Shopping in Alicante
Shopping in Alicante is a breeze since most stores are conveniently clustered in just a few areas. You'll find the same kinds of souvenirs here as anywhere else in Spain, perfect for bringing a piece of your trip back home.
The generous opening hours make it easy to fit in some retail therapy, and many shops even stay open on Sundays. Beyond the modern shopping centers, Alicante boasts a stunning covered market hall and hosts weekly street markets that are worth checking out.
Best Shopping Areas
Alicante's top shopping spots are mainly found in the newer part of town near the train station, though it's definitely worth venturing into the old town and harbor areas for some retail therapy too.
Avenida de la Estación [on map], which starts right in front of the train station, makes a great starting point for your shopping spree. You'll find the FNAC department store here, perfect for picking up books and electronics. The street leads to Plaza de los Luceros square, where another excellent shopping street begins: the tree-lined Federico Soto boulevard [on map].
Just off Federico Soto, you'll find Avenida Maisonnave [on map], one of Alicante's most diverse shopping streets. Here you can browse everything from fashion to home decor, including the interior design store founded by Julián López. At the end of the street sits the El Corte Inglés department store, and right at the corner begins another bustling shopping street, Avenida Oscar Espla [on map].
Other shopping streets worth checking out in the modern center include Avenida Alfonso X el Sabio [on map], which runs alongside the market hall, the harbor-bound Rambla Méndez Núñez (simply known as "Rambla") [on map], and the side streets off Federico Soto and Rambla: Calle del Teatro [on map] and Calle Gerona [on map].
In the old town, shops are scattered a bit more randomly, so it's worth wandering around to discover hidden gems, especially near the town hall [on map] and along Calle Jorge Juan [on map]. Down by the harbor, the main shopping strip is Passeig Esplanada d'Espanya [on map], which also hosts street markets. Additionally, on the Muelle Levante pier, near The Ocean Race museum [on map], you'll find several nautical-themed shops.
Shopping in Alicante – What's Worth Bringing Home?
When it comes to shopping in Alicante, you'll find all the classic Spanish goodies here, and the best part? Pretty much everything costs less than back home.
Leather goods are always a hit with visitors, think gorgeous shoes, bags, and belts that'll last you years. Handcrafted jewelry, especially gold pieces, flies off the shelves too. Don't miss the beautiful ceramics or the charming wooden toys and dolls made in Gata de Gorgos.
Market stalls often showcase stunning woven textiles, and if you're after something really special, look for rugs from Crevillente, they're known for their exceptional quality.
Got a sweet tooth? Grab some turrón, the local nougat-like treat that makes for a delicious (and very Spanish) gift.
For the best selection of handicrafts, hit up the markets like the summer market on Passeig Esplanada d'Espanya or the street markets in Benalúa. These spots are packed with little stalls selling everything under the sun. The central market hall, Mercado Central, is another goldmine for handmade goods and local food products.
Trust us, you don't want to leave Alicante empty-handed. The local products are top-notch and wallet-friendly, so make sure you set aside some time (and suitcase space) for shopping!
Grocery Shopping: Market Hall and Supermarkets
Getting your groceries in Alicante is a breeze, you'll find supermarkets scattered all over town, especially in the old quarter and the newer parts of the city center.
But if you want the real deal, head to Mercado Central [on map], the covered market in the newer downtown blocks right next to Mercat station [on map]. The area around the market is also packed with great restaurants and café terraces, especially on the square behind the market building.
Carrefour is a major supermarket chain with several locations throughout downtown [on map], and some of them stay open late into the evening or even 24/7. Besides Carrefour, you'll naturally find other supermarket chains around Alicante [on map] plus tons of smaller grocery stores and convenience shops.
Department Stores and Shopping Centers
Alicante offers plenty of great shopping opportunities. Right in the city center, you'll find two branches of the popular Spanish department store chain El Corte Inglés. One is located at the corner of Federico Soto Boulevard, and the other is nearby on Avenida Maisonnave. Both department stores have excellent gourmet food sections. They're known for their extended opening hours, even on Sundays, and during certain holidays they stay open even longer.
The city's largest shopping center, Centro Comercial Plaza Mar 2, is right next to the La Goteta tram stop. Inside you'll find a supermarket along with tons of other shops. Shopping centers typically stay open late on weekends and holidays.
There's also a shopping center connected to the train station, featuring some pretty upscale stores that are open on Sundays too.
Of course, Alicante has plenty more shopping centers to explore. Once you're there, just check out this map to easily find the nearest one.
Outlet Centers and Factory Stores
Looking to snag some designer brands at jaw-dropping discounts of up to 70%? Head over to The Outlet Stores shopping center [on map]. Getting there is a breeze whether you're taking public transport or a taxi. The easiest route? Hop on tram line L2 from Luceros square and get off at the Santa Isabel stop. The journey takes about 15 minutes with a few twists and turns along the way. There's also a large supermarket right in the complex. Just remember that The Outlet Stores is closed on Sundays.
Another great option is
La Zenia Boulevard,
located
[on map]
in Orihuela Costa, about a 45-minute drive from Alicante. La Zenia Boulevard is Costa Blanca's largest open-air shopping center, packed with outlet stores. You'll find everything from big-name clothing brands and shoes to accessories, furniture, and everyday essentials.
When it comes to dining, La Zenia Boulevard has you covered with everything from cozy cafés to fast-food favorites like Subway and Burger King, plus sit-down restaurants including an Argentine steakhouse. It's also super family-friendly with play areas and plenty to keep the kids entertained. Pro tip: summer evenings are the best time to visit when the temperature is more comfortable.
Flea Markets and Street Markets
The Alicante area is packed with all kinds of markets that draw both locals and tourists alike.
One of the most famous is the Babel street market, where hundreds of stalls sell everything from books and vinyl records to bicycles and handmade crafts. Another popular spot is the El Campello street market, which is especially great for fresh fruit, food, bags, clothes, jewelry, and decorative items. The Gran Vía - Teulada street market offers an eclectic mix of second-hand goods, antiques, plus fresh fruits and vegetables. Meanwhile, the Muchavista street market boasts a diverse selection including jewelry, household textiles, shoes, nuts, dried fruits, sausages, vegetables, and antique treasures.
Prices and Opening Hours
Shopping in Alicante is refreshingly affordable. You'll find many products cost significantly less than back home. Alcohol, clothes, shoes, and accessories are particularly good deals. The only exception? High-quality local cheeses, which can actually cost more than your average Finnish cheese. Cigarette prices are pretty similar in both countries.
Opening hours vary depending on where you are in Alicante. The old town basically shuts down during siesta time, with most shops closing their doors. If you're keen to shop in the afternoon, head to the newer parts of the city center where stores tend to stay open. That said, smaller boutiques might still close for siesta no matter where they are.
Small shops typically open in the morning and early evening, while big shopping centers, department stores, and supermarkets keep longer hours, usually from morning until late evening. On Sundays and public holidays, most shops are closed. The exception is the Christmas season when many stores open on Sundays too. Friday evenings and Saturday afternoons are prime shopping times when things get pretty busy.
Spain loves its public holidays, and most shops close on these days. It's worth checking the holiday calendar online before your trip to Alicante so you don't get caught out.
Money matters: Currency, ATMs and cards
Spain uses the euro, so no currency exchange headaches here! While you can swipe your card in most modern shops, make sure you've got some cash on hand, especially if you're planning to browse the market halls or grab a bite from street vendors. Finding an ATM is a breeze, they're all over the city center, at the train station, near the port, and along the main streets of both the modern shopping district and the historic quarter. You'll usually spot them outside banks.
Alicante is generally a safe place, but keep your wits about you in pickpocket hotspots. Watch your belongings on crowded airport buses, in packed tourist areas, and when you're chilling at restaurant terraces.