Destination · 01
Santa Cruz Quarter — The soul of Alicante
Some neighborhoods are visited. Santa Cruz is lived.
01 / 05 · Calles del Barrio de Santa Cruz
The quarter
The city's ancient heart
Santa Cruz is the most picturesque and ancient corner of Alicante. At the foot of Santa Bárbara Castle, on the slope of Mount Benacantil, its narrow, steep streets wind between colourful houses whose facades are adorned with flower pots and traditional touches. Every corner is a photograph. Every staircase, a story.
Its roots date back to the 8th century, when the Arabs founded Al-Laqant here — the first nucleus of the city. That Islamic origin explains its tangled urbanism: streets designed to escape the summer heat and create natural shade between buildings. When Alfonso X conquered the city in 1271 the quarter received its Christian name, but kept its Arab soul forever.
Today Santa Cruz is the historic heart of Alicante. A neighbourhood revitalised without losing its essence: time-honoured bars, restaurants of local produce, artisans, and a community of neighbours who still decorate their balconies with flowers as if time had stopped.
What to see
What to see in Santa Cruz
Hermitage of Santa Cruz
Built in the 18th century over the remains of a medieval tower, it is the religious heart of the quarter. Every Holy Week the Holy Wednesday procession sets off from here — one of the most moving in Alicante, declared a Festival of National Tourist Interest.
The viewpoints — the best views in Alicante
Next to the hermitage, the viewpoints offer unique panoramas over the old town, the port and the Mediterranean — perfect at sunset. The upper mirador is the most spectacular; the lower one is the most colourful and lively.
The House of Blue Pots
One of the most photographed houses in Alicante. Its balconies, covered with painted pots, embody the spirit and creativity of Santa Cruz neighbours — a must for photography lovers.
Santa María Basilica & San Nicolás Co-cathedral
Two of the main religious monuments of the quarter, together with the Gravina Fine Arts Museum and the MACA contemporary art museum.
Las Cruces de Mayo
From 1 to 3 May the quarter dresses up. Neighbours decorate streets and homes with carnation crosses and flowers. Fresh flowers, traditional music and local hospitality make it one of the most special events of Alicante's calendar.
Where to eat
Where to eat in Santa Cruz
La Taberna del Gourmet
Recognised by the Michelin Guide and one of Alicante's gastronomic icons. Tapas from exceptional local produce. The most important food stop in the quarter. Calle Mayor, 45.
La Ereta
High-level Mediterranean cuisine and spectacular city views from its terrace. Perfect for a special dinner. Partida de la Ereta, 1.
La Barrita de Santa María
Next to Santa María Basilica. Alicante tapas with fresh produce in a privileged location. Perfect for a vermouth or a casual meal. Plaza de Santa María.
Sotaterra by TheLoft
On Calle Lonja de los Caballeros. A modern, distinctive proposal in the very heart of the old town.
La Tasca del Barrio
Traditional Alicante tapas in a timeless atmosphere. The seafood rice is the star. Ideal to discover local cuisine without fuss.
Getting there
How to get there & practical tips
The quarter is only accessible on foot. Streets are steep and there are stairs along the way, so comfortable shoes are recommended. The most direct entry is via Plaza del Carmen, climbing the stairs. You can also reach it from Alicante's Town Hall following the old town signs.
The best time to visit is early morning — before the groups arrive — or at sunset, when the Mediterranean light bathes the white facades and the miradors become the best balconies of the city.
From Nuvi Hoteles, Santa Cruz is a 10-minute walk away. Our team will be delighted to recommend the prettiest route to discover it.
On the map