(Travel Blog)

The most friendly city in Spain – this is how tourists describe Alicante. It really has a surprisingly welcoming atmosphere. It is interesting, fun and warm at almost any time of the year city.

The Greeks called this city Akra Leuké (from the Greek – “white peak”) and the Romans later called it Lucentum (“city of the bright light”). It is a beautiful city, surrounded on all sides by hills and with access to the sea. After the conquest of its Moors, they transformed the city into a large port and began to call it al-Laqant, which later formed a modern name – Alicante.

There are so many places in the city for which it is worthwhile to postpone your vacation on the beach and walk the ancient streets. For example, the fortress of Santa Barbara (Castillo de Santa Bárbara).

The fortress of Santa Barbara (Castillo de Santa Bárbara) is one of the largest medieval fortresses in Spain. It was built during the Arab rule, and then rebuilt and upgraded at different times by the French and Spaniards. The fortress combines several architectural styles. It is also worth noting its good location – at the summit of Mount Benacantil (166 meters above sea level). Visitors to the fortress enjoy the best panoramas of the city. It is possible to climb here on a paid lift built into the hill, but you will not have to pay for the entrance to the territory of the building.

You should visit the local Museum of Contemporary Art – MACA (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante). A large collection of paintings and sculptures is assembled in his halls, including works by Salvador Dali and Pablo Picasso. A separate plus is that admission to the museum is free.

A calling card of the city and one of the most popular attractions is the Explanada de España alley. A wide walkway runs along the waterfront and is completely mosaic-like, made of approximately 6.5 million marble pieces. Palm trees and flower beds are planted on either side of it, and whimsical sculptures can be seen on the lawns.

The most friendly city in Spain – this is how tourists describe Alicante. And I totally agree with them! Exciting nightlife, great shopping and amazing dinner around the marina for example… In short, Alicante is perfect for a short city break or family holiday. Ask any Alicantinoa (locals) and you’d know why they take a great sense of pride for having been born and raised in the port in Spain on the Costa Blanca in Alicante.

P.S. One word of caution: like most everywhere in Spain, the Spanish eat out late, so if you go to any restaurants in Alicante before 9 pm you’re likely to be the only one(s) in the place. Not a problem you might think, but it can be. At 8.30 pm I once arrived even before the chef had!