Known for its sandy beaches, historic landmarks and lively culture, the Spanish city of Alicante takes the spotlight on this daytrip. You'll leave the tourist-based hustle and bustle of Benidorm behind and within an hour you'll be arriving in the altogether more authentically Spanish, Alicante.
There are three hours to spend as you like, but it's a safe bet to begin with a stroll around the old town, known as the Barrio de Santa Cruzas. It holds some of Alicante's most iconic buildings, like the twisting columns of the 18th-century town hall and the pale-blue domes of San Nicolas de Bari Co-Cathedral. And make sure you have your camera handy for the famous palm-lined Esplanade of Alicante – its floor is woven with over six and a half million small red, black and cream tiles and forms one of the most enduring images.
You can also wander down the quirky Calle de las Setas, where giant colourful mushroom sculptures turn an ordinary street into a playful, storybook‑style walkway. There's also time to soak up the sea breeze at the waterfront promenade before heading to the indoor market. Whether you're in the mood to browse or buy, it's a great way to see a slice of real Spanish life, with locals haggling over the fresh produce piled high at the stalls. Laden with memories, photos and perhaps a souvenir or two, you'll then be whisked back to your hotel in the afternoon.
