Alicante is one of the best bases for day trips on the Costa Blanca. In just 30 minutes to 2 hours, you can reach whitewashed towns like Altea, colorful coastal gems like Villajoyosa, mountain villages like Guadalest, historic cities like Cartagena, wine routes in the Vinalopo Valley, and nature spots such as Tabarca Island, Faro de l’Albir, and Puig Campana.
Best picks by travel style: Altea for charm, Benidorm for family fun, Guadalest for mountain views, Cartagena for history, Tabarca for a sea escape, and Canelobre Caves for a unique underground experience.
Good to know: Most places on this list work well as half-day or full-day trips from Alicante, whether you travel by car, TRAM, train, or ferry.
Top 15 Places to Visit Near Alicante, Spain: Best Day Trips
Alicante is not just a sunny coastal city – it’s the perfect gateway to one of the most diverse and beautiful regions in Spain. Within just 30 minutes to 2 hours, you can reach whitewashed villages, dramatic mountains, historic cities, vineyards, and hidden coves.
If you’re wondering what to see close to Alicante, where to day trip from Alicante, or which cities are near Alicante, our guide brings together the 15 best destinations for unforgettable day trips.
Not sure how to plan your Alicante weekend route? See 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)
Perched above the sea like a painter’s dream, Altea unfolds in a cascade of whitewashed houses, cobbled streets, and blue-domed rooftops. The town has long inspired artists, writers, and dreamers, offering a slower rhythm of life where every corner feels like a postcard.
Walking through Altea feels 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 (Casco Antiguo) – 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 glows beautifully at sunset.
- Miradors – panoramic viewpoints where the Mediterranean stretches endlessly below.
- Artisan streets – filled with handmade crafts, ceramics, and small boutiques.
Why visit:
Often called the most beautiful town near Alicante, Altea charms with timeless elegance and artistic soul.
Benidorm & Theme Parks
- Distance: 45 km (~35 min)
- How to get there: Car, TRAM
Benidorm rises dramatically from the coastline, a vibrant skyline of glass towers reflecting the Mediterranean sun. It’s energetic, bold, and full of life – a striking contrast to the quieter towns nearby.
Yet beyond its modern image lies a charming old quarter and a coastline that glows golden at sunset, where the city softens into something unexpectedly romantic.
What to see:
- Levante & Poniente beaches – wide sandy stretches with lively promenades and crystal-clear water.
- Old Town & Balcón del Mediterráneo – a whitewashed viewpoint perched above the sea, perfect for sunset.
- Terra Mítica – a journey through ancient civilizations with thrilling rides and themed landscapes.
- Aqualandia – one of Spain’s largest water parks, surrounded by green hills.
Why visit:
Perfect for entertainment, beaches, and family fun – one of the most dynamic day trips from Alicante.
You may also like our Alicante Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know About the City and Region
Guadalest
- Distance: 65 km (~1h15)
- How to get there: Car
Hidden high in the mountains, Guadalest feels like a secret carved into stone. The village clings dramatically to a rocky ridge, overlooking a turquoise reservoir framed by rugged peaks.
Time seems to slow here – the silence, the views, and the narrow passages create a sense of stepping into another era.
What to see:
- Castell de Guadalest – a historic fortress reached through a tunnel carved into the rock.
- Reservoir viewpoints – breathtaking vistas of emerald waters below.
- Small museums – quirky and intimate spaces filled with history and curiosities.
- Ancient streets – winding paths with stone walls and panoramic openings.
Why visit:
One of the prettiest villages near Alicante, offering unforgettable mountain scenery.
See our article The Best Museums in Alicante Worth Visiting
Faro de l’Albir
- Distance: 50 km (~45 min)
- How to get there: Car + short hike
This peaceful coastal path leads you through the wild beauty of Serra Gelada Natural Park, where cliffs plunge into deep blue waters and the horizon feels infinite.
The walk itself is part of the experience – gentle, scenic, and filled with light, wind, and the scent of pine.
What to see:
- Lighthouse viewpoint – a quiet spot where sea and sky merge into one endless line.
- Serra Gelada cliffs – dramatic rock formations shaped by time and waves.
- Coastal trails – easy paths with constant panoramic views.
Why visit:
A perfect escape into nature 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 (~1h)
- How to get there: Car, TRAM
Calpe is defined by the majestic Peñón de Ifach, a towering rock rising straight from the sea. Around it, the town blends old-world charm with beachside relaxation.
It’s a place where you can wander through colorful streets in the morning and swim in crystal-clear waters by afternoon.
What to see:
- Peñón de Ifach – a natural giant offering hiking trails and breathtaking summit views.
- Old Town – painted murals and vibrant facades tell stories of the past.
- Arenal-Bol Beach – a calm, inviting shoreline perfect for a relaxing 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 wrapped in mountains, where tradition still shapes everyday life. Its streets are steep and intimate, leading upward toward history and sweeping views.
There’s something deeply authentic about Polop – a sense of place untouched by mass tourism.
What to see:
- Castell de Polop – overlooking the valley, offering 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 greets you with a burst of color – rows of bright houses lining the seafront like a painter’s palette. The town has a joyful, relaxed atmosphere shaped by the sea.
It’s both lively and nostalgic, where fishing traditions meet beachside leisure.
What to see:
- Colorful seafront – iconic houses once used by fishermen to find their way home.
- Chocolate Museum (Valor) – a sensory journey through the town’s sweet heritage.
- Central Beach – 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 sculpted over thousands of years. The Canelobre Caves open into vast chambers that resemble a natural cathedral.
Cool, silent, and mysterious, the caves offer a striking contrast to the bright Mediterranean coast.
What to see:
- Main cave hall – towering formations that resemble columns and arches.
- Stalactites and stalagmites – delicate shapes formed drop by drop over centuries.
- Mountain viewpoints – stunning scenery on the way to the caves.
Why visit:
A unique underground experience just minutes from Alicante.
Cartagena
- Distance: 125 km (~1h30)
- How to get there: Car, train
Cartagena is a city where layers of history unfold at every step. Roman ruins, modernist buildings, and a lively port create a rich and textured atmosphere.
It’s a place that feels both grand and intimate, where the past is beautifully preserved.
What to see:
- Roman Theatre – an impressive archaeological site blending ancient and modern architecture.
- Port area – lively and elegant, perfect for a seaside stroll.
- Naval Museum – telling the story of Spain’s maritime power.
- Modernist buildings – ornate facades that reflect early 20th-century prosperity.
Why visit:
A cultural treasure for history lovers exploring cities near Alicante.
Vinalopo Valley
- Distance: 25 km (~30 min)
- How to get there: Car
Stretching through gentle hills and sunlit plains, the Vinalopo Valley is a land of vineyards, tradition, and slow pleasures. The landscape changes with the seasons, offering warm tones and endless skies.
It’s a region best explored at an unhurried pace, where each stop invites you to taste and linger.
What to see:
- Local wineries – intimate bodegas where winemaking traditions come alive.
- Vineyards – rows of vines stretching toward the horizon.
- Wine tastings – discovering local varieties like Monastrell.
Why visit:
A must for Spanish wine lovers and those 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 town carries a quiet dignity, with stories embedded in its streets and buildings.
What to see:
- Cathedral of Orihuela – a masterpiece blending Gothic and Baroque styles.
- Historic center – refined streets filled with architectural detail.
- Miguel Hernández House Museum – a tribute to the famous poet’s life.
Why visit:
An enriching cultural experience beyond the picturesque coast.
Alcoy
- Distance: 60 km (~1h)
- 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 spanning deep gorges and its distinctive architecture.
It’s a place where nature and urban life coexist beautifully.
What to see:
- Modernist buildings – elegant facades with intricate details.
- Bridges – dramatic structures connecting different parts of the city.
- Parque Natural del Carrascal de la Fuente Roja – a natural park with landscapes perfect for hiking and exploration.
Why visit:
A unique mountain city with strong character and scenic beauty.
Villena
- Distance: 60 km (~50 min)
- How to get there: Car, train
Villena stands proudly between plains and mountains, its skyline dominated by a powerful medieval castle. The town has a strong sense of history and identity.
It’s a destination where the past feels tangible and alive.
What to see:
- Atalaya Castle – a striking fortress rising above the town.
- Archaeological Museum – showcasing treasures from ancient civilizations.
- Historic center – calm streets with a timeless atmosphere.
Why visit:
Perfect for history enthusiasts and curious travelers.
The 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 big sense of escape. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters, it feels like a world apart from the mainland.
Its simplicity is its charm – bright sunshine, blue sea, and quiet beauty.
What to see:
- Clear waters – perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
- Old village – a small fortified settlement with white houses.
- Coastal paths – simple trails with endless sea views.
Why visit:
The perfect Mediterranean getaway for a relaxing day.
Puig Campana
- Distance: 50 km (~1h)
- How to get there: Car + hiking
Puig Campana rises sharply above the landscape, its rugged silhouette visible from miles away. It’s one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the region.
The mountain offers both challenge and reward – a true adventure.
What to see:
- Hiking trails – ranging from moderate routes to demanding climbs.
- Summit views – breathtaking panoramas over the Costa Blanca.
- Wild landscapes – raw, untouched nature.
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 food scene, and excellent transport connections make it an ideal starting point for discovering the Costa Blanca and beyond. Within a short drive, you can move from beaches to mountains, from vineyards to medieval villages, experiencing the full diversity of the region without long journeys.
Where to Stay?
Choosing the right accommodation is key to making the most of your stay, and Alicante offers a wide range of options – from boutique hotels to modern serviced apartments. A well-located hotel allows you to enjoy the city while staying perfectly connected to all the day trips described above.
Alicante Smart Apart Hotel offers the perfect blend of modern living and convenience. Located in the Carolinas Bajas area, just 1.5 km from the city center and train station, it provides easy access to all the entertainment. Guests can enjoy a swimming pool area, modern rooms ranging from standard single rooms to superior rooms with terraces, and a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere.
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The hotel is within walking distance of main Alicante’s attractions, as well as cozy local bars and various restaurants. Centrally located, it is a great base for both exploring the city and setting out on day trips across the region.
Our team is confident that each of these destinations will leave you with unforgettable impressions – and a desire to return again and again, discovering innermost corners of Alicante province with every new visit.
Choose your room type:
Options range from cozy individual rooms
to spacious superior doubles
and terrace rooms
where you can greet the morning light in privacy.
And, perhaps, the most welcome detail after a long night: breakfast delivered directly to your room. No need to rush, no need to step outside – just a quiet moment to recover, recharge, and relive the best moments of the night before stepping back into the Alicante sun.
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FAQ
Where to day trip from Alicante?
All destinations on this list are perfect for day trips, most within 1 hour.
What is the most beautiful town near Alicante?
Altea is widely considered the most beautiful, thanks to its whitewashed charm and sea views.
What to see close to 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 among the most interesting nearby cities.
What beach towns are near Alicante?
Villajoyosa, Calpe, Altea, and Benidorm are top choices.
What is the prettiest village near Alicante?
Guadalest is often ranked as the most picturesque.
What is the most beautiful town in Alicante province (Costa Blanca)?
Altea and Villajoyosa are the most frequently mentioned.
Which city is nicer, Valencia or Alicante?
Valencia is larger and more cosmopolitan, while Alicante is more relaxed and better positioned for day trips.