Alicante Port
You arrive in Alicante, a port city on Spain’s Costa Blanca, ready to discover the treasures this gateway has to offer. As your plane descends over the Mediterranean coastline, the cerulean waters and sandy beaches capture your attention. Once on the ground, the palm tree-lined promenade beckons you to stroll along the harbor.
Dominating the harbor is the Castillo de Santa Bárbara, a medieval castle perched atop Benacantil mountain, offering panoramic views of the city and sea. A short walk brings you to Esplanada d’Espanya, a mosaic-tiled promenade perfect for people watching over a café con leche. The narrow streets of the old town hide architectural gems like the Baroque Church of Santa Maria and Museum of Fine Arts.
With its strategic location, rich history, and natural beauty, Alicante has been an important Mediterranean port for centuries. As you immerse yourself in the city’s treasures, you discover why so many have been drawn to this gateway to the Costa Blanca. A cultural mecca awaits in this port oasis on the Spanish coast.
Alicante Port located just 20 min by taking the alicante airport taxi from Alicante airport.
An Introduction to Alicante Port
Gateway to the Treasures of Costa Blanca
Alicante port serves as the main access point to the treasures of Costa Blanca, Spain’s popular tourist destination on the Mediterranean coast. As one of the busiest ports in the Mediterranean, it receives over 4 million cruise and ferry passengers annually.
Upon arriving at the Alicante port, you will be greeted with an array of options to explore the region. You can join organized tours to nearby resort towns like Benidorm, Calpe and Denia or head to the picturesque Guadalest Valley. For beach lovers, the port provides easy access to some of the best beaches along Costa Blanca, including San Juan, Muchavista and Arenales del Sol.
The port is also a short trip from Alicante city center, a charming town with a rich history spanning over 7,000 years. Walk through the cobblestone streets of Old Town, visit Santa Barbara Castle which dates back to the 9th century, and see masterpieces by renowned Spanish artists at the Museum of Fine Arts.
Whether you seek a beach getaway, desire to immerse in Spanish culture or wish to discover the wonders of Costa Blanca’s hinterland, Alicante port serves as the ideal starting point. Its convenient location and wealth of transport links enable you to easily venture out and experience all that this picturesque region of Spain has to offer.
Top Attractions and Activities Near Alicante Port
As a major seaport in Spain’s Costa Blanca region, Alicante offers a gateway to several attractions and activities.
Exploring Alicante’s History
The Santa Bárbara Castle, perched high above the city, showcases Alicante’s long history. Built in the 9th century, the castle has served as an important defensive fortification for centuries. Its museum displays artifacts from the Bronze Age to modern times.
The Archeological Museum of Alicante also provides insight into the region’s past. It houses artifacts from local archeological sites dating back over 100,000 years. The museum’s collection includes tools, pottery, coins, and other artifacts representing the area’s diverse history.
Outdoor Activities and Natural Wonders
Alicante’s location on the Mediterranean Sea provides opportunities for outdoor recreation. The Postiguet Beach offers swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The scenic Explanada d’Espanya promenade is perfect for walking or jogging.
Inland from Alicante, the Elche Palm Grove, a UNESCO World Heritage site, contains over 200,000 date palm trees. The oasis has been cultivated for over 1,000 years and offers a glimpse into the agricultural heritage of the region.
The Santa Pola Salt Pans, another UNESCO site, has been producing sea salt for over 3,000 years using traditional methods. Guided tours provide a fascinating look into this historic industry.
From its centuries-old landmarks to outdoor wonders, Alicante and its surroundings offer a rich array of attractions and activities for visitors interested in the history, culture, and natural heritage of Spain’s Costa Blanca.
Useful Tips for Visiting Alicante Port
Visiting the port city of Alicante offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture. As the gateway to the Costa Blanca, the following tips will help you make the most of your time exploring Alicante Port:
Take a Walking Tour
The best way to immerse yourself in Alicante’s charm is by exploring its historic streets and plazas on foot. Walk through the Old Town, including stops at Santa Maria Church and Castello de la Santa Barbara. You’ll witness architectural wonders and panoramic views of the city along the way.
Visit the Museum of Fine Arts
This art museum houses paintings from the 14th century to today, including works by famous Spanish artists like Goya, El Greco, and Miró. Spend a few hours discovering the museum’s six centuries of art while also enjoying the Renaissance-style building that houses the collection.
Stroll Along the Beach Promenade
Alicante’s beach promenade, lined with palm trees, is a popular place to walk, people watch, and enjoy the Mediterranean scenery. Grab an ice cream or drink at one of the many cafes along the promenade and take in the views of Postiguet Beach, Castle of Santa Bárbara, and the port.
Shop at Mercado Central
Alicante’s main market, Mercado Central, is the perfect place to soak in the city’s vibrant culture while shopping for local goods. Open Monday through Saturday, you’ll find vendors selling everything from fresh produce and seafood to Spanish wines, cheeses, and other gourmet items. Even if you don’t buy anything, exploring the market’s two levels is an experience in itself.
Relax at a Beach Bar
End your day at one of the chiringuitos, or beach bars, along Postiguet Beach. Enjoy a cocktail or sangria while listening to music and watching the sunset over the Mediterranean Sea. The ideal way to unwind after a day spent exploring all that Alicante Port has to offer.
Conclusion
As you wander the bustling port of Alicante, take time to soak in the history and culture around every corner. From the impressive Castillo de Santa Bárbara perched high above the city to the narrow cobblestone streets of the old town, treasures abound. Don’t miss sampling authentic Costa Blanca cuisine at one of the many restaurants lining the port esplanade. Watching the sunset over the Mediterranean Sea with a glass of local wine in hand is the perfect way to end your day exploring this gateway to the treasures of the Costa Blanca. Though your visit to Alicante Port may be brief, the memories you make will last forever.