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Alicante, Spain - Cruise Port Guide
Location
The cruise terminal in Alicante is newly constructed and well-organized. It provides complimentary shuttle buses to the Volvo Ocean Race Museum, which is just a brief two-minute walk from the beautiful promenade of Alicante. Alternatively, it is also possible to reach the promenade by walking directly from the ship, which takes about 15 minutes alongside the marina.
Along the promenade, visitors can find multiple cafes, restaurants, and the Volvo Ocean Race Museum. Located in the bustling Port Area, the museum offers an engaging and family-friendly tour, showcasing the 42-year history of the prestigious global sailing race. Admission to the museum is free.
The distance to the promenade depends on the docking location of your ship. Smaller ships typically dock within walking distance of the port gates, while larger ships often provide shuttle bus services.
The area around Alicante features remarkable beaches, with one located right by the port exit behind the Melia Hotel. Note that the hottest months in Alicante are July and August.
Watch a video tour of this port.
Monthly climate averages for Alicante Spain
The tourist office is located on Avenida Rambla Mendez Nuñez, 23.
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Sights
Situated in the heart of the Costa Blanca, Alicante holds a prominent position among the top tourist destinations along the eastern coast of Spain. The city's allure is enhanced by its numerous golf courses and the serene Mediterranean Sea. Nestled at the base of the Castle of Santa Barbara, a testament to the rich history of civilizations that have thrived here, Alicante possesses a captivating harbor.
The historic quarter, located below the fortress, hides a fascinating blend of religious and civil architectural treasures. Noteworthy among them is the iconic Explanada de España (Spain Boulevard), a popular gathering spot for locals. Alicante is renowned for its deeply-rooted traditions, exemplified by lively festivities such as the Moors and Christians celebrations and the Night of San Juan. Meanwhile, when it comes to culinary delights, Alicante takes pride in its diverse and imaginative use of rice in countless recipes.
The city boasts expansive stretches of beach, perfect for engaging in sports activities or simply basking in the sun. The newer section of Alicante offers a vibrant atmosphere with its array of cafes and shops, whereas the older district presents attractions such as the Church of Santa Maria and the Castle of Santa Barbara, inviting visitors to delve into its historical wonders.
Tours, excursions and transportation
Alicante is a wonderful destination for leisurely walks. One of its notable attractions is Castle Santa Barbara, a castle built in the 13th century atop a hill over 500 feet above Alicante. While there may not be a lot to do inside, it is definitely worth visiting for the breathtaking views it offers. To reach the castle, there is an elevator available near the port, costing €2.80. There is no entrance fee, but please note that lines for the elevator can be long on hot days.
For a convenient and comprehensive city tour, you can hop on the Turibus. This specially equipped bus operates from 10am to 6pm and can accommodate up to 80 passengers. With a ticket that is valid all day, you have the flexibility to hop on and off the bus as many times as you like. The Turibus stops at all the popular tourist sites, including Plaza del Mar, Archaeological Museum, Santa Barbara Castle, Central Market, Luceros, Renfe Station, Maisonnave (the shopping area), the Theatre, and the Rambla. The bus provides maps, pamphlets about Alicante's history and attractions, and offers a recorded guided tour in three languages. Please note that the Turibus usually doesn't operate in winter, except when a cruise ship is in port. The ticket price is €10, and the frequency of the bus during the stay of docked cruise ships in Alicante is every 30 minutes.
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Nearby destinations
Elche, the capital of the Bajo Vinalopó region in Alicante, boasts a captivating historic quarter that preserves traces of its Muslim heritage and Baroque grandeur. The renowned palm tree grove, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, enhances the region's allure. Noteworthy are two internationally acclaimed celebrations, "Domingo de Ramos" (Palm Sunday) and The Mystery of Elche, both declared of International Tourist Interest. UNESCO has honored the Festa d'Elx (Festival of Elche) as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. Elche stands out for its diverse nature reserves, charming coastal towns, and distinguished gastronomy.
About 65km (40 miles) north of Alicante, in the mountainous terrain, lies Guadalest, reachable within approximately one and a half hours by car. The journey offers a choice between a direct yet less captivating main road or a more scenic route. Guadalest, apart from its picturesque surroundings, features a couple of intriguing small museums, making it a compelling destination.
For a delightful day trip, consider a visit to Isla de Tabarca, situated 15km to 20km south of Alicante. The boat ride itself becomes an enjoyable part of the experience. During the summer, daily boats connect Alicante and Torrevieja to the island, with less frequent sailings available throughout the year. The island promises a pleasant escape, combining the allure of the journey with its unique charm.
Shopping and food
The Rambla de Méndez Núñez stands as the quintessential shopping district in the city, offering a dynamic street to explore that provides an array of shops and a glimpse into everyday life in Alicante. Nestled between The Rambla and Avenida de Frederico Soto, the streets are adorned with independently owned shops, interspersed with inviting café bars and restaurants. This bustling area is a treasure trove for those seeking shoes, jewelry, fashionable clothing, and home decor items.
Alicante's rice dishes are renowned for their rich and diverse flavors. Drawing from the bounty of the sea, fish takes center stage, presented in a myriad of delectable ways. The region's countryside contributes incomparable fruits and vegetables, enhancing the culinary experience. Additionally, the baked goods are a true delight, with "turrones" standing out as a particularly exceptional treat.
Other information
Currency: Euro.
Emergency number: 112. The service is available in Spanish and, in some tourist areas, assistance is also provided in English, French, and German.
Language: Spanish serves as the official language across the entirety of Spain. Nevertheless, other languages coexist alongside Spanish in specific regions of the country.
Opening hours
The typical operating hours for shops and businesses are Monday through Saturday, spanning from 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM and then from 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM.
Larger shopping centers and department stores maintain uninterrupted hours from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM, with occasional Sunday openings.
During the high season in coastal cities, it's common for shops to extend their hours well beyond 10:00 PM.
Pharmacies generally open from 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM and again from 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM. However, in major cities, 24-hour pharmacies are available, and their late-hour schedules are published in newspapers and displayed at all pharmacies, following a rotating schedule.
