Alicante Valencia And Murcia, Spain Travel Guide
Alicante experiences a hot semi-arid climate, Köppen: BSh. The city has mild, sunny winters and hot, dry summers.
Winter (December-February) temperatures range from 16-18°C (61-64°F) highs, with lows between 6-8°C (43-46°F). Spring (March-May) temperatures climb to 19-24°C (66-75°F) highs. Summer (June-August) temperatures are hot and dry, with highs between 28-31°C (82-88°F). Autumn (September-November) sees highs from 21-27°C (70-81°F).
High Season (June-August) brings the warmest weather for beach activities, with all tourist services operating fully. These months are the most crowded, with higher prices for flights and accommodations.
Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October) offers pleasant temperatures for sightseeing and outdoor activities, with fewer crowds and moderate prices. Sea temperatures allow swimming into September and early October. Low Season (November-March) has the fewest crowds and lowest prices. Temperatures are mild and often sunny.
Gota Fría (cold drop) phenomenon can cause intense rainfall in late summer/autumn. Monitor local forecasts.
June to September for warmest sea.
April-May and September-October for pleasant conditions.
Spain is a member of the Schengen Area; entry rules align with Schengen zone regulations.
Citizens from US, Canada, UK, Australia, NZ, Japan, South Korea typically enjoy visa-free access for short stays (up to 90 days in 180 days).
Scheduled for implementation mid-2025 (verify date). Visa-exempt travelers will need an ETIAS online authorization prior to travel. This is a pre-travel authorization, not a visa.
Passport, proof of onward travel, accommodation, sufficient funds, and travel insurance.
Valid for at least three months beyond departure, issued within 10 years, two blank pages.
As of early 2024, no specific health entry requirements. Check official sources for updates.
The Euro (€) is the official currency. ATMs are widely available. Most establishments accept major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard). Inform your bank of travel plans. A credit card without foreign transaction fees is advisable. Exchange rates at airport kiosks are often less favorable; ATM withdrawals typically offer better rates.
Budget traveler: €40-€70 (hostel dorm, self-prepared meals, public transport, free attractions). Mid-range traveler: €80-€150 (mid-range hotel, local restaurants, mix of transport, museum entry). Luxury traveler: €200+ (high-end hotels, fine dining, private transfers, exclusive experiences).
Hostel dorm: €20-€40. Mid-range hotel: €100-€180.
Menu del Día: €10-€15. Mid-range dinner: €20-€40.
Single bus/tram: €1.45. 10-trip card: €8.70.
Santa Bárbara Castle (walk-up): Free. MARQ Museum: €3-€5.
Not obligatory; round up or leave €1-€5 for good service.
Alicante is a safe city for tourists.
No specific vaccinations are necessary for Spain for most international travelers. Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP, polio, flu shot) are good practice. Consult your doctor or a travel clinic before your trip.
Alicante is generally a safe city. Violent crime is rare. Petty crime, especially pickpocketing, is the most common issue for tourists. These incidents typically occur in crowded areas like Explanada de España, Postiguet Beach, the central market, and transport stations.
Report lost/stolen items to the local police (Policía Nacional) immediately for a police report. This report is necessary for insurance claims and to get emergency travel documents from your embassy or consulate.
