Alicante City is famous for its miles of soft sandy beaches and breathtaking mountains, excellent weather, palm trees and attractions, it is a starting point for many destinations in the Costa Blanca. Alicante offers the life style that has everything you need, but it is small enough to make it easy to get around. Learn Spanish in Alicante for communication in this fascinating city.
Alicante will show you genuine city life, Spanish style, next to fine beaches and several unfortunately underrated museums. And, when the sun goes down, it has nightlife which alone is worth the trip.
History
After long periods of Iberian and Roman rule, Alicante was conquered by the Moors in AD 713. It became part of the great estate of Al-Andalus and new ties were established with the vast Islamic Empire. Alicante's name, Arabic for 'The City of Light', is one of the remnants from this period. The Muslim reign lasted until the 13th century when King Jaime I recaptured the city and made it part of his newly created Kingdom of Valencia.
Orientation
Lapping up against the south-western slopes of Monte Benacantil is El Barrio, Alicante 's old quarter. Here, in its narrow crooked streets, you will find some of Alicante's gems, whether they be museums, churches, restaurants, or nightclubs. Shadowing the harbour, between the bustling streets of Rambla Méndez Núñez and Avenida Doctor Gadea, is Explanada de España, the city's most popular promenade.
Explanada de España
Take a coffee at a terrace café, and revel in the views of the harbour along Alicante's prized Explanada de España. This emblematic promenade, composed of 6.6 million colourful marble tiles, attracts people of all walks of life who come to simply soak up the cheerful, easy-going atmosphere. No wonder it's one of Alicante's most beloved and characteristic landmarks!
Food
The freshest seafood, the most genuine paella, the tastiest turrones... Alicante's gastronomy is a delight for any palate. From modern and creative tapas to centuries-old Spanish classics, there are tons of specialties to try!
Weather
Warm, sunny days are abundant in Spain's appropriately nicknamed "City of the Sun." The weather is as close to heavenly as possible: summers don't get too hot, winters don't get too cold, and it doesn't rain more than 20 days a year! Learn more about Alicante's weather...
People
The sun, the sea, the atmosphere... it's no wonder Alicante's residents are notoriously happy, friendly, welcoming, and experts at enjoying life! You're sure to catch the infectious attitude of the 300,000 "alicantinos!"
