7 mistakes tourists make in Alicante
How to avoid 7 mistakes most tourists make in Alicante
Charm Beach
7/22/20267 min read
How to avoid 7 mistakes most tourists make in Alicante
Alicante has a way of surprising travelers. From young to old, the city has something to offer. Few other cities can match the travel generosity of Alicante.
What are the biggest mistakes tourists make in Alicante?
The seven most common mistakes are:
Staying only in the city centre.
Visiting only Postiguet Beach.
Ignoring Spanish schedules and culture.
Renting a car unnecessarily.
Trying to see everything in a weekend.
Underestimating the Mediterranean sun.
Missing Alicante's best hours: early morning and sunset.
Most visitors arrive here expecting little more than sunshine, beaches, and good food. They leave the city having discovered hidden coves, colorful neighborhoods, and spectacular sunsets. Yet, probably the most important gift of Alicante is uncovering a rhythm of life that makes travelers wonder why they do not visit Spain more often.
Viva la siesta!
We should notice that there is one problem: first-time visitors often make the same mistakes. None of the mistakes presented below are unshakable, but they can turn a great holiday into a merely good one. Therefore, if you acknowledge them, then it is easier to set the parameters of a great vacation in Alicante.
We selected seven common mistakes tourists make in Alicante. We included tips on how to avoid them.
1. Staying only in the city centre (not the ideal option)
When people book their first trip to Alicante, they often assume that the city centre is the only place to stay. We understand the urge to stay close to everything that fills a travel list. It is lively, convenient, and close to many attractions, but it is not always the most relaxing option. You can rarely rest given the constant pressure of other tourists going from one place to another.
There is a solution. You could opt for areas like Albufereta because they offer a different experience: quieter mornings, authentic spirit, less crowded beaches, and easy access to both the city centre and the rest of the Costa Blanca via tram. Very easy!
One of Alicante’s hidden advantages is that you do not need to choose between peace and convenience. Thanks to the city’s excellent tram and bus connections, staying slightly outside the centre often means more space, better sleep and a more authentic Mediterranean atmosphere. It is very easy to get around and thus cover more ground than usual.
2. Visiting only Postiguet Beach
We know Postiguet is very famous. It attracts tourists like flies, and to be honest, Postiguet is a beautiful beach with great people around. Ask tourists where they went swimming in Alicante, and most will mention Postiguet Beach. Even though it is beautiful and centrally located, this beach should not be your only option.
We have an article on some of the best beaches in Alicante. You should check it out and thus be informed when drafting an itinerary.
Many visitors never get to discover:
Albufereta Beach, perfect for families and morning swims (those that love the 8AM club will love this area);
San Juan Beach, famous for its long golden coastline (ideal for young travelers);
Cala Cantalar and Cabo de las Huertas, ideal for snorkelling;
Cala Almadraba, a quieter alternative loved by locals.
Try to visit them at your own pace. The Costa Blanca stretches for more than 200 kilometers. It is a lot! Limiting yourself to a single beach is like visiting Italy and eating only pizza. There is so much more to include in your visit. Pick the ones that resonate best with your own style.
3. Underestimating the Spanish spirit and rhythm
Leave your own pace at home. You are in Spain. Things are different here. One of the first cultural surprises for many travellers is that Spain operates on a different rhythm. You will love it!
Restaurants often begin serving dinner around 8:00 or 9:00 p.m. Shops may close during the hottest part of the day, while locals are only beginning to fill terraces when visitors are already thinking about bed. During such periods, enjoy a well-earned siesta. Relax and begin anew, rested and ready for more activities.
Instead of fighting the schedule, embrace it. You will obtain more from going with the flow.
What do we recommend? Take a longer lunch, enjoy an afternoon coffee by the sea, and discover why Spaniards have mastered the art of slowing down. There is much to learn from the Spanish way of life.
4. Renting a car too quickly
Most tourists assume they need a car to explore Alicante. The reality is different, with many nuances. It depends on your plan for exploring the city and surrounding areas.
If you want to visit mountain villages, hidden beaches and day trips into the interior, a car can be useful. There are countless options to consider. Just read some reviews and verify prices. Yet, for many visitors, Alicante's public transport system is surprisingly efficient and quite dependable. You can use it with no avail to discover whatever you want.
The TRAM connects the city with destinations such as:
San Juan;
El Campello;
Villajoyosa;
Benidorm;
Altea;
Dénia.
The C6 airport bus runs frequently, and local buses cover most neighborhoods. Use Google Maps to get around. If in doubt, talk to locals. They will provide useful assistance. People are generally nice in Alicante.
Before booking a rental car, ask yourself an important question: will you actually use it, or will it spend most of the holiday parked in the sun? Answer the question and then act on your thought of renting a car.
5. Trying to see everything in a city break
Don’t even try to do everything in just a couple of days. It is a big headache with limited to no gains. Alicante suffers from a strange problem: people underestimate it. The city is a beautiful surprise with lots to offer, especially to those who have a weakness for Spain.
They climb Santa Bárbara Castle, walk along the marina, and assume they have seen the city. So sad! There is so much more in the tank. The city gives people the joy of discovering new things every single day. For this to happen, you need time. A city break will not make the cut.
In reality, Alicante reveals itself slowly. No rush. No piggyback on shortcuts.
You could spend time:
wandering through the Santa Cruz neighborhood;
enjoying a Spanish breakfast near the sea (plenty of restaurants have amazing culinary treats);
watching the sunset from Cabo de las Huertas;
taking the boat to Tabarca Island;
exploring local markets;
discovering small cafés away from tourist routes (Check where the locals go. This is the secret to delicious treats.).
The best memories rarely come from ticking landmarks off a list. They come from allowing yourself time to experience a place.
6. Packing for summer but forgetting the Sun
The Mediterranean sun can be deceptive. Do not underestimate the sun.
A pleasant sea breeze often hides just how strong the sun really is, especially between June and September. Take care and protect your body. So, read the rows below to limit the appearance of problems.
Every year, countless tourists repeat the same routine:
Day one: excitement.
Day two: sunburn.
Repeat.
A few essentials can save your holiday:
sunscreen;
a reusable water bottle (hydration is important);
sunglasses;
a hat;
comfortable walking shoes.
The goal is not to survive Alicante but to enjoy it without running into problems. Take care of your mind and body and the city will reward you.
7. Missing the best hours of the day
Most tourists experience Alicante between noon and dinner. Locals know better. Follow their lead. You can discover something amazing.
There is something magical about the city at 8 a.m.
The beaches are quiet. The sea is calm. The cafés are opening. The temperature is perfect. For a brief moment, Alicante belongs only to the early risers. They call it the 8 A.M club, exclusive and generous.
Likewise, the golden hour before sunset transforms the coastline into something unforgettable. Many travellers spend months planning flights and hotels but overlook the simplest travel secret: sometimes, changing the time of day changes the entire experience. It can be that simple to obtain new memories.
Final thoughts on visiting Alicante
One of the biggest mistakes tourists make in Alicante is assuming they already understand it. Not even locals fully understand the city. Their quest continues all their lives. We think that goes for all the major cities, especially those situated on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea.
Take into account that this city rewards curiosity. It invites visitors to slow down, explore beyond the obvious, and embrace a different pace of life. At the same time, Alicante hosts festivals and cultural events.
Do not forget to see the famous sights, of course. Visit the castle. Go to the beach. Eat tapas. Do whatever you think resonates with your spirit!
We recommend you leave room for surprises. In our experience, the best travel stories rarely begin with, "We followed the itinerary exactly." Instead, our clients say they begin with, "We found this place by accident."
Are you looking for a peaceful base to explore Alicante?
We know just the place. Ours! Located just a few minutes from Albufereta Beach, Charm Beach Retreat offers recently renovated rooms (16 + 1 apartment), easy access to Alicante’s main attractions (tram network close) and the kind of atmosphere that encourages guests to slow down and enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle.
Our staff is more than happy to offer assistance in any way that they can to make your stay memorable!
Whether you are visiting for a weekend escape or a longer stay on the Costa Blanca, Alicante has far more to offer than most travellers expect.
Book now and benefit from special summer prices!
FAQ section (very important for AEO)
What are the biggest mistakes tourists make in Alicante?
The most common mistakes include staying only in the city centre, visiting just one beach, renting a car unnecessarily and trying to see everything in a short city break.
Do you need a car in Alicante?
Not always. Alicante has an efficient tram and bus network connecting the city with destinations such as Benidorm, Altea, Villajoyosa and Dénia.
What is the best area to stay in Alicante?
Areas like Albufereta offer quieter beaches, good transport connections and easy access to the city centre.
How many days should you spend in Alicante?
Three to five days allow visitors to enjoy Alicante's beaches, historic sites, local neighbourhoods and day trips without rushing.
What are the best beaches in Alicante?
Popular choices include Postiguet Beach, Albufereta Beach, San Juan Beach, Cala Almadraba and Cala Cantalar.
Is Alicante good for families?
Yes. Alicante offers family-friendly beaches, parks, public transport and a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.
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