Costa Blanca is one of the most beautiful regions in Spain.For those who want to explore more hidden Gems of Alicante, here is a guide to the region’s best-kept secrets.
Explanada de España: The Iconic Promenade
Alicante’s Explanada de España is not just a promenade—it’s an enchanting pathway that weaves together the city’s captivating past and vibrant present.
The Explanada de España is a maritime promenade that runs parallel to the port, from the Puerta del Mar to Canalejas Park and is one of the most popular areas in Alicante. La Explanada de España is also known as the «Paseo de la Explanada” and is one of the city’s emblems. It runs parallel to one of the port wharfs and is lined on both sides with rows of palm trees. The floor is decorated with 6.600.000 tricolor marble tiles forming a design with a characteristic wave effect mosaic.
Renowned Valencian architect José Guardiola Picó laid out Explanada de España in the early 20th-century. Running for over 547 yards (500 meters) the floor of the grand maritime promenade is adorned with a tri-color wave-like mosaic of some 6.5 million marble tiles, hemmed in by rows of towering palm trees and elegant street lamps.
Travelers may explore Explanada de España during a private or group walking tour of Alicante, making visits to historic landmarks such as the mountaintop Santa Bárbara Castle for a view of the coast, and architectural gems like the Casa Carbonell and Alicante Town Hall, finishing the day with a stroll along the scenic city port with a glass of enjoying glass of traditional Sangria.
Contemporary Art Museum: A Cultural Haven
Step into a realm where creativity knows no bounds at the MACA (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante), a true sanctuary for art enthusiasts. Nestled within a historic building, this museum stands as a testament to Alicante’s commitment to celebrating the vibrancy and innovation of contemporary art. Prepare to embark on a captivating journey that will ignite your imagination and challenge your perceptions.
One of the museum’s remarkable features is its ability to capture the essence of artistic movements and trends from different periods. Beyond the awe-inspiring artworks, the MACA offers a very rich program of temporary exhibitions and cultural events. These curated showcases often explore contemporary themes, societal issues, and thought-provoking concepts that push boundaries and ignite meaningful conversations. The museum becomes a meeting point for artists, scholars, and art enthusiasts, fostering a vibrant community of creative minds.
Mercado Central: A Culinary Adventure
Step into the vibrant culinary world of Alicante at the Mercado Central, a bustling market brimming with local produce, aromatic spices, and delectable delicacies. Take a sensory journey as you wander through the colorful stalls, interacting with passionate vendors and sampling an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and meats. Embark on a gastronomic journey like no other at the Mercado Central, a vibrant hub of culinary delights in the heart of Alicante.
As you navigate the labyrinthine aisles, you’ll encounter charming tapas bars and small eateries nestled within the market. These hidden gems provide an opportunity to rest your feet and savor the culinary wonders of Alicante in a relaxed setting. Indulge in a plate of freshly prepared tapas, bite-sized delights bursting with flavor, showcasing the diversity of local ingredients and traditional cooking techniques.
So, take your time, explore the vibrant stalls, and allow your senses to guide you through this culinary wonderland. Discover the flavors that define Alicante, and let the Mercado Central be your gateway to a world of gastronomic delights.
Castle of San Fernando: Hidden Historic Gem
Embark on a journey of discovery as you uncover the secrets of Alicante’s past at the Castle of San Fernando, a hidden gem nestled atop Mount Tossal. Far from the bustling crowds, this ancient fortress offers a serene escape where history comes alive. Prepare to be captivated by its well-preserved ramparts, ancient cannons, and breathtaking viewpoints that provide panoramic vistas of Alicante’s skyline and the picturesque surrounding landscape.
Visiting the Castle of San Fernando is like stepping into a time capsule, where the past and present converge. It invites you to explore, to imagine, and to reflect on the stories etched within its walls. As you descend from the fortress, take a moment to appreciate the hidden gem you have uncovered, and carry the memories of this extraordinary experience with you as a testament to the enduring spirit of Alicante.
Santa Cruz Neighborhood: Charming and Picturesque
Wander through the quaint streets of the Santa Cruz neighborhood, a picturesque enclave characterized by its whitewashed houses adorned with vibrant flowers. This charming district exudes a traditional Spanish ambiance, with narrow alleys, hidden plazas, and cozy cafes. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine streets, soak in the peaceful atmosphere, and discover charming nooks where you can unwind and experience the authentic local culture.
Santa Cruz is located at the foot of Mount Benacantil, next to Santa Bàrbara castle , and it’s one of the most authentic and traditional neighbourhoods in Alicante. It’s an area of lively, picturesque streets with beautiful white houses — many are decorated with eye-catching colourful tiles and friezes, each one different from the next and all extremely well-cared for. If you look closely, many of these houses have the name of the family that lives inside written on their walls. Throughout the year the residents decorate their façades and balconies with beautiful plants and flowers, giving the district a truly special charm.
Santa Cruz neighbourhood is in the heart of Alicante’s historical centre and it has several viewpoints with wonderful panoramic views of the bay, the port and Alicante city. You’ll soon notice that this district stretches up to the skies, so it’s a good idea to explore the neighbourhood in comfortable shoes because there are plenty of steeply climbing streets and steps to navigate.