Virgin Voyages' guide to Alicante, Spain
Settled upon the stunning southeastern coast of Spain, Alicante’s historical touches like palatial castles and cobblestone streets are perfectly complemented by bustling bazaars, pristine beaches, and boundless picturesque vistas.
Where Medieval Meets Modern
Perfectly set on the crystalline waters of Spain’s Costa Blanca, Alicante is a picturesque port city featuring golden beaches, towering castles, Medieval magic – and enough tapas to make you want to consider staying indefinitely. Spend your time here taking in incredible landmarks like the Santa Bárbara Castle, dramatically perched atop Mount Benacantil, where panoramic views stretch all the way from the terracotta rooftops to the sparkling sapphire sea.
Alicante has a special kind of glow, equal parts laid-back and lively, historic and hedonistic. This breathtaking respite will stay with you like a sweet Spanish song – which you’ll probably hear plenty of when making your way around town.
Shore Excursions
Alicante Adventures
Cave homes, palatial piazzas & medieval magic.
Alicante Countryside Tour
After meeting your expert tour guide, you'll head to your first stop in the enchanting town of Rojales, where you'll be transported back in time at Las Cuevas del Rodeo. Here you’ll find remarkable cave homes that now serve as a living museum carved into ancient rock. Next, head to Almoradi to visit the last family-owned canning factory of its kind to tour and taste everything from sun-ripened tomatoes to famous Almoardí artichokes – all paired with locally sourced wine.
Polop Village & the Algar Waterfalls
Start your journey heading to Polop, a postcard-picture town tucked away into the hills where you'll find whitewashed houses clinging to cobblestoned streets, Fuente de los Chorros town square and Polop's old quarter. From there, head off to experience the lush valleys and breathtaking views of Algar Waterfalls, aka nature's spa, where you'll find crystalline natural pools, cascading white water, hidden springs and blissful beauty at every turn.
Medieval Alicante Tour & Pintxos Tasting
Discover medieval Spain on this 6-hour tour from Alicante stopping to see the Atalaya Castle – a medieval fortress perched high above Villena, featuring towering walls that'll make your head spin. From there head to the storybook town of Biar, whose cobbled streets and castle views will take your breath away before enjoying an array of pintxos (small bites with big flavor) paired with your beverage of choice, ahead of climbing the stairs of Biar Castle – a 12th century feat of architecture.
More Shore Things for your wishlist...
We have even more in our curated catalog.
Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife!
Don’t be surprised if you see a dolphin waving as they pass your boat!
Resting along Spain’s sun-drenched Costa Blanca, Alicante’s vibrant vibes and breathtaking views will linger long after you leave its golden shores. From the storied heights of Santa Bárbara Castle to the medley of mosaics on the Explanada de España, the city somehow manages to move both effortlessly and electrically.
Here, days melt into golden afternoons by the sea, salty-aired evenings unfold over shared tapas and lingering laughter, and history hums softly around each cobblestone corner. Alicante isn’t just a stop along the Mediterranean – it’s a moody, sunlit state of mind you’ll carry with you long after the coastline fades away.
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