Alicante is one of the best bases for day trips around the Costa Blanca. In just 30 minutes to 2 hours, you can reach whitewashed villages such as Altea, colorful coastal gems such as Villajoyosa, mountain villages such as Guadalest, historic cities such as Cartagena, wine routes in the Vinalopó Valley, and natural spaces such as Tabarca Island, the Faro de l’Albir, and Puig Campana.
Best options depending on your travel style: Altea for charm, Benidorm for family fun, Guadalest for mountain views, Cartagena for history, Tabarca for a seaside escape, and the Canelobre Caves for a unique underground experience.
Good to know: Most places on this list work very well as half-day or full-day trips from Alicante, whether you travel by car, TRAM, train, or ferry.
Planning to explore the surroundings of Alicante? Alicante Smart Hotel is a comfortable base for day trips, city-center walks, and relaxing after your journey.
Alicante is not only a sunny coastal city: it is the perfect gateway to one of Spain’s most diverse and beautiful regions. In just 30 minutes to 2 hours, you can reach whitewashed villages, imposing mountains, historic cities, vineyards, and hidden coves.
If you are wondering what to see near Alicante, where to take a day trip from Alicante, or which cities are close to Alicante, our guide brings together the 15 best destinations for unforgettable day trips.
Not sure how to plan your weekend route around Alicante? Check out our guide: The best 2–3 day itinerary to discover Alicante
Altea
- Distance: 55 km (~45 min by car)
- How to get there: Car, TRAM from Alicante, line L1
Raised above the sea like a painter’s dream, Altea unfolds in a cascade of whitewashed houses, cobbled streets, and blue domes. The town has long inspired artists, writers, and dreamers, offering a slower pace of life where every corner feels like a postcard.
Walking through Altea is like stepping into a Mediterranean fairytale: bougainvillea spills over balconies, small galleries invite quiet discovery, and the scent of the sea lingers in the air.
What to see:
- Old Town – a maze of narrow streets where every turn reveals sea views and hidden courtyards.
- Church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo – its iconic blue dome dominates the skyline and looks especially beautiful at sunset.
- Viewpoints – panoramic spots where the Mediterranean stretches endlessly at your feet.
- Artisan streets – filled with crafts, ceramics, and small boutiques.
Why visit:
Often considered the most beautiful town near Alicante, Altea wins visitors over with its timeless elegance and artistic soul.
Benidorm and theme parks
- Distance: 45 km (~35 min)
- How to get there: Car, TRAM
Benidorm rises dramatically beside the coast, with a lively skyline of glass towers reflecting the Mediterranean sun. It is energetic, bold, and full of life: a striking contrast to the quieter towns nearby.
But beyond its modern image, it hides a charming old town and a coastline that turns golden at sunset, when the city becomes unexpectedly romantic.
What to see:
- Levante and Poniente beaches – wide stretches of sand with lively promenades and crystal-clear water.
- Old Town and Balcón del Mediterráneo – a whitewashed viewpoint over the sea, perfect for sunset.
- Terra Mítica – a journey through ancient civilizations with exciting attractions and themed landscapes.
- Aqualandia – one of Spain’s largest water parks, surrounded by green hills.
Why visit:
Perfect for entertainment, beach time, and family plans: one of the most dynamic day trips from Alicante.
You may also be interested in our Alicante travel guide: everything you need to know about the city and the region
Guadalest
- Distance: 65 km (~1 h 15 min)
- How to get there: Car
Hidden high in the mountains, Guadalest feels like a secret carved in stone. The village clings dramatically to a rocky ridge, overlooking a turquoise reservoir framed by rugged peaks.
Here, time seems to stand still: the silence, the views, and the narrow passageways create the feeling of stepping into another era.
Also check out our article The best museums in Alicante worth visiting
What to see:
- Castell de Guadalest – a historic fortress reached through a tunnel carved into the rock.
- Reservoir viewpoints – breathtaking views of emerald-colored waters.
- Small museums – curious and intimate spaces filled with history and unusual collections.
- Old streets – winding paths with stone walls and panoramic openings.
Why visit:
One of the most beautiful villages near Alicante, with unforgettable mountain scenery.
Tip: if you want to visit several places, staying in Alicante makes it easy to take short routes around the coast and the province.
Faro de l’Albir
- Distance: 50 km (~45 min)
- How to get there: Car + short walk
This peaceful coastal trail leads you through the wild beauty of Serra Gelada Natural Park, where cliffs drop into deep blue waters and the horizon seems endless.
The walk itself is part of the experience: gentle, scenic, and full of light, wind, and the scent of pine.
What to see:
- Lighthouse viewpoint – a peaceful spot where sea and sky merge into an infinite line.
- Serra Gelada cliffs – spectacular rock formations shaped by time and waves.
- Coastal trails – easy paths with constant panoramic views.
Why visit:
A perfect nature escape with some of the most serene views on the Costa Blanca.
You may also be interested in Alicante’s top sights: what to see and why this city is truly special
Calpe
- Distance: 65 km (~1 h)
- How to get there: Car, TRAM
Calpe is defined by the majestic Peñón de Ifach, a huge rock rising directly from the sea. Around it, the town combines traditional charm with beachside relaxation.
It is a place where you can wander through colorful streets in the morning and swim in crystal-clear waters in the afternoon.
What to see:
- Peñón de Ifach – a natural giant with hiking routes and impressive views from the summit.
- Old Town – painted murals and vibrant façades that tell stories of the past.
- Arenal-Bol Beach – a calm and welcoming coastline, ideal for a relaxed day.
Why visit:
One of the best beach towns near Alicante, combining nature and seaside charm.
Polop
- Distance: 55 km (~50 min)
- How to get there: Car
Polop is a quiet village surrounded by mountains, where tradition still shapes everyday life. Its streets are steep and intimate, climbing toward history and wide views.
There is something deeply authentic about Polop: a sense of place untouched, far from mass tourism.
What to see:
- Castell de Polop – overlooking the valley, with wide and peaceful views.
- Plaza de los Chorros – a unique square where water flows from hundreds of small spouts.
- Old streets – narrow, winding, and full of character.
Why visit:
A hidden gem for those seeking authenticity and calm.
Villajoyosa
- Distance: 35 km (~30 min)
- How to get there: Car, TRAM
Villajoyosa welcomes you with an explosion of color: rows of vivid houses by the sea, like a painter’s palette. The town has a cheerful, relaxed atmosphere shaped by fishing life.
It is both lively and nostalgic, where fishing tradition blends with beachside leisure.
What to see:
- Colorful seafront – the iconic houses that once helped fishermen find their way back home.
- Chocolate Museum, Valor – a sensory journey through the town’s sweet heritage.
- Playa Centro – golden sand and calm waters, ideal for swimming.
Why visit:
A vibrant coastal escape: one of the most photogenic towns on the Costa Blanca.
Canelobre Caves
- Distance: 25 km (~30 min)
- How to get there: Car
Beneath the mountains of Busot lies a hidden world carved over thousands of years. The Canelobre Caves open into vast chambers that resemble a natural cathedral.
Cool, silent, and mysterious, they offer a striking contrast to the bright Mediterranean coast.
What to see:
- Main chamber – huge formations that resemble columns and arches.
- Stalactites and stalagmites – delicate shapes created drop by drop over centuries.
- Mountain viewpoints – beautiful landscapes on the way up to the caves.
Why visit:
A unique underground experience just a short distance from Alicante.
Cartagena
- Distance: 125 km (~1 h 30 min)
- How to get there: Car, train
Cartagena is a city where layers of history are revealed at every step. Roman ruins, modernist buildings, and a lively port create a rich and nuanced atmosphere.
It is a place that feels both monumental and intimate, where the past is beautifully preserved.
What to see:
- Roman Theatre – an impressive archaeological site combining ancient and contemporary architecture.
- Port area – lively and elegant, perfect for a walk by the sea.
- Naval Museum – telling the story of Spain’s maritime power.
- Modernist buildings – ornate façades reflecting the prosperity of the early 20th century.
Why visit:
A cultural treasure for history lovers who want to discover cities near Alicante.
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Vinalopó Valley
- Distance: 25 km (~30 min)
- How to get there: Car
Stretching between gentle hills and sunlit plains, the Vinalopó Valley is a land of vineyards, tradition, and slow pleasures. The landscape changes with the seasons, offering warm tones and open skies.
It is a region best enjoyed without rushing, where every stop invites you to taste, linger, and stay a little longer.
What to see:
- Local wineries – intimate spaces where winemaking tradition comes to life.
- Vineyards – rows of vines disappearing into the horizon.
- Wine tastings – a chance to discover local varieties such as Monastrell.
Why visit:
A must for lovers of Spanish wine and anyone seeking authentic inland experiences.
Orihuela
- Distance: 60 km (~50 min)
- How to get there: Car, train
Orihuela reveals a different side of the region: elegant, historic, and deeply cultural. Its skyline is shaped by churches, towers, and domes that reflect centuries of heritage.
The city has a quiet dignity, with stories written into its streets and buildings.
What to see:
- Orihuela Cathedral – a masterpiece combining Gothic and Baroque styles.
- Historic center – elegant streets full of architectural details.
- Miguel Hernández House Museum – a tribute to the life of the famous poet.
Why visit:
An enriching cultural experience beyond the picturesque coast.
Alcoy
- Distance: 60 km (~1 h)
- How to get there: Car
Surrounded by mountains and natural parks, Alcoy feels green, fresh, and unexpectedly dramatic. The city is known for its bridges over deep ravines and for its distinctive architecture.
It is a place where nature and urban life coexist harmoniously.
What to see:
- Modernist buildings – elegant façades with elaborate details.
- Bridges – spectacular structures connecting different parts of the city.
- Carrascal de la Font Roja Natural Park – a natural park with landscapes perfect for hiking and exploring.
Why visit:
A unique mountain city with strong personality and scenic beauty.
Villena
- Distance: 60 km (~50 min)
- How to get there: Car, train
Villena rises proudly between plains and mountains, with a skyline dominated by a powerful medieval castle. The city has a strong sense of history and identity.
It is a destination where the past feels tangible and alive.
What to see:
- Atalaya Castle – an imposing fortress rising above the city.
- Archaeological Museum – with treasures from ancient civilizations.
- Historic center – quiet streets with a timeless atmosphere.
Why visit:
Perfect for history lovers and curious travelers.
Castles in the province of Alicante: a travel guide through history, landscapes, and wine
Tabarca Island
- Distance: 22 km by boat
- How to get there: Ferry from Alicante or Santa Pola
Tabarca is a small island with a great sense of escape. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters, it feels like a world apart from the mainland.
Its simplicity is part of its charm: bright sun, blue sea, and quiet beauty.
What to see:
- Transparent waters – perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
- Old village – a small fortified settlement of white houses.
- Coastal paths – simple routes with endless sea views.
Why visit:
The perfect Mediterranean escape for a relaxing day.
Puig Campana
- Distance: 50 km (~1 h)
- How to get there: Car + hiking
Puig Campana rises sharply above the landscape, with a rugged silhouette visible from miles away. It is one of the region’s most iconic natural landmarks.
The mountain offers both challenge and reward: a true adventure.
What to see:
- Hiking routes – from moderate trails to demanding ascents.
- Summit views – impressive panoramas over the Costa Blanca.
- Wild landscapes – nature in its purest form.
Why visit:
A must for active travelers and nature lovers.
Why Alicante is the perfect base
Alicante offers the perfect balance between city life and easy exploration. Its coastal charm, rich history, vibrant gastronomic scene, and excellent transport connections make it an ideal starting point for discovering the Costa Blanca and beyond. In a short journey, you can move from beaches to mountains, from vineyards to medieval villages, enjoying all the diversity of the region without long transfers.
Where to stay?
Choosing the right accommodation is key to making the most of your stay, and Alicante offers a wide variety of options: from boutique hotels to modern serviced apartments. A well-located hotel allows you to enjoy the city while staying perfectly connected with all the day trips described above.
Alicante Smart Apart Hotel offers the perfect combination of modern living and comfort. Located in the Carolinas Bajas area, just 1.5 km from the city center and the train station, it provides easy access to all entertainment and leisure options. Guests can enjoy a pool area, modern rooms ranging from standard single rooms to superior rooms with terrace, and a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere.
The hotel is within walking distance of Alicante’s main attractions, as well as cozy local bars and several restaurants. Thanks to its central location, it is a great base both for exploring the city and for taking day trips throughout the region.
Our team is convinced that each of these destinations will leave you with unforgettable memories and the desire to return again and again, discovering the most intimate corners of the province of Alicante on every new visit.
And perhaps the most appreciated detail after a long night: breakfast served directly in your room. No rush, no need to go out: just a quiet moment to recover, recharge, and relive the best moments of the previous evening before stepping back into the Alicante sun.
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Frequently asked questions
Where can I take a day trip from Alicante?
All the destinations on this list are perfect for day trips, and most are less than 1 hour away.
What is the most beautiful village near Alicante?
Altea is widely considered the most beautiful, thanks to its whitewashed charm and sea views.
What can I see near Alicante?
From caves and islands to mountain villages and historic cities, the variety is exceptional.
Which cities are close to Alicante?
Cartagena, Alcoy, and Orihuela are some of the most interesting nearby cities.
Which beach towns are near Alicante?
Villajoyosa, Calpe, Altea, and Benidorm are among the best options.
What is the most picturesque village near Alicante?
Guadalest often ranks among the most picturesque.
What is the most beautiful town in the province of Alicante, Costa Blanca?
Altea and Villajoyosa are among the towns most frequently mentioned.
Which city is better, Valencia or Alicante?
Valencia is larger and more cosmopolitan, while Alicante is more relaxed and better located for day trips.