Castillo de Santa Barbara in Alicante

Castillo de Santa Bárbara – the landmark of Alicante

The Castillo de Santa Bárbara stands on the 166-metre Benacantil hill, right in the middle of Alicante. Entry to the castle is free; only the lift up costs a small amount. From the walls you look out over the harbour, the old Santa Cruz quarter and the bay. From Moraira it is about an hour’s drive (some 80 km).

A short history

The fortress goes back to the Islamic period in the 9th century and was later extended into one of the larger medieval strongholds in Spain. On the site you can see remains of the medieval alcazaba and military architecture from the 16th century. Since 1961 the castle has been protected as a Bien de Interés Cultural.

Getting to the top

By lift from Playa del Postiguet

The lift entrance is on Avenida Juan Bautista Lafora, opposite the beach. A ride costs € 2.70 per person in 2026; for over-65s and pensioners the lift is free. Tickets can also be bought online. The last ride up leaves 40 minutes before closing time.

Lift address: Avenida Juan Bautista Lafora, Alicante
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On foot, by shuttle bus or by car

There are two walking routes up, from the town hall through the old quarter or from Playa del Postiguet; allow about 30 minutes of climbing. The shuttle bus to the castle runs roughly every 40 minutes and costs € 1.45 a ride. By car you can only drop someone off via Calle Vázquez de Mella: parking on the castle grounds themselves is not allowed.

Opening hours

Closed on 24, 25 and 31 December and on 1 and 6 January. There is no admission in the last half-hour before closing. For information you can call the Alicante tourist office on +34 965 17 72 01. Check the current times in advance, as they sometimes differ around public holidays.

Tips for your visit

In summer the castle is open late, and a visit towards sunset is a good alternative to the hottest hours. In winter and spring the morning is pleasant, with clear light over the bay. Wear shoes with grip, as the ground is uneven. Take the lift up and walk back down through the Santa Cruz quarter, and you see a piece of the old town on the way.

Combining with Alicante

The castle goes well with an afternoon on Playa del Postiguet, directly below the hill. For the market, the promenade and other tips in the city, see our page on Alicante. If you want to go further south, plan a separate day for Santa Pola and the island of Tabarca.