Where can you sleep?
If you're thinking about staying a few days in this province, before should take into account a few things before you make any decisions. If you're travelling during summer season, the coast is a perfect choice for you; Jávea, Calpe, San Juan, or la island of Tabarca are some of the best places where you can spend a day in the beach. The beach, the chiringuitos, and seaside establishments where you will be able to try the local gastronomy, are some of the highlights that this option can offer.
On the other hand, if you're travelling in winter, we recommend you stay in one of the more inland towns such as Orihuela or Guadalest, both of them of a high historical and artistic relevance.
We are sure this recommendations won't leave you indifferent. But remember to plan your trip ahead of time, since this kind of accommodation is very popular on high demand season.
What to do in the area?
Alicante has a very wide tourist offer nany time of the year, which means that you will find many options that will allow you to learn about the history of this province, throughout time.
In the city, you will find one of the quietest and more beautiful views hiding in the Paseo de la Explanada. You will also find in the city of Alicante the Castillo de Santa Bárbara, another important regional monument that seems to be watching over everything that is happening underneath, as is too the Yacimiento de Lucentum, a historical complex with relics of other civilizations.
For those traveling with kids, the Teatro de Títeres Betlem Tirisiti is your place to go, and Las Cuevas del Canelobre in Busot, are a good option for the most adventurous ones.
Amongst its places of natural interest we can find El Palmeral, La Cova dels Arcs, or the Falla del Moraig, which have been the setting of many films.
What typical foods are recommended?
To say rice is an important part of Alicante is an understatement. But the truth is that, this province full of tradition and history of working in the lands, makes it very easy to follow the Mediterranean diet.
It tastes of colour, of the smell of the sea, of land and of history.
Of course, and even though there is much to discover about it gastronomy, the more traditional local dishes are those who have rice as its main ingredient, either on the side, or with crust (costra) it is considered a true delicacy both by visitors and the locals, with no exceptions.
But if you would like to know some other secrets about its cuisine, you will also find some of the best products coming from their fields. You won't go wrong trying any of the vegetables dishes from the menu, as they are also one of the best local products.
And if you're done with the food, grab some glasses and fill them with wine from Vinalopó or Villena, which have both a longtime tradition of wine-making.
Where are the festivities?
Celebrating is an important part of the culture in Alicante. You will find in this region a calendar with plenty of occasions to celebrate in many locations of this province, during the whole year.
One of the most popular and important ones is that of Moros y Cristianos, a festivity celebrated each year by the end of September in many towns and villages of this region.
Another one you can't miss during summer is San Juan, which is a deeply-rooted tradition where each town is illuminated at night by dozens of bonfires, and good wishes for the upcoming year.
Carnival is another special occasion you should write down, as it as each streets holds a light, colour and music festival.
Last but not least, and declared national tourist interest, is the Fira de Tots Sants, which takes place in the town of Cocentaina in November.
