For an authentic Spanish vacation, Alicante is an idyllic destination. Boasting a charming old town with cobbled streets and multicolored buildings, tourists will surely want to explore the place. You can explore this city’s 16th-century castle, Castillo de Santa Barbara, Baroque churches and cathedrals, and shopping destinations. It is also dotted with stunning accommodations, so knowing where to stay in Alicante wouldn’t be a gruesome chore. From guesthouses to nearby all-inclusive resorts, you’ll definitely find it here. This quaint coastal retreat also allows you to experience the beauty of the Spanish coastline with numerous day-trip options. If you are looking to get acquainted with underwater marine life, you can go snorkeling in Tabarca. You could also visit Europe’s largest maritime aquarium at Valencia. If blissful solitude is what you seek, head out to Villajoyosa or Calp. If you’ve been hyped, check out these top day trips from Alicante, Spain.
1. Torrevieja (from USD 27.09)
Torrevieja beckons with its sunny Mediterranean charm and vibrant coastal atmosphere. Located on the Costa Blanca in Spain, this enchanting destination offers a perfect blend of relaxation, entertainment, and natural beauty. Bask in the warm Mediterranean sun as you stroll along the lively promenade, lined with palm trees and bustling with street vendors and cafes. Discover pristine beaches with golden sands and clear turquoise waters, inviting you for a refreshing swim or sunbathing.
Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the bustling markets, where you can indulge in fresh produce, local crafts, and souvenirs. Indulge in delicious seafood and traditional Spanish cuisine at waterfront restaurants, savoring the flavors of the Mediterranean. For nature lovers, nearby natural parks and lagoons provide opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, and enjoying picturesque landscapes.
Torrevieja: Aquopolis Water Park Entry Ticket
2. Tabarca Island (from USD 91.0)
You can escape from the mainland of Spain into the Mediterranean Sea for some snorkeling fun. It is situated around 50 minutes away from Alicante. Sail in a catamaran for a day trip to the Isla de Tabarca, which is famous for its exotic marine life. Here, you can explore the azure waters to meet the underwater creatures. This trip includes snorkeling equipment, so you need not worry about anything.
Isla de Tabarca Sailing Tour from Alicante
Duration: 6 hours
3. Guadalest (from USD 569.0)
Situated 61.4 km (38.2 mi) away from Alicante, the ancient town of Guadalest was formed during the period of the Moorish occupation of Spain. This town’s captivating landscape has earned it the epithet of “The Emerald Jewel of Alicante.” Reached via a natural tunnel, this picturesque valley offers magnificent views of the Mediterranean coastline. Castillo de San José, a castle constructed in the 11th century by the Moors, is the centerpiece of this popular tourist destination. Art enthusiasts can explore the unique exhibits at Micro-Gigantic Museum.
Guadalest Private Shore Excursion from Alicante
Duration: 5 hours
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4. Valencia
The third-largest city in Spain after Madrid and Barcelona, Valencia is famous as a center for art. It is situated 167.5 km (104 mi) away from Alicante. You can explore the Baroque, Gothic, and Moorish architectures throughout the town. One of the examples of such marvelous architecture is the cathedral in the old quarter of the city. Rumor has it the fabled Holy Grail is hidden inside Valencia Cathedral. The 19th-century Bullring of Valencia brings to life the era of bullfighting in Spain. This city is home to one of the largest marine and aquarium parks in Europe. Valencia is also famous as the city where paella was invented.
5. Murcia
Murcia is located 81.4 km (50.6 mi) away from Alicante but it’s an easy day trip by public transport, especially by train. The rich history and vibrant culture make this city a coveted tourist destination. Set by the River Segura, the town still bears remnants of a wall built during the Arab rule. The main showpiece though is Plaza del Cardenal Belluga. The cathedral here is notable for its blend of distinct Baroque and Gothic architectural styles. The 18th-century Episcopal Palace, with its Rococo facade, is another gem.
Numerous other monuments and museums can entertain tourists, with unique insights into Spain’s art and cultural heritage. Also, the city comes alive at night, so you can enjoy a few parties while you are here.
6. Benidorm
No visit to Spain can be complete without exploring its famed white coastline, Costa Blanca. Benidorm is an embodiment of the beauty of this Mediterranean shoreline. Set against the backdrop of the stunning Sierra de Aitana mountain range, Benidorm’s clean seas and unpolluted air make it one of the healthiest seaside resorts in Europe. Wide sandy beaches such as Levante Beach and Poniente Beach can attract all kinds of travelers. Once a quaint fishing village, it is now known for its chic skyscrapers and thriving hotel industry. Its boisterous nightlife also makes it one of the top party places in the Alicante region.
7. Villajoyosa
Nestled 35.9 km (22.3 mi) away from Alicante, this relatively less-frequented resort town is known to have the whitest sand beach in Costa Blanca. The colorful fishing houses along the shoreline can offer tourists a picture-perfect view. The sierras of Aitana and Puig Campana shield it from the northern winds, gifting it a wonderful climate all year round. The Allon hot springs are a popular attraction, and the small palace of La Malladeta bears testimony to the city’s ancient Islamic history.
8. Altea
Spice up your travel to Alicante, Spain, by setting foot on Altea, which is famous for its glorious beaches and Old Town area. It is located 57.7 km (36 mi) away from Alicante. You can enjoy a walk along the charming cobblestone trail winding through the snowy white houses. It leads to Plaza de la Iglesia, where the blue domes of the church, Parish of Our Lady of Consuelo, dominate the cityscape.
The reconstructed 16th-century watchtower is another popular attraction. The palm-tree-lined beach promenade is swarming with restaurants and tapas bars. Another unique feature of this port is its location directly on the prime meridian.
9. Calp
Ancient Moorish architecture stands tall alongside contemporary European architecture, giving the town a unique ambiance. San Salvador, a Gothic-style hermitage, and the 18th-century fortified country house forming the hermitage of San Juan are well-admired sightseeing spots. Another iconic construction is La Muralla Roja, which is a castle-like building. The Roman archaeological site, Banys de la Reina, features rock-cut sea pools that can provide snorkeling opportunities. This erstwhile fishing village boasts of three of the most beautiful beaches in the province. It is situated 63.5 km (39.5 mi) away from Alicante.
10. Canelobre Caves
This karst cave is a favorite among spelunking enthusiasts passionate about exploring natural caves. Standing at a height of 70 meters (230 feet), the cavern looks like the vault of an original Gothic cathedral. It is often known as “Nature’s Sagrada Familia” due to its similarities with Antoni Gaudí’s celebrated church in Barcelona. A lofty, rocky column, the “La Sagrada Familia,” and a 100,000-year-old stalagmite, “El Canelobre,” are the most remarkable features. Moreover, the acoustics here are so outstanding that this place often turns into a venue for musical concerts. It is located 25.8 km (16 mi) away from Alicante.
Canelobre Caves
Address: Carretera Cuevas Canelobre, CV-776, 03111 Busot, Alicante, Spain
Website: Canelobre Caves
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 10:30am - 4:50pm; Sat - Sun: 10:30am - 5:50pm (closed on Mon)
Price: Adults: 9.49 USD; Children (5 - 14 years): 4.75 USD
11. Cartagena
A prehistoric city dating back to around 220 B.C., Cartagena is known for its many Roman ruins. History lovers from all corners of the world include this destination in their travel itinerary in Spain to view majestic ancient monuments. Casa de la Fortuna, a beautiful villa with extraordinary murals and mosaics, and a 1st-century-B.C. theater are the notable landmarks. There is an archaeological museum that exhibits bronze-age pottery and other archaic artifacts, giving tourists a glimpse into the city’s history.
Tourists can also enjoy guided tours at Palacio Consistorial. This city is located 127.7 km (79.3 mi) away from Alicante.
Make the most of your Spanish vacation
If before reading this article you were wondering if Alicante, Spain, is worth visiting, you might now have a solid answer after learning about these day trips. The boat tours, exotic islands, and mystical caves can surely enhance your vacation experience. If you are looking for travel ideas, this list of the top day trips from Alicante, Spain, can point you toward some of the region’s most sought-after tourist destinations.
Frequently asked questions about the day trips from Alicante, Spain
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