A beach resort town on the Mediterranean coast — that’s an instant “ahhh” from you, right? Alicante is just that kind of place, with options for getting you in touch with some white sand, chilling in the shade of palm trees or exploring old-world charm. The city’s own “old town” section is as good for strolling as it is shopping, while some of the best views are conveniently available at Castillo de Santa Barbara fortress, which visitors access through an underground tunnel. Spanish-style dining should be on your to-do list, so come hungry and set aside some time for a leisurely multi-course lunch,... Read More

A beach resort town on the Mediterranean coast — that’s an instant “ahhh” from you, right? Alicante is just that kind of place, with options for getting you in touch with some white sand, chilling in the shade of palm trees or exploring old-world charm. The city’s own “old town” section is as good for strolling as it is shopping, while some of the best views are conveniently available at Castillo de Santa Barbara fortress, which visitors access through an underground tunnel. Spanish-style dining should be on your to-do list, so come hungry and set aside some time for a leisurely multi-course lunch, a meal at a seafront café or a visit to an Ayuntamiento neighborhood tapas bar. Nourishment for the soul is served up at Museo de Arte Siglo, which houses works by Dali, Miro and Picasso. While Alicante was founded by the Romans as Lucentum, even visitors of today will see why “city of lights” is still a fitting description for this vibrant Spanish spot. Read Less