Overview of Alicante Neighborhoods for Comfortable Living
Alicante is one of the most attractive cities on the Costa Blanca coast, Spain. It is known for its mild climate, scenic beaches, rich history, and modern infrastructure. Choosing a neighborhood to live in Alicante depends on many factors: budget, purpose of residence, availability of schools and medical facilities, proximity to work or study, as well as personal lifestyle preferences. In this article, we provide a detailed overview of the main neighborhoods, their characteristics, housing prices, infrastructure, and advice on making the right choice.
Alicante Neighborhoods
Alicante is divided into numerous neighborhoods and districts, totaling several dozen. For this review, we focus on the main and largest areas where people most often live or buy property.
Additional maps and routes can be explored on Google Maps.
For practical housing and living overview in Alicante, 5 key neighborhoods have been selected to keep the article informative and readable, allowing readers to quickly get an idea of the most popular areas for living.
Main Neighborhoods of Alicante:
- El Centro (City Center) – the historical and administrative heart of the city. Includes the plazas Plaza de los Luceros, Plaza del Ayuntamiento, the tourist promenade Explanada de España, and old streets with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
- San Gabriel – a residential area in the southeast of the city with multi-story buildings and residential complexes. Includes the Lo Morant and La Florida districts, as well as parks and sports facilities.
- Albufereta – a coastal area with a sandy beach and sea views. Covers the area along La Albufereta beach, residential complexes for families and students, and the university zone (Universidad de Alicante).
- Playa de San Juan – a large coastal area with a long beach, modern residential complexes, and tourist infrastructure. Includes the Vistahermosa and Bonalba urbanizations, nearby golf courses, sports clubs, and international schools.
- Benalúa – a residential area north of the city center with convenient transport connections. Includes Benalúa Sur, Benalúa Norte, neighborhoods with private houses, small residential complexes, and proximity to shopping centers and educational institutions.
1. El Centro (City Center)
El Centro is the heart of Alicante, where the main business, cultural, and entertainment activities are concentrated. Historical buildings coexist with modern offices, shops, and restaurants.
History of the Neighborhood
The center preserves narrow streets, 19th–20th century architecture, and historic squares such as Plaza de los Luceros and Plaza del Ayuntamiento. The Santa Bárbara Castle, one of the city’s main landmarks, rises on Benacantil hill. This district has been the historic core of Alicante since its founding and still retains the charm of the old city.
Infrastructure and Services
- Schools: Colegio Público Cervantes, Colegio Europeo de Alicante, language schools, and music schools.
- Medical facilities: Hospital General Universitario de Alicante, private clinics, and dental centers.
- Entertainment: theaters, museums (MACA, Museo Arqueológico Provincial), concert halls, nightclubs, and bars.
- Transport: central bus station, TRAM tram line, taxis, and bicycle lanes.
- Shops and markets: Mercado Central, supermarkets, boutiques, and shopping centers.
Housing and Prices
Apartments in El Centro typically have 1–3 bedrooms. Average rent is 900–2000 €/month, while purchase prices range from 2000 to 4000 €/m². Many apartments feature historic charm, high ceilings, and balconies overlooking the city.
Features
- Cultural centers: Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante (MACA), Museo Arqueológico Provincial, Teatro Principal.
- Landmarks: Castillo de Santa Bárbara, Explanada de España, Plaza de los Luceros.
- Environment: heavily urbanized, with parks and plazas; air quality is lower than in coastal areas.
Safety and Crime Rate
Alicante overall has a moderate crime rate: according to Numbeo, the crime index is around 34.5/100 and the safety index is 65.5, indicating low petty crime (thefts, robberies) and high safety during daytime. Nighttime safety is slightly lower but remains high.
Source
Official Spanish Ministry of Interior data show that Alicante is among the municipalities with the highest number of registered offenses in the province, mainly due to population density and tourism.
Source
In the city center, minor thefts (pickpocketing) may occur in the evening, especially near tourist areas and busy streets.
Living Tips
El Centro is ideal for those who enjoy an active city life and want everything within reach: from shops to cultural attractions. Perfect for young professionals, students, and those who do not plan to drive frequently, as most facilities are accessible on foot.
Map Link
2. San Gabriel
San Gabriel is a quiet residential area with mostly multi-story buildings, suitable for families with children. It offers everything needed for comfortable living: schools, shops, sports, and playgrounds.
History of the Neighborhood
Originally a rural area, San Gabriel gradually developed modern residential complexes. The district combines contemporary architecture and green spaces while maintaining a suburban feel near the city center.
Infrastructure
- Schools: Colegio Público San Gabriel, Instituto de Educación Secundaria Jorge Juan, private language schools.
- Parks and recreation: Parque Lo Morant, sports fields, running and cycling paths.
- Shops: Carrefour, Mercadona, local supermarkets, and markets.
- Transport: bus lines №1, №20, proximity to tram line, taxis.
Housing and Prices
Rent: 700–1200 €/month. Purchase: 1500–2500 €/m². The area attracts families with children and young professionals seeking a calm environment.
Features
- Cultural centers: several local cultural and leisure centers.
- Landmarks: Parque Lo Morant, sports facilities.
- Environment: abundant green spaces, quiet, low noise and pollution.
Safety and Crime Rate
No detailed official data for San Gabriel specifically, but as part of Alicante, it reflects the city’s general safety trends: relatively low petty crime with occasional pickpocketing in crowded areas.
Source
San Gabriel is not considered a crime hotspot, indicating below-average crime levels in the city.
Living Tips
San Gabriel is suitable for those who value green spaces, safety, and proximity to schools. Ideal for permanent residence and long-term rentals.
Map Link
View San Gabriel on Google Maps
3. Albufereta
Albufereta is a coastal area with a sandy beach, known for its calm atmosphere and sea views. Both locals and expatriates live here, enjoying comfort near the beach.
History of the Neighborhood
Previously a fishing village, Albufereta developed into a resort area. In recent decades, modern residential complexes and sea-view apartments have been built.
Infrastructure
- Schools: Colegio Público Albufereta, Instituto IES Albufereta, private international schools.
- Medical centers: Centro de Salud Albufereta, private clinics, dental offices.
- Entertainment: beach, seafood restaurants, waterfront bars, walking and sports areas.
- Transport: TRAM L4, bus routes, easy car access.
Housing and Prices
Rent: 800–1500 €/month. Purchase: 1800–3500 €/m². Many apartments feature sea views, terraces, and modern layouts.
Features
- Cultural spaces: local exhibitions and beach events.
- Landmarks: La Albufereta Beach.
- Environment: proximity to the sea, excellent air quality.
Safety and Crime Rate
Similar to San Gabriel, Albufereta reflects the city’s overall safety: above-average safety in Spain (low to moderate petty crime).
Source
The waterfront and beach areas are usually monitored by police and lifeguards during the season, increasing safety.
Living Tips
Albufereta is ideal for those who value tranquility, proximity to the beach, and outdoor walks. Popular among seniors, families, and expatriates.
Map Link
View Albufereta on Google Maps
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4. Playa de San Juan
Playa de San Juan is a prestigious coastal district with a long sandy beach, modern residential complexes, and well-developed infrastructure. It is ideal for families, expats, and those who value comfort and a calm lifestyle close to the sea.
District History
Since the 1960s, Playa de San Juan has developed as a tourist area and later transformed into a district for permanent living. Today it features many new residential complexes, sports clubs, and international schools.
Playa de San Juan
Infrastructure
- Schools: Colegio Internacional Lope de Vega, British School of Alicante, foreign language schools.
- Healthcare: Clínica Vistahermosa, Centro de Salud Playa de San Juan, private clinics.
- Leisure: golf courses, tennis clubs, fitness centers, restaurants, bars, beach clubs.
- Transport: bus routes No. 21, No. 22, TRAM L3.
Housing and Prices
Apartment rent: €1,000–2,500/month. Purchase: €2,500–4,500/m². Residential complexes often include swimming pools, gyms, and security. Many apartments offer sea views.
Key Features
- Cultural life: summer festivals, music and sports events.
- Landmarks: long sandy beach, seaside promenade, golf courses, parks.
- Environment: excellent air quality and plenty of green areas.
Safety and Crime Level
The district is considered one of the safest along the Alicante coast, especially in residential areas away from the main tourist strip. Night walks are generally considered safe thanks to low crime density and seasonal patrols.
Source
Living Tips
An ideal area for families with children, remote workers, and expats. Perfect for an active lifestyle, beach walks, and sports.
Map Link
View Playa de San Juan on the map
5. Benalúa and Benalúa Sur
Districts with affordable housing prices, developed infrastructure, and good transport connections. Popular among students, young professionals, and families on a moderate budget.
District History
Benalúa was originally an industrial area that gradually evolved into a residential district. Elements of historic architecture remain alongside modern housing developments.
Infrastructure
- Schools: Colegio Público Benalúa, IES Jorge Juan, language schools.
- Healthcare: Centro de Salud Benalúa, private clinics.
- Leisure: local shops, markets, cafés, sports grounds.
- Transport: multiple bus routes, proximity to the tram line, convenient road access.
Housing and Prices
Apartment rent: €650–1,200/month. Purchase: €1,400–2,200/m². Many options for long-term rental and affordable property purchases.
Key Features
- Cultural life: local community centers and neighborhood associations.
- Landmarks: parks and modern sports areas.
- Environment: average air quality with access to green spaces.
Safety and Crime Level
Benalúa shows a level of petty crime comparable to other city districts. Minor incidents may occur, but serious crimes are rare.
Source
Local communities and residential complexes often use security measures such as controlled access and video surveillance.
Living Tips
Suitable for students, young families, and residents with a limited budget. Convenient access to the city center and universities.
Map Link
Other Residential Areas of Alicante
In addition to the key districts, Alicante offers several other residential areas and neighborhoods, each with its own character, infrastructure, and housing prices.
Cabo de las Huertas
An exclusive coastal area with villas and high-end homes. Known for its quiet atmosphere, sea views, and quality leisure infrastructure. Includes the neighborhoods of Cabo de las Huertas and Cala de Sol. Popular with expats and residents with a high housing budget.
View on the map
Campoamor
A residential area with affordable housing, parks, and shops. Includes Campoamor and parts of Carolinas Bajas. Suitable for families and those seeking a calm lifestyle with good infrastructure.
View on the map
Carolinas
Includes Carolinas Altas and Carolinas Bajas. A residential area with strong urban infrastructure: schools, shops, pharmacies, and public transport. Suitable for permanent living and rental investment.
View on the map
Parque Avenidas
A modern residential district with multi-storey buildings, green areas, and playgrounds. Includes Parque Avenidas and Benalúa Norte. Popular with families and young professionals.
View on the map
San Cruz / Santa Cruz
A historic hillside neighborhood with narrow streets and traditional housing. Includes Santa Cruz and Barrio de San Cruz, offering panoramic views of the city and port. Famous for festivals and cultural events.
View on the map
Babel
A residential area south of the city center, mainly modern apartment blocks. Includes Babel and Los Ángeles. Suitable for rentals and mid-budget family living.
View on the map
Virgen del Remedio
Northern Alicante with residential quarters and industrial zones. Includes Virgen del Remedio and Colonia Requena. Crime levels are higher than the city average, but housing remains affordable and transport access is good.
View on the map
Altozano
A district close to the city center with apartment buildings and active urban life. Includes Altozano and José Aponte. Popular among students and young professionals.
View on the map
La Cala / La Cala de Alicante
A small coastal area popular with tourists and residents seeking a quiet seaside lifestyle. Includes La Cala and Cala Cantalar, with moderate development and proximity to the beach.
View on the map
Areas with Higher Crime Levels
While most districts in Alicante are considered safe, some areas show higher-than-average crime rates, mainly in certain northern outskirts (for example, Colonia Requena, Virgen del Remedio, Juan XXIII).
Comparison Table by Housing Type and Lifestyle Goals
| Goal / Criteria | Areas | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Luxury housing / Beach lifestyle | Playa de San Juan, Cabo de las Huertas | Golf courses, prestigious properties, strong infrastructure, high prices |
| Family-oriented living | Albufereta, Vistahermosa | Quiet atmosphere, playgrounds, proximity to the sea and services, homes with pools |
| Central city life | Centro, Ensanche-Diputación | Shops, bars, historic buildings, transport |
| Affordable housing | Benalúa, Carolinas, San Blas | Traditional Spanish atmosphere, festivals, middle-class residents, expats |
| Nightlife | El Barrio, El Puerto | Pubs, bars, lively atmosphere, budget-friendly options |
| Rental investment | Centro, Benalúa | High rental demand, especially in the city center |
Conclusion
Choosing a neighborhood in Alicante depends on your lifestyle preferences, budget, and long-term goals. The city center suits those who enjoy vibrant urban life and cultural proximity. San Gabriel and Benalúa are good for calm family living. Albufereta and Playa de San Juan are ideal for sea lovers and a comfortable coastal lifestyle. Always consider infrastructure, transport, schools, and healthcare when selecting a district. Each area has its strengths, and the right choice can make life in Alicante both comfortable and enjoyable.
Additional maps and routes can be explored via
Google Maps.
