Alicante; standing out as the second biggest town in the region of Valencia, resting on the coastline between Benidorm and Elche, is an attractive destination with a vibrant Mediterranean nightlife. A living, breathing city, its splendid beaches, sunny skies and great hotels make it a top centre for tourists and residents alike.

It has a wealth of history to offer too: Its impressive mountain-top castle is a sight to behold; the Castillo de Santa Barbara, standing atop the rocky Mount Benacantil, provides commanding views of the city and sea below. Long ago used to keep watch for attacks, pirates and merchants; it now houses the city’s famed Capa Collection (a collection of sculptures by Eduardo Capa). Also, the city’s range of 18th century manor houses are definitely worth visiting. Alicante’s archaeological museum MARQ does away with boring displays and presents the past with the most up-to-date technology; indeed the place was recently voted Europe’s best museum.

One of Alicante’s most emblematic landmarks is the Explanda de Espana or Paseo del Esplanda; a much-loved promenade composed of over six million colourful marble tiles. There you can have an easy stroll, take a coffee and sit down to look out over the harbour. The city is a great place to spend hours at the shops: the highlight of the market scene has to be its annual Mercado Medieval, which features medieval handicrafts and all kinds of entertainment. The Mercado Central meanwhile; a thriving two-floor market is definitely worth a visit.

If you’re feeling like an adventure, take a short ride by ferry to the island of Tabarca, Valencia’s only inhabited island. There at the natural marine reserve you can explore the gorgeous underwater flora and fauna, spend the day in the quaint fishing village, lounge on the beach, swim through the rich blue waters, or even try the delicious fresh seafood on offer.

Alicante’s style is to relax and take it steady by day, and then turn out in force by night. It has a host of taverns, vibrant cocktail bars, ‘discotecas’ and so much more; it’s not unusual to find yourself staying out until the sun rises in Alicante!

Alicante is the kind of place which offers great holidays and also plenty of residential areas for the would-be resident to buy a home. Book a holiday to research the area and find your ideal home, then make the move!