Alicante, Spain Cruise Port Guide
Welcome to Alicante, a sparkling jewel along Spain's Costa Blanca that seamlessly blends rich history with vibrant Mediterranean charm.
Frequent cruise lines visiting this sunny destination include Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line.
Passengers are captivated by the city's historic hilltop fortress, palm-lined promenades, and pristine golden beaches located just moments from the ship.
For more information on Alicante, visit our sister site Amazing Atlas to read the Alicante City Guide
In This Guide
- Key Alicante Port Information
- • Top Attractions & Excursions
- • Nearby Cities & Attractions
- • Port Location
- • Local Currency
- • Safety Considerations
- • Weather & Climate
- • Getting Around
- • Shopping
- Shore Excursions & Tours
- Visiting Alicante Cruise Deals
- Upcoming Cruises to Alicante Cruise Deals
- Ships in Port Schedule
- Other Cruise Ports in Spain
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Monthly Pricing
Key Alicante Port Information
Top Attractions & Excursions
Perched high above the city on Mount Benacantil, the monumental Santa Barbara Castle (Castillo de Santa Bárbara) offers breathtaking panoramic views and can be reached via a convenient elevator from the beach level.
Directly beneath the fortress, guests can wander through the picturesque, winding alleyways of Barrio Santa Cruz, famous for its whitewashed homes decorated with vibrant flower pots.
Along the waterfront, enjoy a scenic stroll under palm trees along the iconic Explanada de España, or visit The Ocean Race Museum at the marina.
Last updated on October 26, 2026
Nearby Cities & Attractions
A short 30-minute drive inland brings visitors to Elche, renowned for its historic center and expansive UNESCO World Heritage-listed palm groves.
Another popular excursion is to the mountain village of Guadalest, situated about an hour away, which features dramatic cliffside castle ruins and picturesque valley views.
Culture enthusiasts can also venture 45 minutes inland to Alcoy (Alcoi), a town rich in medieval history and impressive modernist architecture.
Last updated on October 26, 2026
Port Location
The cruise terminal is situated within the Port of Alicante, located roughly one mile from the central shopping streets and main historic attractions.
Cruise ships dock directly alongside the pier, making tendering unnecessary for visitors.
While the walk into town along the marina boardwalk is flat and enjoyable, shuttle buses and taxis are readily available right at the terminal building.
Last updated on October 26, 2026
Local Currency
The local currency used in Alicante is the Euro (€), as US dollars are not accepted for everyday transactions.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in almost all restaurants, stores, and tourist venues.
ATMs and bank currency exchange desks are easily accessible throughout the city center and near the harbor.
Last updated on October 26, 2026
Safety Considerations
Alicante is widely regarded as a safe and walkable destination for cruise passengers exploring independently.
Visitors should exercise standard precautions against pickpocketing in crowded areas such as Explanada de España and busy city beaches.
Keeping personal belongings secure and staying aware of surroundings ensures a smooth and pleasant day ashore.
Last updated on October 26, 2026
Weather & Climate
Alicante features a warm Mediterranean climate characterized by sunny skies and low humidity during the cruising season.
Spring and autumn temperatures typically range between 68°F and 78°F (20°C to 26°C), while mid-summer temperatures can reach 88°F (31°C).
Passengers should pack comfortable walking shoes, lightweight clothing, sunglasses, and adequate sun protection for outdoor sightseeing.
Last updated on October 26, 2026
Getting Around
Most central sights in the city are easily reachable on foot after leaving the port area.
Taxis are queued outside the cruise terminal, offering clear metered rates for short urban trips or private tours.
Public buses and the Alicante Tram provide efficient connections to surrounding coastal spots, while a hop-on hop-off bus tour offers a stress-free route around key city highlights.
Last updated on October 26, 2026
Shopping
Shopping enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Avenida de Maisonnave and the whimsical pedestrian street Calle de Las Setas (The Mushroom Street) for fashion and footwear.
Popular local souvenirs include traditional turrón nougat, regional wines, olive oil, and hand-crafted leather products.
Prices in retail shops are fixed, though duty-free stores and gift shops are accessible near the cruise terminal for last-minute purchases.
Last updated on October 26, 2026
Shore Excursions & Tours
Alicante Paella Cooking Class, Tapas, Drinks & Central Market
This hands-on cooking experience with a local chef begins with a visit to the local market to select the freshest ingredients. It offers an immersive look into Alicante's vibrant culture and daily life through authentic local engagement.
Alicante Winery Small Group Tour with Wine Tasting
Join a local wine expert on a small-group tour from Alicante to a boutique, family-run winery in the Vinalopó region. You will tour the vineyards and cellar to learn how the Mediterranean climate shapes the wines before tasting four regional varieties.
Alicante Wine Tasting and Tapas Club
Expert sommeliers guide you through five wine tastings of Alicante's finest reds and whites, teaching you about their history, production, and characteristics. This experience includes five artisanal tapas carefully paired with each wine variety.
Canelobre Caves and Busot Tour from Alicante
Escape the weather in the 145-million-year-old Canelobre Caves on this small-group guided tour from Alicante. You will explore limestone stalactites, stalagmites, and columns while learning about their formation and the history of how the cave was used.
Alicante Highlights Tour for Cruise Passengers with Port Pickup
This 3.5-hour guided shore excursion for cruise passengers includes a port pickup and a walk through Alicante's historic center. You will visit the Central Market, the Baroque-style Town Hall Square, and the iconic Explanada de España.
Savor Alicante: Premium Wine Tasting and Tapas for Foodies
Discover Alicante’s authentic flavors and culture on a private food tour through the Old Town with an expert local guide. You will escape the crowds to visit selected local bars for traditional tapas, regional wines, and Mediterranean specialties.
Fluid Art Workshop – Create Your Own Art Alicante Bear Art Studio
Create a unique fluid art design by choosing from small 18cm figures to larger 23-33cm statement pieces. This intuitive and unpredictable experience offers various formats ranging from quick and fun to more detailed and high-impact options.
Alicante Evening Tapas & Wine Tour with Local Guide
Experience Alicante's nightlife off the tourist trail on a food tasting tour of three authentic tapas bars loved by locals. Benefit from your guide's expert knowledge while sampling authentic cuisine.
Algar Waterfalls from Alicante & Benidorm (small friendly group)
Escape the heat on a comfortable 30-60 minute drive from Alicante to the ecological wealth of Les Fonts d’Algar. This trip features scenic mountain views and a 1.5-kilometer walk through the protected wet zone's cool mountain waters.
Alicante Food and Tapas Tour with a Local Guide
Enjoy an authentic local gastronomic experience tasting typical products like orchard-fresh produce, local meats, Mediterranean fish, cheeses, and handmade sweets. These snacks and tapas are accompanied by traditional regional drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic.
Guadalest and Fuentes de Algar Half Day Guided Tour
Drive through the Costa Blanca to the Alicantinian mountains to discover historical towns like La Nucía, Polop, and Guadalest’s Castle. This region is the legendary birthplace of the Arab knight associated with the origin of the Moors and Christians festival.
Virtual Reality: Invasion Alicante
Experience a rare, hyper-realistic virtual reality immersion in the game 'Invasion Alicante,' set within the city itself. You and your team must work together to save the world from an alien invasion.
Alicante: Winery tour with tastings (small friendly group)
Relax on a 30-minute drive from Alicante to visit an 18th-century winery and farmhouse formerly owned by the Marquis of La Romana. This guided visit includes an exploration of the vineyards and the wine production process.
Central Market & Hidden Tapas Bars Tour in Alicante
This gastronomic tour at Alicante’s Central Market provides enough fresh local product tastings to equal a full lunch. You will immerse yourself in local culture by meeting friendly stall owners while strolling through the vital traditional market.
Guadalest and Chocolate Museum from Alicante Small Group Tour
This half-day small-group tour for couples and families explores Villajoyosa’s Valor Chocolate Museum for a tasting and the cliff-top Guadalest Castle. Highlights include panoramic views, a rock-carved tunnel entrance, and the Casa Orduña museum.
Half-Day Climbing Experience on Via Ferrata del Ponoig
The 230-meter vertical Ponoig Via Ferrata is a K4-difficulty route divided into two sections. While prior experience is ideal for this daring sport, the route is also suitable for beginners accompanied by the guides.
Alicante Private Walking Tour
Enjoy a 3.5-hour walking tour through Alicante’s city centre to discover its main landmarks, monuments, and local crafts. The experience also includes a taste of local products such as the city's well-known sangria.
Beginner Surf Course
Learn to surf with professional instructors who teach you the necessary skills to navigate the sea while experiencing surfing as a unique lifestyle. This immersive activity makes the rest of the world disappear as you engage with the versatile environment.
Alicante Private Bike Tour (min 2p) MEDIUM CYCLE LEVEL REQUIRED
Discover the highlights and inner workings of Alicante on a private bike tour for groups of at least four travelers. No other participants will join your group, and all riders must know how to ride a bike in the city.
Alicante Must see Attractions Walking Tour With A Guide
Explore Alicante's history, culture, and lifestyle with a local host as you visit landmarks like Barrio de Santa Cruz and Esplanada d'Espanya. This tour includes hidden gems and a break at a hand-picked eatery to see the city through a local's eyes.
Visiting Alicante Cruise Deals
Upcoming Cruises to Alicante Cruise Deals
Ships in Port Schedule
Showing 3 ships in port and 20 ships in the area
Ships in Port Today (Tuesday, October 27)
Other Cruise Ports in Spain
Frequently Asked Questions about Alicante
Last updated on June 13, 2025
❓ 1. What is the best way to get from the cruise terminal to the main attractions?
The cruise terminal is conveniently located close to the city center, making many attractions walkable. Taxis and local buses are also readily available at the port exit for further destinations.
❓ 2. What are the must-see attractions and landmarks within walking distance or a short ride from the port?
Must-see attractions include Santa Bárbara Castle, offering panoramic views, and the charming Old Town (El Barrio) with its narrow streets and Explanada de España promenade, all within walking distance or a short taxi/bus ride.
❓ 3. What local foods or restaurants should I try near the port?
Try authentic paella, fresh seafood, and tapas at restaurants along the Explanada de España or in the Old Town. Local markets also offer a taste of regional produce and specialties like 'turrón'.
❓ What is the local currency and what is the exchange rate?
The local currency is Euro (1 USD = 0.86 EUR). ATMs are widely available throughout the city center, including near the port and major attractions, and are generally the best option for obtaining Euros. Currency exchange offices can also be found, but check rates carefully.
❓ 5. What is the typical weather when cruises visit, and what should I pack?
Alicante typically has hot, sunny summers and mild winters during cruise seasons. Pack light clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes; a light jacket is advisable for evenings or cooler months.
❓ 6. Are there good beaches nearby, and how do I get to them?
Postiguet Beach is the main city beach, located just a short walk from the port. For the larger San Juan Beach, you can take a local bus or tram which takes about 20-30 minutes.
❓ 7. What are the best shore excursion options - through the cruise line or independent?
Cruise lines offer excursions to places like Guadalest or Elche's Palm Grove. Independent exploration of Alicante's city attractions is very feasible, or you can book local tours for more personalized experiences.
❓ 8. What shopping opportunities are available, and what are good local souvenirs?
The main shopping areas are Avenida Maisonnave and the streets around the Central Market. Good local souvenirs include leather goods, ceramics, 'turrón' (nougat), and local wines.
❓ 9. What other interesting places or towns are within a reasonable distance to visit?
The picturesque hilltop village of Guadalest is a popular day trip, as is the city of Elche, famous for its extensive palm grove (a UNESCO World Heritage site). Both are accessible by bus or guided tours.
❓ 10. What's a surprising or interesting fact about Alicante, Spain?
Alicante's Santa Bárbara Castle, one of Spain's largest medieval fortresses, has a rock formation on Mount Benacantil known as 'La Cara del Moro' (The Moor's Face) visible from Postiguet Beach.
Monthly Pricing - Cruises visiting Alicante
Overall cruises visiting Alicante are moderately affordable compared to other itineraries. The graph below shows the monthly average cost per day for cruises visiting Alicante. Cruises visiting Alicante during the the peak season of summer are much more expensive than the the low season of winter.