Valencia vs. Alicante: Which Spanish Coast is Best for You?
When planning a trip to Spain’s eastern coastline, two destinations often come to mind: Valencia, a bustling city with a mix of ancient history and modern innovation, and Alicante, a relaxed coastal retreat known for its stunning beaches and charming plazas. Having experienced both, we’re here to break down their offerings in key categories to help you choose which city best suits your travel style.
Beaches
Valencia:
Valencia’s Malvarrosa Beach is a slice of Mediterranean paradise. With golden sands stretching as far as the eye can see and calm waters ideal for a refreshing swim, this urban beach is perfect for families or groups. It’s lined with a promenade full of restaurants and cafes offering everything from seafood paella to refreshing horchata. We loved packing a picnic from Mercat Central—cheese, jamón, olives, and crusty bread—to enjoy by the sea. For those seeking a more active day, Valencia’s beaches offer paddleboarding, volleyball, and even dance classes in the park.
Alicante:
Postiguet Beach, nestled right in the heart of Alicante, boasts turquoise waters and a relaxed vibe. The backdrop of the city and the iconic Mount Benacantil adds a dramatic touch to the beach experience. We strolled along the Explanada de España before dipping our toes in the water, and while we didn’t swim, the soft sand and sunny atmosphere were enough to recharge us. Alicante’s beaches are less expansive than Valencia’s but feel more intimate, making them great for a day trip.
Winner: Valencia edges out with its variety of beach activities and larger stretch of coastline.
Cuisine
Valencia:
Valencia is the birthplace of paella, and you simply cannot visit without trying this iconic dish. At Restaurant Yuso, we sampled the traditional Valencian paella with chicken and rabbit, paired with a vegetable version for variety. For dessert, we stopped at Orxateria Santa Catalina for churros with thick, velvety chocolate and tigernut horchata. Valencia’s culinary scene thrives on fresh market ingredients, which you can experience firsthand at Mercat Central, one of Europe’s largest fresh food markets.
Alicante:
Alicante offers a more laid-back food scene focused on tapas and fresh seafood. At El Portal Taberna & Wines, we savored patatas bravas, grilled octopus, and croquetas paired with crisp local wines. The Plaza de Gabriel Miró is a fantastic spot to sip sangria in the shade of ancient trees. For coffee lovers, JevoleCoffee offers artisanal cortados and fresh orange juice, setting the tone for a relaxed afternoon. Alicante’s smaller market scene provides a more casual, local vibe.
Winner: Valencia wins for its diversity and culinary innovation, though Alicante is a strong contender for tapas enthusiasts.
Shopping
Valencia:
Valencia’s shopping scene is a blend of high-end boutiques and local artisan shops. The Ciutat Vella (Old Town) is full of charming stores selling ceramics, jewelry, and other handmade goods. For something more modern, head to the Colón Market, an upscale venue with shops, cafes, and gourmet food stalls. Valencia also offers plenty of open-air markets where you can find everything from fresh produce to souvenirs.
Alicante:
Shopping in Alicante is more about discovering hidden gems. The streets around Explanada de España are home to small boutiques and souvenir shops selling unique items like locally made sandals and jewelry. If you’re visiting on the right day, you may stumble upon a local artisan market, where vendors sell handmade crafts. Alicante’s shopping options are more casual but offer authentic treasures.
Winner: Valencia wins for variety and upscale options, while Alicante is perfect for unique, laid-back finds.
Sights and Attractions
Valencia:
Valencia’s City of Arts and Sciences is a futuristic wonderland that captivates visitors of all ages. We marveled at the sleek architecture, explored the science museum, and tested the whispering arch for fun acoustics. For history buffs, the Valencia Cathedral and El Miguelete Bell Tower offer a glimpse into the city’s rich past and panoramic views. Turia Park, a transformed riverbed, is perfect for biking or picnicking, and the annual Las Fallas Festival makes Valencia truly unforgettable.
Alicante:
Alicante’s historical gem is Castillo de Santa Bárbara, a fortress perched atop Mount Benacantil. The climb to the castle offers sweeping views of the city and coastline. We also loved the tranquil Plaza de Gabriel Miró, with its towering ficus trees and beautiful fountain. Alicante’s compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, and the mix of seaside promenades and historic streets keeps things interesting.
Winner: Valencia wins for its mix of cutting-edge and historical attractions, while Alicante offers a more relaxed, walkable experience.
Affordability
Both cities are budget-friendly compared to larger Spanish destinations like Madrid or Barcelona, but Alicante tends to have lower prices for accommodations and dining. Valencia offers more luxury options, which can drive up costs, but also has plenty of affordable choices like Airbnb rentals in neighborhoods like Soternes.
Winner: Alicante wins for budget-conscious travelers.
Walkability and Public Transport
Valencia:
Valencia boasts an excellent public transport system, including buses, trams, and a metro, making it easy to explore even the city’s outer neighborhoods. We stayed in Soternes, a well-connected and safe area, and navigated the city seamlessly. The bike-friendly Turia Park and walkable Old Town add to the convenience.
Alicante:
Alicante’s smaller size makes it incredibly walkable. From the bustling streets of the city center to the beach and the castle, most attractions are within a short walking distance. However, public transport options are more limited, and a car can be helpful for exploring beyond the city.
Winner: Tie – Valencia for its public transport, Alicante for its walkability.
Culture
Valencia:
Valencia’s blend of ancient Roman, Visigoth, Muslim, and Christian influences is reflected in its architecture and traditions. The Las Fallas Festival in March is a cultural explosion of art, fire, and celebration. The city’s passion for preserving traditions, like siestas and late-night dinners, immerses visitors in authentic Spanish life.
Alicante:
Alicante exudes a more laid-back vibe, with lively plazas like Plaza de Gabriel Miró showcasing local life at its finest. The city’s history is tied to its maritime culture, and its residents are friendly and welcoming. Alicante feels less touristy than Valencia, offering a slower pace of life.
Winner: Tie – Valencia for its vibrant, diverse culture, Alicante for its relaxed authenticity.
Final Verdict
Choose Valencia if…
You’re looking for a city that offers a mix of modern attractions, rich history, and a diverse culinary scene. Valencia is ideal for travelers who enjoy an active itinerary and want a taste of both urban sophistication and coastal relaxation.
Choose Alicante if…
You prefer a slower pace, intimate plazas, and a focus on tapas and beachside charm. Alicante is perfect for a relaxing getaway or as a day trip from a nearby town like Torrevieja.
Ultimately, both Valencia and Alicante have their own unique allure, making either one a fantastic addition to your Spanish adventure!
