Alicante is a city that wears its history openly, with ancient castles, lively markets, and stories that echo through narrow alleyways. Unlike some destinations that hide their past behind tourist traps, Alicante offers genuine opportunities to explore local life and history firsthand. We especially like the small-group Alicante Historic Tour with Tapas Tasting, which combines history, food, and personal attention in a way that truly captures the city’s character. The highlight? Visiting the Santa Bárbara Castle for panoramic views and wandering through Santa Cruz, a neighborhood bursting with stories.
For those who want an even deeper dive into the region’s past, the Elche UNESCO Heritage Sites tour or the Walking Tour through Elche’s historic center and botanical garden reveal ancient palms and archaeological treasures that span over 2,000 years. Meanwhile, the UNESCO Palm Grove and Artistic Garden Tour offers a peaceful walk through the largest palm grove in Europe and a lovely garden, perfect for nature-loving history buffs. Whether you prefer castle ruins, archaeological museums, or lush gardens, Alicante’s history is alive and accessible.
Quick Overview
Our list of the best historical tours in Alicante includes a variety of options that suit different interests and travel styles. From intimate walking tours and small-group explorations to full-day excursions, each experience offers a unique way to uncover the city’s past. Want a taste of local cuisine while exploring? The Alicante Historic Small Group Tour with Tapas Tasting combines cultural sights with a culinary twist. Craving deeper regional history? The Elche UNESCO Heritage Sites tour takes you to ancient archaeological sites and UNESCO-listed gardens. For a blend of outdoor beauty and history, the UNESCO Palm Grove and Artistic Garden Tour is a peaceful walk through historic landscapes. And if you prefer exploring by bike, the Alicante Private Bicycle Tour offers a fun, active way to see beaches, orchards, and monasteries.
Now, let’s get into each experience so you can see which one best fits your interests.
1. Alicante Historic Small Group Tour with Tapas Tasting
This tour is a charming way to get to know Alicante’s highlights in just a few hours, with the added bonus of tasting award-winning tapas. Limited to just 10 people, this small-group tour offers a personal touch that larger tours often lack. Your journey starts at the bustling Central Market, where you can interact with local vendors and sample delicious bites that showcase Alicante’s culinary traditions.
From there, you’ll hop in private transport to the Santa Bárbara Castle, perched above the city, offering stunning views of the Old Town and coastline. The castle’s hidden corners and panoramic outlook make it a highlight, especially as your guide shares local secrets about its history. The tour then moves through the lively Santa Cruz neighborhood, known for its winding alleys and colorful houses, before concluding at a top tapas bar to enjoy some of the best bites Alicante has to offer. With excellent reviews praising knowledgeable guides and authentic experiences, this tour balances sightseeing, food, and culture seamlessly.
Bottom Line: Ideal for first-time visitors who want a comprehensive, intimate introduction to Alicante’s sights and flavors in a relaxed setting.
2. Elche, UNESCO Heritage Sites and museums
For travelers interested in archaeology and UNESCO World Heritage sites, this Elche tour is a standout. With more than 2,000 years of history, Elche boasts some of Spain’s most impressive archaeological and cultural treasures. The tour begins at the Archaeological Museum of Elche, where you’ll explore artifacts from the city’s origins through Muslim times, gaining insight into its layered past.
Next, your guide takes you to the Basilica of Santa Maria, a striking medieval church linked to the famous Misteri d’Elx—a sacred drama declared UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. This visit reveals the deep spiritual and artistic roots of the city. The tour culminates at the Huerto del Cura, a UNESCO-listed botanical garden filled with thousands of palm trees, where you can admire the lush landscape and learn about the significance of palms in local history.
Guests praise the guide’s vivid storytelling and the chance to see key monuments up close. The tour combines history, art, and nature, making it perfect for culture enthusiasts who want an immersive experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who love museums, architecture, and UNESCO sites, and want a rundown of Elche’s historic and botanical treasures.
3. Alicante: UNESCO Heritage Palm grove + Artistic Garden Tour
This two-in-one tour offers a relaxed way to explore Alicante’s natural and cultural heritage. It begins with a walk through the Palmeral of Elche, the largest palm grove in Europe, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. You’ll see different types of palms and learn how this landscape has shaped local life for centuries. The guided part of the tour lasts about an hour, giving you time to absorb the tranquility and unique botanical features.
Following that, the tour visits the Nation Artistic Garden, a beautifully maintained space that is a designated Cultural Heritage of the Valencian Community. Here, you can admire sculptures, plants, and peaceful ponds. The blend of natural beauty and cultural craftsmanship makes this experience ideal for travelers seeking both outdoor scenery and historical context.
Reviewers note the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to observe diverse plant species and birdlife. The tour’s moderate length and focus on gardens make it perfect for nature lovers who also want a taste of local history.
Bottom Line: A calming, scenic option for those interested in botany, outdoor art, and UNESCO heritage.
$73 per person
4. Top 10 Alicante: history, flavor, and charm
If you want an efficient overview of Alicante’s most iconic sights, this top 10 tour covers the city’s essential spots in 2 to 3 hours. It’s a walking route that hits all the high points—like the Paseo Puerto, Old Town’s Santa Cruz, and the Explanada de Espana—with photo stops and brief guided commentary. Along the way, you’ll sample local turrón and enjoy a drink, giving you a taste of the city’s flavors.
This tour is suitable for travelers who prefer a flexible, relaxed pace without too much walking or formal history talks. The guide helps you see Alicante through the eyes of a local, emphasizing the city’s lively neighborhoods and scenic overlooks from the Santa Bárbara Castle.
Reviews mention the tour’s great value and the chance to discover Alicante’s essence in a short time. It’s a perfect choice for those on a tight schedule or who want an overview before exploring on their own.
Bottom Line: A concise, engaging way to get acquainted with Alicante’s sights, flavors, and atmosphere.
5. Alicante: Private Bicycle Tour of the Beach and History
For active travelers, this private bike tour offers a fun, flexible way to see the city’s coastline, orchards, and monasteries. Starting at Avenida de Holanda, you’ll pedal along San Juan Beach, taking in the views of the sand and sea. The guide also leads you through Alicante’s famous orchards, sharing stories about their history and significance.
Key highlights include visiting the San Faz Monastery and discovering the relic of the Lady of Elche, a famous archaeological find. The route is designed for comfort and sightseeing, with several stops for photos and explanations. The tour typically lasts around 2.5 hours, making it manageable for most fitness levels.
Guests mention that the ride is scenic and educational, with the added benefit of enjoying Alicante’s outdoors at a leisurely pace. It suits travelers who prefer hands-on exploration and outdoor activity over walking.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want a personal, scenic tour combining beaches, history, and local stories.
6. Elche: walking tour through the historic center and botanical garden Huerto de Cura
This detailed walking tour of Elche combines the city’s UNESCO-listed palm grove with a visit to the historic center, including the Basilica of Santa Maria, Altamira Palace, and Arab baths. Starting at the Tourist Info Elx, you’ll stroll through lush gardens and explore ancient monuments, learning about the Lady of Elche and other legendary tales along the way.
The highlight is the Huerto de Cura, Spain’s first botanical garden, where thousands of palm trees create a stunning landscape. The tour lasts about 2.5 hours, with plenty of time to appreciate the architecture and natural beauty. The guide’s passion for the city’s history makes this a memorable experience.
Reviewers praise the guide’s enthusiasm and the chance to see both cultural monuments and natural scenes in one walk. It’s ideal for travelers who want a relaxed pace and a rundown of Elche.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who enjoy walking, gardens, and uncovering stories behind ancient monuments.
$79 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Alicante History Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to dedicate. If you love combining food and sights, the Alicante Historic Small Group Tour with Tapas Tasting is a fantastic choice. For a deep dive into regional archaeology and UNESCO sites, go for the Elche UNESCO Heritage Sites tour. Nature lovers should consider the Palm Grove and Artistic Garden Tour, while those wanting a broad overview might prefer the Top 10 Alicante route.
Active travelers or families might enjoy the bike tour, which offers a fun and different perspective. If a relaxed, comprehensive exploration appeals, the walking tour of Elche combines natural beauty with historic landmarks.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and time. Each tour offers a unique way to connect with Alicante’s past—choose one that fits your pace and interests for a memorable journey.
Alicante’s history is rich, accessible, and varied—whether you prefer exploring castles, gardens, or lively markets. From intimate small-group outings to active bike rides, this list offers options for every type of traveler. If you’re eager to dig into local stories and enjoy authentic experiences, don’t wait—book early and get ready to uncover Alicante’s treasures.