Beautiful sea facing park in Alicante. El Palmeral ("the palm grove") is home to some 7000 palm…read moretrees. Great landscape design with wooden sidewalks, bridges, ponds, waterfalls and fountains. There are facilities like sport area with outdoor exercise machines, open air theater, toilets and a cafe. Quiet in winter on weekdays, great for walks, runs and exercising. Clean, well kept and free to visit. Great for a picnic. Plenty of free parking around

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.