If you pull out a map of Spain and look on the eastern site of the country, you will see Valencia. Just south of that, a smaller, not as well known area called Alicante. To the south of Alicante is Murcia, and on its west and north are mountains. A trip to the east will take you right to the Mediterranean Sea. The Alicante region has been increasing in popularity because of travel sites within the province including Benidorm, Alcoy, Torrevieja, and Elche.

In the summer the area is flooded with tourists, about 6 million people take a holiday to the Costa Blanca area every year. It has been dubbed the best all around city in Spain for a reason. To get to Costa Blanca it is an easy drive from the Alicante Airport.

Alicante, Spain Climate

You can expect the same weather you would in most areas of the Mediterranean on your trip to this region. In the summer, the heat is intense, and the air is very dry with no rain to be found. Winters are equally dry, but much cooler, although you will likely not see it get cold enough to produce snow. The rain becomes a factor in the spring and autumn, with autumn being the most likely time to experience a rainstorm.

What to do in Alicante

By far the most popular features are all the beaches. There is not a summer day that goes by when there are not bodies all along the beaches taking in the endless sun and enjoying the sand and surf. Others appreciate a good locale to relax and take a stroll along the promenade, grab a bite in a sidewalk caf, or take a look for souvenirs that are being sold by the craftspeople along the waterfront.

Even duffers are drawn to this area. There are a number of golf courses to choose from with golf fees ranging from 35 to 80 euros to play. In the summer, this is a very popular pastime, so you will want to call extra early to make a reservation before you arrive.

If sightseeing is more up your alley, you will not be disappointed. There are a number of churches and cathedrals in Alicante. One of the most popular is the Concathedral of San Nicholas de Bari, which is a city landmark.

There is also a medieval fortress that should not be missed; it is the Castle of Santa Barbara. This fortress, built in the ninth century by the Moors, is said to be one of the biggest medieval fortresses in Europe. While seeing the castle from town is impressive, seeing the view from the castle is astounding! Inside the castle you will find artifacts that have been dated as far back as the Bronze Age, as well as a more modern art and sculpture gallery. For those with a little partying in mind, the place to be is Barrio Santa Cruz. While this is the older portion of the city, it is quite young in spirit. There are bars and pubs serving well into the night, and you can also take in some music from the area clubs.