Since 1957 the Esplanade have formed one of the most enduring images of Alicante. The esplanade runs parallel to the seafront and is a favourite place to stroll when visiting the city, to eat ice cream, and to listen to concerts performed by the Municipal Band. The Playa del Postiguet is located at one end of the Esplanade, the Canalejas Park with its Fish Market - now converted into the best exhibition hall in Alicante - on the other. The Castle of Santa Bárbara is a magnificent vantage point to view the entire city.

Alicante is an important service centre for the province. Alicante's commercial centre is shifting eastwards, though the more traditional shops still remain in the calles Mayor, Castaños, Gerona and San Francisco. The avenidas Maisonnave, Federico de Soto, Doctor Gadea and the calle de los Reyes Católicos are the 'rive droite' of the capital.