How to Spend 4 Days in Alicante: Relaxation, Food & Culture
Alicante, on Spain’s sunny Costa Blanca, is the perfect destination for relaxing by the sea, indulging in local cuisine, and wandering charming streets. I spent four days here, staying at Hotel Goya, and found a wonderful balance between beach time, exploring, and savouring the city’s famous tapas.
Whether you’re looking for a short getaway or a relaxed Mediterranean adventure, here’s how to make the most of four days in Alicante.
Day 1: Relaxing on the Beach
After arriving in Alicante, our first priority was soaking up the sun. Playa del Postiguet, right near the city centre, is ideal for a first beach day. With golden sand, clear water, and views of the Castillo de Santa Bárbara towering above, it’s the perfect place to unwind after traveling.
We spent the morning swimming and lounging, then grabbed a light lunch from one of the beachfront cafés. For those looking for more space, San Juan Beach a short tram ride away offers a longer stretch of sand and quieter areas to relax.
Day 2: Tapas and Culinary Delights
Alicante is famous for its €1 tapas bars, and exploring them became one of my favourite parts of the trip. Walking from bar to bar, we sampled dishes like patatas bravas, grilled seafood, and Spanish omelettes, all without breaking the bank.
Other local specialties worth trying include:
· Paella: Alicante claims one of the best varieties, often featuring fresh seafood.
· Turrón: A sweet almond treat, perfect for a snack or souvenir.
· Churros with chocolate: Ideal for breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up.
Hopping between tapas bars isn’t just about food—it’s about the social experience. Locals chatting, families enjoying meals, and the vibrant atmosphere make it a highlight of Alicante.
Day 3: Exploring the Streets of Alicante
After relaxing and eating our way through the city, day three was all about exploring Alicante’s charming streets.
· El Barrio de Santa Cruz: The old town with colourful houses, narrow alleys, and hidden squares. Wandering here felt like stepping back in time.
· Explanada de España: The iconic promenade, lined with palm trees and mosaic tiles, is perfect for a leisurely walk along the coast.
· Castillo de Santa Bárbara: A short hike (or elevator ride) to the castle provides panoramic views of the city and sea. It’s especially beautiful at sunset.
Even simply wandering the streets around our hotel, we discovered little cafés, artisan shops, and quiet corners that made Alicante feel intimate and welcoming.
Day 4: Mix of Relaxation and Culture
On our final day, we combined a little of everything: a morning swim at the beach, a late brunch at a local café, and some last-minute exploring. Strolling through the streets one last time, we soaked in the Mediterranean charm and relaxed pace that make Alicante so special.
For shopping, small local boutiques offered souvenirs and handmade items. For food lovers, a final tapas crawl before heading home was the perfect ending.
Practical Travel Tips
· Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall offer warm weather without the summer crowds. Summer is lively but busier.
· Getting Around: Alicante is very walkable. For beaches further from the centre, trams and buses are convenient.
· Budget Tips: Take advantage of €1 tapas, cook light breakfasts at your hotel if possible, and look for small cafés for affordable meals.
Food & Stay
· Hotel Goya: Central, comfortable, and budget-friendly. Ideal for short stays.
· Must-Try Foods: Tapas, fresh seafood, paella, churros, and local sweets like turrón.
Final Thoughts
Alicante is the perfect destination for slowing down and enjoying life by the sea. With golden beaches, delicious food, and charming streets to explore, four days were just enough to soak in the city’s relaxed Mediterranean vibe.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a couple, Alicante offers a blend of relaxation, culture, and culinary delights that will leave you planning your next visit before you’ve even left.
