When talking about the Mediterranean lifestyle, people often think about the French Riviera, the Greek Islands, the Italian countryside, and the like. But Spain, as many would often forget, is also part of the Mediterranean. And the country has many places that border the said sea. One of them is the criminally underrated city of Alicante. located on the Iberian peninsula, you've probably never heard of it, have you? Well, you're not the only one! But that has to change! After learning about the many paradisical places here, you'll want to visit and explore the city yourself one day!
El Centro
Let's start with the central part of Alicante, El Centro. As the most historic part of the city, the place is a good glimpse of what Spain looked like from centuries ago. A labyrinth neighborhood, it reeks of the Medieval times of Europe, one that you've probably often seen in movies or on TV. The beautiful Santa Barbara Castle is even located here, a tourist landmark you really shouldn't miss! So there's really a cinematic sparkle to this place, even though it's also one of the busiest on this list. Museums, restaurants, and an exciting nightlife scene—what's not to love?
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Babel
No, this isn't where the Biblical tower is located. There probably isn't even a connection between the two. The Babel neighborhood in Alicante is the closest you'll get to a traditional suburb. On one side, there are many quiet homes, great schools, and even a municipal gym that's perfect for all sorts of sports games. Not to mention the small-time mom-and-pop stores that serve and offer the best in Spanish food, knick-knacks, fashion, and more. If you want to settle down and start a family in the beautiful city of Alicante, living here is your best bet!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
La Albufereta
Now, for what you really came to Alicante for: resort towns! The city has a handful of them and La Albufereta is definitely one worth mentioning. Why? Because it's arguably the cleanest and most comfortable. Not to mention the view of the Mediterranean sea here is truly outstanding. Once you take a snapshot of your view here, it can trump even the best
posts about Barcelona, Madrid, and any other Spanish city! As for the beaches, the ones near La Albufereta are some of the cleanest. This is actually quite notable considering that this resort town is often one of the more crowded ones.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Ensanche-Deputation
If you really want to stay by the sea, look no further than the Ensanche-Deputation! What's so great about this neighborhood is that, even though it's one of the closest to the Mediterranean, it's also a central area of Alicante at that. Unlike other coastal towns, where urban life (contemporary civilization) seems practically miles away. Here, all the modern-day conveniences, from public transport to literally even convenience stores, are all on offer. Add to that the stunning homes and
luxury apartments you can own and rent to have a more comfortable stay here.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Barrio Playa de San Juan
Also known as 'San Juan Beach,' it's one of the most idyllic neighborhoods on this list. It's a coastal town in the Mediterranean, boasting close proximity to the sea, a fresh salty breeze, a lot of sunshine, and a relatively laid-back atmosphere. But don't let all of these qualities fool you! Despite the Iberian paradise that it is, many trams and buses still go here, so the place isn't exactly disconnected from the 'real world.' Barrio Playa de San Juan is really just more of a nearby escape for when you need to relax, clear your mind, and remind yourself just how wonderful the world is.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Cap de l’Horta
More often than not, people take their families to Alicante to have some serious bonding time. And in this city, the best place for such is Cap de l’Horta. A coastal town just east of El Centro, this neighborhood offers a lot of seaside fun for the young and young-at-heart. Those with a good sense of adventure will love to dive deeper into the Mediterranean and see the colorful coral reefs and underwater ecosystems. Meanwhile, the more athletic ones will enjoy all sorts of water sports in the town's
Nautical Sports Club. Which would you go to?
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Vistahermosa
Finally, for true tranquility and peace, Vistahermosa is the place to go to! An incredibly serene and quiet coastal district, it's often regarded as one of the more affluent neighborhoods on this list. And with good reason! Not only are the homes here luxurious and, at times, a little opulent, but the quality of life in Vistahermosa is high overall. For one thing, since the biking lanes here can almost rival
those in Barcelona, people are more encouraged and inclined to cycle their way around the town instead of polluting the Mediterranean air with their cars.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
The beautiful city of Alicante, perched on the Iberian Peninsula in Spain, is criminally underrated. This paradisical place, with all its natural charm and traditional Spanish beauty, deserves more recognition as a go-to summer destination!
