As part of the Valencian Community, with the provinces of Castellón and Valencia, Alicante is one of the most attractive areas in a country replete with them. The coastal province on the Mediterranean is so popular, with enviable geography and weather, that a full 20% of the population hails from outside of Spain.

A good portion of the expat populace lives in the resort town of Benidorm on the Costa Blanca. The package holiday paradise and surrounding coastal towns offer idyllic beach getaways. Meanwhile, Alicante's capital city of the same name provides visitors with one of the best preserved old towns in Spain and a vibrant cultural scene.

The central focal point in the city of Alicante, the Castillo de Santa Bárbara was built in the 9th century but contains hillside relics that date back to the Bronze Age and Roman Empire.

Catedral de San Nicolás de Bari

One of the most impressive landmarks in Alicante, the Cathedral of St. Nicholas offers superlative 17th century architecture within close range of a vibrant nightlife district.

Iglesia de Santa Maria

Among the most historic cathedrals in Alicante, the dramatic Gothic-style 14th century Church of Santa Maria sits on a former mosque and contains several vital relics.

Benidorm

The resort city of Benidorm is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe. The Costa Blanca town on the Mediterranean Sea is a big draw for two reasons: beaches and nightlife.

Archaeological Museum of Alicante

Built in 2002 and the European Museum of the Year just two years later, the Archaeological Museum of Alicante has eight multimedia and interactive exhibit halls that trace the history of the city and province.

Alicante City Hall

The Baroque façade and opulent interior of Alicante's city hall makes for a great attraction. Host of many events throughout the year, a tour of the mid-18th century landmark is worth an hour or two of your time.

The province of Alicante's appeal as a tourist destination is no surprise, given a Mediterranean climate that offers mild winters and hot summers. The weather is especially idyllic on the Costa Blanca.

• Winter (December to February) 6-18°C

• Spring (March to May) 8-23.5°C

• Summer (June to September) 17-31°C

• Fall (October to November) 10-24.5°C

Bonfires of Saint John

Although celebrated across Spain every June over the course of six days, the Bonfires of Saint John is particularly popular in Alicante. The most revered festival in the city features parades, all-night revelry, bonfires and a number of important culinary traditions.

Carnaval

The traditional celebrations that lead up to the period of Lent make the province of Alicante a wonderful place to be in February. Parades, special feasts, music and dance highlight the line-up of events.

Alicante Jazz Festival

The superb celebration of jazz music comes to the city of Alicante every July and August, with performances in a number of bars and concert halls.