Discover Alicante, a vibrant port city on the Costa Blanca, offering a beautiful palm-lined promenade, a historic castle (Santa Bárbara), lovely beaches, and a lively Spanish atmosphere for Irish visitors. Alicante is a bustling port city and a popular gateway to the Costa Blanca, but also a fantastic destination in its own right. Stroll along the Explanada de España, a beautiful marble-tiled promenade shaded by palm trees. Explore the impressive Castillo de Santa Bárbara, perched high above the city with panoramic views. Relax on Postiguet beach, enjoy tapas in the charming Old Quarter (El Barrio), or indulge in some shopping. Alicante offers a perfect blend of city culture, beach relaxation, and authentic Spanish experiences for Irish travellers.
Weather
Local Information
Plug Socket Type
Type C/F (European two-pin). Irish visitors need a travel adapter.
Currency
Euro
Time Zones
GMT+1 (1 hour ahead of Ireland in winter, same in summer).
Local Emergency Contact
112 (general emergency). Irish Embassy Madrid: +34 914 364 093.
Travel Information
Flight Time
Approximately 2.5 hours from Dublin to Alicante (ALC). Year-round flights from Dublin, Cork and Shannon.
Distance from Beach
All Costa Blanca resorts are beachfront or within short walking distance.
Do I need a Visa?
No. Spain is an EU member state. Irish citizens need only a valid passport or identity card.
5 Things to Do
Castillo de Santa Bárbara
This enormous hilltop castle dominates the Alicante skyline and offers spectacular 360-degree views of the city, coast, and mountains. Dating from the 9th century with later medieval and Renaissance additions, it's one of Spain's largest medieval fortresses. Access is free — take the lift from Postiguet beach or walk up the scenic path through the old town.
Explanada de España
Alicante's iconic seafront promenade is paved with 6.6 million marble tiles in a distinctive wave pattern. Lined with palm trees, café terraces, and ice cream vendors, it's the social heart of the city. The evening paseo here is a wonderful experience — locals dress up and stroll between the marina and the park.
Barrio de Santa Cruz
The old Moorish quarter climbing up the hillside below the castle is a picture-perfect maze of narrow streets, whitewashed houses with colourful flower pots, and hidden plazas. It's being beautifully restored and has a growing number of small galleries, tapas bars, and artisan shops. Best explored on foot in the morning or late afternoon.
MARQ Archaeological Museum
One of Spain's best archaeological museums, winner of the European Museum of the Year award. Interactive displays cover the region's history from prehistoric cave dwellers through Iberian, Roman, and Moorish periods. The Roman and medieval collections are particularly impressive. Allow 2-3 hours for a full visit.
Tabarca Island Day Trip
Spain's smallest inhabited island is a 1-hour boat ride from Alicante's harbour. A former pirate hideout, it has a tiny walled village, crystal-clear snorkelling waters, and excellent seafood restaurants. The marine reserve around the island means the underwater life is exceptional. Boats run several times daily from June to September.
Alicante Holidays, Costa Blanca — Castle, Beaches & Spanish City Life
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