Alicante: The Heart of Costa Blanca for Tourists and Investors

Alicante – city of sun and sea. Guide to top attractions, best neighborhoods, and real estate prices. Tourism + investment on the Costa Blanca.

Alicante is not just the tourist hub of the Costa Blanca but also one of Spain’s most attractive cities for relocation and real estate investment. Here, historic streets blend with modern neighborhoods, endless beaches, and a dynamic housing market.

Atmosphere and History

Founded by the Romans, Alicante is crowned by the Santa Bárbara Castle, towering above the city.
In the old quarter El Barrio, nightlife thrives with tapas bars, taverns, and clubs.
The city is famous for the Hogueras de San Juan festival, when giant sculptures are burned in a spectacular celebration.

What to See as a Tourist

Playa del Postiguet — the main beach right next to the city center.
Explanada de España — palm-lined promenade with its iconic mosaic tiles.
MARQ Archaeological Museum — one of Spain’s top archaeological museums.
Mercado Central — bustling market with fresh seafood and produce.

Where to Live in Alicante

Centro Histórico (Old Town) — historic charm, vibrant atmosphere, lots of tourists.
Playa San Juan — upscale beach district with modern housing and restaurants.
Benalúa and Babel — affordable neighborhoods close to downtown.
Albufereta — seaside area popular among expats.

Real Estate Prices

According to Idealista, the average price per square meter in Alicante in 2025 is:

€2,200–2,800/m² in central districts;
€1,600–1,900/m² in residential neighborhoods and suburbs;
Rent: from €750/month for a central apartment, and €550–650/month in outer areas.

Compared to Barcelona or Madrid, Alicante’s property remains more affordable, making it a highly attractive option for investors.

Pros and Cons of Living in Alicante

Pros:

Over 300 days of sunshine annually.
International airport with direct flights across Europe.
More affordable housing than in major Spanish cities.
Well-developed infrastructure for both tourists and expats.

Cons:

Overcrowded with tourists in summer.
Parking can be difficult in central districts.
Prices are rising faster than in nearby smaller towns.

Who Alicante Is For

Tourists — a gateway to the Costa Blanca, perfect for combining beaches with culture.
Investors — high year-round rental demand.
Families — schools, hospitals, and family-friendly infrastructure.

Conclusion

Alicante perfectly combines Mediterranean lifestyle, a growing real estate market, and tourist appeal. It’s the ideal starting point to discover the Costa Blanca — for both leisure and investment.

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