A sun-kissed port city on Spain’s Costa Blanca, Alicante serves up castles, beaches, and tapas with flair.
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Overview
Alicante, a captivating port city located on Spain's southeastern Costa Blanca, offers cruise visitors a delightful blend of sun-drenched beaches, rich history, and a lively Mediterranean atmosphere. Dominated by the impressive Santa Bárbara Castle, which crowns Mount Benacantil overlooking the city and harbor, Alicante boasts a long and storied past, influenced by Iberian, Roman, Moorish, and Christian cultures
Today, Alicante is a vibrant and modern city known for its beautiful Explanada de España promenade, its charming Old Town (Barrio de la Santa Cruz), and its bustling marina. It serves as a popular gateway to the wider Valencia region, but within its own limits, it provides ample opportunities for cultural exploration, culinary indulgence, and relaxed seaside enjoyment. A cruise stop in Alicante promises a taste of authentic Spanish life, combining historical intrigue with the inviting warmth of the Mediterranean.
Ascend to the magnificent Santa Bárbara Castle, perched atop Mount Benacantil. This vast medieval fortress offers stunning panoramic views of Alicante city, the harbor, the coastline, and the distant mountains. You can walk up, take a taxi, or use the convenient lift (elevator) built into the rock face.
Tip: The lift entrance is across from Postiguet Beach. Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the castle's various levels and enjoy the views.
Take a leisurely stroll along the Explanada de España, Alicante's iconic promenade. Lined with four rows of palm trees, its pavement is made of thousands of marble tiles forming a wavy, mosaic pattern. It's perfect for people-watching, enjoying street performers, and soaking in the Mediterranean vibe.
Tip: Find a shaded spot at one of the kiosks or cafes along the promenade for a refreshing drink or a snack.
Just steps from the city center and the Explanada, Postiguet Beach (Playa del Postiguet) is Alicante's main urban beach. With its golden sands and calm waters, it's an ideal spot for a quick swim, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the seaside atmosphere with the castle towering above.
Tip: The beach has public facilities, showers, and plenty of nearby cafes and restaurants.
Discover the charming and colorful Old Town (Barrio de la Santa Cruz), nestled on the slopes beneath Santa Bárbara Castle. Its narrow, winding streets, decorated with flowers, lead to picturesque squares, the Concatedral de San Nicolás, and the Santa María Basilica.
Tip: This neighborhood is quite hilly and involves many steps, but its quaint beauty and authentic atmosphere are very rewarding.
Delve into the region's rich history at the Archaeological Museum of Alicante (MARQ). Housed in a beautifully restored hospital, this award-winning museum presents thousands of artifacts from prehistoric times to the modern era, using innovative multimedia displays.
Tip: MARQ is consistently rated as one of Spain's best provincial museums. It's a short taxi ride or tram journey from the port area.
Savor the flavors of Alicante by indulging in tapas and local cuisine. Explore the area around the Mercado Central or the Old Town for authentic eateries. Don't miss arroz a banda (a flavorful rice dish), fresh seafood, and of course, traditional Spanish tapas.
Tip: Look for "Menu del Día" (menu of the day) for a good value lunch option. Pair your meal with local wines or sangria.
Aboard
MSC Sinfonia
From
Alicante, Spain
18 Sailings
Apr 25 - Oct 12, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
MSC Opera
From
Alicante, Spain
1 Sailing
Oct 7, 2026
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
MSC Opera
From
Alicante, Spain
15 Sailings
May 10 - Sep 27, 2026
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
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