If you’re spending your holiday in Catalonia, sooner or later you’ll start wondering where to go beyond the famous metropolis of Barcelona. Try leaving the crowds streaming toward the Sagrada Família behind you and discover a region full of surprising medieval contrasts. Girona, Spain pulls you into its story instantly and offers a completely unique atmosphere that the locals guard rather jealously. A real treasure hides around every corner here, and it absolutely deserves your attention.

This is a city that looks as if time stopped somewhere deep in the Middle Ages. The historic core is a fascinating labyrinth of narrow cobbled lanes, steep stone staircases, and hidden, picturesque little squares. Its raw medieval aesthetic naturally attracted the creators of the hit series Game of Thrones, so you’ll feel as though you’re walking through a real film set. The vast majority of these are ordinary public streets and squares, which you can wander entirely for free.

One huge advantage is the excellent transport links from every direction. The AVE high-speed train from Barcelona arrives here in just 38 minutes, so you can easily pop over even for a short day trip. You’ll manage to tick off the main sights in a single afternoon, but I’d strongly recommend lingering longer and ideally spending the night in town. The magic of the historic centre only truly comes alive after dark, when the tour buses leave and the lanes pleasantly empty out.

TL;DR

• Getting here from Barcelona: The AVE high-speed train whisks you from the centre of the Catalan capital in under 45 minutes.
• Best sights: The Cathedral of Saint Mary, the El Call Jewish quarter, and the iconic colourful houses rising right above the River Onyar.
• Game of Thrones: The city stood in for the free city of Braavos and the Great Sept of Baelor.
• When to visit: The best weather without scorching heat comes in spring or early autumn.
• Where to stay: The historic Barri Vell quarter is ideal, or the more modern Mercadal for a slightly quieter night’s sleep.
• Day trips: The city is a great base for exploring the cliffs of the Costa Brava and the surreal museums of Salvador Dalí.
• Tickets: For popular attractions like the Arab baths or the museums, it’s best to buy tickets online in advance via GetYourGuide.

When to visit Girona

Getting the timing right is absolutely key for a trip to Catalonia. The loveliest time to visit is undoubtedly spring and autumn, when temperatures sit at very pleasant levels. During April and May everything bursts into bloom and the city comes alive with local festivals. September and October bring beautiful sunny days, perfect for long walks along the walls and exploring the narrow lanes without breaking a sweat.

Summer, by contrast, can be very demanding and exhausting in this area. In recent years Catalonia has battled extreme heatwaves and historic drought. During the summer months strict water-use restrictions can even come into force, including bans on filling pools or limits on beach showers along the nearby coast. If you’re heading here in July or August, prepare for temperatures climbing well above 30 °C and crowds of tourists.

Winter, on the other hand, is very mild here and offers a completely different view of the city. Temperatures mostly hover around 10 to 15 °C, which is still very comfortable for sightseeing. The big advantage of the winter months is the half-empty lanes and significantly lower accommodation prices. Just don’t forget to pack a warmer jacket, because evenings can get rather chilly thanks to the damp coming off the river.

For the historic core alone, one packed day will do. But if you want to soak up the real evening atmosphere, it pays to stay at least two nights. The city also works as an absolutely perfect base for exploring all of northern Catalonia. From here you can comfortably make day trips out to the sea or into the mountains, so a week-long stay flies by in no time.

Where to stay in Girona

💡 Tip for accommodation and experiences: We love searching for places to stay on Booking.com, where the cancellation policies tend to be the best. Tickets, tours, and activities are worth comparing on GetYourGuide.

Choosing the right neighbourhood can make your whole visit immensely more enjoyable. The most enchanting part to stay in is undoubtedly the historic Barri Vell quarter, where you’ll have every sight literally around the corner. Accommodation here offers the unrepeatable atmosphere of old stone houses and romantic views. Just bear in mind that cars often can’t drive in, so you’ll be hauling heavy suitcases a little way across the cobbles.

If you prefer slightly more modern facilities and easier access by car, focus on the Mercadal district on the other bank of the river. This part is much flatter, full of great cafés, and you can reach the historic centre on a comfortable five-minute walk across one of the bridges. It’s the ideal compromise between accessibility, price, and proximity to all the main sights.

Accommodation prices vary a lot depending on the season and the exact location. I’d recommend sorting your reservation well in advance via Booking.com, especially if you’re coming during the spring festivals or summer holidays. A lovely experience is offered, for example, by the popular Hotel Històric right in the heart of the old town, which breathes history. In the more modern part you could try the elegant Nord 1901 with its lovely indoor pool.

Lukáš and Lucie recommend

Where to Stay in Girona

3 accommodations — hotels and other lodging options

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Hotel Històric

Popular hotel right in the heart of Girona’s old town, breathing history. Ideal location for sightseeing.

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Nord 1901

Elegant hotel with a beautiful indoor pool, located in the more modern Mercadal district.

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For families with children or longer stays, renting an apartment in the Eixample district makes sense. This area is very quiet, full of greenery and local shops, where you can buy fresh groceries at normal prices. You’ll also find plenty of parking spaces here, which you’ll especially appreciate if you plan to rent a car and head out on trips to the Costa Brava.

16 best things to do in Girona, Spain

Let’s take a look together at the most beautiful sights and experiences this Catalan city has to offer. Get your comfy shoes ready, because the historic centre is full of stairs and uneven stone lanes. Your reward will be views and an atmosphere you won’t forget in a hurry.

1. The Cathedral of Saint Mary and its famous staircase

The undisputed landmark of the entire city is the Cathedral of Saint Mary (Catedral de Girona), which towers majestically over the whole historic centre. This monumental building will amaze you at first glance, thanks to the incredibly photogenic Baroque staircase of ninety steps leading up to it. This very spot served filmmakers as the perfect set for the Great Sept of Baelor in the famous series Game of Thrones. Conquering all those steps takes a bit of effort, but the feeling at the top makes it worthwhile.

Inside the cathedral, a huge architectural surprise awaits — one you might not expect from the outside. It boasts the widest Gothic nave in the world, measuring an incredible 23 metres across. It’s actually the second-widest church nave of any kind, right after St Peter’s in Rome. The sense of vast, uninterrupted space inside completely absorbs you and makes you quietly marvel at the astonishing craft of those medieval builders.

Part of the complex is also a beautiful Romanesque cloister, which offers a quiet, peaceful refuge from the bustle outside. You can stroll beneath its vaults and admire the finely carved capitals depicting all sorts of biblical scenes. You can buy tickets on the spot or online, and the price often includes an audio guide that explains the rich history of this magical place in detail.

💡 Tip: If you want to photograph the staircase without the crowds, set an early alarm and arrive first thing in the morning. Around eight o’clock it’s usually completely peaceful here, and the rising sun beautifully lights up the whole ornate façade.

2. The El Call Jewish quarter

Right below the cathedral spreads the Jewish quarter known as El Call, one of the best-preserved in all of Europe. It’s an incredibly intricate maze of stone lanes that twist and climb up the hillside like some medieval labyrinth. The history of the local Jewish community reaches back to the twelfth century, and for a long time this was one of the most important centres of Kabbalah and Jewish learning on the entire Iberian Peninsula.

As you walk these lanes, genuine history breathes from every stone. The houses are crammed tightly together and the lanes are in places so narrow that two people can barely pass side by side. Notice the small details on the façades, the ancient wooden doors, and the little windows behind which a lively community once thrived. It’s exactly the kind of place where it pays to put away the map and simply let yourself get lost.

The atmosphere is especially captivating on autumn evenings, when mist settles over the old town and the lanes are lit only by old lanterns. Definitely don’t miss Carrer de la Força, which formed the main artery of the quarter back then and is now lined with interesting shops and small galleries. It’s right here that you’ll best appreciate just how enormously important this quarter was to the development of the whole city.

3. The colourful houses over the River Onyar

The city’s iconic skyline is made up of pastel-coloured houses that literally balance right above the bed of the River Onyar. These colourful façades in shades of yellow, ochre, and red form the city’s unmistakable calling card, and you’ll find them on every postcard. The houses mostly date from the late Middle Ages and were originally built directly on the remains of the old city walls that protected the town on this side.

The most beautiful view of this colourful splendour opens up from one of the bridges crossing the river. When the water is calm, the houses reflect beautifully in it and create the perfect composition for your photos. The palette of the façades is no accident either — the city has precise rules on which shades owners may use during renovations, in order to keep the riverfront looking unified and harmonious.

Although the houses look very uniform from the outside, inside they hide a labyrinth of corridors and extensions. One of them, Casa Masó, is even open to the public and offers a unique glimpse into early twentieth-century middle-class interiors. Visiting this house lets you see the river and city from a completely new perspective — specifically from the charming wooden balconies suspended over the water.

4. The Gustave Eiffel bridge (Pont de les Peixateries Velles)

Among the many bridges connecting the two banks of the Onyar, one stands out as truly unique. The red iron Pont de les Peixateries Velles was designed by Gustave Eiffel himself — and several years before he built his famous tower in Paris, no less. Its bold red structure sharply contrasts with the pastel colours of the surrounding houses, creating an interesting industrial touch in the middle of the medieval streetscape.

The bridge was built in 1877 and replaced the original wooden footbridges that spring floods often swept away. Thanks to its ingenious lattice design, the bridge is incredibly light yet strong, a hallmark of Eiffel’s engineering firm. A stroll across its wooden planks offers one of the very best views of the colourful houses along the river and the bed below you.

Interestingly, the bridge is for pedestrians only and to this day serves as one of the main arteries linking the historic centre with the newer part of town. During the afternoon rush hour it gets lively here, as locals head home from work and tourists stop for the perfect shot. Be sure to drop by after dark too, when the bridge is beautifully lit and the whole steel structure feels incredibly romantic.

5. The Arab baths (Banys Àrabs)

Just behind the cathedral you’ll come across the fascinating complex known as the Arab Baths. Don’t be fooled by the name, though — they actually date from the twelfth century and were built in a purely Romanesque style by the city’s Christian inhabitants. Their architecture was simply heavily inspired by North African and Moorish traditions, which gives them a thoroughly exotic and singular appearance.

The most beautiful part of the whole baths is undoubtedly the central changing room, or apodyterium. In the middle of this room sits a lovely octagonal pool surrounded by ornate columns, over which rises an impressive star-shaped dome. It’s through this star-shaped opening that sunlight pours in, creating a magical play of shadows and reflections on the water and the stone walls.

The whole complex is fairly small but incredibly well-preserved and finely detailed. You can walk through the individual rooms of varying temperatures, from cold through tepid to a hot steam bath, just as was customary back then. This place was also a favourite with filmmakers, so lovers of history and cinema will definitely get their money’s worth. Admission is very modest and the visit takes about half an hour.

6. The city walls (Passeig de la Muralla)

If you’re after the best panoramic views over the whole city, you have to head up to the city walls. The Passeig de la Muralla is a beautiful promenade running right along the top of the ancient fortifications that encircle a substantial part of the historic centre. These walls grew over time from Roman days through the Middle Ages and today rank among the city’s most popular attractions.

The walk along the walls is roughly three kilometres long and offers countless breathtaking views in every direction. On one side you have the jumble of old-town rooftops and the cathedral tower laid out below you, while on the other a view opens up over green hills and the distant peaks of the Pyrenees. Along the way you’ll come across several watchtowers you can climb for the best bird’s-eye photos.

Access to the walls is completely free, and you can get up there from several different points in the historic centre. The best time for this walk is late afternoon, when the sun slowly sinks toward the horizon and bathes the whole city in golden tones. In the summer months, however, avoid the midday heat, because there’s practically no shade on the walls and the stones can radiate enormous warmth.

💡 Tip: Start the walk at the Arab Baths and head south toward the university. This direction is far more pleasant, because you’ll avoid the steepest steps right at the start and the route will tend to slope gently downhill.

7. The Sant Pere de Galligants monastery

Right next to the walls and the Arab Baths hides the beautiful Benedictine monastery of Sant Pere de Galligants. This building is one of the most significant examples of Catalan Romanesque architecture, and its massive octagonal bell tower forms an unmissable landmark. The monastery was founded back in the tenth century, and its austere stone beauty instantly transports you a thousand years back in time.

This place, too, belongs firmly on the map of Game of Thrones locations. The monastery’s beautiful interior played the role of the Citadel in Oldtown, where Samwell Tarly came to train as a maester. The moment you step inside and see those mighty stone columns and the perfect symmetry of the space, you’ll instantly recognise those famous scenes. Today the monastery houses an archaeological museum that’s definitely worth a look.

Besides the church itself, don’t forget to admire the adjoining cloister. It may be smaller than the one at the cathedral, but it shines with incredibly detailed sculptural decoration on the column capitals, where you’ll find various mythological creatures and plant motifs carved in stone. The whole place feels incredibly calm and meditative, far from the worst of the tourist bustle on the main streets.

8. The Sant Feliu basilica

Before today’s vast cathedral was built, the Sant Feliu basilica served as the city’s main church. Its slender bell tower with its sheared-off spire is utterly unmissable and, together with the cathedral, forms the city’s signature silhouette from most viewpoints. The basilica was built outside the walls of the original Roman town, exactly where, according to legend, the city’s first Christian patrons were martyred.

Stepping inside, you’ll be surprised by an interesting mix of architectural styles. While the floor plan is purely Romanesque, the vaults are Gothic and the main façade Baroque, which beautifully illustrates how the church was gradually added to and altered over the long centuries. This historic blend gives the whole interior a very unusual and intriguing character that’s a pleasure to explore.

The basilica’s greatest treasure is a set of eight early Christian sarcophagi from the third and fourth centuries. These rare marble coffins were discovered during construction work and are now built directly into the walls of the presbytery. They’re carved with beautiful, highly detailed biblical scenes that are a genuine rarity within all of Spain and are admired by historians from around the world.

9. Plaça de la Independència square

When you cross the River Onyar into the newer part of town, your steps will surely lead you to Plaça de la Independència. This huge neoclassical square is lined with regular arcades and forms the true social heart of the whole city. It was built in the nineteenth century on the site of a former monastery and is named today in honour of the city’s defenders during the Napoleonic Wars.

Beneath the arcades you’ll find countless excellent restaurants, tapas bars, and traditional cafés. It’s the perfect place to sit down on an outdoor terrace, order a glass of good wine, and watch the lively local scene. The atmosphere comes alive especially in the early evening, when the square fills with families, street musicians, and friends gathering for dinner together.

If you get hungry, be sure to try the typical local specialities here. Among the vegetarian options, I’d recommend the excellent patatas bravas (fried potatoes with a spicy sauce) or pimientos de padrón (sautéed green peppers with salt). If you come in early spring, don’t miss the seasonal calçots — sweet spring onions roasted over a fire and served with a wonderful romesco nut sauce.

10. The Girona lioness (El Cul de la Lleona)

Every self-respecting historic town has its legend, and Girona is no exception. On Carrer de Calderers you’ll find a small stone column topped with a statue of a lioness, tied to a very specific and rather amusing ritual. The statue dates from the twelfth century, and according to an old legend every visitor must kiss the lioness’s backside if they ever wish to return to the city in the future.

This tradition is incredibly popular among tourists. To make the kissing easier, the city has even built small metal steps up to the statue, which you can comfortably climb. The original statue is now kept in the art museum for safety and conservation reasons, so on the street you’ll be planting kisses on a very faithful, detailed copy. Even so, it makes for a fun stop during your stroll.

Clusters of laughing tourists often gather around the lioness, photographing each other in this unusual act. It’s a very picturesque little corner in its own right, located just a short walk from the Sant Feliu basilica. And even if you don’t believe in such superstitions at all, it’s a nice tradition that’s simply an inseparable part of visiting this city.

11. Parc de la Devesa

If you need a break from the sun-baked stone lanes for a while, head to the huge Devesa park. This green island of forty hectares is the largest urban park in all of Catalonia and offers a perfect escape into nature. The park is famous for its majestic plane trees, of which more than two and a half thousand grow here, some reaching a staggering height of up to sixty metres.

These enormous trees were planted back in the nineteenth century and today create a beautiful green canopy that provides pleasant, cooling shade even on the hottest summer days. Locals come here to jog, picnic, or simply rest on the benches with a good book. The park is criss-crossed by wide sandy paths, ideal for long, romantic walks beneath the trees.

What’s more, huge open-air markets are held here every week. If you come on a Tuesday or Saturday morning, you’ll experience incredible bustle, as farmers from all around arrive to sell fresh fruit, vegetables, cheeses, and local crafts. It’s a great chance to buy authentic produce and experience genuine Catalan atmosphere among the locals.

12. The Art Museum (Museu d’Art de Girona)

Lovers of art and history definitely shouldn’t skip the local Art Museum. It’s housed in the magnificent rooms of the former Bishop’s Palace right next to the cathedral, which in itself promises a grand experience. The palace, with its majestic courtyard and beautiful halls, makes the perfect backdrop for one of the most important art collections in the entire region.

The museum’s collection takes you through art from the pre-Romanesque period right up to the early twentieth century. The greatest jewels are undoubtedly the vast collections of Romanesque and Gothic art, which include beautiful wooden altars, detailed sculptures, and old liturgical objects. Many of these artefacts were rescued from abandoned monasteries and churches in the surrounding Pyrenean valleys, which lends them enormous historical value.

Besides the exhibits themselves, the well-preserved palace interiors will amaze you too. During the visit you’ll see an old eighteenth-century pharmacy, an ancient palace prison, and a lavish throne room where the bishops received important guests. The exhibition is very well labelled and logically arranged, so even if you’re not exactly a die-hard art expert, you’ll spend a very pleasant and enlightening hour here.

13. Pujada de Sant Domènec

While exploring the historic centre, sooner or later you’ll come across the Pujada de Sant Domènec staircase. This cascade of stone steps is considered one of the most romantic spots in the city and regularly appears on the front pages of travel guides. The staircase is lined with old stone houses, and at its top stands the beautiful Baroque church of Sant Martí with its elaborately decorated portal.

What makes this place so special is the small arch that spans the steps and connects two houses on opposite sides. Right on the steps beneath this arch sits the terrace of the iconic Le Bistrot café, one of the most popular spots in town. Sitting down here for a coffee or an evening glass of wine and watching the comings and goings on the steps is an experience you really shouldn’t miss.

The whole staircase is also a very popular location for filmmakers and photographers. It featured, for example, in the hit film Perfume: The Story of a Murderer, and of course in the aforementioned Game of Thrones. During the May flower festival (Temps de Flors), the entire staircase transforms into a huge floral installation bursting with colour, drawing thousands of admirers from around the world.

14. The Museum of Jewish History (Museu d’Història dels Jueus)

For a deeper understanding of the importance of the Jewish community in this region, a visit to this museum is an absolute must. The museum sits right in the heart of the El Call Jewish quarter, on the site of what was once the last medieval synagogue before the expulsion of the Jews from Spain in the late fifteenth century. The location alone lends all the exhibits enormous authenticity and depth.

The exhibition guides you through the everyday life, traditions, and culture of the local Jewish community. You’ll see a unique collection of medieval Hebrew tombstones discovered on the nearby hill of Montjuïc (Jewish Mountain). The museum sensitively explains the significance of Kabbalah, the role of Jewish doctors and scholars, and also the difficult period of the Inquisition and the final exodus from the Iberian Peninsula.

The visit also includes access to a beautiful inner courtyard, where the ritual mikveh baths once stood. An audio guide is available in several world languages and is genuinely excellent, so I warmly recommend picking one up at the entrance. It will help you connect the historical facts with the specific places you walked through earlier in the quarter’s narrow lanes.

15. The Sant Daniel valley (Vall de Sant Daniel)

If you have more time in the city and want a break from the cobblestones, head just beyond the walls into the green Sant Daniel valley. This picturesque valley begins just a few hundred metres past the Sant Pere de Galligants monastery and is an absolute oasis of calm that tourists generally don’t reach at all. It’s a favourite outing for locals, who come here for weekend walks with their dogs or a jog.

The little River Galligants flows through the valley, with pleasant shady trails winding alongside it, lined with trees and small fields. The main goal of the walk is usually the namesake Sant Daniel monastery, which has operated continuously since the eleventh century and is still home to a community of nuns today. The monastery itself hides a beautiful Romanesque-Gothic cloister you can visit during set hours.

The route through the valley is very easy and flat, so even families with small children will manage it with ease. You can bring along picnic things and spend a peaceful afternoon in nature, all while feeling miles away from civilisation, even though the city centre lies literally around the corner. To return to town you can then take a slightly higher path, which offers lovely views over the surrounding hills.

16. Plaça del Vi square and the town hall

We’ll end our tour of the city on one of its most important historic squares, Plaça del Vi (Wine Square). This intimate, very elegant square surrounded by ancient palaces served for centuries as the main marketplace and centre of the wine trade — hence its name. Today you’ll find a beautiful arcade here with several pleasant cafés and shops.

The most significant building on the square is the Gothic town hall (Ajuntament), next to which stands the lovely city theatre. Notice the interesting details on the façades of the surrounding houses, from wrought-iron balconies to old coats of arms carved into the stone. It’s right here that all manner of civic celebrations are often held, human towers (castells) are built, and during festivals the atmosphere is incredibly lively and joyful.

Several important shopping streets branch off the square, where you’ll find both well-known brands and small local boutiques. It’s a great starting point for buying souvenirs, from traditional ceramics to excellent local cheeses and wine. End the day here with a great coffee, watch the passers-by, and let all your impressions of this beautiful medieval city sink in.

Where to go next from Girona

Girona is an absolutely ideal springboard for exploring other parts of Catalonia and Spain as a whole. If you have a car, I’d definitely recommend heading to the stunning Costa Brava coast, which lies just a little over half an hour’s drive to the east. Here you’ll find pine groves sloping down to the sea and hidden coves of turquoise water. Some of the loveliest stretches are around the town of Begur or the whitewashed fishing village of Cadaqués.

Art lovers really shouldn’t miss a trip to the nearby town of Figueres, home to the fascinating Salvador Dalí museum. It’s an utterly bizarre, dream-like building full of optical illusions, designed by the surrealist genius himself. If, on the other hand, the mountains call to you, head for the jagged peaks of the Montserrat massif, where the famous monastery with its Black Madonna hides and from where the views over the countryside are simply breathtaking.

Among the big cities, there’s of course the direct high-speed train to Barcelona, which you shouldn’t skip when visiting this region. If ancient history interests you, take the train south to Tarragona, where you’ll find a beautiful Roman amphitheatre right on the seafront. And if you’re planning a longer journey through Spain, you can take inspiration from our itinerary of the most beautiful places in Andalusia and explore Madrid or wonderful Valencia. Have a look too at typical Spanish food, so you know exactly what to order in the restaurants.

Frequently asked questions

If you’re dreaming of a Spanish getaway filled with sunshine and looking for the ideal combination of stunning beaches, rich history, and incredible food, Alicante Spain and the surrounding Costa Blanca coastline are guaranteed to win you over. This region on the southeastern coast of the Iberian Peninsula boasts the mildest climate in the entire country, making it a perfect destination for year-round travel. Today, I’m bringing you a detailed guide with exactly twenty tips on spectacular places and experiences.

I’ll show you how to easily get around between the charming towns dotted along the coast, where to find the most breathtaking viewpoints, and which hidden alleys are worth exploring. You’ll also discover why the local gastronomy is so celebrated and how to enjoy your holiday without unnecessary stress or battling through tourist crowds. Let’s dive into the secrets of the White Coast and start planning your next unforgettable trip.

TL;DR

• Santa Bárbara Castle: The iconic landmark of Alicante, offering the best panoramic views over the entire city and the open sea.
• Barrio Santa Cruz: A picturesque historic quarter full of narrow stairways, whitewashed houses, and colourful flower pots.
• TRAM coastal railway: The most comfortable and scenic way to travel, connecting Alicante with resorts like Benidorm, Altea, and Calpe.
• Costa Blanca gems: Don’t miss the hike up the Peñón de Ifach rock in Calpe or a romantic wander through artistic Altea.
• Tabarca Island: A former pirate hideout and now a protected marine reserve, easily reached by boat from the harbour.
• Mountain village of Guadalest: A fascinating castle complex perched high among the rocks with views over a turquoise reservoir.
• When to go: For sightseeing and hiking, choose spring or autumn; for a pure beach holiday, late June to early July is ideal.

When to Visit Alicante and Costa Blanca

The Costa Blanca coastline sits in a unique microclimatic bubble, shielded from the interior by a range of mountains. Thanks to this, the area enjoys more than three hundred days of sunshine a year, and winters here are incredibly mild and pleasant. It’s no wonder this spot acts as a huge magnet for digital nomads and Northern Europeans who flock here to escape the cold months.

If swimming and soaking up the sun on the beach is your main goal, the best conditions are from mid-June to the end of September, when the sea is beautifully warm. August is traditionally the hottest month and by far the busiest, so if you’re not keen on overcrowded beaches and inflated prices, it’s best to avoid it. Summer temperatures regularly climb above 30°C, which can be quite exhausting for a full day of sightseeing.

For an active holiday focused on hiking, exploring towns, and mountain excursions, spring (April and May) or autumn (October and November) is absolutely ideal. Temperatures hover around a pleasant 20–25°C, the tourist crowds thin out, and you can fully soak up the authentic atmosphere of the entire region.

Where to Stay in Alicante and the Surrounding Area

💡 Accommodation and experience tip: We love searching for accommodation on Booking.com, which tends to have the best cancellation policies. For tickets, tours, and activities, it’s worth comparing options on GetYourGuide.

When planning your trip, it’s key to think about what type of holiday you’re after. For a first visit and easy day-tripping around the area, the city of Alicante itself makes the best base, as it offers excellent connections to the airport and train station. I’d recommend looking for accommodation right in the centre or near Postiguet beach so that all the main sights and restaurants are within walking distance. You can conveniently book your stay through Booking, where you’ll find a wide range from small guesthouses to luxury sea-view hotels.

If you’re travelling with kids or looking for a buzzing nightlife scene, head to nearby Benidorm, which offers enormous resorts with pools and water parks. This city is famous for its superb tourist infrastructure and endless sandy beaches, though you’ll struggle to find an authentic Spanish atmosphere here. Benidorm is all about carefree fun and maximum comfort.

For peace-seekers and romantics, the clear winner is the little town of Altea with its winding alleys and boutique hotels. Accommodation here often comes with gorgeous clifftop views and a personal touch, which is especially lovely when travelling as a couple. Another excellent choice for slow tourism is Jávea, which tempts visitors with stays near some of the most beautiful hidden coves on the entire coast.

20 Best Things to See and Do in Alicante and Costa Blanca

Now let’s take a closer look at the most interesting places that absolutely deserve a spot on your itinerary. This list combines the best of history, nature, and modern entertainment, so there’s truly something for everyone.

1. Santa Bárbara Castle

This majestic fortress perched atop Mount Benacantil at 166 metres above sea level forms the unmistakable silhouette of the city. Santa Bárbara Castle is one of the largest medieval fortresses in Spain, and its history stretches back to the ninth century when it was founded by the Moors. Over the centuries it has undergone numerous renovations and today offers a fascinating cross-section of military architecture from different eras.

You can make your way up either on foot along winding paths through a pine forest, or take the convenient lift carved directly into the rock, located opposite Postiguet beach. Entry to the castle itself is completely free — you only pay a small fee for the lift. At the top, you’ll find sprawling courtyards, old dungeons, and remnants of artillery batteries that you can freely explore.

The main reason people come here, though, is the jaw-dropping panoramas. From the ramparts, you get a perfect 360-degree view over all of Alicante, the endless blue sea, and the distant mountain peaks in the interior.

💡 Local tip: Head up to the castle about an hour before sunset, when the sky turns incredible shades of pink and orange — it’s the perfect time for the most stunning photographs.

2. Barrio Santa Cruz Old Town

Sprawling just below the castle is the oldest and arguably most charming quarter in all of Alicante. Barrio Santa Cruz is a labyrinth of steep alleys and hundreds of steps, completely car-free, so you can enjoy total peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle. It’s a place where time seems to have stood still — and while you might feel an almost Andalusian vibe, you’re actually in the Valencia region.

The locals lovingly tend to their homes, which is why all the façades are a brilliant white, decorated with hundreds of colourful ceramic flower pots bursting with geraniums and climbing plants. Every door and shutter has its own distinctive shade of blue or green, creating the perfect backdrop for your holiday snaps. During your wander, you’ll also come across the small chapel Ermita de Santa Cruz, which offers yet another gorgeous view of the harbour.

Make sure to set aside plenty of time to explore this quarter, and wear comfortable shoes, because all those stairs can be quite tiring in the summer heat. After a challenging climb, you can reward yourself at one of the small authentic cafés tucked away in the lower part of the neighbourhood, enjoying an iced coffee or a refreshing lemonade.

3. Explanada de España Promenade

The heart of social life in Alicante beats along this iconic seafront promenade, which runs parallel to the harbour. Explanada de España is famous for its unique mosaic pavement, made up of an incredible six and a half million marble tiles in three colours. The wave pattern in red, white, and blue creates an optical illusion that’ll delight you with every step.

The promenade is lined with four rows of towering date palms that provide much-needed shade during the hot summer days and create a pleasant cool spot for resting on the benches. During the day, you’ll encounter plenty of street performers, painters, and stall-holders selling local handmade crafts — perfect for picking up some original souvenirs.

The Explanada is at its most magical after dark, when it comes alive with the traditional evening stroll. Local families and tourists alike come here for the so-called paseo — an evening walk combined with chatting and breathing in the sea air. On both sides of the promenade, you’ll find countless restaurants and bars where you can settle in with a glass of fine wine and watch the wonderful buzz all around you.

4. Playa del Postiguet City Beach

Right in the city centre, just a few steps from the promenade and under the watchful gaze of Santa Bárbara Castle, lies the main city beach. Playa del Postiguet offers nearly a kilometre of fine golden sand and a very gentle slope into the water, making it an ideal spot for families with small children and less confident swimmers.

Thanks to its strategic location, the beach is incredibly easy to reach — there’s no need for a lengthy journey, and you can pop in for a quick dip right after exploring the city. The beach holds a Blue Flag for cleanliness and quality of services, so you’ll find excellent facilities including showers, toilets, lifeguards, and sun lounger and parasol hire.

In the summer season, Postiguet understandably gets very busy, so I’d recommend heading here first thing in the morning when the sea is at its calmest and you can easily grab the best spot by the water. Along the beach, there’s another promenade packed with chiringuitos — typical Spanish beach bars — where you can cool down with a chilled drink or enjoy a light lunch with a view of the waves.

5. Mercado Central Market

If you want to experience the true soul of a Spanish city, always head to its main market. Mercado Central in Alicante is an architectural gem from the early twentieth century that blends Modernist and Art Deco elements, offering an incredible spectacle of colours, aromas, and bustling life. The building itself boasts a huge dome and a monumental staircase that leads you into a gastronomic paradise spread across two floors.

On both floors, you’ll find nearly three hundred stalls overflowing with fresh local produce. It’s the ideal place to pick up the finest ingredients for a beach picnic — whether that’s enormous fleshy tomatoes, fresh olives, aged cheeses, or fragrant bread. Vegetarians will be spoilt for choice with the fresh fruit and veg from local farmers, which taste nothing like what you’d find in a supermarket.

💡 Local tip: Don’t just come here to shop — make it a social occasion. Around midday, locals gather at the small tapas bars inside the market and in the surrounding streets, where they have their first glass of beer or vermouth accompanied by patatas bravas or a traditional Spanish omelette (tortilla).

6. Marina Harbour and Volvo Ocean Race Museum

Alicante has a strong maritime tradition and the modern harbour is a shining example of that. The Marina is an elegant zone full of luxury yachts, wide wooden piers, and modern leisure complexes where you can easily spend a pleasant afternoon. It’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll while admiring the moored boats and enjoying the refreshing sea breeze.

Right in the harbour, you’ll come across one very unique attraction — the museum dedicated to the toughest and most famous round-the-world yacht race, the Volvo Ocean Race. Alicante proudly serves as the starting port for this extreme competition. Entry to the museum is free and you’ll learn fascinating details about life as a sailor on the open ocean, try interactive simulators, and explore the insides of a real racing yacht.

In the evening, the harbour transforms into one of the nightlife hotspots. In the modern Panoramis complex and along the piers, dozens of stylish bars and clubs throw open their doors, with music playing into the small hours. Even if you’re not into wild parties, it’s well worth coming here for an evening cocktail and soaking up the gorgeous view of the illuminated Santa Bárbara Castle reflected on the water.

7. St. Nicholas Co-Cathedral (Concatedral de San Nicolás)

While wandering through the historic centre, you’ll come across an unassuming building that you might initially walk right past. St. Nicholas Co-Cathedral has a rather austere and simple Renaissance façade that deliberately conceals the riches within, so don’t be put off by the plain exterior — make sure you step inside.

Once you cross the threshold, you’ll be blown away by the stunning interior with a magnificent dome soaring to forty-five metres, which lets in soft natural light. The cathedral was built in the seventeenth century on the remains of an old mosque, and its most precious section is the Holy Communion Chapel — a masterpiece of Spanish Baroque brimming with ornate details.

Entry to the cathedral is free, but do keep an eye on opening times, as it typically closes for several hours over midday for the traditional Spanish siesta. The cathedral also shares its title as the main church of the diocese with the cathedral in neighbouring Orihuela, which is why it’s officially called a co-cathedral.

8. Basilica of Santa María (Basílica de Santa María)

Just a stone’s throw from Postiguet beach stands the oldest surviving church in all of Alicante. The Basilica of Santa María was built in the fourteenth century on the foundations of the city’s largest Islamic mosque, beautifully illustrating the turbulent history of cultural shifts on the Iberian Peninsula. Originally Gothic, the building was gradually modified and extended, so today you’ll find traces of various architectural styles.

The most striking feature of the basilica is its richly decorated Baroque portal, which resembles a sculptural work of art more than a typical church entrance. Inside, you can admire a beautiful golden Rococo altarpiece and imposing sixteenth-century organ. The whole space feels deeply intimate and mystical, especially if you visit outside peak tourist hours.

The area in front of the basilica also forms a small, quiet square that makes an excellent starting point for the subsequent climb into the alleys of Barrio Santa Cruz. The surrounding narrow streets are full of traditional cafés where you can enjoy an excellent coffee and soak up the local atmosphere far from the busiest tourist drags.

9. MARQ Archaeological Museum

If you think archaeological museums are just boring collections of dusty shards in glass cases, MARQ will quickly change your mind. This museum has won the prestigious European Museum of the Year award and offers an incredibly modern, interactive approach to the region’s history — entertaining even those who don’t usually have much time for history.

The exhibitions are divided into several themed halls spanning prehistory, Iberian and Roman cultures, and the Middle Ages. Thanks to brilliant audiovisual effects, holographic projections, and elaborate set designs, you’ll feel like you’ve genuinely stepped right into historical events. The underwater archaeology section is particularly impressive — you walk across a glass floor above ancient shipwrecks.

💡 Local tip: The museum often has free or reduced entry on Sundays and public holidays, so it’s worth planning your visit accordingly. While some labels are in Spanish, you can borrow an audio guide in several languages at the entrance, which will comfortably walk you through all the exhibits.

10. Playa de San Juan Beach

While the city beach at Postiguet is great for a quick dip, the real beach paradise lies just north of the centre. Playa de San Juan is a stunning stretch of fine light sand that extends an incredible seven kilometres all the way to the neighbouring town of El Campello. It’s one of the most beautiful and highest-rated beaches in all of Spain.

Thanks to its enormous size, you’ll never feel cramped here — there’s always plenty of personal space for your parasol and beach towel. The beach is flanked by a long promenade, perfect for a morning jog or an evening rollerblade. Facilities are absolutely top-notch, from numerous beach volleyball courts to a wealth of excellent restaurants and cafés.

Getting here couldn’t be easier — from the centre of Alicante, you can comfortably ride the coastal tram (lines 1, 3, or 4) in around twenty-five minutes. This means you can easily base yourself in the centre with all the cultural action and commute to this fantastic beach with its open sea and crystal-clear water during the day.

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11. Boat Trip to Tabarca Island

One of the absolute best experiences you can treat yourself to on the Costa Blanca is a full-day trip to the tiny island of Nueva Tabarca. This island was once a feared hideout for Barbary pirates and is now a celebrated marine reserve with crystal-clear water, offering the finest snorkelling conditions in the entire area.

You can reach the island on regular boat services directly from the harbour in Alicante — the journey takes about an hour and the sail along the coast is an experience in itself. The island is very small, barely two kilometres long, and there are no cars, so you can easily explore it on foot. You’ll find well-preserved fortifications, a picturesque village of white houses, and an old lighthouse surrounded by untamed nature.

Make sure to pack your snorkelling gear, because thanks to its reserve status, the marine life around Tabarca is incredibly rich and full of colourful fish. For lunch, you can head to one of the local tavernas for a traditional caldero — a one-pot rice dish — or enjoy superb vegetarian tapas overlooking the waves crashing against the cliffs.

12. El Palmeral Park

When you need a break from the sun-baked streets and the city buzz, head to this oasis-like park on the southern edge of Alicante. Parque El Palmeral is a vast area filled with hundreds of towering palm trees, trickling waterfalls, and ornamental ponds, offering much-needed shade and cool during the sweltering afternoons.

The park was designed for maximum relaxation — you can hire a small boat and paddle around the lake, or simply stretch out with a book on one of the many well-kept lawns. It’s also an absolutely ideal spot for families with children, as the grounds include several excellent playgrounds, a BMX track, and plenty of space for kids to run around safely.

You can easily reach the park by city bus or tram (San Gabriel stop) from the centre in just ten minutes. Entry to the entire grounds is completely free, and you’ll find plenty of picnic tables, so you can bring along fresh goodies bought at Mercado Central and enjoy a lovely picnic under the palms.

13. TRAM d’Alacant Coastal Railway

Getting around the Costa Blanca isn’t just a necessity — thanks to this special railway, it’s a full-blown experience. The TRAM d’Alacant network is a modern transport system somewhere between a tram and a commuter train, connecting Alicante with the resorts to the north and offering absolutely stunning views of the sea and cliffs throughout the journey.

While in the centre of Alicante the tram runs underground like a regular metro, once it leaves the city it transforms into a scenic sightseeing ride, with the tracks winding right along the coastline and threading through mountain tunnels. Line 1 will reliably take you to Benidorm, from where you can transfer to line 9, which continues north to towns like Altea and Calpe, all the way to Dénia.

💡 Local tip: Buy a day pass and turn the tram into your own hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus. The journey takes a bit longer than driving along the motorway, but you’ll skip the stress of finding parking in narrow old-town streets — and the views you’ll get as a reward are ones you’d otherwise have to hike to a viewpoint to see.

14. Calpe and the Peñón de Ifach Rock Hike

The town of Calpe, lying north of Benidorm, is best known for one of the most impressive natural landmarks on the entire coast. The Peñón de Ifach is a massive limestone rock towering 332 metres straight up from the sea, serving as a kind of beacon for the whole Costa Blanca and forming an incredibly photogenic landmark.

The entire rock and its immediate surroundings are designated a natural park, and if you’re reasonably fit and don’t suffer from vertigo, you can hike the trail all the way to the very summit. The route is split into two sections — the first follows a wide path to a tunnel blasted through the rock and is manageable even for families with children; the second section beyond the tunnel is more demanding, requiring sturdy footwear and caution as the path is narrow and secured with chains.

Your reward for the tough climb will be absolutely spectacular views over the entire coastline, both sandy beaches in Calpe, and on a clear day, you might even spot the island of Ibiza in the distance. Beyond the rock, Calpe also has the beautiful Las Salinas lagoon right in the heart of the town, where you can watch flocks of pink flamingos in the wild.

15. Altea: The Artistic Soul of the Coast

If there’s one place that consistently wins polls for the most beautiful town on the Costa Blanca, it’s undoubtedly Altea. This picturesque little town is renowned for its historic centre full of cascading whitewashed houses, crowned by a church with iconic blue-tiled domes that have become one of the symbols of the entire region.

Despite the tourist footfall, Altea has managed to preserve its bohemian soul and laid-back atmosphere. Its narrow cobbled streets are home to many painters, ceramicists, and artisans, so during your wander you’ll stumble upon dozens of small art galleries and independent boutiques. It’s the perfect place to pick up original handmade jewellery or beautiful ceramics.

The beaches here aren’t sandy but consist of smooth white pebbles, which means the sea water in Altea is absolutely crystal clear and ideal for diving and paddleboarding. In the evening, I’d recommend heading to Plaza de la Iglesia at the very top of the hill, where locals and visitors gather for dinner al fresco with views of the glittering sea below.

16. Mountain Village of Guadalest

About twenty-five kilometres inland from the coast hides one of Spain’s greatest historical treasures. El Castell de Guadalest is a tiny village dramatically perched among rock towers high in the mountains, instantly transporting you several centuries back in time. The only way to reach the old part of the village is through a unique pedestrian tunnel carved directly into the massive rock.

The main draw is the Castle of San José itself, which towers on the highest rocky pinnacle. From the ramparts and viewpoints, you’ll see an absolutely breathtaking panorama of the surrounding mountains and, below them, a reservoir with water tinted an incredibly vivid turquoise — a sight you won’t easily forget.

Another fascinating thing about Guadalest is its unusual concentration of quirky micro-museums. In such a tiny space, you’ll find a museum of miniatures where you can see the Statue of Liberty in the eye of a needle, a museum of salt and pepper shakers, and a museum of historic vehicles. Although it’s a very popular day-trip destination, just arrive early in the morning and you’ll have the winding streets practically to yourself.

17. Jávea (Xàbia) and Cala Granadella Beach

For those who embrace slow tourism and want to escape the high-rises, Jávea is an absolute revelation. This town is divided into three distinct parts: the historic centre inland, the harbour quarter, and the beach zone of Arenal, offering something for everyone while maintaining a wonderfully authentic and relaxed character without any mega hotel complexes.

The real treasure of Jávea, though, is its rugged coastline full of hidden coves surrounded by pine forests. Cala Granadella regularly wins votes as the most beautiful beach in all of Spain, offering a perfect combination of dramatic cliffs, pebbles, and crystal-clear water that practically begs you to go snorkelling or hire a kayak.

Beyond the beaches, it’s worth exploring the Ruta de los Miradores. This is a series of fifteen viewpoints along the coast, reachable by car, offering mesmerising views of jagged cliffs and the wild sea. It makes a brilliant afternoon activity when the sun eases off a little and you can take in the natural beauty with the wind in your hair.

18. Villajoyosa: The City of Chocolate and Colour

On the tram ride north from Alicante, the first town to catch your eye has a name that fittingly translates to “The Joyful Town.” Villajoyosa is famous for its iconic waterfront promenade lined with rows of brightly painted fishermen’s houses, which originally helped sailors navigate their way home from the sea. Each house is a different, incredibly vibrant colour, creating an absolutely fairy-tale setting for your photos.

The beach here is wide and sandy, and considerably quieter compared to neighbouring Benidorm. The town retains its deeply Spanish character and is an ideal place to enjoy traditional tapas in tucked-away streets and soak up the local atmosphere without hordes of international tourists. The local market also offers superb produce for lovers of quality vegetables and cheeses.

But Villajoyosa has another sweet secret — it’s the capital of Spanish chocolate. The famous Valor chocolate factory is based here and offers tours with tastings completely free of charge, giving you a peek into the history and present-day production of this treat — plus the chance to take home the best edible souvenir imaginable.

19. Benidorm: Entertainment and Skyscrapers

Neighbouring Benidorm is a phenomenon that reliably divides opinion, but it’s definitely worth seeing with your own eyes. With its unique skyline packed with high-rise buildings, it’s been nicknamed the European Manhattan and boasts the highest concentration of skyscrapers per capita in the world, creating a fascinating contrast with the surrounding mountains.

If you’re after top-notch infrastructure and entertainment, Benidorm won’t disappoint. It offers two enormous, immaculately maintained sandy beaches — Levante and Poniente — separated by a rocky headland with the Balcón del Mediterráneo viewpoint, which gives a stunning view in both directions across the bay. The city is packed with theme parks like Terra Mítica, water parks, and huge cabaret shows.

While you’ll struggle to find traditional Spanish culture here, for families with children or groups of friends seeking non-stop nightlife and a carefree holiday with guaranteed sunshine, it’s an absolutely perfect base. And if you bag a room on one of the upper floors of the skyscrapers, you’ll have a view that very few places can match.

20. Fuentes del Algar Waterfalls and Springs

The final tip takes us a little further from the coast, to a place where you’ll find the refreshment you’ve been craving during the hot summer months. The Fuentes del Algar nature reserve is located just outside the town of Callosa d’en Sarrià and offers a gorgeous setting of cascading waterfalls and natural pools filled with crystal-clear but fairly chilly mountain water.

A well-maintained wooden boardwalk and hiking trail guide you through the entire site. Along the way, you can swim in the crystal-clear pools beneath the waterfalls at several designated spots — an absolutely priceless experience in the scorching Valencian summer. The water hovers around eighteen degrees, but after the initial shock, it’s a fantastic way to cool off.

💡 Local tip: A trip to the Algar waterfalls pairs perfectly with a visit to the mountain village of Guadalest, as both are right next to each other. Head out in the morning to explore the castle, then swing by the waterfalls in the afternoon to cool down — creating the ideal full-day itinerary.

Where to Go from Alicante

If you have time left over or you’re planning a longer road trip around Spain, Alicante is a brilliant springboard for further adventures. Thanks to excellent high-speed AVE train connections, you can reach the capital in under two and a half hours, making Madrid an ideal destination for a long weekend. You can also head north to explore the nearby city of Valencia, or hop on a short flight to marvel at Gaudí’s architecture in the breathtaking Barcelona.

Many travellers combine a Costa Blanca visit with exploring the south of the country. If you’re drawn to the fiery south, dive into our guide to the 20 Most Beautiful Places in Andalusia. A little further along the coast, the laid-back Holiday in Malaga awaits, from where you can tackle the adrenaline-pumping Caminito del Rey trail or visit the famous clifftop city of Ronda. While exploring the south, don’t miss our Seville Guide to Andalusia, the Moorish treasures hidden in Granada, and the stunning mosque we write about in Cordoba: 15 Things to See.

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