Tourist Pages

Alicante is the Valencia region's second-largest town. Brimming with fresh projects, it has transformed itself in less than a decade from a seedy port to an attractive spot with a spirited, mainly Spanish nightlife. Unlike its coastal neighbours, it's a real town, living for much more than tourism alone. Of course, there is something to be said for wearing a track between the town's beaches and its bars, but don't neglect its excellent museums, and try a saunter in the evenings to soak up the feel of the place. Alicante's true charm is its individuality.

Alicante is one of the fastest-growing cities in Spain. Its economy is based upon tourism in the beaches from Costa Blanca coast, wine production, services and administration. It exports wine, olive oil, and fruit, and has light industries, including food-processing, leather, textiles, and pottery. Turrones (torrons in Catalan) —a honey and almond nougat—is a food specialty of Alicante.

The city has regular ferry services to the Balearic Islands, and an international airport is nearby. It is strongly fortified, with a spacious harbor. Amongst the most notable features of the city is its castle, the "Castillo de Santa Barbara", which sits high above the city upon a cliff. The most important festival, the Bonfires of Saint John, (Hogueras de San Juan) takes place at the time of the summer solstice, and they are declared of international touristic interest. Another well-known festival is Moros y Cristianos in any quarter of the city, such as Altozano or Saint Blase.