Situated on the popular Costa Blanca, tourists keep coming to Alicante, probably because it remains so unscathed by their presence. A beautiful, well-planned city, Alicante is the surprise of the southern coast. Beyond polished pedestrian pavements lie the crowded streets of the old city at the foot of an imposing castle. With drawbridges, moats, tunnels, and secret passageways, the Castillo de Santa Barbara is not just another castle, it is one of the largest medieval fortresses in Spain, offering panoramic views of the city and the coast. The Cathedral of San Nicolas de Bari is typical of the severe Renaissance architectural styles in Spain and has a nice cloister with intricately carved doors. Alicante has some of the best nightlife in the region. El Puerto and El Barrio are among some of the liveliest spots in the city come evening but the Esplanada is more popular during the summer, as are the kiosks along Postiguet and San Juan beaches. With beautiful sandy beaches, a long waterfront and mild and pleasant climate this city has a truly Mediterranean air.