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Alicante is a jewel on the Costa Blanca. As a visitor, you’ll no doubt be drawn to its sun-drenched beaches and laid back atmosphere. As the sun disappears behind the mountains, this coastal city really comes to life.

 

At night, Alicante transforms into a vibrant hub for food lovers, music enthusiasts, and anyone eager for an incredible evening adventure. The city’s nightlife scene is characterised by a mix of Spanish charm and cosmopolitan flair, with high-end nightclubs, hidden gem restaurants and intimate jazz bars catering to every whim.

 

 

The best times to visit are during the spring and early autumn months, which delivers the perfect weather for both sightseeing and enjoying long evenings out. Summer is peak tourist season, so avoid travelling during this time of the year if you want to get away from the crowds. Winters here are still relatively pleasant though, and you can typically find good travel deals that will maximise travelling on a budget.

 

 

When it comes to creating the perfect itinerary for your trip, make sure you leave plenty of time to discover Alicante’s buzzing evening scene. However you like to spend your evenings, the following venues and experiences offer the best of Alicante after dark.

 

 

 

Start your evening with a refined dinner experience overlooking the sparkling waters of Alicante’s marina at La Terraza del Gourmet. Known for its contemporary twist on classic Spanish cuisine, this restaurant serves up fresh, local ingredients. Try their famous arroz a banda (a traditional rice dish) or sample from their array of fresh seafood.

 

 

 

Old Town transforms into quite the lively neighbourhood when the sun goes down, and if you want to see how the locals unwind, this is the area to come! Barrio Santa Cruz is dotted with vibrant spots, from bars to tapas restaurants and friendly live music venues. Before you settle into a venue (or three!) take a wander through its historic alleyways, where you’ll find colourful houses and open-air terraces filled with friendly locals and travellers alike.

 

 

 

For a night out with a difference, head to the Casino Mediterráneo. Located right on the waterfront, and a ten minute walk from virtually anywhere in downtown Alicante, it’s a must for keen gamers and novices alike. Ok, so with the advent of online poker – and all the variants that are readily available online – you can play the game virtually anywhere. However, the casino is quite the spectacle, spread out as it is over 3,500 square metres. There’s a huge variety of games on offer, from slots to card and table offerings. Online poker fans will be especially happy to know that the casino plays host to regular events, cash games and tournaments including the Juegging Poker Series so you can show off the skills and strategy you've developed playing in the virtual realm. The only difficulty here is in deciding which format to play! Not a keen gamer? Don’t worry, you can just soak up the glamorous atmosphere in the on-site bar and restaurant.

 

 

 

Fancy yourself a bit of a foodie? El Portal Alicante is where to go! This elegant destination draws in only the hippest crowd with its delectable food and drinks. Sample an extensive list of Spanish wines, or enjoy the creative contemporary take on traditional tapas. The perfect spot if you’re celebrating a special occasion while visiting, El Portal also runs regular DJ nights on its schedule.

 

 

 

This local theatre brings a taste of Spain’s vibrant performing arts scene to Alicante. Teatre Arniches hosts a variety of live performances, including dance, plays, and live music, with an emphasis on Spanish and local culture. The intimate setting and well-curated performances combine to deliver authentic cultural experiences, so it's a must-do if you’re even remotely interested in Spanish art and traditions.

 

 

 

Bringing a slice of Mexico to Alicante, La Tía Juana is a colourful venue with an unforgettable atmosphere. With its vibrant Latin tines and delicious Mexican dishes – and yes, signature margaritas – this is a hotspot for tourists and locals alike in search of a wild night out.

 

 

Bring your evening to a close with a gentle stroll around the Plaza de Gabriel Miro. This enchanting square is beautifully illuminated at night, while the nearby centuries-old trees and the Aguadora Fountain add a touch of magic to the atmosphere. If you're lucky, you might find one of the Plaza’s quaint cafes open for a late night café con leche.

 

Image: Artem Sapegin / Unsplash