Hotels in Alicante

Stay in El Barrio (the old town) for walking distance to the 16th-century Castillo de Santa Bárbara and the tapas bars on Calle Mayor; choose Playa de San Juan for beachfront apartments 6 km northeast; pick Centro around the Explanada de España promenade for mid-range hotels with harbour views. Most visitors stay three to five nights. Alicante-Elche Airport is 12 km southwest, around 20 minutes by tram (line 3).

Where to Stay in Alicante's Key Districts

El Barrio, the medieval quarter below the castle hill, suits travellers who want character accommodation and easy access to the MARQ archaeology museum. Centro flanks the palm-lined Explanada and the ferry port, where boats depart to Ibiza and Formentera in under four hours. Playa de San Juan, served by tram line 3, attracts longer-stay visitors and families who prioritise sand over sightseeing. Budget hotels cluster along Avenida de la Estación, a short walk from the main rail terminal.

Getting Around

Alicante's TRAM Metropolitano connects the airport, city centre, and Playa de San Juan on a single tram and light-rail network. A single ticket costs around €1.45. Renfe trains link Alicante to Madrid (Euromed/AVE, roughly 2.5 hours) and Valencia (1.5 hours). Taxis from the airport run about €20–25 by meter.

Practical Tips

• Season: July and August average 30 °C; hotel rates peak then — shoulder season (May, October) offers lower prices and calmer beaches.
• Castle access: A free lift inside the mountain runs from Postiguet beach to Castillo de Santa Bárbara; allow 90 minutes for the visit.
• Ferry: Book Baleària or Trasmediterránea sailings to the Balearic Islands at least two weeks ahead in summer.