Alicante Valencia And Murcia, Spain Travel Guide
Spain's main mobile network operators include Vodafone, Orange, Movistar, and Yoigo, offering comprehensive coverage. MVNOs like Lebara, Lycamobile, and Digi Mobil often present competitive rates for prepaid SIM cards, a popular choice for tourists.
Free Wi-Fi widely exists throughout Alicante in most hotels, many cafes, restaurants, and bars. Public Wi-Fi hotspots also exist in some city squares and public buildings.
Spanish (Castilian) is the official language. Valencian, a co-official language, also exists, especially by locals. English has widespread use in tourist-heavy areas, less so in local shops.
Correos serves as the national postal service of Spain. Post offices stand easily identifiable by their yellow signs. You may send postcards, letters, and packages from these offices.
For immediate connectivity upon arrival, consider a Global eSIM. Download offline translation packs for your phone.
Discover typical operating hours and seasonal variations for businesses and services.
Shops generally operate from 10:00 to 14:00 (morning) and 17:00 to 20:00/21:00 (afternoon/evening). Smaller shops often close for "siesta." Large department stores have continuous hours (10:00-22:00).
Lunch service runs from 13:30/14:00 to 16:00. Dinner service typically begins later, from 20:30/21:00 to 23:00/00:00. Bars stay open late into the early morning.
Spain observes national, regional, and local public holidays. Businesses, banks, and some attractions may close or operate with reduced hours on these days.
Banks generally operate weekdays from 08:30/09:00 to 14:00/14:30. ATMs (Cajeros Automáticos) stand widely available 24/7 throughout the city.
Check local holiday calendars before your trip for details on closures or reduced hours. Dates include:
Always verify operating hours for specific attractions and establishments online, especially around public holidays. Spaniards typically dine and shop later than in many other countries, embracing a relaxed pace of life.
Navigating local customs smoothly enriches your travel experience. Here are guidelines for respectful interaction.
A handshake commonly occurs when meeting new people or in business settings. Among friends, and for men and women or between women, two kisses on the cheek (starting with the right cheek) are a standard greeting. Men typically shake hands with other men.
Alicante generally maintains a casual and relaxed atmosphere. Beachwear proves appropriate only on the beach. For religious sites, modest dress (shoulders and knees covered) comes recommended as a sign of respect.
Dining is a social and often lively affair in Spain. Do not feel rushed during meals. Meals can extend for a long time, especially lunch on weekends.
Photography generally stands acceptable in public spaces. However, always act respectfully and seek permission before photographing individuals, especially children.
Learning basic Spanish phrases demonstrates respect and creates more authentic interactions. Embrace local customs like later dining hours and the afternoon 'siesta.' Observing politeness and discretion is valued.
Alicante consistently improves its accessibility for travelers with mobility challenges, though some historical areas may present difficulties.
Many central areas, including the Explanada de España, the port area, and major avenues, stand relatively flat with wide pavements, making them easy to navigate.
Santa Bárbara Castle stands accessible by the public elevator from Postiguet Beach. While the elevator transports to main levels, some higher parts of the castle may feature uneven terrain or steps.
While general infrastructure consistently improves, specialized services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments (e.g., audio guides, sign language interpreters) may stand limited.
Consult local tourism boards for specific accessible routes or services. Organizations dedicated to accessible tourism in Spain may also present detailed information and lists of accessible accommodations and attractions.
Contact specific venues or transportation providers in advance to confirm their accessibility features. Older structures, especially in the historic core, may present limitations. Planning can make a significant difference for a smooth visit.
