A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antalya vs. Alicante for Beaches, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Antalya or Alicante?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Antalya or Alicante? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Antalya

Antalya is a vibrant, high energy, and relaxing vacation spot. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Alicante

Alicante is a cultural, colorful, and authentic city. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Antalya and Alicante: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antalya or Alicante?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Antalya than Alicante, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Antalya is more touristy than Alicante and is popular for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. It is also home to Hadrian's Gate. Alicante is popular for its sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and authentic restaurants.

How is Antalya different from Alicante?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Alicante and Antalya. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Antalya or Alicante?

You'll find a number of great museums and attractions in both Alicante and Antalya.

Antalya offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.

Many visitors head to Alicante specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. This port city has a number of cultural and historical sights that are worth checking out. Castillo de Santa Bárbara, Museo Arqueológico Provincial de Alicante, and Basilica de Santa María are among the most well known.

Is the Food Better in Antalya or Alicante? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Antalya and Alicante can be difficult as they are each great in their own way.

Antalya has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food is excellent throughout Turkey and this city is no exception. The local cuisine offers a combination of fresh caught seafood as well as various grilled meats. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream. The traditional Turkish breakfast is also popular, which usually includes hard boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and Turkish breads or pastries. It's almost always served with Turkish tea.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Alicante makes for a great culinary experience. It's by the sea, so you'll find plenty of seafood. Rice is the main staple for many dishes in town. This is also a vegetable growing region, so many recipes incorporate fresh vegetables. Popular dishes include arroz a banda, arroz con costra, and olleta alicantina.

Is Antalya or Alicante Better for Nightlife?

Antalya is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Antalya is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has an insane nightlife scene with huge glamorous dance clubs that fill to the brink as well as low key bars and pubs that everyone can enjoy.

If you're looking for night time activities Alicante has a few options to choose from. For the city's best nightlife, head to El Barrio Antiguo, which is the old district. This is where you'll find the highest concentration of bars and clubs, many of them having live music.

Is Antalya or Alicante Better for Music?

Antalya is very good for its live music scene. However, Alicante is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Antalya. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

Alicante is not a live music destination.

Is Antalya or Alicante Better for Resorts?

Antalya is terrific for its resorts. However, Alicante is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Antalya is a perfect choice. The city is famous for its resorts that range from luxury to family-friendly. Some of the most popular resorts in the area include Xanadu Resort Hotel, Susesi, and Lara Barut, but there are many more.

Alicante is not a resort destination.

Is Antalya or Alicante Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Antalya is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Alicante is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Antalya. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.

Alicante is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Antalya or Alicante Better for Beaches?

Antalya is terrific for the beache. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

With world-famous beaches, Antalya is a very popular vacation destination. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

Alicante has a beach worth visiting. If you step away from the touristy areas, you'll find some nice sandy beaches with blue water. Playa la Fustera is northeast of the city and popular with families and couples. If you have a car you can drive to the town of Moraira, which is near several nice beaches as well.

Is Antalya or Alicante Better for its Old Town?

Antalya is well known for its old town. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Antalya. The city has a beautiful old town area, Kaleiçi, that is known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. The area has many sights including Hadrian's Gate.

Alicante has an old town worth visiting. The old district is filled with charming streets and some interesting museums. There are also a number of good restaurants in the area.

Is Antalya or Alicante Better for Hiking?

Antalya is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Alicante is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Antalya. Outside of town you'll find coastal hikes with scenic views as well as trails that wander through historic ruins.

Alicante is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Antalya or Alicante?

Antalya is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Antalya make it a world-class shopping destination. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

Alicante has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city is known for its leather goods, but you'll also find international brands and shopping streets with fashion and different European names.

Is Antalya or Alicante Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Antalya or Alicante.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Antalya. The city has beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and resorts that cater specifically to families. It's a popular family-friendly destination in Turkey.

Alicante is a very family-friendly place to visit. This seaside city has many kid-friendly resorts, long sandy beaches, and adrenaline-filled theme parks. There's the Terra Mitica Park as well as a waterpark - Aqua Natura. Tabarca Island is also well worth a visit.

Is Antalya or Alicante Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Antalya and Alicante make for a great place to visit.

Antalya makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Antalya is a top-rated honeymoon destination in Turkey. It's beautiful beaches, romantic resorts, and great shopping put it at the top of many couples' list.

Couples visit Alicante frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Nice resorts, long sandy beaches, and nearby vineyard tours make this a wonderful place for a couple's getaway. There are good restaurants and nice places where couples can take a stroll, hand in hand.

Is Antalya or Alicante Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antalya is well known for backpackers. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Antalya is a great vacation spot to visit for backpackers. Despite the many resorts in town, there are also budget accommodation options available including hostels. Backpackers appreciate Antalya's impressive old town as well as the area's stunning beaches.

It's common for backpackers to visit Alicante. There are hostels around town, as well as many budget-friendly hotels, so this is an affordable oceanfront destination for the budget-minded.

Is Antalya or Alicante Better for Students?

Alicante is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Antalya is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Alicante. It's by the water and it's an affordable city, making it a good option for students. The beaches and active nightlife will keep you entertained when you take a break from your studies.

Antalya is not popular with students.

Is Antalya or Alicante Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Antalya is well known for its public transit. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Antalya has some very good public transit options. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

While Alicante offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a comprehensive bus system through the city and region.

Is Antalya or Alicante a more walkable city?

Antalya and Alicante are good when it comes to walkability.

Antalya is a somewhat walkable vacation spot. The historic area in particular is compact, filled with historic sights, and easy to explore on foot.

Alicante is somewhat walkable. There are many parts of the city that can be explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Antalya Worth Visiting? and Is Alicante Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Alicante or Antalya?

How long in Antalya or Alicante?

It's fun to spend time in either Antalya or Alicante. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Antalya due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Antalya, and 2-4 days is enough time in Alicante.

Families should spend more time in Antalya than Alicante. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Antalya, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Antalya than Alicante. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Antalya that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Antalya than Alicante if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Antalya.

One day in Antalya or Alicante?

The beautiful vacation spot of Antalya offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Alicante, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Antalya or Alicante?

Antalya is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this vacation spot makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Antalya, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Alicante, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Alicante has to offer.

Five days in Antalya or Alicante?

Antalya is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Antalya, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Alicante is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Antalya or Alicante?

Antalya is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This vacation spot offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Alicante. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Alicante. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Anzac Day Tours in Turkey, The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.

When comparing the travel costs between Antalya and Alicante, we can see that Antalya is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Antalya Expensive? and Is Alicante Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Antalya or Alicante?

Antalya has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Alicante. When comparing the sizes of Antalya and Alicante, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Antalya or Alicante?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Antalya or Alicante in the Summer?

Both Alicante and Antalya during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Antalya this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Alicante for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Antalya is generally a little warmer than Alicante. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 28°C (83°F), and Alicante fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In Alicante, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Antalya. In the summer, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Alicante. Antalya gets 376 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Alicante receives 341 hours of full sun.

Antalya usually gets less rain in July than Alicante. Antalya gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Alicante receives 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Alicante in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Antalya and Alicante. Many travelers come to Antalya for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Alicante in the autumn for the shopping scene.

Antalya is around the same temperature as Alicante in the autumn. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 21°C (69°F) in October, and Alicante fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Alicante this time of the year. In Antalya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Alicante during autumn. Antalya gets 251 hours of sunny skies, while Alicante receives 225 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Antalya usually receives around the same amount of rain as Alicante. Antalya gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Alicante receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Antalya or Alicante in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Antalya as well as Alicante. Many visitors come to Antalya in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Alicante for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Antalya is around the same temperature as Alicante. Typically, the winter temperatures in Antalya in January average around 11°C (51°F), and Alicante averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the winter, Antalya often gets less sunshine than Alicante. Antalya gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Alicante receives 178 hours of full sun.

Antalya receives a lot of rain in the winter. Antalya usually gets more rain in January than Alicante. Antalya gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Alicante receives 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Alicante in the Spring?

Both Alicante and Antalya are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Antalya for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Alicante because of the beaches.

In April, Antalya is generally around the same temperature as Alicante. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 16°C (62°F), and Alicante fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Alicante. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antalya. Antalya usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Alicante during spring. Antalya gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Alicante receives 243 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Antalya usually receives more rain than Alicante. Antalya gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Alicante receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Alicante and Antalya