Are you planning a trip to Alicante and wondering what must-see spots should be on your list? The Explanada de España is an absolute must-visit when you’re in town. As one of the most famous seafront promenades in Spain, it perfectly captures the Mediterranean spirit of Alicante.
I’ve put together this guide to help you find this stunning waterfront walkway, and make the most out of visiting there!
What is the Explanada de España?
The Explanada de España (also known as Paseo de la Explanada or simply La Explanada) is Alicante’s gorgeous seafront promenade that runs parallel to the port. It’s one of the most popular walking areas in the city, and once you see it, you’ll understand why!
What makes this promenade truly stand out is its distinctive wavy marble pavement, made up of roughly 7.5 million tiles in three colours: Alicante red, ivory cream, and Marquina black. The undulating pattern is meant to mirror the waves of the Mediterranean Sea.
Lined with palm trees on both sides, it creates a perfect setting for a relaxing stroll by the sea.
Where to find it
You can find the Explanada along the waterfront in central Alicante, from Puerta del Mar to Canalejas Park. It sits parallel to both the port and the Paseo de los Mártires de la Libertad.
If you’re staying in Alicante, it’s very easy to find – just head toward the sea, and you’ll likely walk right into it! Most of the main tourist sites in Alicante are within walking distance of the Explanada.
History of the Explanada de España
The story of this beautiful promenade is quite fascinating:
- Originally, the area was a defensive glacis (an open space in front of fortifications), protected by the San Carlos Bastion.
- In the 1830s, the space was first levelled and turned into a seawall that doubled as a public walking area. It was initially called Paseo de Olalde, after the civil governor who promoted its development.
- Following the September Revolution in 1868, it was renamed Paseo de los Mártires de la Libertad (Promenade of the Martyrs of Liberty) to honour 24 people who were shot in 1844 during the suppression of a progressive uprising.
- The promenade got its current look in the 1950s, when Mayor Agatángelo Soler ordered it to be paved with the distinctive marble mosaic we see today.
- The design was inspired by Rossio Square in Lisbon, which the mayor and architect Francisco Muñoz had visited.
- In 2009, the Explanada underwent significant restoration work to replace damaged tiles while keeping true to the original design.
What’s around the Explanada
The Explanada isn’t just beautiful on its own, it’s surrounded by some of Alicante’s most interesting spots.
Casa Carbonell
This building sits near the beginning of Explanada, and stands out with its impressive architecture right on the promenade.
La Concha
An open-air auditorium where you can catch concerts and various cultural events throughout the year.
The Port of Alicante
The promenade offers lovely views of the port and marina.
Castle of Santa Bárbara
Looking up from the Explanada, you can see the iconic Alicante Castle sitting atop Mount Benacantil.
Park Canalejas and the Monument of Canalejas
At the southern end of the Explanada, you’ll find this famous park and monument for its centuries-old ficus trees providing ample shade.
What to do at the Explanada
There’s plenty to keep you busy along this beautiful promenade:
- Enjoy a coffee or meal at one of the many terraces lining the walkway
- Shop for souvenirs at the craft stalls
- Visit the Alicante Craft Fair if you’re there during summer
- Browse the hippie stalls that sell handcrafted items year-round
- Attend a concert or cultural event at La Concha auditorium
- Simply take a leisurely stroll and soak in the Mediterranean atmosphere
Best time to visit
The Explanada is wonderful at any time of day, but I find it especially magical in the early evening when the sun starts to set and the promenade comes alive with locals and visitors taking their evening “paseo” (stroll).
During summer evenings, the atmosphere is particularly lively, with street performers, musicians, and the terraces filled with people enjoying drinks and tapas.
Morning visits offer a more peaceful experience, perfect for photography and appreciating the craftsmanship of the mosaic pavement without crowds.
