Alicante, Spain: The Sunny City of Costa Blanca

Alicante is a charming city on the Mediterranean coast, located in the province of Alicante, Valencia region, Spain. Known for its white sandy beaches, rich history, mild climate, and vibrant cultural life, Alicante attracts millions of tourists and is becoming an increasingly popular place for living and investment. Discover why this city on the Costa Blanca is perfect for vacation, relocation, or real estate investment.

Why Choose Alicante?

Alicante combines the atmosphere of a Mediterranean resort with a modern city with developed infrastructure. With a population of about 330,000 people, the city welcomes up to 2.5 million tourists annually. A significant portion of residents are expats from the UK, Russia, Germany, and other countries, making Alicante multicultural and hospitable.

Key Features of Alicante:

• Beaches: Playa del Postiguet and Playa de San Juan are ideal places for relaxation and water sports.
• Climate: More than 300 sunny days per year, mild winter (12–16 °C) and warm summer (28–32 °C).
• History and Culture: Santa Barbara Castle, the old town of Barrio de la Santa Cruz, and the Hogueras de San Juan festival.
• Infrastructure: International airport, port, shopping centers, and quality medical facilities.

History of Alicante: From Antiquity to Modernity

Origin of the Name

The name "Alicante" comes from the Arabic "Al-Laqant" or "Lucentum" (Latin for "bright city"), which reflects its sunny character and strategic location. The city was an important trading center even during the times of the Phoenicians and Romans.

Main Historical Periods:

1. Antiquity: Founded as the Greek colony Akra Leuké, Alicante became the Roman city of Lucentum, thriving through trade.

2. Middle Ages: Under Arab rule (8th–13th centuries), the city strengthened as a port. In 1246, King Alfonso X reconquered it during the Reconquista.

3. Modern Period: In the 18th–19th centuries, Alicante became an important trading and industrial center, especially thanks to wine and fruit exports.

4. Tourist Boom (20th Century): Since the 1960s, the development of tourism and Alicante-Elche Airport has turned the city into one of Spain's main resorts.

Santa Barbara Castle, rising on Mount Benacantil, remains a symbol of the city, reminding us of its rich past.

Alicante Attractions

Alicante abounds with cultural and natural attractions that attract tourists from around the world.

Santa Barbara Castle

• Description: Medieval fortress on Mount Benacantil with panoramic views of the city and sea.
• Features: Free entry, museum, and elevator for convenient access. Perfect place for photo sessions and learning about history.

Explanada de España

• Description: Picturesque promenade with mosaic pavement made of 6.5 million tiles, palm trees, and cafes.
• Features: Popular place for walks, concerts, and street festivals.

Barrio de la Santa Cruz

• Description: Old town with narrow streets, colorful houses, and cozy restaurants.
• Features: Perfect for getting acquainted with local culture and gastronomy.

MARQ Archaeological Museum

• Description: Modern museum dedicated to the history of the region from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages.
• Features: Interactive exhibitions, awarded European prizes.

Alicante Climate: Perfect for Living and Recreation

Alicante's Mediterranean climate makes it attractive year-round. The average annual temperature is 18–20 °C, with hot summers (28–32 °C) and mild winters (12–16 °C). There is little rainfall (about 300 mm per year), and more than 300 sunny days. The sea warms up to 25–27 °C from May to October, which is perfect for beach holidays.

Alicante Infrastructure

Alicante offers everything for comfortable living and recreation:

• Transport:

- Alicante-Elche Airport: 15 minutes from the center, serves millions of passengers annually.

- Trains: High-speed AVE train to Madrid and TRAM to Benidorm.

- Buses and Taxis: Extensive public transport network and affordable taxis.

• Medicine:

- Hospital General Universitario de Alicante: Large public hospital.

- Vithas Hospital Internacional: Private clinic with services in English and Russian.

• Shopping:

- El Corte Inglés: Large shopping center with luxury brands.

- Mercado Central: Historic market with local products.

- Plaza Mar 2: Modern shopping center with stores and restaurants.

• Education:

- Public Schools: Free education, including CEIP San Vicente and IES Figueras Pacheco.

- Private Schools: International schools such as King's College Alicante (British curriculum, €6,000–12,000/year).

- University of Alicante: Prestigious university with programs in Spanish and English.

• Gastronomy:

- Dársena: Restaurant with paella and seafood.

- La Taberna del Gourmet: Tapas bar with Michelin reputation.

- Cervecería Sento: Popular place for local dishes and beer.

Entertainment and Active Recreation

Alicante offers entertainment for every taste:

• Beaches: Playa del Postiguet for family recreation, Playa de San Juan for surfing and kitesurfing.
• Water Sports: Diving, kayaking, yacht trips to Tabarca Island.
• Festivals: Hogueras de San Juan (June) with bonfires, fireworks, and parades.
• Parks: El Palmeral Park (palm grove) and Santa Faz Natural Reserve for hiking.
• Nightlife: Bars and clubs in the El Barrio area and port zone, such as Marmarela Club.

Living and Investment in Alicante

Alicante attracts expats and investors thanks to affordable real estate (average apartment price €150,000–250,000), high quality of life, and multicultural environment. The city is perfect for families, retirees, and young professionals. Proximity to the airport and developed infrastructure make it attractive for buying real estate for rental or resale.

Why Choose Alicante?

• Affordable housing prices compared to Barcelona or Madrid.
• Mild climate and abundance of sunny days.
• Variety of schools and medical services for expats.
• Rich cultural life and proximity to other Costa Blanca resorts such as Benidorm.

Want to learn more about living in Alicante, relocation, or real estate investment? Contact us or visit our blog for up-to-date information!