A gorgeous park and walkway all in one…read more Most larger European cities have one. And they are usually one of the places I bookmark to walk and see. Long beautiful paved paths lines with trees and lush gardens. This Explanada did not disappoint. Just a block from the coast of the Mediterranean in the heart of Alicante, you strolled under a canopy of old tall palm trees on a 600 meter marble walkway that mimics the sea waves. Not a good stroll if you have had too much to drink. Passing several small flower gardens and the occasional fountain. The day I was there a small craft market has set up several tents along the walk. Another great experience to enjoy locally made crafts. Here is were I discovered an artist and purchased my watercolor of the town hall. If you veer inland just outside of the Explanada, there are a few cafes to enjoy a snack, coffee or other libation and the view. I highly recommend a stroll here or in any city that has a grand Espanade.

Featured in every guidebook, the Explanada de Espana really is the place to be. It's the focal…read morepoint of Alicante, the gorgeous walkway from one end of the harbour to the other. Locals and tourists alike all enjoy strolling along, dappled with sunlight streaming through the palm fronds. It's a stunning walk even if it is separated from the harbour and its separate walkway by a busy street. Lots of lovely cafés are along the esplanade, with excellent outside seating for a price. Five euro coffees are to be found along here, so beware of the tourist prices at the cafés or bring your own picnic from the Mercado Central down here and enjoy it on one of the many benches. A stroll along here is an essential part of any trip to Alicante!

If you are in the area, this is a must see. You are welcome…read moreto be adventurous and walk up the road or take an elevator. This 16th century castle overlooks all of Alicante. Great architecture, history and fantastic picture opportunities. Enjoy!

9th century Muslim castle atop a 170m high hill accessible by walking, lift (closed during…read morepandemic) or car (no parking during pandemic). The approach and descent from the hill is gorgeous with hilltop residences lining one side, and stairs/ramps on another. There is a restaurant up there with spectacular views at sunset but is currently closed due to the pandemic. The bar closer to the top is open serving ice creams and beer. Free admission. There are trees atop this fortress.

The Castillo de Santa Barbara is like a huge historic fort located right next to the amazingly…read morebeautiful ocean. The entrance to the top of the Castillo though is quite interesting. You have to get in a lift, then walk through tunnels, dungeons and bridges. When you get up there, you will see pretty well-maintained Castillo. It's pretty touristy, but the view overlooking the whole city from the top is quite amazing. Definitely a must-stop when you are in Alicante.

I've never been to a castle like this before in my life, there is so much to do up there ! At first…read moreI thought it looked boring but once I went up I didn't wanna go back down its beautiful especially going just at the sunset

In A Nutshell:…read more -Plaza Puerta del Mar is a great spot within Alicante to pretty much capture it's sights & sounds all in one spot. -It's walking distance to the shipping port, Central Market, a casino, many restaurants, shops & a great view of the majestic Santa Bárbara Castle. Overall, if you are traveling w/ friends you can use this spot as a rendezvous if you get lost or explore Alicante on your own.

" Great Views, Great Food, Great Plaza "…read more My wife and I visited the Plaza Puerta del Mar in Alicante Spain a few months ago and had a wonderful time. This area is great for view everything from people, to the harbors, to artwork, etc. This also has a cool Santa Barbara Castle and this area in Alicante is also a great place to stop for a drink or to grab something to eat. You can also walk over to the beach side and take a stroll down the board walk, watching all the beach goers tanning, playing volleyball, swimming etc. A very nice and interesting place to visit when you are in Alicante, Spain