This Spanish town is jam-packed with bustling bars and restaurants earning it the nickname 'the city that never sleeps'. Combine that with some of the best beaches in Spain, and it's the perfect city break destination.

Go island hopping. A visit to Tabarca island is an absolute must. It's beautiful, tranquil and famous for its super fine cuisine. Plus, Tabarca was once a pirate hideaway, so you may even find some buried treasure…

Get arty: and watch local painters daub their easels in the open air. Head down to the Gabriel Miró: A Source Of Inspiration festival on Saturdays (Plaza Gabriel Miro). It's culture-tastic.

Browse the Sunday market at Plaza Santísima Faz, to pick up handicrafts and pretty trinkets from the famous outdoor market. Another hot tip is Calle Castaños, where you'll find loads of cool shoe shops. A girl can never have enough heels…

Pick up a paella. Yes, it's all about rice in Alicante. Paella and its many variations are the local delicacy, so head to an arrocería and get stuck in. There are more than a hundred different rice recipes in the region, and they're all delicious!

Escape the crowds and stay in complete understated chic at Casa Olives (www.casalesolives.com) in the west of the city. Think amazing food, luxury toiletries and designer touches, and you'll get the picture.

See the city in style and take the cable car to the Castillo de Santa Barbara in the mountains behind the city. The medieval fortress overlooks Alicante from the north and is worth a look.

CelebAir route map