Free walking tours in Alcoy and what to see

Must-sees

Alcoy rises among ravines in inland Alicante, and its bridges are part of the townscape: the art deco San Jorge bridge, the Cristina bridge and the Canalejas viaduct. The centre brings together the Plaza de España, with the town hall, the church of Santa María and several modernista buildings from the industrial era, such as the Casa del Pavo and the Círculo Industrial.

The town is famous for its Moors and Christians festival in honour of St George. If your visit doesn't coincide with it, the Museu Alcoià de la Festa helps you understand its importance. The Civil War air-raid shelter and the El Molinar district, with remains of old factories by the river, are also worth seeing.

Free tours and guided visits

Alcoy has pay-what-you-like free walking tours of the centre, usually focused on modernisme, the bridges and industrial history. Among paid guided visits, the air-raid shelter and the industrial heritage route stand out. To get out of town, the trails in the Font Roja Nature Park and the Serra de Mariola, and the greenway stretches with tunnels and viaducts, are worthwhile.

How long to spend

One day is enough for the centre: spend the morning on the bridges and modernista buildings and the afternoon on the festival museum and the shelter. If you like nature, add a second day for the Font Roja or the Serra de Mariola, or to visit nearby towns such as Cocentaina.

Where to stay

The centre, around the Plaza de España and the shopping streets, is the most practical area for seeing the town on foot. The Ensanche, across the San Jorge bridge, is more modern and quieter, with good road access. If you're coming during the festival, book well in advance as the town fills up.