Historical landmarks in Alicante

At Holiday extras, we provide easy-to-use airport transfers that enable discerning travellers to enjoy wonderful locations all over the globe. One such destination is Spain's Mediterranean coastline, namely Alicante which has much more going for it than just soft-sanded beaches and expansive, palm-tree-lined promenades.

Before you take advantage of our convenient, low-cost Alicante airport transfers, let us tell you about some of this part of the world's most notable historical features.

Castles, cathedrals and churches

Santa Bárbara Castle is an imposing medieval fortress that looms above the city. It can be seen from far and wide and provides exceptional views of both land and sea. The Co-Cathedral of San Nicolás was built some seven centuries after the construction of this stronghold, with work being completed circa 1662. Erected on the site of a Moorish mosque, this Roman Catholic edifice is crowned by a striking blue cupola. Inside can be found an exquisite Spanish baroque chapel.

Work began on Basilica de Santa María – the oldest of Alicante's active churches – sometime in the 14th century. Situated in the city centre, this rectangular, two-towered structure boasts an interior design that blends 14th-century Gothic and 18th-century Rococo.

More recent history

Construction on Mercado Central finished in 1922, since then it has provided locals and savvy visitors with a source of fine, fresh foods that take up almost 300 stalls. Just a 16-minute walk away is MARQ, the city's archaeological museum, which provides an interactive experience via its many galleries. Within a few steps of the city beach, Playa del Postiguet is MACA, otherwise known as the Contemporary Art Museum of Alicante, which is housed within the city's oldest remaining civil building. The museum opened in 1976 and has been the go-to place for admiring 20th-century and contemporary art in the region.

Geographical landmarks

Since 1770, a little island located a few miles south of Alicante, near the town of Santa Pola, has been known as Nueva Tabarca Island. This islet is a haven for all kinds of marine life, including myriad species of fish and dolphins, squid and octopi. Travel north along the Costa Blanca coastline and you'll find Cabo de la Huerta, nestled between the beaches of La Albufera and San Juan. This often secluded area has been shaped by centuries of lapping waves and is an ideal place to explore caves, climb rocks, swim, snorkel and much more.