Heart of Alicante Central Market and Old Town Tour

Alicante , Spain

Heart of Alicante Central Market and Old Town Tour

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About this experience

Get ready for a feast for all your senses! As Alicante proudly celebrates its status as the Capital of Gastronomy 2025, there has never been a better time to discover its vibrant culture and incredible flavors. Join our unique walking tour that perfectly blends the city's rich history with its world-class cuisine.

This tour is designed for travelers who love to eat, laugh, and learn. It’s the perfect way to experience the passion of Alicante's past and savor the delights of its present.

Available options

Heart of Alicante Central Market and Old Town Tour

What's included

Licensed tour guide from Alicante

3 local glasses of wine or beer or local non alcoholic beverages

Bottled water

10 local bites from Alicante: local cheese, sausages, almond, tuna, dates, seasonal fruits and more

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Stand in awe of one of Alicante's most iconic and beautiful buildings, the magnificent Casa Carbonell. Perfectly situated at the start of the famous Explanada de España and facing the marina, this architectural gem is a striking symbol of the city's economic boom in the early 20th century.

Stop 2

Nestled in the heart of Alicante's historic center, the City Hall is a magnificent example of Spanish Baroque architecture and a must-see landmark. This impressive 18th-century building dominates the Plaza del Ayuntamiento with its elegant, symmetrical facade and two striking towers that stand 43 meters tall.

Stop 3

Tucked away in the historic center of Alicante, the Concatedral de San Nicolás is the city's most important religious building and a stunning example of Spanish Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Its solemn, grand presence stands on the site of a former mosque, a testament to Alicante's layered history.

Nestled on the slopes of Mount Benacantil, just below the majestic Santa Bárbara Castle, lies the enchanting Barrio de Santa Cruz. This is Alicante's most picturesque and charismatic neighborhood, a true hidden gem that feels worlds away from the city's modern hustle and bustle.

A walking tour through this labyrinth of narrow, winding streets and steep staircases is like stepping back in time. You'll be captivated by the immaculate whitewashed houses, their balconies overflowing with vibrant geraniums and bougainvillea that add a splash of color to every corner. The air is peaceful, filled with the simple charm of a traditional Spanish village.

The Mercado Central is more than just a market; it's a vibrant and bustling hub that represents the true culinary soul of Alicante. Housed in a magnificent two-story building from the 1920s with an eclectic architectural style, the market's striking facade is a landmark in itself. It’s located just a short walk from the city's main attractions, making it a perfect stop on any city tour.

What's not included

Private transportation

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This is a walking experience. Please wear comfortable shoes as we will be walking through the city's historic streets and market. Get ready to have fun and be hungry

We'll be ending our walk right at the food market. It's a fantastic spot to finish up, and you'll have plenty of time to explore all the delicious local products

Meeting point

Our meeting point for the tour is the main entrance of the historic Casa Carbonell. We kindly ask you to be there at least 5 minutes prior to the scheduled start time.
Paseo de la Explanada de España N1

About Alicante

Alicante is a vibrant coastal city in Spain known for its stunning Mediterranean beaches, historic landmarks, and lively cultural scene. The city offers a blend of modern amenities and traditional charm, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Top Attractions

Castle of Santa Bárbara

This impressive fortress offers panoramic views of Alicante and the Mediterranean Sea. It dates back to the 9th century and is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours Free

Postiguet Beach

A popular urban beach with golden sand and clear blue waters. It's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach Half-day to full day Free

Explanada de España

A beautiful palm-lined promenade along the waterfront, featuring a distinctive tiled pavement and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Architecture/Landscape 1-2 hours Free

Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante (MACA)

A modern art museum showcasing contemporary Spanish and international art. It's a great place to appreciate the city's cultural scene.

Museum 1-2 hours Free

Tabarca Island

A small island off the coast of Alicante, known for its crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and rich marine life. It's a popular spot for diving and snorkeling.

Nature/Adventure Full day Boat trip and activities vary in price

Must-Try Local Dishes

Paella

A traditional Spanish rice dish cooked with saffron, vegetables, and various meats or seafood.

Main course Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Turrón

A traditional Spanish sweet made from honey, sugar, and almonds.

Dessert Contains nuts.

Horchata

A refreshing drink made from tiger nuts, water, and sugar.

Drink Vegan and gluten-free.

Marineras

A type of seafood dish typically made with mussels, clams, and other shellfish cooked in a white wine sauce.

Tapas Contains shellfish.

Popular Activities

Hiking Diving Snorkeling Water sports Beach activities Spa treatments Sunbathing Strolling along the promenade

Best Time to Visit

June to September

This is the peak tourist season with warm weather and long sunny days. The beaches are crowded, and the city hosts various festivals and events.

25°C to 35°C 77°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English, Valencian
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Alicante is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
• Keep your belongings secure and out of sight.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services.

Getting there

By air

Alicante-Elche Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Alicante-Terminal Station

By bus

Alicante Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The tram system is efficient and user-friendly, connecting major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Cabify, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

El Centro Santa Cruz Playa de San Juan Albufereta

Day trips

Benidorm

45 km • Full day

A popular resort town known for its beaches, nightlife, and theme parks. It's a great destination for families and groups of friends.

Guadalest Valley

50 km • Full day

A scenic valley with a historic village, castle, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and reservoirs. It's a great destination for history and nature enthusiasts.

Altea

30 km • Half day to full day

A charming coastal town known for its whitewashed houses, narrow streets, and beautiful beaches. It's a great destination for relaxation and cultural exploration.

Festivals

Hogueras de San Juan • June 19-24 Feria de Alicante • June 4-13 Nit de l'Albà • August 15

Pro tips

Visit the Castle of Santa Bárbara for the best views of the city and sea.
Try traditional paella at a local restaurant for an authentic taste of Alicante.
Explore the narrow streets of the old town for unique shops, cafes, and historic sites.
Take a day trip to Tabarca Island for a taste of the Mediterranean's pristine beauty.
Enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city's festivals and events, such as the Hogueras de San Juan.