9 Days in Alicante: Exploring Art, History, and Beaches

Mariana Insausti

13 Jan 2024

Embark on a thrilling journey through Alicante's vibrant art scene, rich history, and stunning beaches. Discover contemporary masterpieces at MACA, marvel at the grandeur of Basilica of St Mary, and enjoy breathtaking views from Ascensor del Castell de Santa Bàrbara. Explore the mystical Canelobre Caves, unwind at Parc Lo Torrent, and immerse yourself in nature at Parc Lo Morant and Playa de la Albufereta. Visit the iconic Santa Bárbara Castle, relax at Playa del Postiguet, and wander through the enchanting Parc de l'Ereta. Delve into art at Gravina Museum and Bonfire Museum, and find tranquility at Parc El Palmeral. Uncover the secrets of Castell de Sant Ferran, soak up the sun at Playa de Mutxavista, and escape to the idyllic island of Tabarca. Finally, bask in the beauty of San Juan Playa, completing your unforgettable adventure in Alicante.

Trip to Alicante

Tours & Activities

Viator Tours

Day 1Art, History, and Panoramic Views

$88

MACA Contemporary Art Museum of Alicante

Large museum with a modern interior, offering permanent & temporary exhibitions of 20th-century art.

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

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$70

4 - 5 min

Directions

This 16th-century Catholic basilica features gothic Valencian style & an ornate baroque entryway.

10:00 AM - 10:45 AM

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$18

4 - 6 min

Directions

11:15 AM - 11:45 AM

•

Free

Day 2Mystical Caves and Serene Parks

$79

$ 12

Series of colorfully lit limestone caves with tours, a large vault & occasional music performances.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

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$79

35 - 42 min

Directions

Tunnel-like paths, water features & night lights in a striking landscaped park with a BMX track.

10:30 AM - 11:15 AM

•

Free

Day 3Nature's Retreat and Beach Bliss

$ 12

Landscaped park featuring a playground & an amphitheater, plus petanque, croquet & other games.

8:00 AM - 8:45 AM

•

Free

13 - 16 min

Directions

Chill local beach in a residential area for sunning & swimming, with palm trees & a playground.

9:15 AM - 10:45 AM

•

Free

Day 4Conquer the Santa Bárbara Castle

$44

City views spread from this hilltop, 9th-century Muslim castle with a history museum & guided tours.

8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

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$44

Day 5Sun, Sand, and Stunning Views

Sprawling, urban sand beach for swimming & sunbathing with a bi-level promenade, palm trees & cafes.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

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Free

12 - 18 min

Directions

City & sunset views are the draw at this park with seating areas, paths & a nearby restaurant.

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

•

Free

Day 6Artistic Treasures and Tranquil Gardens

$53

$ 12

Museum housing medieval to modern Spanish art, set in a splendid, 18th-century palace.

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

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$53

7 - 10 min

Directions

Museum with historical displays & objects relating to city's famed Bonfires of St. John festival.

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

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Free

12 - 15 min

Directions

Seaside recreational park offering a lake with boats, a BMX track, trails, waterfalls & palm trees.

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

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Free

Day 7Exploring Ancient Fortresses and Coastal Delights

$ 12

Remains of an early-19th-century castle, now serving as a lookout point with expansive city views.

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

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Free

30 - 36 min

Directions

Laid-back, sprawling stretch of sandy beach featuring palm trees, shallow water & access to bars.

9:30 AM - 11:00 AM

•

Free

Day 8Island Escape to Tabarca

$88

Waters around this small islet are famously clear & are protected by its marine reserve designation.

8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

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$88

Day 9Beach Paradise at San Juan Playa

Scenic stretch of white sand with hotels, restaurants & bars, plus beach volleyball & water sports.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

Free

Budget breakdown: $395 In total

Activities & Food:$350

Transport:$45