More about Alicante
Why go to Alicante?
A city that mixes seaside, history and Spain's sidewalk cafe culture
Expect queues for the main sights, as well as a bit of graffiti
Alicante is a safe, easy-going destination with something for everyone
Alicante Cruise Port Facilities?
Alicante port is no shrinking violet. It's a significant commercial port and, as such, it sees scores of cargo ships, tugs, fishing boats, pleasure crafts and even tankers pull in and out every day in addition to its passenger vessels. The proximity that cruise ships get to the city center varies. If there is more than one ship visiting Alicante a day, some will dock right outside the terminal building and others will dock a few hundred meters away. The good news is that the port offers complimentary shuttle buses, which take cruise passengers from their ship to just outside the Volvo Ocean Race Museum, which is a minute's walk from the main Explanada de Espana. If you do want to walk, however, it will take you about 20 minutes.
Alicante cruise terminal has an information desk, Wi-Fi, taxi rank, a coffee bar and small shopping area where you can pick up souvenirs.
Good to Know?
It's the same story in a lot of places popular with tourists, but in Alicante you get a lot of street musicians and freelance sales people trying to get you to pay for everything from an accordion performance to a pair of cheap sunglasses.
Getting Around?
On Foot: Most of Alicante's tourist attractions are within walking distance of the port. If you take the complimentary shuttle buses to the stop outside Volvo Ocean Race Museum, the city's highlights are even more accessible. From here, you can get to the foot of the castle in 10 minutes.
By Tram: Tramlines run around Alicante city and beyond to the beaches of the Costa Blanca and up to Benidorm. One of the main stops is near the Central Market, and it's here that you can pick up a single or return ticket or a pass for multiple trips. The lines are numbered 1, 2, 3, 4 and 9. Line 2 weaves around the city center, while line 1 takes passengers on the hourlong journey to Benidorm.
By Taxi: There's a taxi station at the cruise terminal.
Currency & Best Way to Get Money?
Spain's currency is the euro and ATMs are plentiful in Alicante. You'll find several on Explanada de Espana, right next to the port.
Language?
Spanish is the main language in Alicante. However, most people in the city can speak good English, too. If you want to show willing, ask for the bill in Spanish -- it's "La cuenta por favor."
