Local Info & Town Hall (Ayuntamiento) Alicante

Alicante


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Alicante – the gateway to the Costa Blanca, and more than just a city to pass through on the way to the airport.

Alicante has a wealth of things to do and see, with beaches, shopping, nightlife, museums, a castle, the old town, modern shopping centres, shady plazas and narrow streets.

Originally of Roman origins, Alicante was later conquered by the Moors (still celebrated today at the famous Moors and Christians fiestas).  In 1249 Alicante was incorporated into the kingdom of Valencia, and later in 1490 was given city status.  It was a walled city until the late 18^th century, when the walls were demolished, allowing the city to grow to what it is today.

Alicante boasts a modern university, excellent road, rail and air links to the rest of Spain and is particularly famous for the bonfires of San Juan (hogueras de San Juan), held at the end of June.  This is one Spanish fiesta not to be missed and includes parades, fireworks, all night celebrations and ends when the bonfires are lit throughout the city on the Nit del Foc (night of fire).

Alicante isn’t all about city life – there’s a great selection of beaches, from the Playa de San Juan, north of the city, to the quieter Playa de Saladar in the south, with several between these two.  Alicante even has its own island – Tarbarca Island,  11 miles from the mainland, which can be reached by boat from the port.  Tarbarca is the only inhabited island in this region and has been designated a place of natural interest due to its clear waters.

Moving back to the main city, you can easily spend a day exploring the modern, wide paved streets, lined with bars and restaurants.  The Esplanada, alongside the port is also a great place to relax and wander, taking life at a gentle pace.  The path of wavy coloured tiles are this area’s landmark, dotted with palm trees offering shade and plenty of bars offering a welcome jug of sangria or a delicious Spanish coffee!

Or, for a taste of more traditional Spanish life take a walk through the narrow streets of the old town, known as Santa Cruz, or locally, El Barrio.  Here you’ll see everyday Spanish life mixed with tourism; old men sitting watching the world go by, ladies sweeping the streets and chatting while visitors stroll and observe.

One place not to miss on a visit to Alicante is the Castle of Santa Bárbara, which sits high on a rock 590ft above the city, and gives fantastic views of the Mediterranean, the city and surrounding countryside.  It’s a strenuous walk up to the castle, so there is a lift if you’re not feeling too energetic!

And of course there’s shopping! 

The main shopping area is located in the centre of the city, between the streets Rambla de Mendez Nuñez, Calle del Teatro, Calle Mayor and Calle Gerona. 

In Avenida Maisonnave there are a great number of shops selling clothes, shoes and other high street items.  This is where El Corte Inglés is located – Spain’s famous department store, selling everything from fashion to homeware.

Alicante’s main market is open every morning, from Monday – Saturday and can be found on Avenida Alfonso El Sabio.  There are also different local street markets on various days, dotted around the city.

Located on the outskirts of the city are several large shopping centres with bars, places to eat and cinemas.  See the links below:

www.panoramis.com

www.plazamar2.net

www.parquevistahermosa.com

www.carrefour.es/hipermercado/guia_hipermercados/gran_via.htlm

Plaza del Ayuntamiento 1, Alicante 03002

Tel: 965149100

www.alicante.es

Town Hall (Ayuntamiento)

Plaza del Ayuntamiento 1, Alicante 03002

Tel: 965149100

www.alicante.es

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