Getaways – Alicante, city of lights – Tourist tips
When Gene Hunt said he wanted to spend his retirement “sizzling in the sun like a hot dog” in Alicante, he was expressing the Christmas hopes of an entire generation. And while the Costa Blanca is teeming with sizzling Brits to this day, many more of them are tailoring their trip to explore the dynamo of Spain; its ‘city of lights’. In this overview, I’ll go over some of the top sights; some of the best places to eat and drink and finally propose a great and unusual excursion.
The Church of Inglesia de Santa María was built in the late Middle Ages on top of a Moorish mosque. The interior of the church is a treasure trove of art and sculpture. The Cathedral of Saint Nicholas of Bari is another beautiful church, its tall blue dome is an obvious landmark. The communion chapel is a masterpiece of ecclesiastical architecture and is well known in Spain. Anyone staying in Alicante hotels has all of this right around the corner!
The Santa Cruz district is located high on the hill above the cathedral. The area offers excellent views of the city and is itself very charming. The Chapel of Santa Cruz is built on the old city wall. Having climbed one hill, why not climb another and visit Lucentum? The settlement has only been partially excavated, but the remains of the walls and bathhouses give an idea of the orderly rhythm of Roman civic life.
There is no reason not to eat well in Alicante. Spaniards take their food seriously and all palates are well cared for. Fried fish and beer can be tasted at El Pescadora Cerveceria and Freiduria along with other specialties fresh off the grill. Calamari are a delight! Holidays in Alicante would not be complete with living the culinary life from a local point of view. La Rambla in the city center is popular with locals (always a good sign) and the place has a great atmosphere. The Calle Mayor restaurant menu is authentically Spanish and a good bet for tapas and other regional specialties. Calle Bailen is a Mexican place that offers a breakfast at a good price for only 2 euros.
A visit to the small island of Tabarca makes for an exciting excursion from Alicante. A ferry runs regularly from the city’s port to the island town of Tabarca, which is itself small, less than a mile long. The island is a nature reserve and a popular place for divers to observe the marine life of the Mediterranean. And if that sounds too active, there is always a beach!