Popular Souvenirs to Buy in Alicante
Local Handicrafts and Artisan Products
- Traditional ceramics and pottery: Alicante is renowned for its vibrant, hand-painted ceramics. Look for colorful plates, bowls, and tiles that reflect the region’s artistic heritage.
- Handmade leather goods: From stylish handbags to belts and wallets, locally crafted leather products combine quality and craftsmanship.
Gourmet Food and Drinks
- Turrón (nougat) from Jijona: This sweet almond and honey treat is a quintessential Alicante specialty, perfect for gifting or savoring yourself.
- Alicante wine (DO Alicante): The region produces excellent wines, including the robust Fondillón, a unique dessert wine.
- Local olive oil and spices: High-quality olive oil and traditional spices like saffron make great additions to any kitchen.
Fashion and Accessories
- Espadrilles (traditional shoes): These comfortable and stylish shoes, often handmade, are a classic Spanish souvenir.
- Jewelry with Mediterranean motifs: From sea-inspired designs to pieces featuring local materials like mother-of-pearl, Alicante’s jewelry reflects its coastal charm.
Cultural and Historical Items
- Castanets and flamenco-related souvenirs: Embrace Spanish culture with these iconic musical instruments and related memorabilia.
- Miniatures of Alicante’s landmarks: Small replicas of Santa Bárbara Castle or Explanada de España make for meaningful keepsakes.
Beach-Themed Souvenirs
- Seashell decorations: Handmade decorations and jewelry crafted from seashells are perfect reminders of Alicante’s beautiful coastline.
- Beachwear and accessories: Local boutiques offer unique swimwear, sarongs, and straw hats ideal for sunny days.
Best Places to Shop in Alicante
Alicante offers a variety of shopping experiences to suit every preference. For a lively and authentic atmosphere, visit the Mercado Central de Alicante, the heart of the city, where you’ll find fresh produce, gourmet food, and local delicacies. Seasonal artisan fairs and pop-up markets are also great for discovering handmade crafts and unique items.
For those who enjoy boutique shopping, El Barrio, Alicante’s old town, is home to charming stores offering bohemian clothing, handcrafted goods, and unique accessories. On the more upscale side, Calle Maisonnave features designer boutiques with both Spanish and international brands.
Modern shopping can be found at Plaza Mar 2, a contemporary shopping center with a mix of well-known brands and specialty stores, perfect for a one-stop shopping experience. Along the beachfront, the iconic Explanada de España is lined with shops offering seaside-themed souvenirs and artisanal goods, while vendors near Postiguet Beach provide casual and affordable items.
Lastly, for those seeking traditional Alicante products, specialty stores dedicated to ceramics and turrón are ideal for high-quality souvenirs that showcase the region’s craftsmanship.
Tips for Souvenir Shopping in Alicante
- Best times to visit markets and fairs: Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and get the freshest products or the best selection.
- Haggling etiquette and price expectations: While haggling is not common in established stores, you may negotiate at street markets or with artisans.
- Supporting local artisans and sustainable shopping: Prioritize buying from small, local businesses to support the community and reduce your environmental footprint.