Weekend in Alicante
This budget-friendly family itinerary for Alicante offers a perfect mix of free outdoor activities and exciting ticketed attractions designed for children aged 3-12. It leverages local events like the Gastronómica fair and combines them with evergreen family favorites such as a historical castle, a vibrant park, a lively market, and a fun amusement park, ensuring a memorable weekend. The plan considers meal times and offers practical transportation tips.
Friday Evening - Culinary Fun & Promenade Stroll
Friday, October 3Gastronómica Kids Workshop
Kick off the weekend at Alicante Gastronómica, one of Spain's largest food and hospitality fairs.
This event, happening from October 3-6, 2025, features live cooking demonstrations, food tastings, and special 'kids' workshops' where children can engage in hands-on culinary activities. It's an excellent opportunity to introduce them to local flavors and cooking in a fun, interactive environment.
Perfect for curious kids aged 5-12. Check the specific schedule for children's workshop times and topics closer to the date. There are often affordable 'Tapas Solidarias' (solidarity tapas) for €2, with proceeds going to charity. Restrooms and easy stroller access are available at the fairgrounds.
Located outside the city center, a car or taxi is recommended. Parking is available on-site (expect a fee). Public transport options (bus) might be available, check local routes for IFA Fira Alacant.
Explanada Evening Stroll
Enjoy a relaxed early evening stroll along the iconic Explanada de España.
This vibrant promenade runs parallel to the port, featuring a distinctive mosaic pattern made from millions of colorful tiles. Kids will love watching street performers, browsing the craft and souvenir stalls, and feeling the sea breeze. It's a perfect way to wind down and enjoy the city's lively atmosphere.
Suitable for all ages. There are numerous ice cream parlors and family-friendly restaurants along the promenade for an early dinner or a treat. Public restrooms are usually available in the vicinity. The flat, wide promenade is excellent for strollers and kids to run around.
Centrally located and easily accessible on foot from many parts of Alicante. Public buses have stops nearby. Parking available in underground car parks beneath the Explanada or nearby streets (paid).
Saturday - Amusement Park & Palm Park Adventure
Saturday, October 4Pola Park Fun
Embark on a thrilling morning at Pola Park Santa Pola, an amusement park boasting over 25 attractions suitable for the whole family.
From classic fairground rides and bumper cars to a karting track and a 'Russian mountain', there's plenty to keep kids aged 3-12 entertained for hours. They also feature live shows.
Ideal for children aged 3-12, with attractions varying in intensity. The park has multiple dining options and clean restrooms. It's explicitly open on Saturday, October 4th, from 12:00 to 00:00, so an earlier arrival would be good for maximizing playtime.
Pola Park is a short drive from Alicante (approx. 20-30 minutes). Ample parking is available on-site, typically for a fee. Public bus services to Santa Pola are also an option.
Park Picnic & Play
After the morning excitement, enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch at the expansive El Palmeral Park.
This 'natural haven' is known for its lush vegetation, including over 7,000 palm trees, artificial rivers, waterfalls, and a lake. There are designated picnic areas and plenty of open space for kids to run around. Alternatively, the park has a cafe.
Excellent for all ages, providing a calm break and a chance for active play. The park features unique children's play areas and is stroller-friendly with wooden pathways and bridges. Clean public restrooms are available.
Accessible by bus (lines 01, 27, C6) or by car with available parking. It's a short drive from Santa Pola back towards Alicante.
Boat Ride & Pump Track
Continue the fun at El Palmeral Park.
Kids can enjoy a boat ride on the lake from the renovated pier, a relaxing activity popular with both children and adults. For older, more energetic children (and even adults), the park boasts a 'pump track' for bicycles, skateboards, roller skates, and scooters, encouraging physical activity and skill development in a safe environment.
Boat rides are suitable for younger children, while the pump track is great for active kids aged 6-12 (bring own equipment if possible, or check for rentals). The park offers shaded areas and restrooms. In case of rain, this part of the activity would need to be skipped.
Same as above: Bus lines 01, 27, C6 or car with parking.
Beachfront Dinner
Head to Playa de San Juan for a delightful early dinner with sea views.
This long, golden sandy beach is known for its shallow waters and family-friendly atmosphere, often featuring beachfront playgrounds. Many restaurants along the promenade offer children's menus and a relaxed setting, perfect for a winding-down evening before bedtime.
Kids will enjoy playing on the sand or a beachfront playground before or after dinner. Restaurants are typically very accommodating for families. This early timing allows for a leisurely meal and a smooth return for bedtime. Suitable for all ages.
Playa de San Juan is accessible by tram (L1, L3) or bus from Alicante city center. Street parking is available but can be busy; consider public transport.
Sunday - Castle Views & City Exploration
Sunday, October 5Santa Bárbara Castle Explore
Explore the majestic Santa Bárbara Castle, perched on Mount Benacantil, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Alicante and the Mediterranean Sea.
Kids will love discovering the towers, battlements, and open spaces of this historic fortress. The castle is free to enter and open until 6:00 PM in October.
Great for kids who enjoy history and exploration. Wear comfortable shoes. There are cafes and restrooms inside the castle. The elevator provides easy access for strollers and younger children.
Access by public elevator from Avenida Juan Bautista Lafora (opposite Postiguet Beach) for a small fee, free for children under 5. Alternatively, walk up from the Old Town or through Parque de la Ereta (free but steep), or take a taxi/car directly to the castle gates (no parking at entrance, but drop-off possible).
Central Market Delights
Immerse yourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Alicante's Central Market.
This bustling indoor market is a sensory experience for children, with an incredible selection of fresh produce, seafood, and local specialties. Let the kids pick out colorful fruits or local sweets. It’s a fantastic place for an affordable and authentic family lunch, with many stalls offering ready-to-eat options.
Suitable for all ages. Kids will enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells. Many vendors offer tastings. It can get crowded, so keep an eye on little ones. Restrooms are available. This is a great opportunity to try local delicacies.
Centrally located, easily reachable on foot or by local bus. Several parking garages are available nearby (paid).
Postiguet Beach Play
Conclude your weekend with some relaxed fun at Playa del Postiguet.
Located in the heart of Alicante, this beach offers soft sand and calm, shallow waters, ideal for children to splash and play. There's often a playground right on the beach, making it perfect for kids to burn off any remaining energy before heading home. Enjoy the final moments of your family weekend by the beautiful Mediterranean Sea.
Perfect for energetic kids aged 3-12. Bring towels and beach toys. Public showers and restrooms are available. The beach is easily accessible and stroller-friendly.
Easily accessible on foot from the city center and the Central Market. Multiple bus stops nearby. Paid parking is available in nearby underground car parks.
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