Alicante
Colour, Culture, and Coastal Charm
Alicante, the lively capital of the Costa Blanca, is a Mediterranean city full of light, flavour, and character. Its Old Town (El Barrio de Santa Cruz) is one of its most charming areas—a hillside maze of narrow cobbled streets, whitewashed houses painted in bright colours, vibrant potted flowers, and traditional Spanish balconies. This historic heart beats with life, where you’ll find quaint plazas, local shops, and buzzing tapas bars that come alive at night with the relaxed energy that defines Mediterranean culture.
The city combines tradition and modernity seamlessly. Alongside its historical centre, Alicante offers wide boulevards, elegant shopping avenues, an international marina, and urban beaches like Playa del Postiguet, all within walking distance. Its waterfront promenade, the Explanada de España, with its iconic mosaic tiles and palm trees, is a symbol of Alicante’s laid-back elegance and one of its most photographed spots.
Culture and tourism
Castillo de Santa Barbara
Les fonts de Algar & Guadalest
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Towering above it all is the Santa Bárbara Castle, an ancient fortress offering 360º views over the city and sea. While modestly present on the skyline, it is a constant reminder of Alicante’s deep historical roots and strategic importance throughout the centuries.
Throughout the year, the city celebrates its rich heritage through popular events, the most iconic being the Hogueras de San Juan. Every June, Alicante bursts into colour and fire with monumental bonfires, fireworks, music, and tradition—an unmissable cultural spectacle that fills the streets with joy and community spirit. Adding to the city's maritime soul, the international Volvo Ocean Race sets sail from its port, underlining Alicante’s deep connection to the sea.
For nature lovers and weekend adventurers, just a short drive away you'll find hidden gems like the fairytale-like Guadalest Castle, perched dramatically on a mountaintop, and the Algar Waterfalls (Les Fonts de l’Algar), a lush, freshwater escape perfect for a day trip.
Whether you're drawn by its vibrant lifestyle, authentic Spanish charm, or prime coastal location, Alicante offers an unbeatable quality of life—perfect for both visitors and those looking to make this city their home.
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Restaurants
Nou Manolin
Alicante’s Iconic Open Restaurant: Where Tradition Meets Bold Innovation A true local legend since 1971, this restaurant has evolved through the decades while never losing its essence—and continues to ride high thanks to a loyal and ever-growing clientele. With over 40 years of gastronomic reinvention, Open boasts one of the finest tapas bars in all of Spain. Inspired by the legendary “Rincón de Pepe” in Murcia, its bar even influenced Joël Robuchon when creating his famous L’Atelier concept. Here, the menu is a celebration of premium Spanish ingredients: creamy Russian salad, outstanding croquettes, freshly carved Joselito Ibérico ham, local salt-cured delicacies, fried Santa Pola fish, seafood, and rice dishes that are made to be shared—and repeated. Upstairs, the dining room offers a more refined experience, but the heart of Open is truly in its vibrant bar. Just steps from Alicante’s Central Market, this open-kitchen concept embraces simplicity, honesty, and bold creativity. Chefs Javier Prados and Alberto Calleiros breathe new life into every ingredient with fearless innovation since launching the project in 2017—long before this culinary style became a trend. Signature dishes like the Catalan-style red tuna, the Iberian pork sandwich (“pepito”), or their bold take on the classic “gilda” are just the beginning. Daring creations like cuttlefish gnocchi with guanciale and burrata, or a dish of pork trotters, wild mushrooms, tiny shrimp, and pomegranate, take you on a culinary adventure. For dessert, try the “prepared orange”—or better yet, trust the team and follow their suggestions. Open is perfect for a dinner with friends, where you’ll want to order the entire menu. But for true food lovers, the real magic happens at the bar. Book a seat there—and thank us later.
Monastrell
Two Culinary Concepts in the Heart of Alicante In a beautifully renovated portside warehouse, Michelin-starred chef María José San Román brings together two dining experiences under one roof: La Cubierta, a casual rooftop restaurant with a fresh, seasonal menu sourced from her own farm, and La Encubierta, a refined fine dining space offering a creative tasting menu. At La Cubierta, enjoy modern Spanish dishes like blue cheese croquettes, lamb tartare, and innovative rice specialties, all in a relaxed open-air setting. For a more elevated experience, La Encubierta presents bold, elegant flavors through its curated tasting menu. With a focus on healthy, honest cuisine, house-made bread, and only extra virgin olive oil, San Román’s cooking reflects Alicante’s Mediterranean spirit. Paired with an excellent wine list and warm hospitality, Monastrell is a true taste of coastal living.
La Ereta
Fine Dining with Breathtaking Views Over Alicante Perched atop Santa Bárbara Castle, La Ereta offers one of the most spectacular dining settings in Alicante. Whether you go for lunch or dinner, the panoramic views of the sea, port, and city skyline are unforgettable—day or night. The slightly hidden access only adds to the charm once you arrive. But the real spectacle begins at the table. Chef Dani Frías serves beautifully crafted dishes that rival the scenery itself. His cuisine is a refined take on traditional Alicante flavors, with perfectly cooked fish, vegetables, and exquisite rice dishes—all rooted in local heritage and executed with precision and elegance. A well-curated wine list and warm, professional service complete the experience, placing La Ereta among the top restaurants in the city. For something more casual but equally delicious, Frías also owns Santa Bar, a relaxed eatery next to the Church of Santa Faz, just outside Alicante. There, enjoy a rotating chalkboard menu and don’t miss the creamy Russian salad, the San Juan-style Spanish omelette, or the crispy cod fritters—local favorites done to perfection.
El Portal
Teatro Bistró: Chic Vibes, Great Food, and a Lively Atmosphere in Alicante Led by Carlos Bosch, this stylish spot has achieved the rare feat of being lively yet allowing easy conversation—at least until midnight, when the music and energy pick up. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual bite or a full meal, Teatro Bistró offers a relaxed but vibrant ambiance perfect for socializing. Known as Alicante’s official Krug Champagne embassy, it’s the go-to place for everything from a sophisticated aperitif to a night out with friends. Chef Sergio Sierra crafts a playful, quality menu featuring standout dishes like the sardine sandwich, blending good food and great atmosphere in perfect balance. With a cozy setting of just a few tables and a buzzing bar where Alicante’s trendsetters gather, Teatro Bistró is a must-visit for those seeking a stylish yet welcoming experience.
Bar Manero
A Unique Blend of Tradition and Elegance in Alicante Once the "little brother" of El Portal, Bar Manero has grown beyond its origins, even expanding to Madrid. Located on the same street as El Portal in Alicante, this charming venue recreates an early 20th-century grocery store with a stylish fusion of a traditional tavern and a boutique bar. Its extensive wine list pairs perfectly with a gourmet menu featuring delights such as truffled Spanish omelette, grilled confit leek, and the irresistible torrija dessert. Hidden inside is the exclusive Club Manero Dom Perignon—an intimate chapel-like space to savor a wide selection of the iconic French champagne. Bar Manero stands as one of Alicante’s trendiest dining spots, combining history, sophistication, and top-quality cuisine.
Alma Cocina Viajera
A Hidden Culinary Gem on Calle Churruca Tucked away in the shopping galleries of Calle Churruca, this charming spot is a true local secret worth discovering. The menu changes regularly, always featuring specials like Japanese-Asian ceviche, BellyXO, gazpachuelo with small shrimp, or Iberian scallops—dishes that delight adventurous palates. With just six tables—three in the main dining room (which also serves as a private area), two in the hallway, and a bar turned into a special reserved seat—this intimate venue offers a unique dining experience. Chef Ernesto Frutos, a self-taught talent with experience in kitchens like DiverXO, leads the culinary team alongside Mary López. A major plus for gluten-free diners: over 90% of the menu is gluten-free, making it a perfect choice for those with dietary needs.
Castillo de Santa Barbara
Santa Bárbara Castle: Alicante’s Majestic Landmark with Panoramic Views
Perched high above Alicante, Santa Bárbara Castle is an iconic fortress offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city, Mediterranean Sea, and surrounding landscapes. Dating back to the 9th century, this historic castle blends rich cultural heritage with stunning natural beauty, making it a symbol of Alicante’s charm and history.
Living near this landmark means enjoying easy access to one of Spain’s most impressive historical sites, where visitors can explore ancient walls, charming gardens, and vibrant cultural events throughout the year. The castle’s elevated position also ensures spectacular sunrise and sunset views, perfect for those seeking a home with a remarkable backdrop.
Whether for history enthusiasts or lovers of scenic beauty, Santa Bárbara Castle adds a unique value to Alicante’s real estate appeal—offering not just a residence, but a lifestyle enriched by tradition and breathtaking surroundings.
Les fonts de Algar & Guadalest
Les Fonts de Algar & Guadalest Castle: Natural Beauty Meets Historic Charm
Just a short drive from Alicante, Les Fonts de Algar offers a refreshing natural escape with crystal-clear waterfalls and natural pools nestled in lush surroundings. This pristine natural park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike, providing a serene retreat where you can enjoy swimming, hiking, and picnicking amidst breathtaking scenery.
Nearby, the charming village of Guadalest is dominated by its stunning historic castle, a must-visit landmark perched on a rocky outcrop. The castle offers sweeping views over the surrounding valley and reservoir, combining rich history with spectacular landscapes. Guadalest’s quaint streets, artisan shops, and local museums create an enchanting atmosphere that attracts visitors and residents seeking authenticity and tranquility.
For real estate buyers, the proximity to both Les Fonts de Algar and Guadalest means living close to unmatched natural wonders and cultural heritage — ideal for those valuing quality of life, peaceful surroundings, and unique experiences.
Alicante’s Rich Folklore: The Night of San Juan, Fallas, and Hogueras
Alicante is not only known for its stunning coastline and vibrant city life but also for its deep-rooted folklore and lively festivals that bring the community together in celebration.
The Noche de San Juan (Saint John’s Night), celebrated on June 23rd, is a night filled with symbolic rituals and joyous gatherings. Along the beaches, bonfires—called hogueras—light up the night sky, and locals participate in the tradition of jumping over the flames. This ritual represents purification, leaving behind bad luck and inviting health, happiness, and new beginnings. The warmth of the fire and the sea breeze combine to create a magical atmosphere where families and friends share food, music, and dance.
Closely linked to Alicante’s festive calendar are the Fallas, celebrated mainly in Valencia but also enthusiastically embraced here. During this time, falleras—women dressed in traditional, colorful Valencian costumes—take part in parades and ceremonies, showcasing exquisite embroidery and cultural pride.
The Hogueras de San Juan (Bonfires of Saint John) in Alicante are the city’s flagship festival, transforming the urban landscape into a spectacular open-air art gallery with giant papier-mâché figures, fireworks, and street parties. It’s a time when Alicante truly shines, reflecting centuries of tradition, creativity, and community spirit.
For homeowners and investors, living in Alicante means immersing yourself in these vibrant cultural experiences—where history, folklore, and celebration enrich everyday life by the Mediterranean Sea.
The Volvo Ocean Race: A Prestigious Sailing Challenge
The Volvo Ocean Race is one of the most demanding and prestigious round-the-world sailing competitions, often described as the “Everest of the Seas.” It began in 1973 under the name Whitbread Round the World Race and was rebranded in 2001 when Volvo became the main sponsor.
The race takes place every three years, spanning approximately nine months, and covers around 45,000 nautical miles. Teams of elite sailors battle extreme weather conditions, navigating treacherous oceans from start to finish. The race combines intense competition with moments of breathtaking natural beauty, testing both human endurance and seamanship.
Over the years, many countries have participated, and winners have included teams from Sweden, the United Kingdom, and Spain. Notably, in the 2008-2009 edition, the Spanish team Telefonica Black delivered a strong performance, highlighting Spain’s growing influence in ocean racing.
The race has also had royal attention. King Felipe VI of Spain, an avid sailor himself, has shown support and interest in the event. His participation in sailing regattas and promotion of Spanish nautical sports has helped boost the sport’s profile nationally and internationally.
Alicante has been a key host city for the Volvo Ocean Race, welcoming the fleet with open arms and providing a spectacular backdrop for this incredible maritime spectacle. For property buyers, the race adds an exciting cultural and sporting dimension to living in this vibrant coastal city.
