante. Without a doubt, the town is most famous for Peñon de Ifach mountain – a mighty rock that dominates the landscape and gives the area a very unique look. Calpe also stands out for its super charming and colorful old town, picturesque sandy beaches, small hidden coves, and salinas where you’ll find… cute pink flamingos! All of that makes Calpe an amazing day trip from Alicante that shouldn’t be missed.

Hello Travel Seeker! Sonia & Wojtek here. One day, we packed our lives and slowly rushed into the unknown with smiles on our faces. We’re full-time digital nomads who inspire to live, travel, and discover differently. Join us and get all the answers you need to start your own journey.

Province of Alicante - TOP5

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One Day In Villajoyosa, Spain. Complete Travel Guide

The 8 Best Day Trips From Alicante (2024 Guide)

Alicante is one of the most beautiful places in Spain to visit in my opinion. Hold onto your seat, guys, because there are over 8 exciting options for a day trip from Alicante.

Using Alicante as your base, there are many exciting cities for you to explore including Cartagena, Murcia & Benidorm. You may also choose to spend a day at Terra Mitica theme park. Or if you need some retail therapy – Zenia Boulevard, the largest shopping centre in the province of Alicante.

The Best Day Trips from Alicante

I have been to Alicante, oh, about 25 times now. Why so many times? You may ask. Well, my parents own a house here and have owned it for the past 20 years. So, Alicante has been our go-to holiday destination as a family. I’ve already written a detailed guide on things to do in Alicante in a day , so be sure to check that out. In this piece, I will give you insider information on the best (& most unique) day trips to take from Alicante.

Anyway, without further ado, here are my top suggestions for a day trip from Alicante.

Altea is undoubtedly one of the prettiest towns on the Costa Blanca. Being just an 11 km drive from the tourist hub of Benidorm only adds to its popularity. FYI – from Alicante, it’s a 52 km drive. In Summer, this medieval town can be thronged with visitors – so, if you do visit in the Summer, aim to get here early in the morning or late in the afternoon to beat the crowds.

It’s one of our must-do activities if you have 3 days to spend in Alicante .

Altea is know for its cobbled streets, its storybook old town and the long palm tree-lined promenade that faces the sea. Across the road from this promenade is Playa de Altea with its stony shore and turquoise water. The walk up to the old town is well worth it for stunning views of the whole La Marina region. I highly recommend spending the night in Altea if time allows.

You can book  this tour to Altea and a Chocolate Factory ,. It visits two of the most charming villages in the region -Altea and La Vila Joiosa. And, of course, the experience is topped off with a visit to a local chocolate factory! The tour includes pick up from your Alicante hotel and is 5 hours in duration. This very popular tour costs €75, which I reckon is very good value for money, considering all you’ll see! It’s worth noting, though, that this particular tour only offers a 9:30 am departure.

Top Tip:  If you plan on renting a car for your time in Alicante then you can easily drive to either of the above destinations without a tour. We tend to always book our  rental car through Discover Cars  when we’re traveling. It is a search engine for rental cars and allows you to filter by price if you’re on a budget or by vehicle type if there’s a specific car you’re after.

2. Cartagena

Cartagena is a port city with a large naval influence. It’s located approximately a 90-minute drive from Alicante. It is within the province of Murcia and has recently become a major cruise ship destination. Cartagena is a very easy city to navigate. Everything is within walking distance. And even at the height of the summer school holidays, we found its streets to be relatively crowd-free. There are lots of activities in Cartagena that keep you busy for a couple of hours! Below, I’ve listed my favorites.

Here’s a list of the best hotels in Cartagena !

The best things to do in Cartagena

Roman Theatre

Built between 5 and 1 BC the Roman Theatre in Cartagena was actually only uncovered in 1988 by local construction workers. Just recently, in 2008, they opened the museum. Now, tourists can pay for an audio guide and stroll around the ruins.

Step back in time and get a history lesson on your audio guide whilst you walk around this interesting Roman structure. The Roman Theatre us smack-bang in the middle of Cartagena city. There is excellent air-conditioning inside the museum. However, outside amongst the ruins, it can get very hot.

Entrance is priced at €6. Which I think is excellent value. You can book this ticket which gives you access to 4 of Cartagena’s top sights , including the Roman Theatre.

Palacio Consistorial

Certainly one of the most beautiful buildings in Cartagena. The Palacio Consistorial is influenced by French design. Built between 1900 – 1907, it is located within the main town hall square. The interior is more modern than the early 20th-century styled exterior. You can get an English guide upon entry to give you a tour of the interior. A short walk around the interior will give an interesting insight into the history of the Palacio. As well as its current-day use.

Spanish Civil War Museum

The Spanish Civil War started in 1936 when a sector of the army attempted a military coup. The city of Cartagena remained loyal to the Spanish government. And so the city quickly became a Republican stronghold.

Cartagena was targeted frequently during the civil war. In fact, it was targeted so many times it eventually forced the people of Cartagena underground for shelter. The Spanish Civil War Museum located on Calle Gilbert was one of the largest shelters in Cartagena and once held 5,500 residents. The Spanish Civil War Museum gives a harrowing insight into life for these residents during the Civil War.

The Civil War Refuge & Museum can be accessed via a Panoramic lift on Calle Gisbert . The entrance fee is just €3.50.

Murcia is a university city that is approximately an hour and 20 minutes drive from Alicante. The city also has a large international airport that services a lot of popular European cities. So, it’s a popular starting point for many holidaymakers in Spain.

Murcia is a very mountainous region with an exceptional 330 days of sunshine a year. Thus making it a fantastic option for a day trip from Alicante. Murcia and its surrounding areas is nicknamed the Costa Calida or “warm coast”. The region has over 330 km of coastline. Making it an ideal base for some beach exploring. Here are my favorite things to do in Murcia.

I hugely recommend spending the night in Murcia , there are lots of great accommodation options here.

P.S. It is worth remembering that Murcia closes many of its shops during the siesta period (between 2 pm – 5 pm)

The best things to do in Murcia

Cathedral de Santa Maria, Murcia

The beautifully artistic and baroque-style Cathedral de Santa Maria in the center of Murcia City is truly a sight to behold. Its interior is gothic in style and is in contrast to the exterior. The attached bell tower stands 90 meters tall and is the tallest of its kind in all of Spain. Skip the line by purchasing this ticket to the Cathedral .

Real Casino de Murcia

Hidden away on Traperia Street, the Real Casino de Murcia is an eclectic but grand building. And its well worth a visit on your day trip from Alicante. In fact, it was one of our favorite buildings to explore in the Alicante region. Many of the casino’s walls are covered with the most beautiful mosaics, and the whole building has a very Moorish vibe. Spend over an hour here exploring the many beautiful rooms. One of my favorites is the ballroom, which has a spectacular chandelier gifted by the last king of Mexico.

Your €5 entrance fee includes a very educational audio guide.

This private walking tour visits the Casino as well as many other top sights in Murcia such as the Murcia Cathedral. It’s 3 hours long, and as you walk through this gorgeous city, your local guide will provide commentary on the history and culture of Murcia. It costs from €225 per group of up to 15 people – which works out really reasonable if you’re traveling in a group!

Santa Clara Monastery & Museum

A hidden oasis within the city. The Santa Clara Monastery doesn’t look like a whole lot from the outside. But, I promise that the inside is worth taking the time to step into. Steeped in history it displays religious relics with both Arabic and Christian influences. It Also has a fabulous patio with a gorgeous turquoise pool – visitors can’t access the pool. However, you can admire the pool and take photos through the glass.

Entrance is free. Also worth noting is that there are not a lot of English descriptions for the relics and other items displayed within the Santa Clara Monastery. Almost everything is in Spanish, so you may need to use google translate.

4. Terra Mitica Theme Park

Opened in 2000, Terra Mitica is an exhilarating and fun day out for the whole family. Located only 30 minutes from Alicante. The park is divided into 5 sections – Egypt, Greece, Rome, Iberia, and the Mediterranean islands. Each area is influenced by its origins. There are 25 rides in Terra Mitica, all ranging from exhilarating to kid-friendly. You can book your ticket here . Prices start from €15 per person.

It is open every day in June, July and August and for the first two weeks in September. It has varied opening hours for the quieter months of May & October.

You can stay at Terra Mitica Theme Park – the Grand Luxor Hotel is located on-site and is highly recommended!

5. Benidorm

I’m sure you’ve heard of Benidorm – notorious for cheap package holidays and boozy tourists. Many tourists flying into Alicante airport will be heading straight for this popular resort. There are two sides to Benidorm. The nice side is the old town set on the hill between Benidorm’s two beaches (Levante & Poniente). The old town has cobbled streets with lots of character and lots of lovely albeit smaller restaurants. Make sure to take a stroll to the lovely Iglesia de Saint Jaime with its white-washed walls.

The new town set along Levante Beach is all high-rise apartment blocks, expat bars serving British-style fish & chips, and lots and lots of karaoke bars. Benidorm is notorious for hen & stag parties, you will likely see lots of people in scantily-clad fancy dress. But it’s a fun experience. The new town sure is full of cliches. As you can imagine, there are loads of places to stay in Benidorm (over 2000); there’s so much to do in Benidorm that it’s definitely worth spending a night or two.

For kids(or big kids) there’s loads to do like Mundomar Animal Park where you can watch a dolphin a sea lion show; Aqua Natura Water Park is honestly so much fun and ideal for those hot Summer days and Forestal Park where you can try ziplining.

At just under 40 minutes drive from Alicante, Benidorm is certainly worth a visit especially if you have 2 days in Alicante . If only to see a city of stark contrasts. Look beyond the cliched and give this popular area another chance.

6. Zenia Boulevard Shopping Centre

The biggest and best shopping centre in the Alicante region. Zenia Boulevard occupies over 161,000 square metres. Featuring 150 shops from Zara and Bershka to Pull & Bear and Decathlon. There is certainly a store for every style. Zenia Boulevard also has a wide variety of eating options from your typical fast-food food court to quirky tapas bars and coffee shops.

There are free events and sometimes entertainment every weekend on the center stage in the middle of the shopping center. This attracts locals from across the region. There is also an excellent kids’ play area on the second floor where the kids could easily spend an hour or two while Mom shops.

7. Vinalopo Wine Region

Just a 45-minute drive from Alicante is the  Vinalopo region , which is famous for producing a sweet dessert wine known as Fondillon.  With a maturation of 10 years, this wine has a strong and unique flavor. Also grown here are Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Tempranillo, and Garnacha varieties. Interestingly, this is one of the oldest wine-growing regions in the world!

On  this guided wine tour , you will visit a vineyard and see how the wine is made, as well as taste some awesome wine. If you book the tour during harvest season (the months of September and October), you will get to pick the grapes from the vines and taste them. You will also be given the opportunity to explore the bodega (wine cellar). The tour also includes some snacks – cured meats, bread, and olive oil. It costs from €68 per person! Handily, you can choose from a 10 am or 2 pm departure time.

Why not read next : How to have the best 5 days in Lanzarote, Spain

8. Guadalest

Known as one of the most beautiful villages in the region, the small town of Guadalest is situated high up in the mountains. It looks down upon a glistening reservoir and is famous for its historic walls and the Castillo de Guadalest, which is perched precariously on a tall rock. It’s very photogenic.

Spend your day here wandering the narrow, cute streets of the medieval old town then stop into such spots as The Orduña House a stately home that’s now a museum and the Bethlehem and Dolls House Museum.

As for where to eat in Guadalest – you can’t go wrong with L’Hort , which is renowned for its views.

Guadalest is under an hour’s drive from Alicante.

How Long Should I Spend in Alicante?

I recommend allowing 3 – 5 days in the Alicante region, 2 full days exploring the city of Alicante , and the remaining days ticking off these best day trips from Alicante.

Where Can I Go From Alicante?

The best day trips you should take from Alicante include the charming village of Altea, the bustling tourist haven of Benidorm, and the lovely, safe city of Murcia. There is certainly something for everyone in the family to enjoy whether it’s an exhilarating day trip to Terra Mitica theme park. Or a cultured experience to the port city of Cartagena. A day trip from Alicante to one of the above destinations should certainly be on your 7 day Spain itinerary !

The best day trips from Alicante are as follows –

• Altea (an hour’s drive from Alicante)
• Cartagena (a 90-minute drive from Alicante)
• Murcia (an hour and 20-minute drive from Alicante)
• Terra Mitica Theme Park (a 30-minute drive from Alicante)
• Benidorm (a 45-minute drive from Alicante)
• Zenia Boulevard Shopping Center (a 50-minute drive from Alicante)
• Vinalopo Wine Region (a 45-minute drive from Alicante)
• Guadalest (an hour’s drive from Alicante)

Where to stay in Alicante

We stayed at the cheap & cheerful  Ibis Alicante , which is as I mentioned before is 6km from Alicante city. We chose the Ibis Hotel because it is very reasonably priced (approx. €30). Also, we had an early flight to catch to the airport the next morning and this hotel is on the route to the airport. The airport bus service stops just across the road.

If you book any of the hotels listed here through these links – I will get a tiny commission (to continue my travels) & you will get the best available rate!

We also highly recommend the following hotels in Alicante:

• Casa Alberola Alicante  – A stylish, luxurious adults-only hotel located in the city center.
• My Flats Luxury Downtown   – Luxurious self-catering apartment with a terrace.
• Suites del Mar by Melia  – located right on the main beach in Alicante & with spectacular views. And a rooftop pool!
• Hotel Almirante  – a large outdoor pool and epic beach views from most of their rooms. This hotel is located at San Juan Beach, a 10-minute drive from Alicante.
• Urban Hotel by MC  – This is reasonably priced considering its location in the central district. The rooms are clean and minimally styled and there are loads of bars & restaurants nearby!

You can search all the  best hotels in Alicante here  via booking.com!

Thanks for reading!

Tell me – what did you think of my suggestions for the best day trips from Alicante? I would love to read if you have any further suggestions in the comment section below.

We have loads of other Europe content, including – 5  unique things to do in Cinque Terre Italy ;  Istanbul Travel Guide , and much more!

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5 thoughts on “ The 8 Best Day Trips From Alicante (2024 Guide) ”

So many exciting places to visit! I personally would visit the theme park. Looks like a lot of fun!

Wow that’s an awesome blog..very informative.thanks for sharing

You are so lucky to have a house there! The Santa Clara Monastery in Murcia looks beautiful!

This was a really interesting read – I’ve always associated Alicante with the package holidays of Benidorm, and had no idea there was so much to explore in the area! Just goes to show I shouldn’t make assumptions! The Roman Theatre in Cartagena looks amazing, I love ancient history. My uncle and aunt have a home in Alicante part of the year too and I keep meaning to go and visit them…will bear your tips in mind when I do!

Thanks for all these ideas! Will be using this for a Spanish roadtrip in winter!

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Arzo Travels

Solo Female Travel – Switzerland, Europe and Beyond

Best Day Trips from Alicante

Easy and Fun Day Tours From Alicante (by Train or Car)

Table of Contents

If you are looking for the best day trips from Alicante, this post is for you.

Costa Blanca in Spain is the perfect destination to visit all year round. While the beach is a great place to visit in the summer, fall, and spring, you can take wonderful strolls along the beaches even in the winter – thanks to a mild climate. But Costa Blanca is so much more than just a great beach destination:  Cute towns and villages, a party hotspot, and many activities for people of all ages (even kids) make it a great destination for anyone. 

Costa Blanca Travel Tips

But first: some quick travel tips for Costa Blanca.

How to Get to Costa Blanca

If you get to Costa Blanca, you will most likely, fly into Alicante or Valencia.    I flew into Alicante and was very happy to see how easy it is to get to the city center.

• From the airport to Alicante, it just takes a 20-minute bus ride (around 4€).  

Alicante also has a train station you can arrive at.

• The train station is right in the center, and from there, you can easily get around.

How to Get Around in Costa Blanca

For day trips from Alicante, there are several ways to get around:

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

We opted for public transportation in Costa Blanca. Public transportation is actually pretty good – and cheap. The train ticket from Alicante to Valencia was about 40€ round-trip (if we had booked the tickets in advance, we would have had to pay only 32€) per person.  

From Alicante to other destinations, we took the tram – which came with great views. And a ticket from Alicante to Altea, Benidorm, or Villajoysoa costs only a few € (one way).

In a group of three or four, a rental car might be the cheaper option. But there is no need to drive the narrow mountain roads (at parts) and worry about parking.

I was seriously so impressed with the public transportation in Costa Blanca that I would prefer that over driving myself.

GUIDED TOURS

There are also some guided tours you can book. I have not found a tour for all activities but tried to add them whenever possible.

Best Time to Visit Costa Blanca

While it might be too cold to spend hours lounging at the beach and swimming in the ocean, Costa Blanca is the perfect destination in the winter.  The weather is mild at this time of year and perfect for endless hours of strolling, discovering the towns and cities along the coast (oh yes, Costa Blanca has some charming towns and villages along its shores), and enjoying sightseeing without too many other tourists.

No need to beat your way through the crowds, no overpriced accommodations – these are just a few reasons why I can recommend exploring this lovely Spanish area in the winter.

Costa Blanca in spring and fall is also a good time to visit – warmer weather will allow you to spend more time at the beach and get your Vitamin D dose. 

Personally, I would avoid the summer months – with the hot dry summer days it might be great for a beach vacation but not so great to explore the area.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means I might earn a small commission when you buy a product (at no extra cost for you) after clicking on my link. More about it  here .

Where to Stay in Costa Blanca

Thanks to good public transportation, it is easy to get around from one place to another. It takes some time to get from Alicante to Valencia but day trips are absolutely doable . So, there is no need to change hotels each day.

We stayed in Alicante – most of the places here are closer to Alicante than to Valencia.

• Alicante Accommodations:  We, a friend and me, stayed at the 3-star hotel Maya Alicante . It was a decent choice with a friendly and bright interior. Breakfast choices were good, the quality, however, was not great. But in all, you get good value for your money.
• Click here to find more hotels in Alicante – for each budget.
• Valencia Accommodations:  Valencia is a great base for your trip to Costa Blanca. The city itself is home to many great sights and attractions, so if you want to base yourself in Valencia, check out hotel rates there.
• Altea Accommodations:  Altea is probably the best place to stay for love birds. Small and tiny and yet so gorgeous – I guess this is the most romantic place on the itinerary. So, click here to find out about hotel rates in Altea.
• Villajoyosa Accommodations:  Villajoyosa is a fun and small place perfect for those seeking to be at the beach within minutes (or even seconds). I suggest this place for those looking for a more relaxed place (also great for families). Click here to find out more about hotels and rates in Villajoyosa.

Here are my tips for fun day tours from Alicante.

HOW TO GET TO ALTEA FROM ALICANTE:

• It takes about 1,5 hours to get from Alicante to Altea by train : Start in Alicante: Mercado station – take L1-  and get to Benidorm Intermodal – then take the L9 and get to Altea. The tickets are very cheap and cost only a few €.
• By car, it takes about 45 minutes (60km).
• If you like to do a guided tour – Villajoyosa and Altea from Alicante – click here to find out more about prices and times.

Villajoyosa

HOW TO GET TO VILLAJOYOSA FROM ALICANTE:

• It takes about 60 minutes to get from Alicante to Villajoyosa  by train : Start in Alicante: Mercado station – take L1-  and get off at La Vila Joiosa. Then it is just a 2-minute walk to the promenade. 
• By car, it takes about 30 minutes (36km).
• If you like to do a guided tour – Altea and Villajoyosa from Alicante.  Click here to find out more about prices and times.

Well, the town center itself is not fun or amazing – unless you are a party animal – apparently, Benidorm is very well-known for being a party hotspot. But the beach area is charming , and so is the famous Balcón del Mediterráneo – these pretty white steps and balcony are absolutely lovely and charming. You have musicians playing (probably only in good weather) and fantastic views of the ocean.

This is serious Instagram material – pretty, pretty, pretty, and a fun and easy day trip from Alicante.

HOW TO GET TO BENIDORM FROM ALICANTE:

• It takes about 70 minutes to get from Alicante to Benidorm  by tram : Start in Alicante: Mercado station – take L1 and get to Benidorm Intermodal. It takes about a 10-minutes walk through the city center until you are at the promenade.
• By car, it takes about 40 minutes (45km).

If you are a fast traveler or start your day early, you could see all three places mentioned above in one day actually.

So, while we visited all the places from Alicante, they can also be done as a day trip from Valencia, since all towns and places are located more or less in between the cities of Alicante and Valencia.

Arriving at the train station Estació del Nord Valencia  (there are two train stations) is already an experience in itself. From there, you can start with exploring the beach section of Valencia and then head towards the museum area – with sights like Valencia Eye along the way (either get there by bus or walk.

Then, head to the pretty old town of Valencia with its stunning old buildings and attractions.

There is a direct train connection from Alicante . Early booking is helpful, and some trains are more expensive (we paid around 20€ one-way). Click here for more Valencia travel tips.

HOW TO GET TO VALENCIA FROM ALICANTE:

• It takes about 100-120 minutes to get from Alicante to Valencia  by train : Start in Alicante: Termino station and either get to Valencia – Estacio del Nord (the beautiful train station) or Valencia Joaquin Sorolla. Both are in the city center and easily reachable. (prices start from 16€ for a one-way trip)
• By car, it takes about 2 hours (170km).

I am adding this place even though I was not able to make it there myself. Calp, a coastal town in between Alicante and Valencia, is known for its wonderful beaches. It is quite time-consuming to get to Calp from Alicante by train so it might only be worth it if you are really into beaches or if you have a spare day or if you have a car.

If you like to visit only one or two places, you can easily combine it with a trip to any of the following: Altea, Benidorm, or Villajoyosa.  

HOW TO GET TO CALP FROM ALICANTE:

• It takes almost 3 hours to get from Alicante to Benidorm  by train : Start in Alicante: Mercado station – take L1 and get to Benidorm – change to L9 and take the train to Calp. 
• By car, it takes about 50 minutes (65km).

While this is no ordinary Costa Blanca itinerary, it hopefully has helped you curate your time at Costa Blanca. These fun day trips from Alicante are quite easy to take and worth it. If you visit in the summer – or late spring, or early fall – you can easily add a few days for some dedicated beach time.

Depending on the place you stay, you can decide where you want to enjoy your beach vacation. As mentioned above, there are quite a few beach destinations and even more that weren’t listed (Costa Blanca is just great for that kind of holiday).

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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Alicante

Day trips from alicante.

• Alicante to Valencia
• Alicante to Elche
• Alicante to Bocairente
• Alicante to Guadalest
• Alicante to Altea
• Alicante to Villajoyosa
• Alicante to Novelda
• Alicante to Cullera
• Alicante to Salinas
• Alicante to Chulilla
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Charming villages: Villajoyosa & Altea

2. Private Tour of Vinalopó Castles and Wine Tasting

3. Half Day Private Tour in Elche and Santa Pola

4. Guadalest and Algar Springs Guided Tour from Alicante

5. The suspension bridges of Chulilla from Alicante

6. Villena and Winery Private Shore Excursion from Alicante

7. Bocairent Full Day Tour and Islamic Labyrinth from Alicante

8. Private Full-Day Tour to Alicante from Valencia with Hotel Pick Up

9. One Day Tour in Valencia from Alicante

10. Full Day Tour to Anna and Xátiva from Alicante

11. Half Day Guided Tour to Altea and visit to Chocolate Factory

12. One Day Tour in Cullera and Albufera Valenciana from Alicante

13. Experience the World Heritage City of Elche private tour

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Costa Blanca Guided Walk

A day at sea from Dénia or Jávea with Barbecue aboard the Catamaran

Full Day Classic Car Self Drive Tour on the Costa Blanca

Full Day Tour to Anna and Xátiva from Benidorm

Full Day Tour to Chulilla and Hanging Bridges from Benidorm

Full Day Tour Bocairent and Islamic Labyrinth from Benidorm

Mountain Bike Tour Font de la Mata

Culinary Demonstration and Gourmet Tasting Visit in Laguna Rosa

Tour of the old town of Xátiva from Valencia

5 Hours Guadalest and Altea Private Tour

Murcia Full Day Private Tour from Cartegena

One Day Tour in Cullera and Albufera Valenciana from Benidorm

What travellers are saying.

• Costa Blanca Full-day Off Road Tour
• Half Day Private Tour in Elche and Santa Pola
• Private Wine Tour to the Costa Blanca Wineries
• Guadalest and Algar Springs Guided Tour from Alicante
• Private Tour of Vinalopó Castles and Wine Tasting
• Withinexperience
• Alicante by Bike
• Alicante Charter Experience
• Hiking Alicante
• Alicante Tours 4 You
• Alicante Catamaran Aventurero

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Alicante

Day trips from alicante.

• Alicante to Valencia
• Alicante to Elche
• Alicante to Bocairente
• Alicante to Guadalest
• Alicante to Altea
• Alicante to Villajoyosa
• Alicante to Novelda
• Alicante to Cullera
• Alicante to Salinas
• Alicante to Chulilla
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Charming villages: Villajoyosa & Altea

2. Private Tour of Vinalopó Castles and Wine Tasting

3. Half Day Private Tour in Elche and Santa Pola

4. Guadalest and Algar Springs Guided Tour from Alicante

5. The suspension bridges of Chulilla from Alicante

6. Villena and Winery Private Shore Excursion from Alicante

7. Bocairent Full Day Tour and Islamic Labyrinth from Alicante

8. Private Full-Day Tour to Alicante from Valencia with Hotel Pick Up

9. One Day Tour in Valencia from Alicante

10. Full Day Tour to Anna and Xátiva from Alicante

11. Half Day Guided Tour to Altea and visit to Chocolate Factory

12. One Day Tour in Cullera and Albufera Valenciana from Alicante

13. Experience the World Heritage City of Elche private tour

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Costa Blanca Guided Walk

A day at sea from Dénia or Jávea with Barbecue aboard the Catamaran

Full Day Classic Car Self Drive Tour on the Costa Blanca

Full Day Tour to Anna and Xátiva from Benidorm

Full Day Tour to Chulilla and Hanging Bridges from Benidorm

Full Day Tour Bocairent and Islamic Labyrinth from Benidorm

Mountain Bike Tour Font de la Mata

Culinary Demonstration and Gourmet Tasting Visit in Laguna Rosa

Tour of the old town of Xátiva from Valencia

5 Hours Guadalest and Altea Private Tour

Murcia Full Day Private Tour from Cartegena

What travellers are saying.

• Costa Blanca Full-day Off Road Tour
• Half Day Private Tour in Elche and Santa Pola
• Private Wine Tour to the Costa Blanca Wineries
• Guadalest and Algar Springs Guided Tour from Alicante
• Private Tour of Vinalopó Castles and Wine Tasting
• Withinexperience
• Alicante by Bike
• Alicante Charter Experience
• Hiking Alicante
• Alicante Tours 4 You
• Alicante Catamaran Aventurero

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Alicante

Day trips from alicante.

• Alicante to Valencia
• Alicante to Elche
• Alicante to Bocairente
• Alicante to Guadalest
• Alicante to Altea
• Alicante to Villajoyosa
• Alicante to Novelda
• Alicante to Cullera
• Alicante to Salinas
• Alicante to Chulilla
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Charming villages: Villajoyosa & Altea

2. Private Tour of Vinalopó Castles and Wine Tasting

3. Half Day Private Tour in Elche and Santa Pola

4. Guadalest and Algar Springs Guided Tour from Alicante

5. The suspension bridges of Chulilla from Alicante

6. Villena and Winery Private Shore Excursion from Alicante

7. Bocairent Full Day Tour and Islamic Labyrinth from Alicante

8. Private Full-Day Tour to Alicante from Valencia with Hotel Pick Up

9. One Day Tour in Valencia from Alicante

10. Full Day Tour to Anna and Xátiva from Alicante

11. Half Day Guided Tour to Altea and visit to Chocolate Factory

12. One Day Tour in Cullera and Albufera Valenciana from Alicante

13. Experience the World Heritage City of Elche private tour

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Costa Blanca Guided Walk

A day at sea from Dénia or Jávea with Barbecue aboard the Catamaran

Full Day Classic Car Self Drive Tour on the Costa Blanca

Full Day Tour to Anna and Xátiva from Benidorm

Full Day Tour to Chulilla and Hanging Bridges from Benidorm

Full Day Tour Bocairent and Islamic Labyrinth from Benidorm

Mountain Bike Tour Font de la Mata

Culinary Demonstration and Gourmet Tasting Visit in Laguna Rosa

Tour of the old town of Xátiva from Valencia

5 Hours Guadalest and Altea Private Tour

Murcia Full Day Private Tour from Cartegena

What travellers are saying.

• Costa Blanca Full-day Off Road Tour
• Half Day Private Tour in Elche and Santa Pola
• Private Wine Tour to the Costa Blanca Wineries
• Guadalest and Algar Springs Guided Tour from Alicante
• Private Tour of Vinalopó Castles and Wine Tasting
• Withinexperience
• Alicante by Bike
• Alicante Charter Experience
• Hiking Alicante
• Alicante Tours 4 You
• Alicante Catamaran Aventurero

The Perfect 2, 3 or 4 Days in Alicante Itinerary

Published on May 5, 2023

by Brittany Scott-Gunfield

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

On Spain’s southern Mediterranean coastline lies the vibrant city of Alicante, capital of the Alicante region and a historic port city. With its historic centre, inviting beaches, dazzling harbour and exciting nightlife, you can easily spend 2, 3 or 4 days in Alicante, and our Alicante itinerary will take you through all of the hotspots.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Alicante?

The region of Alicante and the Costa Blanca in general is full of wonderful places to see, including the beautiful seaside towns of Gandia, Javea, Denia, Calpe and Altea to name a few, so you can happily spend a two-week holiday in Alicante and see something new every day.

If you’re wondering how many days to spend in Alicante city, it depends on what you’re interested in and whether you want a tight Alicante itinerary or prefer to explore the city at a relaxed pace.

You need at least 2 days in Alicante to see the main attractions and bake in the sunshine on the beautiful beach, but over 3 days in Alicante, you can spend more time wandering the winding streets of the old town, taking in the views from the hilltop castle and include an activity such as a catamaran cruise or a guided food tour.

If you have 4 days, you can take a day trip further afield to the nature reserves South of the city, the more isolated beaches, another coastal town like Villajoyosa, or the surprisingly green city of Elche.

Getting To & Around Alicante

Arriving in Alicante from other European cities is very easy thanks to the Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport just a 15-minute drive, or 30-minute bus ride on the L1, from the city centre. You can fly directly to Alicante Airport from many locations across Europe and beyond. You can organise a transfer here.

Alicante Train Station is very central and easy to reach, however, the Spanish train service is limited so if you’re coming from another country, the easiest, shortest and cheapest way to arrive in Alicante is by plane.

From Madrid , a train takes 2 hours 30 minutes, while it takes 5 hours from Barcelona , and 2 hours from Valencia . You can view train schedules here.

Or, if you’re travelling around Spain or coming from a nearby coastal city like Cartagena or Torrevieja, you can use the bus service Alsa for routes between most cities and towns in Spain. It’s cheaper than the train and can often be easier, but finding the bus stops can be difficult so check the app and if in doubt, ask around – taxi drivers are particularly helpful!

Alicante Bus Station is located on the coast, West of the harbour and just a 15-minute walk from the centre or 10 minutes on the L24 bus. You can view bus schedules here.

Within Alicante centre, you won’t need to use public transport as the city centre neighbours the old town with both Santa Barbara Castle and Saint Fernando Castle within walking distance.

What’s more, the beach and harbour are just a stone’s throw from the centre so you can easily enjoy your time in Alicante completely on foot. If you’re less mobile, there is an extensive bus and tram service in and around Alicante and a lift taking you from the old town up to Santa Barbara Castle.

2, 3 or 4-Day Alicante Itinerary

Day 1 – alicante old town.

On the first day of your trip, discover the old town, El Barrio de Santa Cruz, and all of its hidden gems, finishing your day in one of the many restaurants and bars of the winding mediaeval streets. You can take a walking tour to learn more about the history of city.

Saint Nicholas Cathedral

We start our route through the old town of Alicante at the Saint Nicholas Cathedral due to its proximity to the city centre, making it easy to reach, however, you can change your route depending on the location of your accommodation, or simply wander the streets and marvel at the glorious buildings tucked away behind each corner.

The Concatedral de San Nicolás is one of the oldest buildings in the area, as a large part of the city was destroyed after heavy bombardments that destroyed 90% of the city in 1691, although the cathedral remained intact.

The architecture is very simple, with few decorations, indicative of the Herrerian style of architecture prominent in Spain in the 17th century, however, the original façade of black marble and the Gothic cloister from the 15th century are sights to behold, not to mention the blue domed roofs, reminiscent of a mosque that previously stood in its place.

Town Hall and Discovered City

A short walk from the Saint Nicholas Cathedral takes you to the remarkable Ayuntamiento, or Alicante Town Hall. With a lot of it built after the destruction of the city, the new Town Hall sits on the site of the former town hall, displaying a great example of Spanish Baroque architecture, which you can see from Plaza de la Santísima Faz on one side or Plaza del Ayuntamiento on the other.

At Christmas and Easter, the Town Hall is decorated and there are large displays in this square, making it a must-see place on your Alicante itinerary.

You can visit the Town Hall for free from 9 am to 2 pm in Winter and 9 am to 1 pm in Summer, to see the Salón Azul, a large ornate room designed for Queen Isabel I of Castile, who united Castile and Aragon to form the Kingdom of Spain after her marriage to King Ferdinand II of Aragon in 1469.

Across each of the rooms allowing access to visitors, you can see fantastic works of art, including those from Alicante-native Gastón Castelló

Next to the Town Hall, although accessible from the Town Hall building itself according to the same opening hours, is the so-called “Discovered City”.

A small area, this underground museum showcases some of the ruins from the Muslim reign over the Iberian Peninsula from 711 to 1492, including the former defensive wall built in the 1200s to defend against the attacking Christian Kingdom from the North.

Santa María Basilica

A few hundred metres down the same road, in Plaza de la Santa María, is the incredible basilica of the same name. Like the Saint Nicholas Cathedral and many churches throughout Spain, this basilica was formerly a mosque but was converted into a Gothic cathedral after the northern Christian forces took over the city.

Aside from its ornate entrance below two towers, the building itself is very square and plain, however, you can see the Gothic arches inside leading to the intricately carved golden altar.

From the street outside, you can also see the cannon shots from the 13th-century bombardment as the mosque had been built into the city’s defensive wall.

Contemporary Art Museum

Facing the same square as the Basílica de Santa María, in the oldest civil building in Alicante, is MACA – the Contemporary Art Museum of Alicante.

Here you can find many amazing works of 20th-century art by revered artists such as Picasso, Miró, Dalí, Ernst and Bacon lit wonderfully in the large open rooms of the 17th-century building, as well as temporary exhibitions, a library and an art workshop.

If you prefer a different sort of art museum, then you can also opt to visit the Gravina Museum of Fine Arts which houses plenty of beautiful artwork, as well.

Known for its nightlife, the Santa Cruz Quarter is perfect for wandering the small streets at the end of your first day in Alicante to find a place to stop for a drink or order some tapas or lounge out on a large terrace sipping your drink. You can even take a tapas tour if you prefer to explore with a guide.

Try a rosemary-infused Xabiga Ale or Antara made with tiger nuts; these craft beers hail from Greater Alicante’s seaside towns of Javea and Xativa respectively and can be found in some local cervecerías.

Or, tuck into some tapas classics, patatas bravas, prawns in garlic, croquetas and albondigas in restaurants, such as Taberna Iberica.

The spacious restaurant has a classical guitarist and also serves a number of paellas and fideuàs – similar to paella but with short spaghetti-like noodles – although these dishes require a minimum of two people.

Keep in mind that these are typically lunch dishes in Spain, so it’s worth planning your paella (or fideuà) feast for the afternoon rather than the evening.

If you’re on a budget, you can find many cheap cervecerías around the city which do deals of a plate of tapas with a caña (a small draft beer) for a couple of euros.

Day 2 – Castles & Beaches

2 days in Alicante will enable you to spend as much time as you please exploring the mediaeval hilltop castle, with numerous activities to engage in, before relaxing on the beach in the afternoon and heading to the port for some delicious seafood.

Santa Barbara Castle

Start your second day with a decent breakfast because you’ve got a steep 30-minute walk ahead of you up to the Castillo de Santa Bárbara. You can of course take the elevator from Avenida Juan Bautista Lafora for a couple of euros to avoid the walk, but you do miss out on the charming winding paths through Parc de l’Ereta to the top of Mount Benacantil.

The Santa Barbara Castle spreads out across the hilltop, 166 metres high, and was originally planned as one of the biggest fortresses in mediaeval Spain; you can wander around most of the grounds and enjoy the amazing structure as well as the spectacular views of Alicante.

The official origin of the name Alicante is said to have come from its former Arabic name, Al-Laqant, however, a legend of the Moor of Al-Laqant and his daughter Cántara who lived in the Santa Barbara Castle is rumoured to be the real reason behind the city being named Alicante.

It’s this Moor who is said to be immortalised in the rock formation below the castle; you can learn more about the legend as you walk around the castle grounds.

Entrance to the large Patio de Armas and castle walls are free for visitors, however, access to the Old Dungeons, Cistern and Hospital is only available by guided tour.

Within the courtyard, you can enjoy a drink and snack at the cafe, or book a tasting of local products such as wine, craft beers and foods, to really make the most of your time in the historic site and learn about local products among experts.

You can also go up to the castle’s highest walkway, the Macho del Castell, where you have an unobstructed 360º view of the city.

You can expect to spend over an hour in the castle, and more if you take part in one of the many activities on offer. If you want a guided tour, check the website for information on what time the English tours take place as they alternate between English and Spanish. You can also book a dramatised tour for a fully immersive experience.

It’s a great place to take in the views of the city, so if you prefer, save your castle visit until sunset for some breathtaking scenery.

Postiguet Beach

Alicante is famous for its weather and any trip wouldn’t be complete without a trip down to Playa del Postiguet. Stretching for almost 900 m alongside Gómiz Promenade, this is one of the most popular places in Alicante for tourists and locals as the beach is so close to the city centre.

Despite its proximity to the harbour, the water is a clear blue, inviting you to paddle and take a breather from the city all year long.

You can walk all the way along Gómiz promenade next to the beachfront, from Plaza Porta del Mar to the Mirando al Mar sculpture, with its beautiful tiled ground and palm trees on either side providing shade. Watch out if you stop for a photo though, as this promenade is popular with roller skaters!

From the beach, you can also see the Santa Barbara Castle and the rock formation under the castle which is said to look like a head with a crown, known as the Head of the Moor.

Port of Alicante

The Port of Alicante, formed in 1271, is one of the most significant places in the city, as it has a long history of trade and sailing across the Mediterranean.

There is still a great deal of activity in the sailing clubs and marina; it’s even been the starting point for The Ocean Race numerous times, a big sailing event that began in Alicante last in January 2023 and next in 2026.

Take a stroll around the port from the scale replica of the Santísima Trinidad, one of the ships of the Spanish Armada involved in the Battle of Trafalgar, along the Esplanada de España and admire the boats or look for a restaurant for the evening such as Restaurante La Brújula for fresh seafood giving you an amazing view over the water, especially around sunset.

Day 3 – Alicante Cuisine & Alternative Sites

Day 3 will show you a different side of the city, taking you to a historic fort before sampling the local cuisine at the central market and exploring the peculiar Mushroom Street – yes, you did read that correctly…

Mercado Central de Alicante

In the centre of Alicante, in Avenida de Alfonso X El Sabio stands the large early 20th-century building housing the city’s famous market.

Over two floors in the huge hall, you can find hundreds of stalls selling all kinds of fresh fruits and vegetables as well as fish and meat, but you can also stop for breakfast or coffee and pick up some dried meats, cheeses, bread and fruits for a picnic at lunchtime.

After you’ve explored the inside, peruse the outside of the market hall to see the impact of the bombings during the Spanish Civil War that the building managed to withstand.

The market opens Monday to Saturday from 7.30 am to 2.30 pm and can get very busy so go early if you want to avoid the crowds. If you want to learn about local cuisine and produce, then visiting the market is definitely one of the best things to do in Alicante.

Saint Fernando Fort

Walking northwestwards from the marketplace to Tossal Hill, you can continue to the historic Castillo de San Fernando.

Built in 1812 and named in honour of the King of Spain, the castle was designed as a fortress to defend the city against attack as well as a prison. However, it was built hastily and hence fell into ruin several years later.

You can spend up to an hour walking around the ruins of the neoclassical fort and perhaps enjoy a picnic with the produce from the morning market with views over the city. Or, you can head down to any of the parks surrounding the castle to relax in the greenery, such as Parc Tossal.

Head back down to the city centre from Calle Pablo Iglesias onto Calle San Francisco for one of Alicante’s most popular attractions.

Calle de las Setas

Previously an unwelcoming area of the city, in 2013 after council discussions, Calle San Francisco was transformed into an imaginative wonderland with colourful paving and several large mushrooms dotting the small street.

At almost 4 metres high, the mushrooms, some with small insects and snails on top, turn the street into a curiously picturesque dream that’s reminiscent of children’s stories. At some point over 3 days in Alicante, you have to see it for yourself!

This pedestrian area has a number of great bars and restaurants of all cuisines, so it’s a great place to wind down your day and join the locals for a late afternoon vermouth.

Plaza Portal de Elche

Just before you reach the end of Calle San Francisco, there’s a small square hidden behind the buildings with a delightful round cafe-bar, a replica of the 20th-century kiosk that previously stood there.

The cafe is an incredibly charming place to spend an evening as the lights on the kiosk and the surrounding streets look wonderful amongst the four enormous Australian Banyan trees which have been protected due to their size.

With large roots hanging down from their branches, the trees are quite impressive, especially given their over 6-metre circumference.

As a small space, it can get busy so if you don’t get to go in the evening, it’s still lovely to come back for a coffee the next day.

Day 4 – Day Trip from Alicante

If you’ve got 4 days in Alicante, you’ll want to get out of the city centre and explore your surroundings, from the beautiful beaches to the salt flats and the palm trees of Elche. If you’re looking for a leisurely day there are also various half-day cruises or wine tasting tours you can take.

To the southwest of Alicante is the small but beautiful city of Elche, 25 minutes by car and 30 minutes by train or coach.

While the city is mostly famous for its huge inner city palm forest, El Palmeral, it actually has an incredibly long history, having been occupied by the Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Muslim forces and the Catholic Kingdoms.

You can see this across the city in the 12th-century Altamira Castle which now holds Elche’s Archaeological Museum and the 17th-century Basilica of Santa María de Elche.

The palm grove, however, is the main attraction and you can’t spend 4 days in Alicante without seeing it. With the largest palm grove in Europe in the centre, the city of Elche has over 70,000 date palm trees providing shelter, greenery and of course, delicious dates around the city since the Romans first established it.

In the site there is a museum dedicated to the palm grove, a National Artistic Garden, and a Municipal Park, so it’s the perfect place to spend a warm afternoon, learning about the long history of the palm forest, the influences each culture has brought and the modern threats it faces.

The palm grove is free, however, the museum costs a few euros.

Los Arenales del Sol

A 20-minute drive from Alicante centre or an hour on the train will bring you for a delightful beach day in Los Arenales del Sol. A quaint seaside town, with everything you need for a relaxed day out including small shops, cafes, bars and restaurants on the large beachfront.

If you walk along the beach away from the centre, you’ll come across a large walkway over the beach which you can walk along and take in the views from an elevated point.

You can also walk inwards from the town and discover several quiet hiking trails around a lake and the Bunker del Clot de Galvany.

Alicante Salt Flats

Further South of the city of Alicante are the amazing salt flats of Santa Pola and lakes of Torrevieja and Torre la Mata.

You can drive for 20 minutes from Alicante centre or take an hour-long bus to reach Santa Pola, where you can walk around the huge salt flats spotting flamingoes and go to the Museo de la Sal y Centro de Interpretación del Parque Natural Salinas de Santa Pola to learn about the history of the salt flats and how the salt is collected and used.

If you have a car ( browse Rentalcars.com for options), you can then drive south for around 40 minutes to reach the small towns of Torrevieja and Torre la Mata which have enormous pink and green lakes respectively and make for great photos.

Where to Stay in Alicante

Hotel BH San Francisco – This 3-star hotel is perfect for those looking for a comfortable, mid-range place to stay in Alicante. They have lovely rooms available, a great location in the city and plenty of great amenities to ensure your stay is a great one.

Suites del Mar by Melia – This beachfront hotel is an excellent choice for those after a luxury stay in Alicante. They have a range of delightful, modern rooms on offer along with a lavish swimming pool and other great perks for guests, as well.

Balmis Plaza Apartments – If you’d like to have your own self-catering space while visiting Alicante, then these apartments are a great option. There are different fully furnished flats available, along with a great location for exploring the city.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Alicante hotels!

A trip to Alicante is perfect to explore the historic sites of the city centre and relax on the beach enjoying the Valencian cuisine, but however many days you spend in this beautiful city on the coast of Spain, you’re sure to have a great time.

Are you planning to visit Alicante? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Perfect 2 or 3 Days in Seville Itinerary

The Ultimate Gibraltar Day Trip from Malaga & Seville

A Guide to Lavapiés: Madrid’s Coolest Barrio

About Brittany Scott-Gunfield

Brittany is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Colchester, England, she is slowly but surely travelling the world as a digital nomad. She loves to hike around different landscapes and has a deep love for travelling around France (and elsewhere in Europe).

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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Alicante

Day trips from alicante.

• Alicante to Valencia
• Alicante to Elche
• Alicante to Bocairente
• Alicante to Guadalest
• Alicante to Altea
• Alicante to Villajoyosa
• Alicante to Novelda
• Alicante to Cullera
• Alicante to Salinas
• Alicante to Chulilla
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Charming villages: Villajoyosa & Altea

2. Private Tour of Vinalopó Castles and Wine Tasting

3. Half Day Private Tour in Elche and Santa Pola

4. Guadalest and Algar Springs Guided Tour from Alicante

5. The suspension bridges of Chulilla from Alicante

6. Villena and Winery Private Shore Excursion from Alicante

7. Bocairent Full Day Tour and Islamic Labyrinth from Alicante

8. Private Full-Day Tour to Alicante from Valencia with Hotel Pick Up

9. One Day Tour in Valencia from Alicante

10. Full Day Tour to Anna and Xátiva from Alicante

11. Half Day Guided Tour to Altea and visit to Chocolate Factory

12. One Day Tour in Cullera and Albufera Valenciana from Alicante

13. Experience the World Heritage City of Elche private tour

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Costa Blanca Guided Walk

A day at sea from Dénia or Jávea with Barbecue aboard the Catamaran

Full Day Classic Car Self Drive Tour on the Costa Blanca

Full Day Tour to Anna and Xátiva from Benidorm

Full Day Tour to Chulilla and Hanging Bridges from Benidorm

Full Day Tour Bocairent and Islamic Labyrinth from Benidorm

Mountain Bike Tour Font de la Mata

Culinary Demonstration and Gourmet Tasting Visit in Laguna Rosa

Tour of the old town of Xátiva from Valencia

5 Hours Guadalest and Altea Private Tour

Murcia Full Day Private Tour from Cartegena

What travellers are saying.

• Costa Blanca Full-day Off Road Tour
• Half Day Private Tour in Elche and Santa Pola
• Private Wine Tour to the Costa Blanca Wineries
• Guadalest and Algar Springs Guided Tour from Alicante
• Private Tour of Vinalopó Castles and Wine Tasting
• Withinexperience
• Alicante by Bike
• Alicante Charter Experience
• Hiking Alicante
• Alicante Tours 4 You
• Alicante Catamaran Aventurero

VILLAJOYOSA: The Best Day Trip from Alicante

James A. Smith - Chief Editor

Last Updated: January 4, 2024

Hey! How's it going? I'm James, a travel enthusiast who has explored the beautiful town of Villajoyosa. From its picturesque beaches to its rich history and vibrant culture, I am excited to share my firsthand experiences and top recommendations to make your trip unforgettable.

Located on the picturesque Costa Blanca, Villajoyosa stands out as the perfect day trip from Alicante, offering a delightful combination of scenic beauty and cultural attractions.

Easily reachable within a few hours from Alicante's city center, visitors can embark on a memorable tour by bus, venturing through the stunning landscapes of Spain. Villajoyosa enchants with its colorful houses, serene beaches, and captivating historic center.

Immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring the ancient castle, and indulging in the flavors of the renowned Costa Blanca cuisine, making Villajoyosa an unforgettable destination for a memorable Alicante day trip.

Most Recommended Thing to Do

Santa Barbara Castle

Top Choice Hotel

Hotel Hospes Amérigo

Our Top Choice Restaurant

Our Top Choice Bar for Nightlife

Best Time to Visit

Beautiful weather, bustling streets, lively nightlife, stunning beaches.

Average Temperature

Warm, Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers.

Transportation Options

Bus, tram, train, taxi, car, bicycle, scooter, walking.

Average Cost ($, $$, $$$)

My Top Recommendation

Don't miss the chance to soak up the sun on Postiguet Beach, where you can relax on golden sand, enjoy the sparkling blue waters, and savor a delightful picnic with stunning views of the iconic Santa Barbara Castle as your backdrop.

Start your evening by sampling delectable tapas at one of the many lively beachfront bars, and then dance the night away at the buzzing clubs that line the Explanada de España. The city comes alive at night, offering a thrilling extravaganza of music, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

What You'll Need to Bring

• Travel insurance
• Comfortable walking shoes

What Not to Miss

Explanada de españa, santa maria basilica, alicante old town.

• Playa del Postiguet

What to Avoid

• Crowded tourist areas
• Pickpockets
• Overpriced restaurants

Table of Contents

Alicante: Spain's Gem on the Costa Blanca

Alicante is not a city that often comes to mind when you think of winter city breaks. When people think of Spain’s southeast shore, Valencia will likely be the first city that they consider.

However, Alicante should not be overlooked and is worth visiting at any time of year. It is a must-visit city situated in the heart of the Costa Blanca, on the Mediterranean Coast.

Alicante is a popular destination for Spaniards and foreigners alike. It is the most visited seaside city by those residing between it and Madrid, particularly in June, July, and August. At this time, temperatures are at their highest, yet cooler and less aggressive than further inland.

Despite this, there are plenty of things to do in Alicante . The Old Town, for example, is one of the prettiest and most iconic in Spain. Its narrow streets, brightly colored houses, and excellent nightlife scene make it ideal for day trips.

History lovers will also appreciate its cobbled streets and the medieval Gudalest and Santa Barbara castle. Set on a hilltop, the castle boasts sweeping views of the entire coastline and the idyllic port city of Alicante.

Most people who venture to Alicante on holiday stay for around two weeks. They are generally beach lovers, craving sunshine and some of Costa Blanca’s best shellfish. But what they might not know is there are some great day trips from Alicante to enjoy as well.

Visit Villajoyosa: One of the Best Alicante Day Trips

Villajoyosa, known in Valencian (similar to Catalan) as La Vila Joiosa, and referred to by locals simply as La Vila, is a stunning, quaint, and uniquely special coastal city in the Province of Alicante.

Located north of Alicante, Villajoyosa boasts over 3 miles of beach. These include the main Platja Centre, which is lined with bars and restaurants. There are also dozens of smaller, private coves ideal for snorkeling.

This little fishing village has so much to offer, catering to anybody drawn to its beaches, gastronomy, or hiking trails. Explore the many highlights of this beautiful town on a day trip from Alicante. 

What to Visit in Villajoyosa

Let's take a look at things to do and places to visit in Villajoyosa during your day trip from Alicante.

1. Visit the Central Market

The market, or Mercado Central , is full of meats, pastries, fish, and fresh fruit and vegetables. Spend time wandering the stalls and taking it all in.

Here, you can enjoy a traditional breakfast of tostada de tomate, aceite, queso y lomo. This flatbread of tomato paste, oil, manchego cheese, and beef is the perfect way to start your day, washed down with a cafe cortado for coffee lovers.

A visit to the market is the best way to get a feel for the town, as locals shop and go about their daily lives. Villajoyosa is a truly Spanish town and epitomizes Spanish culture in this particular region.

It is worth noting that tourist numbers, particularly in the city center, remain at a minimum so brush up on your breakfast vocabulary before you travel!

2. Walk Through the Old Town

Explore one of the best-preserved and historic old towns in Valencia. Known for its breathtaking painted houses, old town walls, and hanging houses that overlook the river, it is worth taking your time as you meander through the streets.

Once located on this spot was the ancient Roman city of Allon, and to this day, there exist ruins of ancient Roman baths.

What's more, you can spend some time in the Church, located in the Plaça de L'Església. Climb its tower for stunning views of the town. During the Spanish Civil War, this church was apparently used as a garage for military vehicles.

Stroll down to Carrer Santa Marta to check out some amazing murals of the casas pintadas. These are the iconic painted houses of Vila Joiosa, juxtaposed just in front of the real things.

Exploring the old town of Villajoyosa is one of the best day trips from Alicante, offering captivating insights into its rich history. 

Be sure to check out the 18th-century fountain in Plaza San Pedro before you head to the beach.

3. Visit the Beaches & the Main Port

Head down to the Platja Centre, via the old town, and choose between a walk along the promenade through to the main harbor, or continuing to the Playa Estudiantes (if you are feeling adventurous).

Day trips from Alicante do not have to comprise visits to beaches, given the plethora of coastline around the city, but Villajoyosa does boast some of the region’s most stunning coves.

From Playa Estudiantes, climb the steps and follow the walkthrough to Playa del Torres. The views from the cliff tops are phenomenal, providing a 180-degree panoramic view (on a clear day) of Alicante, l'illa de Benidorm (Benidorm Island), and the Benidorm skyline.

Playa Estudiantes and Playa del Torres both have their own chiringuito (beach bar) where you can order tapas and drinks.

If you are visiting in the summer, why not take a boat trip to some of the other popular destinations along the shore, or book a private tour on jet skis to see Benidorm's Levante beach from a whole new angle?

4. Visit the Chocolate Museum

When ranking day trips from Alicante, Villajoyosa often gets the edge due to its famous and delicious chocolate. The Valor chocolate factory and brand was founded as far back as 1881.

Valor chocolate is now distributed to 50 countries worldwide, and a tasting session as part of the guided tour at the Valor Chocolate Factory will demonstrate why. The factory lies just minutes from the market.

Guided tours take place throughout the summer every hour in Spanish and English. If you do not fancy a guided tour but would like to sample the chocolate, visit the Chocolateria Valor on the main Avenida del País Valencià.

Not only can you taste the Villajoyosa chocolate, but you will be blessed with an amazing view of the coastline. The Chocolate Museum in Villajoyosa is one of the best day trips from Alicante, offering interesting insight into the world of chocolate. 

5. Go On a Little Further to Altea

For an unforgettable Alicante day trip, travel a little further to the picturesque city of Altea. Altea's lovely environment is enhanced by its whitewashed houses, tiny lanes, and stunning sea vistas. Explore the local stores, eat wonderful food, and take in the splendor of Spain's coastline charm.

Altea is one of the best towns in the Valencia region, located 60 kilometers from Alicante and about 20 kilometers from Villajoyosa.

It is ideal for day trips and can be tied in with a trip to the Canelobre caves, Villajoyosa, or Benidorm, located only a little further up the coast. While you will not be able to hit all of these locations in just one day, you can plan a route that incorporates one or two of these iconic stops.

Altea is famous for its beautiful blue tiles, and whitewashed houses. It also has a pretty square at the top of a steep climb. Once you have made it up to the Plaza de la Iglesia, you can relax with a drink and sample some local tapas and take in the beauty of Altea.

Moreover, from Altea, you can visit and climb the Calpe rock, known locally as the Peñon de Ifach. This hike takes around two and a half hours and is not recommended for children under 12.

You can even book a private tour that incorporates hiking the rock, visiting the town of Altea, and sampling the local gastronomy.

6. Go to Las Fuentes del Algar (Car Needed)

Swimmers and lovers of the great outdoors will love the Algar waterfalls. They provide an ideal top on your Villajoyosa day trip from Alicante and are a perfect place to visit for anybody staying between Alicante and Benidorm.

The Algar Waterfalls are part of a picturesque nature reserve, which comprises waterfalls, a hiking track, swimming holes, and numerous picnic areas. The city of Algar is also worth visiting for a couple of hours if you're taking a trip to the waterfalls.

Bear in mind that the only possible route is by car as these waterfalls are situated (as one might expect) high in the mountains.

Alicante day trippers have the fantastic opportunity to visit Las Fuentes del Algar, a stunning natural attraction just outside the city. With its crystal-clear pools and cascading waterfalls, it offers a refreshing escape for tourists exploring the beauty of Spain's Alicante region.

7. Try the Shellfish on the Main Promenade

Finally, when it comes to the best things to do in Villajoyosa, taking a stroll along the promenade is a popular choice. Some might say that this part of the coastline is Spain's answer to the Cinque Terre in Italy.

The promenade is a great place to take in the gorgeous azure waters, watch the flow of tourists and natives pass you by, and, of course, sample the local seafood from one of many well-reputed restaurants.

When in Spain, fried fish is a must. You can pair it with a refreshing cool beer or, in summer, a tinto de verano, which is red wine mixed with soda water or lemonade.

If you find a good spot overlooking the sea, you could spend hours picking seafood tapas in this gorgeous spot.

During your Alicante day trip, make sure to indulge in the delectable shellfish available on the main promenade. A treat for both locals and tourists, savoring the fresh flavors of Spain's seafood delicacies while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere is a must-do culinary experience.

How to get to Villajoyosa from Alicante

Villajoyosa is approximately 40 miles north of Alicante. The cheapest and easiest way to get from Alicante to Villajoyosa is by tram. You can take the tram from Central Tram station in the Alicante city center, or from a stop near its main beach.

If you are heading north towards Villajoyosa, the tram is easily the best option. Alternatively, if you are heading further south and inland (from Alicante to Murcia, for example) you will need to take a train or bus.

The tram in this part of Spain is incredibly cheap, running right along the coast. Just five euros will take you from Alicante to Benidorm, but Villajoyosa is not quite as far. In fact, it takes just an hour or so by tram and is even less expensive.

Alternatively, rent a car at Alicante airport and drive to Villajoyosa directly. A car enables you to visit numerous places near Alicante and take advantage of the various points of interest between Alicante and Valencia.

You can hit all of the best day trips from Alicante with a rented car and do it at your own pace. Moreover, with a car, you have the freedom to be spontaneous and divert from your route whenever you please.

Research bus trips from Alicante if you do not have a car and like the idea of an organized tour.

Summing Up Villajoyosa: The Best Day Trip from Alicante

When it comes to the best day trips from Alicante, you cannot do much better than visiting Villajoyosa. Explore the historic old town, eat the local food, and marvel at the colors of the iconic painted houses.

Tourists can explore this incredible place for hours and never get over its beauty and tranquility.

That being said, if you have the time and means, it is well worth looking into some of the other Alicante day trips, such as Altea, Benidorm, or the Canelobre caves.

While Villajoyosa is worth visiting, these other destinations are also breathtaking and worth visiting. See Spain at its most authentic and beautiful through these Alicante day trips.

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