Step into Alicante’s easy rhythm along the Explanada de España—a palm-lined promenade of coastal views, relaxed cafés, and mosaics flowing like ocean waves. Known as the city’s living room, this waterfront stretch is where Spanish children learn to ride bikes, choirs perform, and locals gather for an unhurried stroll. The train might bring you here fast, but you'll ease right into the golden rule of this Mediterranean town: don't rush what's meant to be savored.

On the backstreets of Barrio de Santa Cruz, Calle San Antonio—a winding stone staircase of sunwashed homes with cobalt-blue trim—is less a thoroughfare and more a place to pause. Tucked beneath the Santa Bárbara Castle, this picturesque pedestrian path frames the everyday beauty of Alicante: overflowing floral balconies, cool sea breezes, and open Mediterranean views.

Cala Clemence: the long lunch of our dreams... With Portixol Beach’s sparkling turquoise cove beneath us, we savored freshly seared tuna tossed in bright citrus salsa and sipped on neon Aperol Spritzes all afternoon. Between the smooth white pebbles on the shore, iconic blue-trimmed buildings, and a salty breeze that cleanses the soul, this open-air restaurant is one we’d visit again and again.

You’ll know you’ve reached Calle San Francisco when you see the bright, giant mushrooms. Yes—you heard that right! This quirky, yellow-paved street is one of Alicante’s most charming shopping streets, where independent boutiques sit alongside gourmet cheese shops and local bakeries. It's the ultimate path for perusing through Spanish storefronts for one-of-a-kind treasures.

History buffs will love Castillo de Gibralfaro, an ancient Arab fortress perched on the Iberian Peninsula, for its old-world charm and rich military past. Those less-enthused by history lessons will love wandering through its gardens, taking panoramic photos of the city from its walls, and enjoying one of the best sunsets in Spain.

This cathedral sits right in the heart of Málaga's old town, and taking the self-guided tour lets you deep-dive on your own time. The main attraction is the carved 18th-century twin pipe organs mounted high above the choir stalls. With over 4,000 working pipes and horizontal brass trumpets extending straight out over the stone, standing underneath them is totally surreal.

Our sweet tooth guided us to Casa Aranda, an open-air churrería frying up hot churros and pouring thick chocolate since 1932. Opt for the tables spilling out into the alley, where waiters move at lightning speed carrying fried churros and mugs of thick dark chocolate. It’s a loud, local, and exciting way to kick off a morning in Málaga.

This waterfront market sits right along the marina, making it ideal for a long afternoon walk. Stalls line the promenade with local vendors selling crafts, textiles, and accessories at prices that won't make you wince. This is actually where we sourced our favorite handwoven market totes!