In which area is it best to stay in Alicante?

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Alicante, one of the pearls of the Costa Blanca, is an ideal holiday destination for those seeking sea, culture and entertainment. Choosing the right area to stay in can make the difference between a pleasant holiday and an extraordinary one. Whether you are looking for a luxury hotel, a cosy B&B, or a spacious holiday home, Alicante has something to offer every type of traveller. In this article, we will explore the best areas to stay in Alicante, answering the most common questions about where to stay in the city.

First of all, if you arrive in Alicante by plane or train, you should opt for one of the transport options to get around the city and its surroundings. Undoubtedly, one of the cheapest options and one that offers maximum flexibility and freedom is car rental.

Rent a car in Alicante

If you plan to explore the Costa Blanca or the surroundings of Alicante, renting a car is highly recommended. Renting a car in Alicante gives you the freedom to visit hidden beaches, nearby cities such as Benidorm or Altea, and natural parks without being bound by public transport schedules. Car rental options at Alicante Airport are numerous, with many agencies located both in the city and at the airport. You also have the option of booking your car rental at the Alicante station. If you prefer to book in advance, you can also opt for the Alicante rental car online service, which will allow you to pick up your car as soon as you arrive.

Where to stay in the city of Alicante?

Alicante is a dynamic and vibrant city with several neighbourhoods offering unique experiences. Here are the main areas where we recommend you look for accommodation:

• Centre of Alicante: If you prefer to be in the heart of the city, close to all the main attractions, the centre of Alicante is an ideal choice. Here you will find a wide range of options, from elegant hotels to holiday homes. The centre is perfect for those who enjoy convenience and want to be within walking distance of shops, restaurants, museums and the famous Rambla de Méndez Núñez.
• El Barrio: This historic quarter is the ideal place for those seeking an authentic experience. The narrow, cobbled streets of El Barrio are full of bars, restaurants and nightclubs. If you are young and looking for fun and movida, El Barrio is definitely the liveliest area to stay.
• Explanada de España: Also known as Alicante’s seafront promenade, this area is perfect for those who want accommodation close to the sea but close to the city centre. Here you will find numerous hotels in Alicante with sea views, ideal for enjoying evening strolls along the coast.
• San Juan Playa: If your goal is to spend most of your time at the beach, San Juan Playa is the ideal area. Located a few kilometres from the centre, this area offers one of the most beautiful beaches in the region and numerous hotel options in Alicante by the sea.

Neighbourhood for young people: fun and movida

For young people who want to fully experience the Spanish nightlife, the El Barrio district is undoubtedly the best place to stay. This district, located in the heart of the old city, is famous for its vibrant nightlife and its bars and clubs. Here, the movida comes alive after sunset, with the streets filling up with young locals and tourists looking for a good time. Besides the nightlife, El Barrio also offers proximity to many historical sites, such as the Basilica of Santa Maria and the Santa Barbara Castle, making it a perfect choice for those who want to combine culture and fun.

Alicante city centre: for those who love convenience

If you prefer the convenience of having everything at your fingertips, the centre of Alicante is the perfect choice. This area is the beating heart of the city, where you will find shops, restaurants, cafés and the main tourist attractions. Staying here means being within walking distance of the Rambla de Méndez Núñez, one of the city’s liveliest streets, and the Explanada de España, the famous promenade with its characteristic wavy tiles. The centre is also well connected by public transport, facilitating access to the beaches and other areas of the city. Hotels in central Alicante offer a wide range of options, from boutique hotels to international chains.

Sleeping by the sea in Alicante

If the sea is your priority, you can choose to stay in one of Alicante’s coastal areas. Playa del Postiguet, located right next to the city centre, is one of the most accessible and popular beaches. Here you will find numerous beachfront hotels offering spectacular views and direct access to the beach. Another option is San Juan Playa, a wider and quieter beach located about 7 kilometres from the centre. San Juan is ideal for families or those looking for a relaxing holiday with the possibility of enjoying the sea in peace. Holiday homes in Alicante in this area are in high demand, so book early!

Sleeping around Alicante

For those who also want to explore the surrounding areas, there are several interesting places near Alicante where it is worth staying. El Campello and Villajoyosa are two coastal towns within easy reach of Alicante, offering spectacular beaches and a quieter atmosphere than the city centre. Staying here will allow you to enjoy a beach holiday without being too far from Alicante’s attractions. Furthermore, these areas are well connected to the city by trains and buses, making it easy to get around.

Ultimately, the choice of where to stay in Alicante depends on the type of holiday you wish to have. Whether you are looking for nightlife, relaxation on the beach, or a combination of both, Alicante offers a variety of options to suit every need. Don’t forget to also consider hiring a car in Alicante, to explore the city and its surroundings in complete freedom. Enjoy your trip!