Great place to visit and free. Views from the top are amazing and also plenty to see inside the castle . You can walk up which is good as you can also take in surrounding scenery which is spectacular. There is also a lift by the beach on the front that will take you to the castle for a small fee . Would definitely recommend visiting here when in Alicante 👍

Easy access with elevator, which costs 2.7 € for adults ✅ Very beautiful view of the city and lovely castle 👌🏻You can also walk inside the castle. We returned on foot, which was amazing 👌🏻 Highly recommend to visit

Free entrance. 360° views over the city and beaches. Entrance is through the museum shop. Toilets and kiosk & bar to get drinks. The recommended route could be a bit more clear. Some parts with stairs should be made more clear for people in wheelchairs. Safes them going back again. Views are stunning. Missed more guidance

Beautiful castle and the view you get from the top is amazing! I can only recommend talking a stroll up there in the evening when it is not that hot anymore (during summer). It was a highlight for our trip to Alicante.

Went to visit the castle while on holiday here it is huge! And it is really well preserved, visitors get free entry and it's well worth a visit! The views are spectacular over the harbour and Alicante. There is a lot of walking involved, so it's not really suitable for anyone with mobility problems. While we were visiting, there was a display of horror film props in one area of the castle it was fantastic and rather creepy! Would highly recommend a trip here if you are in the area !

When in Alicante, don't miss a trip to the Santa Barbara Castle overlooking the town. Whilst you can drive up to the top it is a nice walk with great views. I recommend a guided tour as it will give you access to otherwise restricted areas. There are also amazing views from the top!

The highlight of Alicante. We visited this castle twice - the first at sunset, and the next day at the afternoon, just to take in the views of Alicante. Hiking up to the castle was such a delight - the views are magnificent, and in a way, it reminded me of a the hike up the city walls of Kotor, Montenegro. For those not keen of hiking, there's also the lift option, costing less than 3 Euros per person. If you come to Alicante, this is the spot you really cannot miss. The views are magnificent.

Prepare yourself, take some water and escalate the little top of the Santa Barbara Castle. Great view of the city, beautiful flowers and the castle itself is worth the travel. Nice and free activity - Recommended

This place is huge. Layers of fortifications along with exhibits of pottery, banners, a clock mechanism and sculptures. You can catch a bus or taxi to the top, walk up or catch a lift from a tunnel that is accessed from the promenade. Look for the signs and opening in the cliff face! The views from the top are tremendous if the weather is kind. There are refreshments available from a kiosk, or limited menu of meals and snacks from a cafe and terrace. The lift is €2.70 but free for pensioners.

Wonderful castle in a beautiful city. It's free to enter so there's infinite value to be gained from making the trip up. There are accessible ways to the top (bus and elevator, which costs €3) but I'd highly recommend making the walk up the mountain path if you're able - the vistas are stunning. All of the historical information was naturally written in Spanish, but there was a tour guide working who spoke English, so if you're looking to learn more about the history of the castle I'm sure he could help. I think the only way of financially supporting the running of the castle is via the gift shop. There's a lot of nice items to choose from, so it's a good way of doing so if you wish. Probably best enjoyed on a slightly cooler day, but nothing really beats the views with perfect blue skies at the top.

Do not be put off by the sheer size of the mountain from the bottom. The climb is very zigzaged and do its easier than it looks from the beach, for example, From the beach below, you can see the old ruin of a stair case that looks like it's straight the way up the side directly would be very difficult, but it is exactly that it's a crumbly ruin, so these stairs are no longer in use. If you have reduced or restricted mobility, they have a lift through the centre of the mountain. Its cost is about 3 euros to return ride the elevator. It's absolutely worth the very hot walk up the hill. Breathtaking view of alicante marina and the beaches below.

Beautiful castle with amazing views. I have really enjoyed this visit. Sun set at the castle 🏰 incredible. I have used lift both ways, as it was to hot to claimb. Worth visiting.

Huge castle with long history! The elevator ride up is not free, 2.7€ per person. Which is well worth it. The hike up by foot, which is doable is over 30 minutes long and can get pretty steep. The views up there are spectacular, with 360 views of the whole city! Get there early also to avoid the crowds and wait.

Unfortunately, I didn’t realise there was a lift until I had hiked up to the top. But damn, the views are incredible. It might be too much if you’re scared of heights but the fear melts away when you get to the top. Plus the weather was not too hot which made the hike bearable. I definitely would advise against it in the middle of Summer. The best thing is entrance is free which will most likely not be in other cities. They have guided tours in different languages and a cute souvenir store that you have to pass through to get in. The prices are not too bad. There’s also a sitting area where you can chill and have some refreshments. Overall, I definitely recommend this castle.

This is one of the main attractions in Alicante, and it's well worth the visit. The walk isn't easy, as it's uphill all the way and then downhill on the way back. However, there are plenty of lovely rest spots, so be sure to take refreshments to enhance the experience and enjoy the magnificent views. Additionally, there is a small shop at the top for light refreshments.

Great experience visited 6/10/21 currently the lift to go up from main road is still closed there’s no information I could find on it, however you can take a taxi up from the beach costing around €5. Once your up there it’s free and loads of sweet spots to take pictures.

This is an absolute MUST see in Alicante. The views are incredible. Short little hike up the mountain. There is a little bar at the top to drink beer/water etc. Check opening times - only opens late mornings. The castle is well looked after!

Pretty nice views anywhere you are, but if you walk to the top, you can have a 360 degree view of the entire city, the coast, and beyond. The walk up isn't as tough as you might think, though if you have mobility issues, it may be wiser to take the lift (this option will only set you back a couple euros per person). There are metal sculptures of medieval warriors strewn about the complex, and a case-protected pottery exhibit in the main bedroom of the governor near the top. All in all a decent experience, especially considering there is no admission fee. Also, the views of the city during sunset are really pretty. Instagrammers might love it.

Excellent area to go. This is a trek to visit if you walk up. This is NOT disability friendly as there are many areas that require narrow stairs and doors to access. Also there are many other areas that have uneven surfaces and the stairs can be difficult as they vary in distance between steps, also some are very deteriorated. There is an elevator that allows some access to the larger areas. But the views are spectacular. Also this a free attraction. They love if you buy something from the gift shop, but you don’t have to pay anything to get in. All they asked was what country you are from

Beautiful viewpoint! You can take the elevator if you don't want to do the trek. There's a small nominal fee to take the elevator. Once you get to the top, there's a beautiful panoramic view of the city and the beach coast. The castle is a must if you're in Aliciente.

Breathe taking view... Well maintained.. Friendly staff .. The lift price is a bit high 2.7 euros.. Its better we can take use public buses they charger 1.45 euros.. Or taxi

It's pretty challenging to climb up to the castle in a hot sunny day but hey! Totally worth it! Beautil view overlooking the city and castle by itself is very interesting too. You can find here public toilets and little Cafe.

It's a must! Nice walk up the hill and realy lovely place to explore, have a cold drink in the shade and see the city from above. Beautiful views. Not to many people during the week and the entrance was free.

Midweek visit in November. Plenty of people there but not at all crowded. We walked all the way from the bottom though there is a small car park part of the way up. You don't have to be super fit to walk it, just take it steady. The weather was a pleasant 22 degrees which was hot enough. Lots of information in several languages. There is a wheelchair lift for access into one of the more difficult to reach exhibitions. The toilets are clean and there are at least three places where you can buy refreshments. Fabulous views of Alicante from numerous vantage points and a real sense of the scale of the castle's defensive position. Well worth a visit. Oh, and it's free!

Amazing 360 panoramic view from the top. The hike is really easy, the whole path paved. There's even an elevator going straight up from the beach to the castle. A must in Alicante.

Busier than I expected but it was a beautiful, warm day, and Christmas Holidays! Only 2.70€ for the lift. A wonderful place for history and culture, and fantastic views. A couple of places for drinks and toilets are available. Difficult for people with mobility issues so we stayed on level 2. Still worth the visit.

Free entrance and a wonderful view over the city. Spend however long you like there! Clean restrooms and lots of spots to sit down and enjoy the sunshine. Very beautiful if you take the southern stairs up via the alleyways.

The Castillo de Santa Barbara is a place to visit. Make sure you have a plenty of water and try to climb a little early or late in the afternoon.I have done it at noon and nearly had a stroke. The views from the top are breathtaking. You can rest for a while in a little cafe on the top.

Amazing views across Alicante, there is so much history in this castle. Set on top of a hill - thankfully there's a lift to get you up there - there are plenty of photo opportunities, and make sure you go on an evening as the view at sunset is not to be missed!

Very nice and rather quiet place to visit. You can walk your way up from the back side or take the elevator (2,70 euros pp). Once on top you can get a great view of the town, the sea and the hills surrounding Alicante. There is some historical background explained in the small museum.

Free to visit if you walk up the hill, which wasn't a bad walk at least in the reasonable temperature we had. There's not a lot of of shade, parking for buses only I believe. There is a souvenir shop and cafe, as well as a drinks/ice cream hut. I can imagine it gets super busy/crowded during the holiday seasons. Be aware that the health and safety rules are not so strict as you may be used to, which was refreshing, but watch your step and your children if they have a tendency to run off (open ledges and walkways). Views of the city and surrounding areas at the top are great!

I had heard there are usually a big crowd, but I visited here during early November which is perfect weather for walking without crowds. It also turned out to be a perfect timing, because when I reached the top, it was beautiful sunset both on the ocean and the city view with mountains background, also with all those seagulls roaring in the sky. I brought my dog, so I was only permitted to walk around the outdoor area, but really worth it!

A really nice castle, if you travel to the top of the hill then you will be rewarded with spectacular views of Alicante. I strongly recommend taking the lift to the top! Well worth a visit. Entry price was 2.70€

Absolutely awesome views, plenty to explore up there and get some great photos. Nice food and drink options for something like that. The parking situation could be better, there were gates on the entrance near the road which for me, not being from Spain I thought mean it was for restricted access as there were no signs at all and no one to direct cars. I found somewhere free nearby which just meant further walking but it wasn’t too bad. Only thing I’d mention is bring the right shoes, definitely learnt my lesson 😂

I was driving near to Alicante & randomly decided to come to check out the castle. I’m so glad I did because it was a beautiful day. It may seem simple but this castle has been well maintained & you can see where they’ve reinforced it to keep it this way. The views are spectacular. There are amazing smells from the lavender, rosemary, helichrysum, & all. I highly recommend making time to spend time walking around to see this gem.

Very good experience. Adorable view on Alicante. We didn't use the elevator and went on feet through the old city and park. Castle and around free of charge. I would have more information on other languages than espanol/ Catalan.

Fantastic views on a clear day of Alicante. We walked up and it didn't take long at all. It's free which is amazing and at the top there is a xafe where you van grab cold & hot beverages. There's also the odd ice cream/ coffee van around & a gift shop. Well worth a visit. We loved it.

This is a must when visiting Alicante. I go further and say this should be your first choice. Takes about 40mins to ascend from the harbour with a few stops to catch your breath. No need to ascend too quickly. It's nearly 170m above sea level. The views are amazing from the bottom and from the top. Just superb. There are cafes at the top to give yourself a treat. It looked daunting to climb when looking at all those stairs. People with mobility issues might struggle but you can get a cab to the entrance but still a bit of an ascent to the top. I spent nearly 2 hrs just admiring the view. It wasn't crowded and entrance is free. Mask are required for certain rooms.

Extraordinary place. The castle is on the mountain so you can enjoy a beautiful view of the city and the sea. You can literally feel how ancient the castle is and imagine how it was countless years ago.

Best experience of my vacation. This historical hike was exciting and extremely exhausting. A band was playing to start a holiday. The view from every angle, that looked over Alicante, was amazing.

Absolutely stunning view of Alicante, must see over there. A little uphill climb, but not too demanding. Awesome!

Easily accessible from the lift if you don't want the long walk up in the heat. Spectacular 360 views from the top so well worth the visit.

The hike is intense if you do it in the dead-heat of noon. But otherwise it’s a really nice view. Definitely worth it!

Some great views in every direction. It was difficult to work out how to get up to the castle but got there eventually, after a very warm, uphill walk. Lots of steps and steep slopes, so not great for people with mobility issues, although there does appear to be some support services on site. Definitely a must visit when visiting Alicante.

Must see in Alicante! Great place to spend few hours walking around, while getting to know the history of the place. You will have places to get coffee, snacks and ice-cream. Very small parking, but there is an elevator from the ground level o the sea side.

Worth taking lift up to see the views..wow... not a lot of places to eat or drink..advise to bring your own. Lots of steps around and uneven paths, slopes... good flat shoes a must. Staff very helpful.very clean and looked after.

Great to take the elevator to go up/down. Cost is €2.75 round trip for adults below 65. Elevator free for 65+. Lots levels to walk for panoramic views of the city👍👍👍

Amazing views obviously. Not too many signs to spoil the ambience. Lots of space, and great value for money.

Visited here yesterday . lovely area to sit n have a drink n snack outside old cathedral. Alicante a great place to stay☘️🇮🇪🙏

We went on historical secret walking tour and therefore taxied to the top and walked down. If not would be a steep walk. Worth it for the views. Breathtaking. Tour worth it as didn't see any signs of information at top. Hidden restaurant in park at top. Looks lovely was told that it's well known and expensive. Would not be suitable if you have any walking issues.

Super nice place for short walking trip, is free and maybe 20-30min, view from castle is great, you can also use lift (ticket around 3euro and long line), lot of places es to sit and relax on the way with views for different part of city

What an absolutely fantastic attraction! After a nice walk in the sun, either by road, or steps and trail, you end up in a fascinating castle with a tremendous view of Alicante and the ocean. There is also a lift, that we did not try, or you can drive up. Difficult to find parking, I would imagine. But if you can, take the walk! The castle itself it filled with history and stories, just being there is inspiring.

Really Fabulous spot. Just not that there is a good amount of inclined walking both from the car park to the entrance of the castle and then when you are within the castle itself. There are Three nice cafés on site which were very welcomed indeed, and sit on different levels. I’d Recommend early morning of late afternoon depending on the heat of the day

Beautiful views from the Castle. Definitely take the elevator. Had all the intention of walking up. Just too hot. I'm glad I took the elevator. Lovely cafés to cool down and enjoy the view

Lots of steps up the various sections of the castle. Lovely views . We got a taxi up and took the lift down. Think you are supposed to pay for the lift as there were staff on the entrance at the bottom selling tickets to go up, but nothing to come down. There a kiosk selling drinks but I didnt see food. Worth visiting

Excellent place to visit, great views from atop, cool breeze. I recommend take a cab up to the top and walk the way back... of course there is an elevator can bring you down. The walk is more scenic and not exhausting.

Completely spectacular! An amazing visit from the entry by lift inside the mountain (ingenious) to the incredible panoramic views to the architectural features and displays. The castle was a holiday highlight.

Lovely place to visit, is a nice walk up of about 35 to 40mins. There is also a lift that takes you up for €2,70. Good for families and the view over Alicante is great. There are a couple of cafes with cold drinks and some quick food choices. Enjoyed it

Impressive and large castle.. and it's free entry! But if you want to go up and walk along the wall that looks a bit like a mini "great wall of china" then you need to go via the old town to reach it (we missed this and were unable to join it later, which was a shame!). The castle currently closes at 8pm but they actually start closing bits off at 7.30pm, including the highest point that has the best views, so I'd recommend getting there before 6.45 so you have enough time!

Wonderful views from the top. Amazing plants too. I particularly enjoyed having a coffee at the cafe. The lift was also very quick

A must do if in Alicante. You can get the lift up from opposite the beach. The views are amazing overlooking Alicante marina. The castle is well maintained and has a number of paths to explore. A great way to enjoy a few hours away from the busy center.

Grand medieval castle with interesting walkways, nooks and crannies and with a fantastic view of Alicante and around. Great access via a lift from the street way below (via the beach road and promenade). Not that much history on display but enough information boards to give you the general background. A couple of refreshment shops. There are some smart restaurant areas for pre-booked events but sadly didn't get to try that. Worth a look next time.

Absolutely beautiful castle. A must-see when in Alicante. Interesting history and beautiful views. - Make sure to wear hiking shoes - I somehow did it in my flip flops but I couldn’t go some places because some footpaths are like cliffs. I’ve seen people with strollers. There is an elevator (which wasn’t working when I was there) so it is wheelchair accessible. The hike is also but I’d double check the footpaths just to be sure.

The vue from the castle is heartbreaking. Beautiful Alicante beaches and landscapes. Also the history of the castle is very interesting from Muslim governance to christian to be a prison for republicans during Spanish war. Fantastic for history lovers. Climbing is easy and it’s just 20 min from the city but the elevator is also a good choice during summer because of the heat and it’s only 3 Euros.

This place offers a beautiful city view. It's also a great spot to watch the sunset or learn about history! Access is free (one can use an escalator for 2.70€)

Long walk so wear sensible shoes! Fabulous views, really helped you get your bearings. Museums and information inside was top class and all free!

No tickets required. It was free. The hill walk was very tiring but I heard there was a lift near the beaches. Probably best for those who struggle with hills. It had great history and looked awesome. Definitely visit if traveling to Alicante. Beautiful place.

We climbed up at 10 am. It was about a 15-20-minute walk, 170 m high up. Even then, it was already hot but still manageable. At 10.30 there was a guided tour in English, it was worth taking the tour. Only 3 of us took part in the tour, which was 1 hour long and free. Then, we walked around and took some photos. It was a nice way to find out more about the history of Alicante.

Good structure, there is a tunnel and a elevator (not free, 2,70€) to get there and there is also the road option by car or on foot. Few cafes around. Didn’t see a souvenir shop. Amazing view.

Fantastic, free admission and the tram drops you off about 30feet from the start off a path way that takes 30 minutes at slow stroll. With refreshments available and a nice gift shop take a camera views are 360 at the top.

It's €2,70 to go with the elevator. Castle is impressive, quite a few explanation boards are put up so you can learn about the history of the place. Great views of the sea and the city included. Don't frequent the kiosco, though, it's well over-priced.

Wonderful place with incredible views. We took a taxi up and then walked down afterwards. Once you get to the top the views are truly magnificent over the city of Alicante, the colour of the sea is just perfect. It is also free of charge to visit which is an added bonus.

Love hiking up the castle with my dogs, especially since I live so close. We discover new routes and lookout points each time. Beautiful!!

Beautiful view from top, easy access. Downside that some telescopes takes money but still don't work. Expensive cafés with food that isn't that great. Still worth going.

Have visited here several times over the years we've been going to Alicante. We always pay the few € for the lift up. Even so it's a steep climb around and some rocky terrain if you have mobility issues. The views are amazing and it's an interesting place to visit.

Awesome location.. beautiful scenery and amazing view. Must visit place in Alicante.. Better to reach by Taxi so that walking could be less.. there is also lift which transfers to top of the castle. Bus services are there from Alicante port to Santa Barbara Castle with costs 1.45€ per adult.. Definitely will enjoy a breath taking view

I recently had the opportunity to visit Santa Barbara Castle in Alicante, and I must say, it was a grand day out. The fortress is situated on Mount Benacantil, giving it a commanding view of both the city and the beautiful Mediterranean Sea. Learning that it dates back to the 9th century and was constructed by the Moors added a sense of historical fascination. As I explored the castle, I couldn't help but appreciate the efforts put into its renovations over the years. Now, it stands as a top tourist attraction in Alicante. I had the chance to walk along the ancient ramparts, gaze from the towers, and even venture into the dungeons, which was quite an immersive experience. The panoramic views from the castle were simply breathtaking. From up there, I could see the whole city and the stunning coastline stretching out before me. It truly felt like being transported back in time, imagining the castle's past and the lives of the people who lived within its walls throughout the centuries. The exhibits and displays inside the castle were informative and well-presented. They showcased the rich history of Santa Barbara Castle and provided insights into the lives of its inhabitants. This added depth and meaning to my visit, making it more than just a sightseeing tour. All in all, I can see why Santa Barbara Castle is regarded as a must-see attraction in Alicante. Its remarkable architecture, historical significance, and the opportunity to enjoy those mesmerizing views make it an unforgettable destination. I highly recommend visiting this enchanting fortress if you ever find yourself in Alicante.