According to Abbreviation Finder, Alicante is known to many Norwegians as a destination with lots of sun, nightlife and lots of good food. For many years, the city has been one of Spain’s important port cities, and with almost 350,000 inhabitants, it is certainly a small city to count. The city of Alicante is located on the east coast of Spain, and consequently has a lovely Mediterranean climate that makes it tempting to travel there all year round.
However, most tourists take the trip in the summer, as that is when the “southern temperature” really makes it tempting to take the trip to the beach. In winter it is somewhat colder, and you may need heat in the hotel room, even if it is suitably warm during the day. But Alicante can offer more than sunbathing on the beach and cheap alcohol – the city has many historical monuments and museums that make it exciting for those interested in culture and history.
Travel to Alicante
Getting directly to Alicante from Oslo Airport is rarely a problem. During the summer, there are daily flights, and several tour operators sell package tours here. During the winter months, direct flights are somewhat less frequent, but SAS has regular flights there at ticket prices that are not so bad. As is well known, Spain is a member of the EU, and consequently has the euro as its currency. At the time of writing, one euro corresponds to approximately eight Norwegian kroner.
The price level in Alicante corresponds to what is expected of a large tourist city. It has been many years since things were cheap in Alicante, and Norwegians will not experience it as particularly cheap here, even though most are somewhat lower than Norwegian prices. The city is otherwise safe to travel in as tourists, but you should as always be aware of pickpockets and scammers. Norwegians are not advised to drink tap water, but rather buy bottled water.
Hotels and restaurants in Alicante
If you have been to Spain before, you know what to expect from a tourist city like Alicante. Here you will find both modern, large and beautiful hotels with extensive pool facilities, but also some simpler hotels for those of you who stay little in the room or in the hotel area. You live the most expensive if you are going to live on the beach promenade, but on a general basis you can say that you can get a decent accommodation for a reasonable price.
As a real tourist town, the restaurants in Alicante know what Norwegians and other tourists like. They typically have varied menus that consist of everything from steaks to fish or pasta and pizza. Most fast food chains are also found here, as well as a number of more luxurious restaurants where both the price level and the service are better than in the typical tourist places.
Attractions in Alicante
Most Norwegians who travel to Alicante spend a lot of time on the beach, on a sausage boat along the beach or in the hotel pool. But the city has so much more than that to offer – including a rich history that can be seen through both buildings and museums!
San Juan Beach
Alicante has several beaches, but the absolute most beautiful and quietest is the beach San Juan. It is located about seven kilometers from the city center itself – in other words, a short taxi ride. Here you will find the best sand, the clearest water and the best restaurants, cafes and beach shops. Set aside at least one day for this beach!
The castle of Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara Castle is the city’s most famous landmark and historic building. It is perfect for those interested in history, and is dated as far back as the 15th century. In other words, it is a real medieval castle that for many centuries played an important role for the city. Its location on the highest point of the city also offers a fantastic view.
Terra Mitica
A short distance outside the center of Alicante is one of the most popular amusement parks in all of Europe. It has everything from traditional roller coasters constructed exclusively in wood, to family shows and child-friendly attractions. A must if you travel to Alicante with children.
Museums in Alicante
Alicante also has a great offer for museum goers. Start with the Archaeological Museum, where you can find a rich selection of antiques from both the Roman and Greek eras, as well as from several other parts of the world. The Museo de Bellas Artes Gravina is the museum for art lovers, with as many as 500 works of art from the Middle Ages to the present day.
Paintball in Alicante
It may not be the most typical thing to do on vacation, but paintball is very popular in Alicante. In fact, so popular that the center is open 24 hours a day, all year round! Maybe it’s a great way to end the day, whether you’ve used to playing paintball or just want to try something new on vacation. Our suggestion: Take the challenge!
