Unlocking Alicante’s Charm: Why This Spanish City Captivated Me
For a long time, Alicante lingered quietly in the background. People often spoke of famous Mediterranean cities like Barcelona, Valencia, and Malaga, leaving Alicante out of the conversation. It never appeared on my travel list either. That changed after my visit. I discovered a place full of life, history, and flavors that touched me deeply.
Walking through Alicante, the sea caught my eye immediately. The way sunlight glistened on the water left me breathless. A short stroll brought me face to face with a grand church, standing proudly as if telling stories of ages past. To explore more, I met with Rebecca and Alberto from Alioli Tours, experts who know the city inside and out. They assured me I would see Alicante’s best—its landmarks, beaches, market, and most importantly, its food.
Our first stop was the majestic market, a gem I had never seen in any photo before. The market recently celebrated its 100th anniversary, earning the title of one of Spain’s largest indoor markets. Walking the market aisles, I felt like I entered a world brimming with colors, scents, and textures. Rebecca and Alberto run food and cultural tours here, so I knew I would get a genuine taste of the city.
Fresh bread and baked goods caught my attention first. The local pastries offered a mix of crunchiness and richness that felt both familiar and new. The smells coming from the fishmongers’ stalls were equally inviting. I learned about "salones," salted and dried fish preserved in traditional ways. The concept fascinated me as it connected me to centuries-old preservation methods before electricity. There were varieties like Bonito and the loin of tuna, nicknamed “the ham of the sea.” Seeing Alberto’s excitement as he shared these food stories reminded me how much I still have to discover about Spain’s diverse regions.
The market offered more surprises beyond fish and bread. Stunning displays of fruits and vegetables filled every stall. Some crops were unlike anything I had seen—crunchy, fresh, and every shade of green, yellow, and purple. It felt like being inside a garden curated by the hands of local farmers. One fruit I couldn’t identify made me question if I lived in the wrong part of Spain. Rebecca simply laughed and said that’s the beauty of Alicante—freshness and variety abundant.
No Spanish market visit would be complete without tasting the offerings right at the bars inside. So, we sat down with Jorge at Baral, a cozy place where fresh market products became small dishes packed with flavor. We started with a crunchy pastry topped with butter and anchovies. It was a combination I never imagined but instantly appreciated for its balance of saltiness and creaminess. Next came a simple tomato salad paired with thin slices of salted, dried fish seen earlier. This classic Alicante dish, made with just good oil and salt, showcased the elegance of simplicity.
The highlight for me came with the deep-fried pork belly. Despite its richness, the pork managed to feel light and juicy inside its crispy skin. It was easy to enjoy a second helping without guilt. The variety of textures and flavors in this small meal opened my eyes to Alicante’s culinary wealth.
After our market adventure, we took a taxi to the Santa Cruz neighborhood perched on a hill beneath a sprawling 9th-century castle. Walking there, I worried about getting caught underfoot by locals and tourists alike, but the charm of the place distracted me. In July and August, the city heats up to near 35°C, but in late April, the temperature hovered pleasantly at 18°C. The air was crisp and inviting for exploring.
Santa Cruz is famed for its white and blue-painted buildings. This mix of colors gave the neighborhood a unique character. Narrow streets with steep stairs revealed glimpses of local life. Only about 2,000 people live there now, making it an intimate community rather than just a tourist spot. Watching locals walk their dogs, do laundry, and go about their mornings made me feel part of the rhythm of the city.
The neighborhood blends history with everyday life. Moving from older to slightly newer parts, we came across streets lined with charming apartment buildings and stunning views. At one corner stood an enormous church with a solid facade, known as the Cathedral of San Nicolás. The absence of windows created a desert-like look, as if it were a temple lost in time. On the facade, faded letters dating back 200 to 300 years told stories of religious discussions once held inside. It felt like walking through layers of history.
Back in the heart of Alicante, the historic center buzzed with life. Gorgeous old buildings framed wide plazas filled with restaurant terraces. People lingered under the sun for long lunches accompanied by palm trees swaying in the breeze. The waterfront promenade, lined with palms, offered a perfect place to watch locals stroll and enjoy the Mediterranean air.
My affection for Alicante deepened with every step, each bite, and each story shared. Yet, the city still had more to offer. At a small tapas bar called Cento, tucked just off the main street, I met Aon and Sylvia. They served a dish that had once won the best tapa award in Alicante. It stole the spotlight with its rich walnut and beef flavors. Though I was traveling with friends not present on this trip, sharing this moment felt special.
Alicante had shown me a side of Spain I had never expected. Its natural beauty blends with a rich history and a vibrant food scene that honors tradition while embracing innovation. The city’s warm people and colorful neighborhoods invite visitors to slow down and savor the experience. Leaving Alicante, I realized this city had quietly won my heart—and would likely capture the hearts of others who decide to look beyond the usual tourist paths.
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